A genuine taste of Guatemalan culture

The program effectively balances a genuine immersion into the Guatemalan culture with a strong emphasis on safety. Virginia and co. truly make the volunteers a part of their family - I was truly spoiled. With a security guard on staff 24 hours per day, the home base was a welcome oasis on Septima Avenida in Guatemala City. I have grown to appreciate many little things that I take for granted in the United States. Every volunteer has a different experience, and the staff is more than eager to make sure everyone is able to take something away from their program.

No matter how many pictures and videos you see, they will not do Lake Atitlan and Tikal justice. I was able to see every tourist attraction on my list, while still managing to budget time for a rewarding volunteer experience. I've often read that the best volunteer programs follow the rule of thirds - 1/3 volunteer, 1/3 cultural, and 1/3 free time. This program follows that structure admirably.