Discover Guatemala: Culture, Connection, and Community Impact
Join us for an unforgettable journey through Guatemala where adventure meets purpose. On this Impact Adventure with Lakeview Journeys, you'll explore vibrant landscapes, immerse yourself in rich traditions, and build genuine connections with local communities.
This is more than just a trip. It’s an invitation to experience Guatemala not as a tourist, but as a friend. From the volcanic highlands and serene Lake Atitlán to the lush Pacific Coast and the colorful streets of colonial Antigua, you’ll see the heart of this beautiful country—and leave a piece of yours behind.
Why Choose an Impact Adventure?
Because it’s the best of both worlds: meaningful service and incredible travel. You'll step off the beaten path to work alongside families in partner communities, contributing to projects that increase access to vital resources. No special skills needed—just an open heart, a willingness to learn, and a spirit of collaboration.
How It Works
We aim to create a thoughtful, personalized experience for each participant. We’ll review applications and host brief interviews to ensure each student is a good fit for the program and ready to fully engage in this unique adventure.
Group Information:
For larger school groups, we’ll divide into two cohorts to ensure a more personalized and manageable experience:
Before you pack your bags, be sure to review our privacy policy, cancellation policy, and traveler’s release form.
You will be flying with the group to and from Guatemala City
19 of 24 meals are included. Dietary restrictions? No worries, we can accommodate most preferences!
The team at somos.travel is world-class. Your group will have a lead bilingual Adventure Guide and additional local guides for specific adventures.
Clean, safe, and comfortable rooms. In some cases you’ll share rooms with other 1-2 Impact Adventurers and in others you will be bunked in larger rooms with 3+ travelers.
All group transportation is included. Private passenger vans and buses (with A/C) for long journeys but you will also be in trucks, boats and maybe even a tuk-tuk!
Walking tour of Colonial Antigua, Turtle Hatchery Experience, Surfing (or Horseback Riding) on the Pacific Coast, Sunrise mangrove paddleboarding, Yoga class on the lake, Guided walk in Santiago
You will be on your own for a few meals where you can explore local cuisine with recommendations from your guides. Meals in Guatemala cost $8 – $12. You will want to budget $55-$65+ for food.
Travel insurance is required for trips. Policies start at around $75. As soon as you book, you'll get a confirmation email with info about how to get the best insurance policy for you.
Your impact starts today! We give you tools to support the NGO by fundraising in your local community. We strongly recommend every traveler fundraise or donate $250 to support the local impact partner
You’ve made it! After landing, we'll greet you at the airport and head in private transportation to the beautiful colonial city of Antigua, about an hour away. Settle into your hotel, take a deep breath, and get ready for an adventure that blends culture, connection, and impact.
Today we’ll kick things off with a walking tour of Antigua, a city filled with history and charm. From cobblestone streets to colorful colonial churches, you’ll see why it was once Guatemala’s capital. After taking in the sights and having lunch in town, we’ll hit the road for Lake Atitlán. After a scenic 3-hour drive, we’ll arrive in the Mayan town of Tzununa, our home for the next few nights.
Waking up overlooking Lake Atitlán is just the beginning! Today’s focus is on environmental service. We’ll partner with Wellkind for a reforestation project helping to restore the region’s biodiversity. Roll up your sleeves and get hands-on with tree planting. You’ll also have a chance to connect with local students and learn about life in their community.
Today we’ll dive deeper into our service project with WellKind, continuing hands-on work that supports indigenous communities and helps protect natural resources. In addition to volunteering, you'll get to engage with local youth and participate in fun cultural exchange activities designed to build friendships across borders.
After breakfast, we’ll say goodbye to the lake and head toward Guatemala’s Pacific Coast. Along the way, we’ll stop in the hidden gem of Quixayá, a community that has transformed its local river into a thriving ecosystem. Learn about sustainable agriculture from community members, enjoy a swim in spring-fed pools, and share a home-cooked lunch. By evening, we’ll arrive at the beach and settle into our hotel in El Paredón—then it’s time for a sunset swim!
Start your day with optional yoga or a sunrise stroll along the black sand beach. After breakfast, we’ll visit a local turtle hatchery to learn about sea turtle conservation. In the afternoon, you’ll have the chance to take a surfing lesson—a trip highlight for many—or simply relax in a hammock and enjoy the easygoing beach vibe.
This morning we’ll kayak through lush mangrove forests, learning about these vital ecosystems and spotting native birds and wildlife. The rest of the day is yours—swim, nap, or hang with friends. In the evening, we’ll play soccer on the beach, soak in the fiery sunset, and enjoy one last night on the coast.
After breakfast and a final ocean dip, we’ll journey back inland. After lunch, we’ll trek up the famous Pacaya Volcano, where you'll be rewarded with epic views of the surrounding landscape and cooled lava flows. Once back in Antigua, you’ll have free time to explore the town, take photos, and shop for meaningful souvenirs in Guatemala’s most colorful handicraft markets.
It’s your final day in Guatemala. Enjoy a relaxed morning and choose from optional experiences like a chocolate-making workshop, a coffee tour with a local cooperative, or crafting jewelry from endemic stones. In the evening, we’ll gather for one last shared dinner and meaningful reflections before heading to the airport. Safe travels—and thank you for being part of this journey!
