It was important for me to have my team gain exposure to a country and community that we could not easily access. The collaboration between IVHQ, the local team, and community partner brought the exact experience I wanted for my team. As my initial point of contact, IVHQ made the planning and preparation for the trip easy and seamless. I would highly encourage anyone looking to conduct a volunteer opportunity in a foreign nation to give IVHQ a try!
![Special Needs Care Volunteer Program in Guatemala - Antigua](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/projects/guatemala/volunteer-abroad-in-guatemala-ivhq-special-needs.jpg?auto=format,compress)
Special Needs Care Volunteer Program in Guatemala - Antigua
Purpose
Start dates
Duration
Volunteer hours
Age
Accommodation
!['Who is going' users image](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/avatars/who-is-going-blurred-users.png?w=112&h=40)
Who is going?
Group video calls
Once you have secured your place, join regular video calls to meet your Program Manager and other volunteers before your trip.
This program is ideal for:
Project details
Curious about Special Needs volunteering in Guatemala? International Volunteer HQ’s Special Needs Care project empowers volunteers to assist at group homes or clinics for disabled children or the elderly. Volunteers gain experience caring for people with disabilities while helping to provide them with the kind of personalised care and attention that can really make a difference to their lives.
What to expect and how you'll make an impact
Like in many places around the world, the opportunities for children growing up with special needs in Guatemala can be very limited. These children often respond well to individual care and attention, making volunteer assistance in homes and clinics they attend extremely sought after.
As a Special Needs volunteer you will assist in group homes or clinics for disabled children or the elderly. The range of disabilities found amongst the children is wide, so volunteers must come prepared to help with both basic life functions and engaging the children in imaginative games.
Special Needs volunteer work can vary but generally includes:
- Providing personal care
- Helping with feeding
- Dressing and changing clothes
- Bathing and personal care
- Playing games and helping with activities
- Assisting with physical therapy
Why do Special Needs Care volunteering in Antigua with IVHQ?
When you volunteer with disabled people in Guatemala you’ll be adding value to the local community, while also developing personally and professionally by:
- Improving quality of life for people with disabilities
- Helping students develop life skills in a safe place
- Practicing your Spanish
- Developing your communication skills
- Gaining experience working with disabled people
- Immersing yourself in Guatemalan culture
Volunteer requirements
Volunteers need to be 18 years or over to participate in this program. If you are under the age of 18, IVHQ offers alternative volunteer opportunities for teens. Visit our High School Volunteer Abroad page to learn more.
Are you eligible to volunteer?
Submit a free application so we can confirm your eligibility and check availability for your preferred dates.
Not sure which program to join?
Get personalized recommendations >
!['Who is going' users image](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/avatars/who-is-going-blurred-users.png?w=112&h=40)
Who is going?
Group video calls
Once you have secured your place, join regular video calls to meet your Program Manager and other volunteers before your trip.
Guatemala photo gallery
![IVHQ volunteers at the Holiday Experience project in Antigua, Guatemala](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/volunteer-abroad-in-guatemala-ivhq-antigua-holiday-experience-1.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![Volunteering on the childcare project in Guatemala](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/ivhq-childcare-volunteer.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![IVHQ Guatemala Teen Summer Camp volunteer project](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/volunteer-abroad-in-guatemala-ivhq-teen-summer-camp-project-4.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![Volunteering on the Eco-Agriculture project in Guatemala](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/eco-ag-project-guatemala-ivhq.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![IVHQ volunteers on the Medical and Healthcare project in Guatemala](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/volunteer-abroad-in-guatemala-ivhq-medical-project-2.jpeg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![IVHQ volunteer on dentistry project in Guatemala](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/volunteer-abroad-in-guatemala-ivhq-dentistry-project-1.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![Volunteer on the animal care project in Guatemala with IVHQ](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/animal-care-volunteer-ivhq-guatemala.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![Volunteers working at the Holiday Experience project in Antigua, Guatemala with IVHQ](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/volunteer-abroad-in-guatemala-ivhq-antigua-holiday-experience-5.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![Volunteering on the Teen Summer Camp project in Guatemala with IVHQ](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/volunteer-abroad-in-guatemala-ivhq-teen-summer-camp-project-1.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![IVHQ Construction and Renovation project in Guatemala](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/renovation-volunteering-guatemala.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![An elder volunteer doing activity at the Holiday Experience project in Antigua, Guatemala with IVHQ](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/volunteer-abroad-in-guatemala-ivhq-antigua-holiday-experience-3.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![IVHQ volunteers on the Medical and Healthcare projects avaiable in Guatemala](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/volunteer-abroad-in-guatemala-ivhq-medical-project-1.jpeg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![IVHQ Teen Summer Camp volunteer project in Guatemala](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/volunteer-abroad-in-guatemala-ivhq-teen-summer-camp-project-2.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![IVHQ volunteers activity at the Holiday Experience project in Antigua, Guatemala](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/volunteer-abroad-in-guatemala-ivhq-antigua-holiday-experience-2.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![IVHQ Eco-Agriculture project in Guatemala](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/ivhq-eco-agriculture-guatemala.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![Volunteering on the Guatemala Medical and Healthcare project with IVHQ](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/volunteer-abroad-in-guatemala-ivhq-medical-project-3.jpeg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![IVHQ childcare project in Guatemala with IVHQ](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/ivhq-childcare-volunteering.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![Holiday Experience volunteer project in Antigua, Guatemala with IVHQ](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/volunteer-abroad-in-guatemala-ivhq-antigua-holiday-experience-10.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![IVHQ Guatemala Volunteers on the Teen Summer Camp project in Antigua](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/volunteer-abroad-in-guatemala-ivhq-teen-summer-camp-project-8.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![IVHQ dentistry volunteer project in Guatemala](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/volunteer-abroad-in-guatemala-ivhq-dentistry-project-2.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![Volunteering on the Medical and Healthcare project in Guatemala](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/medical-volunteer-ivhq-guatemala.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![A volunteer dancing with local lasy at the Holiday Experience project in Antigua, Guatemala](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/volunteer-abroad-in-guatemala-ivhq-antigua-holiday-experience-7.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![Volunteering on the animal care project in Guatemala with IVHQ](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/ivhq-guatemala-animal-care.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![IVHQ Volunteers on the Teen Summer Camp project in Guatemala](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/volunteer-abroad-in-guatemala-ivhq-teen-summer-camp-project-5.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![Eco-Agriculture project volunteer in Guatemala](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/ivhq-eco-ag-project.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![IVHQ Holiday Experience volunteer project in Antigua, Guatemala](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/volunteer-abroad-in-guatemala-ivhq-antigua-holiday-experience-11.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![Volunteer on the Medical and Healthcare project in Guatemala with IVHQ](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/volunteer-abroad-in-guatemala-ivhq-medical-project-4.jpeg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![An IVHQ volunteer picking coffee beans at the Holiday Experience project in Antigua, Guatemala](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/volunteer-abroad-in-guatemala-ivhq-antigua-holiday-experience-4.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![Childcare project volunteer in Guatemala with IVHQ](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/childcare-volunteering-guatemala.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![Volunteering on the IVHQ Teen Summer Camp project in Guatemala](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/volunteer-abroad-in-guatemala-ivhq-teen-summer-camp-project-3.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![Medical and Healthcare project volunteer in Guatemala with IVHQ](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/ivhq-guatemala-medical-volunteer.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![IVHQ Guatemala volunteer project in dentistry](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/volunteer-abroad-in-guatemala-ivhq-dentistry-project-3.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![Volunteering on the Holiday Experience project in Antigua, Guatemala with IVHQ](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/volunteer-abroad-in-guatemala-ivhq-antigua-holiday-experience-8.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![Volunteer on the Medical and Healthcare project in Guatemala with IVHQ](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/guatemala-medical-ivhq.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![IVHQ Volunteers on the Guatemala Teen Summer Camp project](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/volunteer-abroad-in-guatemala-ivhq-teen-summer-camp-project-6.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![IVHQ Holiday Experience voluteer project in Antigua, Guatemala](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/volunteer-abroad-in-guatemala-ivhq-antigua-holiday-experience-9.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![Volunteering on the IVHQ Guatemala Summer Camp project for teens](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/volunteer-abroad-in-guatemala-ivhq-teen-summer-camp-project-7.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![Volunteering on the animal care project in Guatemala](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/animal-care-project-guatemala.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![Volunteering on the Holiday Experience IVHQ project in Antigua, Guatemala](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/volunteer-abroad-in-guatemala-ivhq-antigua-holiday-experience-6.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![IVHQ volunteer orientation in Guatemala](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/volunteer-orienation-guatemala.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![Volunteer Spanish Class in Guatemala with IVHQ](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/ivhq-guatemala-spanish-class.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![IVHQ Salsa class in Guatemala](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/guatemala-salsa-class.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![IVHQ Salsa class](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/salsa-class-guatemala.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![IVHQ Guatemala Zip Line](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/ivhq-zipling-guatemala.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![IVHQ Guatemala Coffee Tour](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/ivhq-guatemala-coffee-tour.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![IVHQ guacamole in Guatemala](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/ivhq-guacamole-party.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![Exploring Antigua, Guatemala with IVHQ](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/guatemala-antigua-ivhq.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![Exploring Guatemala by horseback with IVHQ](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/horse-riding-guatemala.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![IVHQ Guatemala Zip Lining volunteers during a weekend](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/guatemala-ziplining-ivhq.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![IVHQ Guatemala Zip Lining during a weekend](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/ivhq-zip-lining-guatemala.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![Exploring Antigua, Guatemala as a volunteer with IVHQ](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/ivhq-antigua-guatemala.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![Exploring Antigua, Guatemala by bus as a volunteer with IVHQ](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/exploring-antigua-ivhq.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
What recent volunteers said about their IVHQ experience
I was so hesitant about this experience because it is SO out of my comfort zone. But it was one of the best decisions I’ve made. Being immersed in another culture and working along side them was such an amazing experience and I learned so so much even from my short time of being there. I think I grew so much as a person from this experience and I highly recommend it to anyone who is interested. Even if you are hesitant or nervous to do it, I’d say go for it. So many of the other volunteers feel the exact same way and there is so much support from IVHQ and the local team.
I went in this adventure on my own. I would highly recommend IVHQ to others wanting to give of themselves. Everything was very well organized and I never felt unsafe during my two week experience. I actually recommend going alone as you are forced to meet others and possibly push yourself out of your comfort zone. I also recommend taking some “excursions” to learn more about the culture of your location. I learned a great deal!
I loved how I was taken care of from the beginning to the end. Really felt safe and comfortable on making the trip happen. I felt honored volunteering and actually learned so much in the process. It will be one of your best experiences in your life.
It is an amazing experience that will stay with you for many years and it opened my eyes to many new opportunities for adventures.
I cannot put into words how amazing and humbling my experience in Guatemala was. I had some reservations about traveling to a foreign country by myself, where I barely spoke the language, but IVHQ and the local team helped me every step of the way. The Special Needs program not only tested everything I thought I understood about children with special needs but also showed me the power love and physical contact has on a child's life (I realize how incredibly corny that sounds but the 10 minutes spent holding or talking to one of the kiddos might have been the only loving contact they had that day). This program completely exceeded every expectation I had and was truly one of the best experiences I could have ever done. I mean, how many people can say that they spent their morning helping a child learn to walk and the afternoon hiking an active volcano and roasting marshmallows over lava??
To read all reviews, visit our reviews page.
Academic course credit
![Academic course credit through International Volunteer HQ and Intern Abroad HQ.](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/pages/academic-credit/academic-college-credit-header.jpg?w=600&h=250&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress)
Academic course credit
Gain course credit from your college or university and meet your academic requirements when completing a volunteer abroad program with International Volunteer HQ!
Learn about course creditLocation
![Volunteer Abroad in Guatemala with IVHQ](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/projects/guatemala/volunteer-abroad-in-guatemala-ivhq-location.jpg?w=800&h=500&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress)
Location
When you walk the cobblestone streets of Antigua it is easy to see why it has been made a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Baroque architecture, Spanish colonial churches and brightly painted buildings can be admired on nearly every corner. The urban environment speaks to the rich history of the city which dates back to the 1500s and includes a number of destructive earthquakes which have seen it repaired and rebuilt over a long period of time.
IVHQ’s Guatemala program is based in Antigua with placements in the city and surrounding areas. At these placements you’re likely to see the struggle faced by many Guatemalans living with limited resources. Despite the beauty of the place and its busy tourism industry, Guatemala is one of the poorest countries in Latin America. Its citizens can benefit greatly from the support volunteers can give local initiatives which strive to improve their lives.
Antigua is located approximately 30 minutes from Guatemala City.
Arrival and orientation
The program orientation begins every Monday and volunteers need to arrive in Guatemala City on the day before orientation.
After you have registered for the program, please book your flights to arrive at the La Aurora International Airport (GUA) in Guatemala City. Your airport pick-up is included in your Program Fee. We recommend that volunteers under the age of 18 travel internationally with a notarized letter from their parents to support their documentation.
When you arrive, you will be greeted at the airport by a member of the local team and transported to the volunteer accommodation in Antigua. Your accommodation is covered by your Program Fee and includes the night before your program orientation.
If you are travelling in Guatemala prior to your volunteer program, we can arrange for you to be picked up in Antigua on the day before your program orientation.
Orientation is hosted by our local team at their office in Antigua. Orientation begins on Monday morning and covers everything you need to know for your volunteer program in Guatemala – an introduction to Guatemala, Guatemalan customs, language training details, rules and expectations, safety, travel opportunities in Guatemala, and an introduction to your project and placement. The orientation will also give you a chance to meet other volunteers and swap contact details for weekend travel and socialising.
Volunteer schedule example
First Day
On your first day of volunteering, you will be escorted to your placement by a local coordinator and introduced to the placement staff you will be working with.
Weekdays
Volunteers will have a morning or afternoon shift, which will last around 3 to 5 hours. Work and hours are dependent on the project and location. If a volunteer is taking Spanish language lessons, they will usually volunteer for half the day and spend the other half in lessons. A typical schedule is as follows:
7:30 - 8:00 AM | Breakfast with your host family. |
8:30 AM | Volunteer leaves home and travels to the project. The volunteer meets with the local staff. You will be given a duty roster and a plan for your work. |
12:00 PM | Lunch at a local restaurant. |
1:00 - 5:00 PM | Work at the placement usually ends. Volunteers are free to travel back to the accommodation, go sightseeing or do some shopping. |
7:00 PM | Dinner with your host family. |
Weekends
During the weekends, volunteers have spare time and usually just relax or take the opportunity to explore Antigua and other parts of Guatemala. Hop on a chicken bus and discover the beautiful architecture and sights of the charming city of Antigua, or jump on an ATV and go exploring at a coffee plantation, on a volcano or through small countryside villages. You’ll also find a great selection of markets selling everything from fruit and vegetables to locally-made handcrafts and cooking classes that can teach you how to make Guatemala’s tasty national stew - Pepian.
Long weekends can be taken to travel further afield to destinations, such as Tikal, Belize, Mexico, El Salvador and Honduras.
Sunday is a religious day of rest and many shops and restaurants are closed. Most Guatemalans devote the day to spending time with their family. If you wish, you can accompany your host family to their local church, as a Latin American church service is a unique and special experience for many volunteers.
Accommodation and WiFi
Volunteers who are under the age of 27 are accommodated alongside other volunteers in a large, dormitory style volunteer house, and those over the age of 27 are accommodated in smaller local homestays. If you are traveling as a family, the local team will place you in a home-stay.
Living is comfortable with electricity, running water and western bathrooms. Low pressure showers should be expected and the water is not always heated. You will need to bring your own towel and toiletries, but bed linen is provided.
Bedrooms have single beds and bunk beds with bedding provided. You can expect to share a room with 2 - 6 other volunteers of the same gender. Private room upgrades are available in Antigua and cost $62 per person, per week.
WiFi is available at the volunteer houses and homestays. However, the connection may not be as reliable as what you are used to at home. You will also have access to computers and WiFi at the local team’s office in Antigua.
Please note, volunteers under the age of 18 who are traveling solo will be accommodated separately from those over the age of 18, in a homestay. If there are other volunteers under the age of 18 participating at the same time, the local team will do their best to ensure they are accommodated together.
Meals
Volunteers are provided breakfast and dinner at their accommodation. Breakfast will be bread or tortillas, spreads, fruit and eggs with tea or coffee. Dinner commonly consists of meat, beans, starches and vegetables.
Lunches are not provided to Antigua-based volunteers as they are usually away from their accommodation around midday. We recommend budgeting between £2 and £4 per day to buy lunch at local restaurants recommended by staff.
Filtered water will be available at the accommodation, and bottled water is also easy to purchase and inexpensive throughout Guatemala.
When you apply for the program, please be sure to notify us of any special dietary requirements so we can make arrangements for you.
![IVHQ volunteer accommodation house in Guatemala](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/volunteer-abroad-in-guatemala-ivhq-accommodation.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![Volunteer bedroom in Guatemala with IVHQ](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/volunteer-abroad-in-guatemala-ivhq-accommodation-bedroom-1.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![IVHQ volunteer accommodation bedroom in Guatemala](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/volunteer-abroad-in-guatemala-ivhq-accommodation-bedroom-2.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![Volunteer accommodation bathroom in Guatemala with IVHQ](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/volunteer-abroad-in-guatemala-ivhq-accommodation-bathroom.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![IVHQ volunteer accommodation kitchen in Guatemala](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/volunteer-abroad-in-guatemala-ivhq-accommodation-kitchen.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![IVHQ volunteer breakfast in Guatemala](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/guatemala-volunteers-breakfast.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![Volunteer breakfast in Guatemala with IVHQ](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/ivhq-guatemala-volunteers-breakfast.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![Volunteers breakfast in Guatemala with IVHQ](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/guatemala-volunteers-breakfast-ivhq.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![Volunteers dinner in Guatemala with IVHQ](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/guatemala-volunteer-dinner.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![Volunteer dinner in Guatemala with IVHQ](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/ivhq-guatemala-volunteers-dinner.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![IVHQ volunteer dinner in Guatemala](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/gallery/volunteer-in-guatemala/guatemala-volunteers-dinner-ivhq.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
Pricing
Spots are limited. For a Registration Fee of just US$329 (approximately £263) you secure your spot and unlock all our preparation and training tools.
You don't need to worry about paying your Program Fee until you get closer to your start date.
Duration |
Program FeeDue 30 days before you start, or within 48 hours if you register inside of 30 days. Covers the cost of hosting you.
|
---|---|
1 week | $465 Equivalent to $66/day |
2 weeks | $820 Equivalent to $59/day |
3 weeks | $1,107 Equivalent to $53/day |
4 weeks | $1,378 Equivalent to $49/day |
5 weeks | $1,668 Equivalent to $48/day |
6 weeks | $1,958 Equivalent to $47/day |
8 weeks | $2,538 Equivalent to $45/day |
10 weeks | $3,118 Equivalent to $45/day |
12 weeks | $3,698 Equivalent to $44/day |
16 weeks | $4,858 Equivalent to $43/day |
20 weeks | $6,018 Equivalent to $43/day |
24 weeks | $7,178 Equivalent to $43/day |
- All programs attract a Registration Fee of US$329 (approximately £263) in addition to the Program Fee. This covers all pre-departure support services.
- A 5% international banking fee is added at point of payment.
- Recommended spending money: Volunteers in Guatemala generally find US$80 - US$100 per week to be sufficient for expenses. Please note this budget is for general expenses and does not include money you will need for any weekend activities you plan to do.
- Breakfast and dinner
- Airport pick-up
- Accommodation
- 24/7 in-country support
- In-country program orientation
- Pre-departure support from your Program Manager
- Personalised preparation tools, guides and check lists
- Access to IVHQ’s preferred insurance and flights partners
- Discounts on language lessons
- Discounts on travel and tour add-ons
- Certificate of International Volunteer Service
Learn more about what's included in your IVHQ Registration Fee and Program Fee.
- Lunch
- Transport to and from your placement each day
- Return to the airport when your program finishes
- Flights
- Visa (if required), travel insurance (mandatory), vaccinations, criminal background check.
- Personal spending money for snacks, laundry, public transportation, drinks and leisure activities during your free time.
Free-time experiences & tours in Antigua
Take your volunteer experience to the next level with IVHQ's affordable activity and tour add-ons in Antigua! Explore your options below and learn how to book them once you've been accepted onto the IVHQ Antigua program.
![Coffee Farm Tour (Half Day)](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/addons/international-volunteer-hq-tour-travel-add-on-guatemala-coffee-plantation.jpg?w=570&h=260&fit=crop&auto=format,compress)
Step into the world of coffee excellence in the lush highlands of Guatemala
![Mini Adventure (6 days, 7 nights)](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/addons/international-volunteer-hq-tour-travel-add-on-guatemala-mini-adventure.jpg?w=570&h=260&fit=crop&auto=format,compress)
See all of Guatemala’s major hot spots on this 1-week Mini Adventure tour.
![Volcano Tour (Half day)](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/addons/international-volunteer-hq-tour-travel-add-on-guatemala-volcanoe-tour-half-day.jpg?w=570&h=260&fit=crop&auto=format,compress)
Trek up Pacaya Volcano, a fully active volcano and national park. Enjoy breathtaking views and learn about Guatemala’s natural history.
Affordable Spanish language lessons
Fluency in Spanish is not a prerequisite for the IVHQ Guatemala program, however on certain projects volunteer work will be restricted with limited language ability. We recommend that volunteers take advantage of the very affordable language lessons offered exclusively to IVHQ volunteers by our partner staff in Guatemala. Past volunteers feel that taking these lessons help immensely with day-to-day volunteer work and communicating with local people. Volunteers interested in taking Spanish lessons can arrange these directly with the IVHQ Program Manager prior to departure. The language lessons are tailored to each volunteer’s current level of Spanish and classes run from Monday through to Friday. The cost is very affordable and offered exclusively to IVHQ volunteers. These lessons are not available for volunteers during the Beach and Turtle Conservation project, Mayan Cultural Immersion project, Eco-Agriculture project or Holiday Experience project due to the remoteness of these project locations. Volunteers on these projects can arrange lessons before or after their projects if they wish to stay longer in Antigua.
- 2-hour Small Group Classes: from £52 per week
- 1-hour Private Classes: from £64 per week
- 2-hour Private Classes: from £120 per week
How to book IVHQ’s language lessons: When you apply for your IVHQ volunteer program, make a note in your application of the language classes you’re interested in.
Once you’ve paid your registration fee, your IVHQ Program Manager will be able to book your place on your chosen language classes.
Check what's required to visit Guatemala
Safety and support
![Safety and support with IVHQ](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/pages/volunteer-health-and-safety/volunteer-health-and-safety-ivhq-hero.png?w=600&h=340&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress)
Safety and support
IVHQ follows best practice and industry-leading health and safety procedures, which are regularly reviewed and optimized as part of the B Corporation recertification.
- All volunteers encouraged to complete our interactive pre-departure training.
- All local teams trained on best practice volunteer management & First Aid.
- All IVHQ programs are required to adhere to IVHQ's Risk Management Policy.
- All volunteers have access to 24/7 in-country support from our local team.
Essential country information
Essential country information
Capital | Guatemala City |
Population | 15.08 million |
Languages | Spanish |
Currency | Guatemalan Quetzal (GTQ) |
Time zone | UTC−06:00 |
Weather and climate: Guatemala has a range of micro climates and the high altitude of Guatemala City results in a subtropical highland climate in this region. There aren’t distinct seasons in Guatemala and the temperature is typically mild year round. Temperatures range from 22°C to 28°C (72°F to 82°F) during the day, and 12°C to 17°C (54°F to 63°F) at night. The country attracts winds and rain during the months of May to October with the hottest month being April.
Latest blog posts
Other projects you may be interested in
![Volunteer on the Medical and Healthcare in Guatemala with IVHQ](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/projects/guatemala/volunteer-abroad-in-guatemala-ivhq-medical-healthcare.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![Volunteer on the Childcare project in Guatemala with IVHQ](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/projects/guatemala/volunteer-abroad-in-guatemala-ivhq-childcare.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![Volunteer on the Teaching English project with IVHQ in Guatemala](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/projects/guatemala/volunteer-abroad-in-guatemala-ivhq-teaching-english.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![Eco-Agriculture volunteers in Guatemala with IVHQ](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/projects/guatemala/volunteer-abroad-in-guatemala-ivhq-eco-agriculture.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![Animal care volunteering in Guatemala with IVHQ](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/projects/guatemala/volunteer-abroad-in-guatemala-ivhq-animal-care.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![Mayan Cultural Immersion volunteer program in Guatemala with IVHQ](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/projects/guatemala/volunteer-abroad-in-guatemala-ivhq-mayan-cultural-immersion.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![Christmas Holiday Experience volunteer program in Guatemala with IVHQ](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/projects/guatemala/volunteer-abroad-in-guatemala-ivhq-holiday-experience.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![Volunteer on the Construction and Renovation project in Guatemala with IVHQ](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/projects/guatemala/volunteer-abroad-in-guatemala-ivhq-construction-renovation.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![Volunteer on the Medical project in Guatemala with IVHQ](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/projects/guatemala/volunteer-abroad-in-guatemala-ivhq-medical-healthcare-dentistry.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![Volunteer on the Elderly Care project in Guatemala with IVHQ](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/projects/guatemala/volunteer-abroad-in-guatemala-ivhq-elderly-care.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)
![Volunteer on the Medical Campaign project in Guatemala with IVHQ](https://ivhq.imgix.net/images/projects/guatemala/volunteer-abroad-in-guatemala-ivhq-medical-campaign.jpg?w=540&h=360&fit=crop&crop=faces,center&auto=format,compress&q=85)