WHO
A young self-taught artist...
Meet Francisco, a young self-taught artist and pioneer of Lake Atitlan’s art scene. Inspired by the beautiful surroundings and people of his community, he will show you around the small town and will provide insight on current challenges and daily simple life in a Maya Village.
WHERE
Homestay with a Maya family...
Stay at sustainable eco-lodges in the Guatemalan Caribbean and jungles, experience a homestay with a Maya family, enjoy the patios of colonial Antigua Guatemala and the lake and volcano views of the highlands and villages of Lake Atitlán.
WHY
Maya temples, living culture...
Unexplored black sand beaches, Maya temples, colonial architecture, living culture, volcanoes and unique sceneries wait for you in colorful Guatemala! Come up close with untouched heritage and experience the warmth and kindness that defines Guatemalans in every rural community and village we visit.
Guatemala: SAMPLE ITINERARY
We customize each experience… options are endless!
DAY 1: Owning your Experience
Welcome to Guatemala! Your guides introduce the Story Approach & Expedition Mentality, and our first nightly reflection circle empowers students to be fully engaged in their experience.
Day 2: Culture in Context
Take you on a half-day walking tour of Antigua; exploring the colorful cobblestone streets. Then take a Spanish class to get ready for the next few days of cultural immersion. Later, head to San Antonio Aguas Calientes to visit the local market, carpenter workshops, and try our hand at making the world famous “Worry Dolls” with a local women’s cooperative.
Day 3: Community connections
Participate in a Community Service project at Caldo de Piedra Community Library, a local non-profit dedicated to development and education through access to books and resources. From working in the library orchard, to participating in storytelling, teaching english, prepping snacks and helping out with homework; there will be many ways for you to help out. In the afternoon, check into your first homestay experience with a Mayan family.
Day 4: Coffee farming and zip lining
Head to the town of San Miguel Escobar- here we will go to work with coffee farmers while enjoying the majestic views of the mountains and volcanos. Learn about coffee production and will enjoy lunch with a local family. Continue on to the Lake Atitlán Nature Reserve to enjoy an afternoon of zip-lining and forest trekking.
There was no way I would travel with a different company again. CE exposed me to new ways of thinking and living and made me realize that one of my callings is to offer this type of experience to my high school biology students. CE connects you with many interesting locals that can’t wait to share and teach about them.
WHAT MAKES CHILL EXPEDITIONS SO DIFFERENT?
WE'D LOVE TO ANSWER ANY QUESTIONS YOU HAVE!
WE'RE EDUCATORS. WE GET IT.
We're on a mission to change how students experience the world.
Call or email us today! 1.800.551.7887