This Guatemala Adventure & Culture program blends outdoor exploration, cultural immersion, and authentic connections with local communities. Students will journey from the colonial streets of Antigua to the majestic volcanoes and crystal-clear waters of Lake Atitlán, before ending the adventure at the black-sand beaches of the Pacific Coast.

Highlights include:

• Kayaking and cliff jumping in one of the world’s most beautiful lakes
  

• Exploring Mayan ruins and learning from indigenous traditions
  

• Surfing and kayaking at Guatemala’s laid-back beach town of El Paredón
  

• Opportunities for service, sports, and meaningful cultural exchange
  
  

This journey offers a balance of adventure, cultural learning, and fun — designed to inspire students to grow as global citizens while creating unforgettable memories together.

Impact & Service

Throughout the journey, students will engage in meaningful service opportunities and cultural exchange. These may include:

• Supporting community projects in the Lake Atitlán region (such as reforestation, trail clean-ups, or school visits).
  

• Participating in a friendly soccer match with local youth, fostering teamwork and cross-cultural connection.
  

• Learning about Mayan spirituality through an optional traditional fire ceremony at Iximché.
  

• Supporting sustainable tourism initiatives at both the lake and the coast.
  
  

These activities encourage students to go beyond being tourists, stepping into deeper learning and awareness about the challenges and resilience of Guatemalan communities.

• Private airport pick-up in Guatemala City
  

• Transfer to Antigua (about 1 hour) and check-in to a charming colonial-style hotel
  

• Optional evening stroll through cobblestone streets and group dinner at a local restaurant

Students choose their adventure:

• Mountain biking in the surrounding hills

• Guided volcano hike (Pacaya or Agua)

• Walking tour of town + chocolate workshop/tasting
  

Afternoon free for shopping, rest, or spa time.

• Morning visit to Iximché, an ancient Mayan archaeological site
  

• Optional participation in a traditional Mayan fire ceremony
  

• Possible mountain bike ride from the ruins toward the lake (active option)
  

• Continue by bus + boat transfer across Lake Atitlán
  

• Sunset arrival and group dinner at eco-lodge on the lakeshore

• Morning kayak paddle across the lake
  

• Optional cliff jumping near San Marcos
  

• Afternoon soccer game with local youth
  

• Evening reflection circle at the lodge

 Options include:

• Hike to a nearby waterfall or enjoy a full climbing day
  

• Paragliding over Lake Atitlán (weather permitting)
  

• Explore artisan towns known for weaving and painting
  

• Or simply relax and enjoy time by the water

• Scenic drive down from the highlands to the Pacific Coast
  

• Arrival and check-in to a beachfront eco-lodge
  

• Sunset surf session or relax in hammocks

• Morning group surf lessons with professional instructors
  

• Afternoon mangrove kayaking

• Full-day fishing adventure with local guides (coastal, not deep-sea)
  

• Optional beach picnic or cooking class to learn ceviche-making
  

• Evening celebration dinner

• Morning swim, beach walk, or relaxed coffee by the ocean
  

• Private transfer to Guatemala City airport for return flights