Learn Spanish, Travel and Volunteer

We offer Spanish language classes combined with a unique travel adventure to the best places in Guatemala. Antigua - Lake Atitlan - Tikal - Semuc Champey

we will help you find the right program

GUATEMALAN PROGRAMS 2023

We offer Spanish language classes in all of our programs, led by licensed indigenous teachers. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced learner, we have classes that can help you improve your Spanish skills.

We also provide cultural activities and excursions that allow you to practice your Spanish in real-life situations. 

We are committed to supporting the local community and promoting sustainable tourism. As part of our efforts, we work closely with local guides and include activities that showcase the Guatemalan culture in our programs. Additionally, we offer opportunities for our participants to engage in volunteer projects that benefit the local community.”

One of the highlights of our programs is the beautiful Lake Atitlan, situated amidst stunning volcanoes. You’ll start your mornings with a sense of vibrancy as you take in the magical surroundings. Using the local lancha boat, you’ll explore all the unique towns dotted around the lake, immersing yourself in the local culture and way of life. This experience will be one you’ll never forget!

During your trip with us, you’ll have the opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful and culturally significant places in Guatemala, such as the charming colonial city of Antigua, the breathtaking Lake Atitlan surrounded by volcanoes, the stunning natural pools of Semuc Champey, and the picturesque town of Flores.

Once in Guatemala, you may want to stay forever!

Guatemala is a beautiful and diverse country located in Central America. It is known for its rich culture, stunning natural landscapes, and fascinating history.

The culture of Guatemala is a blend of indigenous Mayan and Spanish colonial influences, resulting in a unique and vibrant mix of traditions, music, food, and art. One of the most striking aspects of Guatemalan culture is the colorful clothing worn by indigenous communities, which varies from region to region and reflects the distinct identities of each group. Traditional music and dance are also an important part of the culture, with the marimba being the national instrument of Guatemala.

Food is another essential component of Guatemalan culture, with dishes such as tamales, chiles rellenos, and pepian being popular throughout the country. Coffee is also a significant part of the culture, as Guatemala is one of the world’s largest producers of high-quality coffee beans.

Guatemala’s history is both rich and complex, with the Mayan civilization dating back thousands of years and Spanish colonialism shaping much of the country’s identity. Today, Guatemala is a diverse and dynamic country, with a strong sense of pride in its cultural heritage.

ACCOMMODATIONS

"YOUR HOME AWAY FROM HOME"

We have carefully selected our partner hostels in Guatemala. Each one of them offers a warm and familiar atmosphere, unique design, and good food. At each place, you will have a different host who will welcome you and guide you through the program and activities. Based on the feedback from our groups, we have created an option with a daily budget for your meals and drinks, which you can use however you like. You will receive all the necessary information before arriving at each destination.

ADRA HOSTEL

Here is a corrected version of the text: Located in the center of Antigua, this hostel offers a great atmosphere, good food, and unique colonial rooms. You will get a bed in the large, unique dorms of Adra with shared bathrooms and use it as a base for your activities. If you fancy, this is also a great base for climbing volcanoes! WiFi is available in the communal spaces. There is a daily budget available for your meals and drinks.

IGUANA PERDIDA

Once at the lake, you will love the remote atmosphere of this hostel. Owned & Managed by our lovely friends Deedle and Dave, you will feel at home in no time. They serve the best food, and you will never forget the magic of this place right by the lake. You will stay in a mixed dorm with your mates and shared bathroom. WiFi is available in the communal spaces. There is a daily budget available for your meals and drinks at Iguana.

ZEPHYR LODGE

This place is unique with a stunning swimming pool in the middle of the jungle, lots of young travelers, and a fun nightlife. All your activities, including a one-time experience to go to Semuc Champey, will start and end here, and you will be able to practice the Spanish you have learned so far. You will stay in a dorm with your mates, and WiFi is available. There is a daily budget available for your meals and drinks.

AMIGOS

Amigos is the friendliest place in the magical little village of Flores. All faces will be smiling, as the vibe of this place is just not found anywhere else in the world. It is located just a few footsteps away from the lake, and it serves as your base to explore the Mayan ruins of Tikal. There is a daily budget available for your meals and drinks.

USEFUL INFORMATION FOR GUATEMALA

CONTACT INFO

Email: jakera@jakera.com
Phone +506 8844 - 4717
+506 8819 7433

ARRIVAL INFOS

All infos about getting to Guatemala

TRAVEL TO GUATEMALA

Packing List

Need a little guideline what to bring?

Guatemala is a well-connected country with international airports in Guatemala City and Flores. The main airport is ‘La Aurora International Airport’ in Guatemala City, which receives flights from various destinations in North America, Central America, and South America.

Upon arrival, you will need to go through immigration and customs, but visas are not required for stays of up to 90 days for most nationalities. It is important to ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the dates of your trip.

We can arrange for someone to meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hostel in Antigua, located about an hour’s drive from the airport. (BOOK Arrival Transfer).

Currency & Money: The currency in Guatemala is the Quetzal (GTQ), but US dollars are also widely accepted in most tourist areas. ATMs are available in most cities and towns, and credit cards are widely accepted in major tourist areas. Make sure to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases or when visiting rural areas. When entering the country, make sure to have the address of your accommodation ready as immigration officers may ask for it.

PASSPORT

Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond the dates of your trip

IMMIGRATION

Hold on ready_ Reason to travel "Tourism"
Adress where you are staying:
Adra Hostel 4a Calle Oriente No. 15
Antigua, Guatemala 03001

ARRIVAL TRANSPORT

Make sure you book the Arrival Transport extra so we will pick you up at the airport. If you are a day early dont worrie - book an extra night!

ARRIVAL PACKAGE OPTIONS

FROM OVERSEAS

Recommended the arrival transport. If you arriva a day early, simply book an extra night with us. We will pick you up at the airport and make sure everything rolls smooth

ONLY TRANSPORT

Are you already in Guatemala and just need a pick up? We're happy to help you arrange transportation to Adra Hostel. Please let us know at least 2 weeks in advance and contact us for pricing, as it may vary depending on your destination.

ARRIVING BY YOURSELFS

Great! Just make sure to let us know your estimated arrival time so that we can make sure someone is available to welcome you and show you to your dorm. And don't worry, even if you arrive late, we have staff available 24/7 to assist you with check-in. We look forward to welcoming you!

FROM OVERSEAS

Arriving from overseas, it makes sense to book the arrival transport which includes airport pick-up and transportation to Adra Hostel in Antigua. Most of our participants do this and get in touch with other students right away. We recommend arriving on Sunday for your flight.

Once you get your luggage, exit the airport and look for our driver holding a sign with your name. Go to the right side.  

If you are arriving a day early, you can book the arrival transport as normal and book an extra night with us. We will pick you up the same way, and you will arrive one day earlier at our hostel where you can relax and wait for the others.

 

ONLY TRANSPORT

If you are staying in another hotel in Guatemala, no problem. We can arrange a pick-up from wherever you are, just get in touch with us at least 1 week ahead. Please note that prices will vary based on the distance.

ARRIVING BY YOURSELFS

Great! Just make sure to let us know your estimated arrival time so that we can make sure someone is available to welcome you and show you to your dorm. And don't worry, even if you arrive late, we have staff available 24/7 to assist you with check-in. We look forward to welcoming you!

GET IN TOUCH

jakera@jakera.com or phone +506 8844 - 4717 / +506 2640-0801

PACKING LIST

  • Clothing

    Shorts / T-shirts / lightweight long trousers / long sleeved shirts / fleece / rain jacket / swimwear / longsleeve for paddelboarding and kajaking with SPF +50 / clothing you dont mind get dirty (volunteering) / some clothing to go out for dinner

  • Long sleeve trousers and shirt

    As in all subtropical areas, insects can be a nuisance, especially in the evening. Long sleeved shirts and trousers are recommended to offer the best form of protection in the evenings.

  • Rain Jacket

    May to November it might rain a bit or a lot, take a waterproof rainjacket or poncho

  • Dust

    December to May specially you might have dusty roads and want to bring a bandana or buff to protect your face

  • Shoes

    Good walking Shoes or Sneakers for everyday / Sandals or good flip flops with strong sole / Waterproof hiking boots (Rainy Season)

  • Equipment

    Personal towel (quick dry sports towel) / Dry bag is necessary for everyday use / cap or hat / Gloves for Volunteering

  • Volunteering students

    Take a pair of simple garden gloves or working gloves with you.

  • Luggage

    Take a big Backpack for all your Lugguage rather then a sutecase A smaler Backpack or Drybag for your expeditions.

  • Medical Kit

    It is always useful to carry a small personal medical kit. This should include items such as: Plasters, wound dressings and bandages, personal medication to last the duration of the expedition, anti-histamine cream/ tablets, fungicidal foot power/ cream, antiseptic cream/solution, Imodium tablets (x30) and rehydration (e.g. dioralyte) sachets, mild pain killers (e.g. Paracetamol), tweezers, scissors etc.). Also we recommend to bring ear drops that contain Antipyrine, benzocaine / analgesics.

  • Sun Cream, zinc or other waterproof sun protection

    After sun you will be spending a lot of time in the sun so please bring adequate sun protection. We recommend a higher block than usual.

  • Insect Repellent

    and after bite Insect repellant is recommended. If you are allergic to repellents seek advice before leaving your home country

  • Insect Repellent allergy:

    if you are allergic to insect bites, we suggest you bring from home anti allergic pills. In any case they can also by buy local.

  • Sun Glasses

    A GOOD quality pair of sunglasses is essential. Make sure they offer 100% UV protection.

  • Headtorch

    a headtorch as it is more useful than a normal torch.

  • Camera

    If bringing a digital camera bring a number of memory cards.

  • Small travel padlock

    Bring your own padlock to lock up your valuables

  • Photocopy of passport

    Please bring a copy of your passport. Travel tip – email yourself a copy of your passport and other important documentation.

  • Stationery

    Bring pens, pencils, notepads and A4 notebooks for your Spanish Lessons

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