Volunteer and Explore in a Mayan Village - Full Day

Quetzaltenango , Guatemala

Volunteer and Explore in a Mayan Village - Full Day

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Here's your chance to volunteer and make a difference in a Mayan village if you have just one day.

Before your hands-on community service, start your day with a traditional Guatemalan breakfast. Then go behind the scenes to experience the rich cultural heritage of the Mam-speaking Maya via a walking tour of the village and a visit to the home of a local family.

After lunch and a demonstration of traditional backstrap weaving, share your skills and interests by engaging in meaningful volunteer work that will impact the lives of so many villagers.

Opportunities include assembling clean water filters or emergency food bags and delivering them to people's homes; assisting in the health clinic; engaging with children on art projects and soccer play; and practicing English with the staff.

78% OF YOUR ACTIVITY FEE DIRECTLY SUPPORTS THE PROGRAMS and CLINICS of LOCAL HOPE/XELA AID THAT EMPOWER LOCAL FAMILIES and COMMUNITIES TO BE HEALTHY, EDUCATED AND SELF-RELIANT.

Available options

Transport from Quetzaltenango

Transportation from/to Quetzaltenango: We'll pick you up from Central Park, a bus stop, the Quetzaltenango airport and return<br/>Pickup included

Volunteer and Explore in a Mayan Village - Full Day

What's included

Hand-woven keepsake from our Fair-Trade Weaving Coop

Bottled water

Snacks

Lunch

Breakfast

Detailed itinerary

• WELCOME - 9:00AM: Traditional breakfast
• VILLAGE TOUR - 10:00AM: Stop by our fire ring of "naguals" for a brief lesson on Mayan cosmology. Next, a gentle walk to the village along streets lined with fields of corn, potatoes and other local crops. Go behind the scenes to learn about daily life
• VISIT A MAYAN HOME for an up-close, personal view of family life
• LUNCH, WEAVING DEMONSTRATION – Noon
• COMMUNITY SERVICE – 1:00-4:30PM: Become an honorary member of our Empowerment Team by serving on projects that will enrich lives.
You can choose to:
• Prepare clean water filters or assemble emergency food bags which you'll deliver right into people's homes
• Join a health project to assess children's health and distribute anti-parasitic medicines or vitamins
• Treat 20 kids to an art project or soccer game
• Practice English with one of our eager staff
• OUR FAIR-TRADE COOPERATIVE - Wrap up your day with a visit to our Fair-Trade Weaving Coop and to choose a hand-woven treasure

What's not included

Transportation from/to Quetzaltenango Airport, up to 5 people.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Meet in front of the Clinica building.

About Quetzaltenango

Quetzaltenango, known locally as Xela, is the second-largest city in Guatemala and a cultural hub of the Western Highlands. Nestled in a valley surrounded by volcanic peaks, it offers a rich blend of indigenous Mayan and Spanish colonial heritage, making it a unique destination for travelers seeking cultural immersion and natural beauty.

Top Attractions

Parque Centroamericano

A central park in the heart of Quetzaltenango, featuring lush greenery, walking paths, and a small lake. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

Park 1 to 2 hours Free

Cerro El Baúl

An archaeological site featuring the remains of a pre-Columbian Mayan city. The site offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding volcanoes.

Historical 2 to 3 hours Free

Museo de los Altos

A museum showcasing the history and culture of the Western Highlands, including Mayan artifacts and colonial-era exhibits.

Museum 1 to 2 hours Moderate (50 GTQ / 6.50 USD)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kak'ik

A traditional Mayan turkey soup with a rich, spicy broth.

Soup Contains meat

Pepián

A hearty stew made with meat, vegetables, and a blend of spices.

Stew Contains meat, can be vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking Mountain biking Coffee tasting Spa visits Museum visits Traditional dance performances Boat tours on Lake Atitlán Mayan weaving workshops

Best Time to Visit

December to April (Dry season)

The dry season offers the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city is lively with local festivals and cultural events.

15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: K'iche', Mam, Q'anjob'al
English: Limited

Currency

Guatemalan Quetzal (GTQ)

Time Zone

CST (UTC-6)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Quetzaltenango is generally safe, but petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur. Be vigilant, especially in crowded areas.

Important Precautions:

• Avoid displaying valuables
• Use reputable taxi services
• Be cautious of strangers offering help

Getting there

By air

La Aurora International Airport • 200 km (124 miles) from Quetzaltenango

By bus

Terminal Quetzaltenango

Getting around

Public transport

Local buses, known as 'camionetas,' are the most common and affordable way to get around the city. They are often crowded and can be challenging for tourists.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber is available in Quetzaltenango

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Zona 1 Zona 3

Day trips

Lake Atitlán

80 km (50 miles) • Full day

A stunning volcanic lake surrounded by villages, each with its own unique culture and traditions.

Santa María Volcano

20 km (12 miles) • Full day

An active volcano offering challenging hikes and breathtaking views.

Festivals

Fiesta Minerva • September Fiesta de la Virgen del Rosario • October

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.
Visit local markets for authentic souvenirs and to experience the vibrant culture.
Try local coffee, which is renowned for its high quality and rich flavor.
Be prepared for cooler temperatures, especially at night, due to the city's high altitude.
Respect local customs and traditions, such as dressing modestly when visiting religious sites.