Learn Spanish, volcanoes, volunteer, lake-life and temples
Immerse yourself in the language, culture, and natural beauty of Guatemala with our exclusive four-week adventure package. Experience the colonial charm of Antigua and the breathtaking scenery of Lake Atitlan, while learning Spanish from experienced tutors, participating in meaningful volunteer work, and indulging in unforgettable outdoor activities. Our four-week package offers the ultimate adventure, with opportunities to explore ancient Mayan ruins, exploore the unique Shemuc Champey, and learn to cook like a local. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Guatemala.
Immerse yourself in the language, culture, and natural beauty of Guatemala with our exclusive four-week adventure package. Experience the colonial charm of Antigua and the breathtaking scenery of Lake Atitlan, while learning Spanish from experienced tutors, participating in meaningful volunteer work, and indulging in unforgettable outdoor activities. Our four-week package offers the ultimate adventure, with opportunities to explore ancient Mayan ruins, exploore the unique Shemuc Champey, and learn to cook like a local. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Guatemala.
Why Guatemala?
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.
During your stay, you will receive overnight accommodations and breakfast. In addition, you will have a daily budget of 120 Quetzales which can be used for lunch or dinner (including a meal and non-alcoholic drink). Any unused budget will not be credited to the next day.
Each person will have their own tab, and at check-out, any additional costs should be paid directly to the reception. This daily budget will be applicable for every day except for two days: one day where you will be volunteering at the greenhouse and one day when you will be taking the coffee plantation tour. On those days, breakfast will be provided at Adra Hostel, and lunch will be provided during the activity, so you will not have a credit for that day at Adra Hostel.
The total credit for the six days of the trip will be 720 Quetzales
If you deceide to go on the additional Volcanoe Trip, there is no possibility to get a refund or credit for those missing days at Adra.
The initial stroll around the vibrant city of Antigua is crucial, as it aims to ensure your comfort and confidence in navigating your new surroundings. Our guided tour will highlight key facilities such as ATMs, pharmacies, and grocery stores, as well as places of historical significance. The tour will last approximately two hours.
Antigua: Your Spanish lessons will take place near Adra Hostel and consist of 2 sessions, each 45 minutes long, usually held from 2:00 to 4:00 PM. The lessons are taught by licensed teachers from the indigenous community, and you will receive a short test on your first day to determine your level and objectives. The classes are designed to cater to all levels, from beginner to advanced, and are intended to help you interact and fully immerse yourself in the local community and culture of a Spanish-speaking country. You will also have the opportunity to learn some of the local dialect.
Close to Antigua, on the way to one of the most famous viewpoints, we support a project to build a butterfly farm in the mountains. Working on this exclusive project includes gardening, cleaning the environment, and helping to restore the land on the mountain to its natural state.
Climbing up that viewpoint demands a bit of power but totally duable. you need good shoes for it as the way to the volunteer projects is offroad! A lot of non-native butterflies have migrated here, which means they struggle to find the right plants and flowers to live on in this foreign environment.
The butterfly farm project aims to accommodate these new butterflies by providing a safe and familiar habitat for them to thrive in. The work involves gardening, cleaning the environment, and restoring the land on the mountain to its natural state. This includes eradicating non-native trees that have damaged the ecosystem and replacing them with native ones to give habitats back to the butterflies and birds.
Antigua: La Antigua Guatemala, the first capital of Central America, is rich in culture and history. Its nostalgic cobblestone streets represent the rich heritage of the Hispanic colonial era, with ancient walls, churches, convents, monasteries, and large family houses forming a beautiful and evocative monumental architectural complex.
During the tour, you will visit Casa Del Jade, where you will learn the secrets of the amazing and unusual ancient jade artifacts carved by the Mayans. The tour lasts approximately 2-3 hours.
Antigua: Our Coffee Tours are a unique and authentic experience led by coffee growers themselves. They will take you through their fields, explaining the work behind cultivating coffee and each step of the processing from bean to brew. You’ll even get to join them for a cup of De La Gente coffee at the end of the tour.
But it’s not just about the coffee – you’ll also have the opportunity to have honest and open conversations with small-scale producers about the obstacles, triumphs, and hopes they have for their family and community within the coffee industry.
The tour includes round-trip transportation from Antigua to the producer’s home, Spanish-English interpretation, a tour through the coffee fields, a demonstration of traditional roasting and grinding, a cup of coffee at the producer’s home, and a 12-ounce bag of roasted coffee.
The shuttle picks up participants at 8:45 am from Cafe Estudio, located just a few steps from Adra Hostel. The tour typically takes about three and a half hours, and you can expect to return to Cafe Estudio around 12:15 pm.
Antigua: One of the most memorable experiences in Guatemala is weaving through the colourful markets, which are famous throughout the region. During this tour, you’ll learn to navigate the isles like a local, haggle for the best prices, and immerse yourself in the vibrant colors, smells, and tastes of traditional clothes, jewelry, food, and spices. You’ll find an incredible array of goods available for purchase, and there’s something for everyone. This tour typically lasts around 3 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore and shop to your heart’s content.
SUGGESTED EXTRA ACTIVITIES
Acetango Volcan
Pacaya Volcano
A two day expetition, climbing the magnificent Volcan Acatenango near Antigua is a must-do activity for many adventure tourists visiting Guatemala. At 13,041 ft / 3,976 m high, Acatenango towers above the landscape and provides hikers with breathtaking views of the adjacent (and very active!) Volcan Fuego, which has been erupting frequently since colonial times. In addition to the impressive sight of Volcan Fuego, hikers can also enjoy panoramic vistas of the entire region from the summit of Acatenango.
Price about 80$ for the overnight tour.
Hike to the top of Pacaya, where you’ll enjoy amazing views from the top of this 8,000-foot (2,438m) peak, and get up close and personal with some of Guatemala’s most active volcanoes.
Hike amid volcanic vegetation with your professional guide to gain a closer look at the magnificent Pacaya Volcano. You’ll get stunning views of three other nearby volcanoes, including Agua, Fuego, and Acatenango, in addition to the Pacaya Volcano.
This is a one-of-a-kind full-day adventure that you will never forget! You can book this activity to Adra Hostel or we recommend the best provider which is a few footsteps ahead at a place called Tropicana.
While staying in Santa Cruz, you’ll be in the perfect spot for delicious meals all day long. You’ll have a daily budget of 135 Quetzales, which you can split however you like between meals and smoothies (alcoholic drinks are not included).
Most likely, you’ll choose to join the dinners, which are a bit harder to find than lunch. Dinners at Iguana are 65 Quetzales, leaving you with 70 Quetzales to spend on other meals of your choice. If you spend more than your budget, the additional cost will be charged to your tab, which can be paid at check-out.
We will pick you up at 8 am on Monday morning and drop you off around lunchtime in Panajachel, Lake Atitlan, where our guide will welcome you. Hop on the lancha and experience the lake atmosphere right away. After a 20-minute boat ride, you will arrive at Santa Cruz, where the first thing you will see is Iguana Perdida.
After settling in, you will be taken to get familiar with your surroundings. Santa Cruz’s Iguana Perdida Hostel is a welcoming home to numerous friendly guides. Upon your arrival, one of them will take you on a tour of the picturesque steep and winding streets of Santa Cruz, showing you important points of interest, such as the ATM, pharmacy, and grocery store. The guides will be available to point out or show you anything you wish to see.
Whether you choose to take your Spanish lessons right by the lake or back in Panajachel, each lesson will consist of two 45-minute sessions (usually scheduled between 2:00 pm and 4:00 pm). Licensed teachers from the indigenous community will deliver the tuition, tailored to suit all levels – beginner, intermediate, and advanced. The classes are designed to help you interact and immerse yourself in the local community, and enjoy the experience of being in a Spanish-speaking country. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to learn some of their native tongue
Guatemalan cuisine is a fusion of Spanish and indigenous Mayan flavors, with a variety of spices, herbs, and tropical fruits used in cooking. Some popular Guatemalan dishes include Pepián, a meat and vegetable stew flavored with pumpkin seeds and spices, and Chiles Rellenos, a dish made of stuffed chili peppers. You can also try traditional street food like tostadas, tacos, and pupusas, which are all made with fresh ingredients and bursting with flavor. Additionally, coffee is an important part of Guatemalan culture and is known for its high quality, rich flavor, and distinct aroma. You will get a super local Cooking Class starting at 10 and finishing at 2 – Lunch included.
In Santa Cruz, our Volunteering Days are designed to give back to the local community by engaging in activities such as repainting and maintenance of the elementary school, providing basic English classes for children, organizing sports and games, and participating in recycling and conservation work around the lake and the surrounding landscape.
We encourage all participants to bring items from home to donate to the local schools and children, as it is greatly appreciated by the community and a wonderful way to start thinking about volunteering and making a difference before embarking on the trip.
As some of these projects may require physical labor, we recommend that you bring gloves with you to be prepared to get your hands dirty and actively participate.
Drifting across the waters of Lake Atitlan, surrounded by panoramic views of multiple volcanoes, is a truly unique experience. From your vantage point on a paddleboard or kayak, you can take in the stunning vistas of the renowned volcanoes and gaze back towards Santa Cruz, creating unrivaled views.
Additionally, there is no better place to relax and unwind than in the calm and tranquil scenery of Lake Atitlan.
The kajak or Paddle board can be rented for one hour per session.
Indian Nose, or La Nariz del Indio, is one of the most spectacular hikes in Lake Atitlan. It is a vantage point on the northwestern part of Lake Atitlan and overlooks much of the volcanic crater lake. Situated at about 2,200 meters high.
On a good day, you can see up to 8 volcanoes of Guatemala, but even the views will amaze you on a day without incredible weather. The geological features of Lake Atitlan can be fully appreciated from the top of Indian Nose.
SUGGESTED EXTRA ACTIVITIES
Diving
Chichicastenango Market
Visit other Villages
Walk to Casa del Mundo
Iguana are are proud to be home to Ati Divers. Since 1996 they have been the only dive shop on Lake Atitlan, offering fun dives, PADI certifications from Open Water all the way up to Divemaster, and even the Altitude Specialty course which can be done in just one day. Learn to dive today or come explore the mysteries that this volcanic lake holds under the surface.
Chichicastenango Market is one of the largest and most famous markets in Central America. It’s located in the town of Chichicastenango, about 2 hours by car from Panajachel. The market takes place every Thursday and Sunday and attracts both locals and tourists from all over the world.
The market is known for its vibrant colors, intricate textiles, and traditional handicrafts, as well as its fresh produce, spices, and medicinal herbs. You can find anything from hand-woven blankets and colorful pottery to hand-carved wooden masks and intricate embroidery.
In addition to the market, Chichicastenango also has several historic churches and a vibrant indigenous culture. It’s a great place to experience the traditions and customs of the Maya people, who have been trading in this market for centuries.
“For about 30 Quetzales, you can explore other villages around the Lake with the Lancha.
There are many charming and picturesque villages surrounding Lake Atitlan, each with their own unique character and attractions. Some popular ones include San Juan la Laguna, Santiago Atitlan, and San Marcos la Laguna. These villages are easily accessible by boat from Panajachel, and offer a glimpse into the rich culture and traditions of the indigenous people who call the area home. Exploring these villages is a great way to experience the beauty and diversity of Guatemala’s Lake Atitlan region.
About 45mins walk away you will find the Magic of Casa del Mundo which is a unique eco-lodge located on the shores of Lake Atitlan in Guatemala. It is situated on a secluded hillside, overlooking the lake and surrounded by lush vegetation and gardens. The lodge was built with sustainability and environmental conservation in mind, utilizing locally sourced materials and traditional Mayan building techniques.
Casa del Mundo offers a variety of accommodations, including private rooms, bungalows, and suites, each with its own unique design and features. The rooms are spacious, comfortable, and decorated with vibrant colors and local art. Some rooms have private balconies or terraces with stunning views of the lake and volcanoes.
The lodge has several on-site facilities, including a restaurant that serves fresh, organic meals made with local ingredients. The menu features a mix of international and Guatemalan cuisine, and vegetarian and vegan options are available. Casa del Mundo also has a spa that offers a range of holistic treatments and massages.
One of the highlights of Casa del Mundo is its stunning location on the shores of Lake Atitlan. Guests can enjoy swimming, kayaking, or paddleboarding in the clear waters of the lake, or simply relax on the sandy beach. The lodge also offers various activities and excursions, including hiking, bird watching, and cultural tours of the surrounding Mayan villages.
Overall, Casa del Mundo is an idyllic and peaceful retreat that offers a unique blend of comfort, sustainability, and natural beauty on the shores of Lake Atitlan.
While staying in Santa Cruz, you’ll be in the perfect spot for delicious meals all day long. You’ll have a daily budget of 135 Quetzales, which you can split however you like between meals and smoothies (alcoholic drinks are not included).
Most likely, you’ll choose to join the dinners, which are a bit harder to find than lunch. Dinners at Iguana are 65 Quetzales, leaving you with 70 Quetzales to spend on other meals of your choice. If you spend more than your budget, the additional cost will be charged to your tab, which can be paid at check-out.
Weaving classes in Santa Cruz, Lake Atitlan, are a popular way for visitors to learn about the local Mayan culture and traditions. Many of the women in the village are skilled weavers who create beautiful textiles using traditional techniques passed down through generations.
Whether you choose to take your Spanish lessons right by the lake or back in Panajachel, each lesson will consist of two 45-minute sessions (usually scheduled between 2:00 pm and 4:00 pm). Licensed teachers from the indigenous community will deliver the tuition, tailored to suit all levels – beginner, intermediate, and advanced. The classes are designed to help you interact and immerse yourself in the local community, and enjoy the experience of being in a Spanish-speaking country. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to learn some of their native tongue
The Santa Cruz waterfall is a beautiful natural attraction located in a lush canyon in Santa Cruz, Lake Atitlan. The waterfall is easily accessible by a short hike through the canyon, and visitors can enjoy swimming in the cool and refreshing natural pool at the base of the waterfall. The canyon is also home to diverse wildlife and lush vegetation, making it a great place for nature lovers to explore. Visitors can hire a local guide to take them on the hike and provide insights into the local flora and fauna. The Santa Cruz waterfall is a must-visit attraction for those looking to experience the natural beauty of Lake Atitlan.
Drifting across the waters of Lake Atitlan, surrounded by panoramic views of multiple volcanoes, is a truly unique experience. From your vantage point on a paddleboard or kayak, you can take in the stunning vistas of the renowned volcanoes and gaze back towards Santa Cruz, creating unrivaled views.
Additionally, there is no better place to relax and unwind than in the calm and tranquil scenery of Lake Atitlan.
The kajak or Paddle board can be rented for one hour per session.
Early morning you will leave on a scenic transfer over the mountains to Lanquin. This is about a 10hr trip. You will get there around night. Meals on the way are not included.
This amount is fixed per day and meal. Whenever you won’t consume it, it’s not possible to pass it on later or another day.
Whatever amount you consume extra will be paid upon check out.
Zephyr Lodge is a unique hideaway nestled in the hills, providing a serene and tranquil atmosphere with breathtaking views. Take a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life and enjoy a refreshing float down the Lanquin River while taking in the stunning scenery. Along the way, there are two stops for lunch and games, and you can also enjoy chilled beers. As the journey comes to an end, showcase your bridge jumping skills for an unforgettable finale to an adventure of a lifetime.
Hidden in the lush mountainous jungle landscape lies a turquoise paradise of natural pools, caves, and waterfalls at Shemuc Champey. Tucked away in the densely forested mountains of Alta Verapaz, Guatemala, this incredible limestone paradise is one of the world’s most magnificent hidden natural beauties, despite the arduous hours of off-road travel required to reach it.
The Semuc Champey natural monument is virtually inaccessible to all but the most hardy four-wheel drive vehicles. It features six beautiful tiered turquoise pools, an enormous cave network with underground waterfalls, and breathtaking views. The azure blue waters are perched on a natural limestone bridge that spans a section of the Cahabón River.
The transfer from Lanquin to Flores is a long and scenic journey that takes you through the heart of Guatemala, passing by verdant hills, lush jungles, and winding rivers. The journey typically takes around 8-9 hours, with several stops along the way to take in the stunning scenery, stretch your legs, and grab a bite to eat. The final destination, Flores, is a picturesque island town situated on Lake Peten Itza, and serves as the gateway to the famous Tikal Mayan ruins.
The tour price includes transportation both ways in a private shuttle and a full guided tour by an experienced fluent English speaking guide. We also have Spanish speaking guides if you prefer.
Our guided tours cover 90% of the discovered ruins in Tikal. Our guides will give you ample time to stroll over the central plaza and surrounding palaces. Strolling through el Mundo Perdido (the Lost World) complex is a delight. Of course you’ll get to spend a fair amount of time on top of temple 4, Tikal’s highest pyramid, far above the impressive canopy of the jungle.
Our guides have been doing this for years and are experts on Tikal’s architecture, history and the abundant flora and fauna.
The journey takes approximately 10-11 hours and usually departs from Flores in the early evening, arriving in Antigua early in the morning.
The buses are typically comfortable, with reclining seats, air conditioning, and a toilet on board. However, it’s always a good idea to bring warm clothing, as the bus can get cold at night. Some buses may also offer blankets and pillows for extra comfort.
It’s important to note that the road from Flores to Antigua can be winding and mountainous, so if you are prone to motion sickness, it’s recommended to bring some medication or remedies.
You will leave Flores around 9pm and get to Antigua around 7am.
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.
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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.
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.
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 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.
