Guatemala
Walking in the Footsteps of the Maya
July 14–28 • $5,290 • 2 CUCs
Explore sacred Mayan ruins and ancient temples, learn coffee cultivation from seed to cup, cook traditional tortillas with local families, and engage in conservation projects that blend culture and sustainability. Experience Guatemala’s rich history and vibrant traditions firsthand.
Applications Open • Closes April 24, 2026
INFORMATION FOR PARENTS
Your student’s safety, growth, and cultural education are our top priorities
Safety & Security
All students are supervised 24/7 by experienced educators and local guides.
We maintain comprehensive travel insurance, emergency protocols, and daily check-ins. Accommodations are carefully vetted for safety and comfort.
24/7 Communication
Parents receive daily updates via our secure portal. Students have regular opportunities to contact home.
Emergency contact numbers are available around the clock, and our team responds immediately to any concerns.
What's Included
- Roundtrip airfare from major US cities
- All accommodations (hotels & cultural homestays)
- Three meals daily with cultural dining experiences
- All excursions, workshops, and entrance fees
- Comprehensive travel and medical insurance
- 3 college credit units (transferable)
Life-Changing Impact
This journey offers profound cultural connection and personal growth.
Students gain global perspective, historical understanding, and lasting relationships with peers and community members.
Many describe it as transformative for their identity and worldview.
Pre-Departure Preparation
Prior to departure, students and parents attend mandatory orientation sessions covering cultural customs, health preparation, packing guidance, and travel logistics. We provide detailed itineraries, reading materials, and connection opportunities with past participants.
Payment Plans Available: We understand this is a significant investment. Flexible payment plans and limited need-based scholarships are available. Contact us to discuss options that work for your family.
For Students: Your Journey Awaits
Immerse yourself in Maya culture, history, and community
Create & Capture
Experience Lake Atitlán like never before—explore Mayan traditions, taste local cuisine, discover vibrant culture, and adventure through one of the world’s most stunning lakes.
Connect with Community
Go beyond the café—trace coffee from seed to cup, plant with local activists, run a youth-led cooperative, and see how farming, entrepreneurship, and community change lives.
Learn & Grow
Step into ancient Maya history explore Tikal’s towering temples, investigate sacred ceremonial sites, work with real archaeologists, practice excavation techniques, and discover how cultural heritage is preserved today
Discover Yourself
Experience Lake Atitlán’s beauty, from volcanoes to villages, while engaging in hands-on conservation and learning how to care for Guatemala’s environment.
Your 15-Day Journey
15 days of cultural immersion and community connection
Days 1-4 / July 14-17 /Arrival in Guatemala City
Part 1: Arrival in Guatemala City
Day 1: Arrival in Guatemala City
- Arrive at La Aurora International Airport. Meet your group leaders and fellow travelers.
- Transfer to hotel and settle in. Welcome orientation session covering safety and cultural guidelines.
- Explore local neighborhood and markets. Introduction to Guatemalan currency and basic Spanish phrases.
- Welcome dinner featuring traditional Guatemalan cuisine. Group bonding activities and overview of upcoming adventures.
Day 2: Journey to Antigua
- Depart for Antigua, Guatemala’s colonial jewel. Scenic drive through highlands with views of volcanoes.
- Arrive in Antigua. Walking tour of Central Park, Cathedral, and Spanish colonial architecture.
- Visit jade workshop to learn about Mayan jewelry traditions. Interactive demonstration of jade carving techniques.
- Free time to explore Antigua’s charming streets. Optional sunset viewing from Santa Catalina Arch.
Day 3: Pacaya Volcano Trek
- Early departure for Pacaya Volcano. Safety briefing and begin guided hike up active volcano.
- Reach summit and witness volcanic activity. Experience roasting marshmallows over volcanic vents.
- Descend and return to Antigua. Lunch at local restaurant featuring regional specialties.
- Rest and relaxation. Journal reflection on volcano experience and group discussion
Day 4: Lake Atitlán Arrival
- Depart for Lake Atitlán. Scenic drive through Guatemalan highlands and indigenous villages.
- Arrive at Panajachel. Boat ride across the stunning lake surrounded by three volcanoes.
- Visit Santiago Atitlán village. Introduction to Tz’utujil Mayan culture and traditions.
- Sunset over Lake Atitlán. Traditional dinner with local family sharing stories and customs.
Days 5-8 / July 18-21/ Village Immersion
Part 2: Village Immersion
Day 5: Village Immersion – San Juan La Laguna
- Visit women’s weaving cooperative. Learn traditional backstrap loom techniques passed through generations.
- Participate in natural dye workshop using local plants. Create your own textile piece to take home.
- Tour medicinal plant garden with local healer. Learn about traditional Mayan healing practices.
- Art gallery tour showcasing local Tz’utujil painters. Discussion with artists about their inspirations.
Day 6: Conservation Project – Lake Restoration
- Introduction to Lake Atitlán’s ecosystem challenges. Meet with environmental scientists and conservationists.
- Hands-on water quality testing and reed planting. Learn sustainable practices protecting the lake.
- Community cleanup initiative along shoreline. Discussion on balancing tourism and environmental preservation.
- Reflection session on conservation impact. Local cuisine dinner prepared with sustainable ingredients.
Day 7: Chichicastenango Market Day
- Early departure for Chichicastenango. Experience Central America’s largest indigenous market in full swing.
- Explore vibrant market stalls selling textiles, pottery, masks, and produce. Practice bargaining skills respectfully.
- Visit Santo Tomás Church witnessing blend of Mayan and Catholic traditions. Observe traditional ceremonies on church steps.
- Return to Lake Atitlán. Share market finds and cultural observations during group dinner.
Day 8: Coffee Plantation Experience
- Visit working coffee plantation. Learn about Guatemala’s renowned coffee cultivation from seed to harvest.
- Hands-on coffee picking with local farmers. Understand fair trade practices and sustainable farming methods.
- Processing tour: washing, drying, and roasting coffee beans. Professional cupping session tasting different varieties.
- Traditional dinner with plantation family. Discussion on economic impact of coffee industry on local communities.
Days 9-11 / July 22-24 / Traditional Journey
Part 3: Traditional Journey
Day 9: Traditional Cooking Workshop
- Visit local market with chef to select fresh ingredients. Learn about native vegetables and traditional cooking tools.
- Hands-on cooking class preparing authentic Guatemalan dishes. Make tortillas from scratch on traditional comal.
- Prepare pepián stew, tamales, and traditional desserts. Learn cultural significance of each dish in Mayan tradition.
- Feast on your culinary creations. Share meal with host families and exchange recipes.
Day 10: Flight to Flores & Tikal Preview
- Transfer to airport for flight to Flores. Aerial views of Guatemalan landscape and Petén jungle.
- Arrive in Flores. Check into hotel and explore this charming island town on Lake Petén Itzá.
- Orientation on Tikal’s history and Mayan civilization. Documentary viewing about archaeological discoveries.
- Sunset stroll around Flores. Prepare for early departure to Tikal ruins tomorrow.
Day 11: Tikal National Park Exploration
- Pre-dawn departure for Tikal. Experience sunrise from Temple IV with howler monkeys awakening jungle.
- Guided tour of Great Plaza, Temple of the Jaguar, and Central Acropolis. Learn about Mayan astronomy and mathematics.
- Climb Temple II for panoramic jungle views. Explore North Acropolis and ancient burial sites.
- Return to Flores. Group discussion on Mayan civilization’s achievements and lasting cultural legacy.
Days 12-14 /July 25-27 / Visit day
Part 4:Visit
Day 12: Yaxhá Archaeological Site
- Journey to Yaxhá ruins. Explore lesser-known but equally impressive Mayan site with fewer crowds.
- Climb temples overlooking twin lakes Yaxhá and Sacnab. Photography session capturing stunning vistas.
- Visit nearby Topoxté and Nakum archaeological sites. Learn about Mayan city-state relationships and trade routes.
-
Return to Flores. Farewell dinner celebrating journey through Mayan heartland with traditional music and dance.
Day 13: Return to Guatemala City
- Flight from Flores back to Guatemala City. Transfer to hotel in capital city.
- Visit National Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology. View extensive Mayan artifact collection and historical exhibits.
- Explore Zona Viva district. Last-minute souvenir shopping at local artisan markets.
- Group reflection circle sharing favorite memories and lessons learned. Farewell celebration dinner.
Day 14: Cultural Synthesis Day
- Final group presentations sharing personal journey highlights. Create collaborative journal of experiences.
- Visit Relief Map of Guatemala – unique outdoor topographical model. Gain perspective on country’s diverse geography.
- Free time for final exploration or relaxation. Group photo sessions and exchange contact information.
- Final celebration dinner with certificate ceremony. Discussion on carrying forward Guatemala’s lessons and cultural awareness.
Days 15 /July 28 / Departure Day
Part 5: Departure Day
Day 12: Departure Day
- Breakfast and final packing. Exchange heartfelt goodbyes with program leaders and new friends.
- Transfer to La Aurora International Airport according to flight schedules. Final group photo at airport.
- Departure flights home carrying memories, friendships, and deeper understanding of Mayan culture.
- Arrive home with renewed perspective and commitment to cultural awareness and global citizenship.
Important Notes
- Itinerary may be adjusted based on weather conditions and conservation priorities
- All activities are led by certified guides and conservation professionals
- Accommodations range from eco-lodges to research stations, all chosen for sustainability
- Daily reflection and journaling time built into schedule
Apply Now
Applications are open until April 24, 2026
Please complete all questions thoughtfully. We review applications on a rolling basis.
By submitting this application, you agree to our terms and conditions. We’ll contact you within 2-3 weeks regarding your application status.