Antiqua,Guatemala Projects
Eco Agriculture Volunteer Program in Guatemala
Are you curious about the state of agriculture in Guatemala and its impact on the local population? Have you ever wondered how sustainable farming practices can contribute to both environmental preservation and community well-being? Are you interested in getting hands-on experience by volunteering and making a meaningful contribution to responsible farming practices in Guatemala?
Ever wondered about farming in Guatemala and how it affects the people there? More than one-third of the folks work in agriculture, but it's not always great for them or the environment. Luckily, some groups are trying to do farming in a better way, using organic and sustainable methods, along with the old-fashioned techniques people have used for hundreds of years.
In Guatemala, they're choosing responsible farming to protect the environment and keep people healthy. But there's a challenge – these kinds of farms need more helping hands to keep things running smoothly.
Now, imagine you, as an IFRE Volunteer, getting to join in these different farming programs. Eco-agriculture and responsible farming rely on people like you working in the fields. You'll be right outside Antigua, learning all about sustainable farming – from coffee to macadamia nuts. And guess what? You get to be a part of everything, from picking and weeding to planting, processing, and packaging. It's a hands-on experience making a real difference!
Take a minute to complete the form and we will be in touch.
Volunteer Responsibilities & Impact
Join this rewarding volunteer opportunity as an Eco-Agriculture volunteer, immersing yourself in a vibrant farming community committed to organic practices. Your main focus will be on coffee, mushrooms, and nuts, but the diverse seasons may lead you to engage with other crops like lettuce, strawberries, orchids, and more. Get ready for hands-on experiences with small farm animals as well.
Your volunteer role is varied and impactful. From planting and pruning trees to harvesting and sorting produce, you'll be a crucial part of the process. Package harvest products, contribute to creating saleable items for local and international markets, and assist with organic fertilization. Engage in reforestation efforts, translations for Farm Tours, equipment repairs, and support construction projects. Your involvement also extends to tending to small farm animals and playing a part in international marketing and sales efforts.
Skills and Qualifications:
You don't need to be fluent in Spanish, but having some basic knowledge can be helpful. Having a positive and proactive attitude is key – be ready to dive into your volunteering experience! We encourage you to take the initiative, be outgoing, and contribute wherever you can. Consistent attendance and respecting the schedule are essential for making a positive impact on both yourself and the project.
Keep in mind that at the Eco-Agriculture project, tasks may require physical effort, so be prepared for that. Additionally, some independence and leadership skills will come in handy.
The working hours may vary slightly, but you can anticipate dedicating 3-4 hours per day from Monday to Friday. Your volunteer shift will be either in the morning or the afternoon, depending on the project's needs. While your daily schedule depends on your specific placement, here's a general outline to give you an idea of what a typical day might look like:
On your first day as a volunteer in Guatemala, our dedicated in-country coordinator will guide you to your project placement. During this introduction, you'll meet the local project staff and receive a comprehensive orientation covering your responsibilities, daily schedule, safety guidelines, and insights into Guatemalan culture and customs.
Starting from the second day, your volunteer work officially kicks off, and your daily schedule will vary based on your specific placement. A standard day might follow this pattern:
7:00 to 7:30 AM: Begin your day with a traditional Guatemalan breakfast shared with your host family, featuring beans, eggs, tortillas, cheese, fresh juice, and café con leche.
7:45 AM: Depart from your host family's residence and travel to your project site. If you choose the local bus, it's an economical option, but arrive early due to potential delays and crowded conditions during peak hours. Enjoy a fulfilling day as a volunteer in Guatemala!
12:00 PM: Take a break for lunch. You can either find a local restaurant nearby or bring a packed lunch. Utilize this time to connect with fellow volunteers and forge friendships with people from around the world.
3:00 PM: After completing your volunteer duties, your evenings are free to explore. You can relax with your host family or team up with fellow volunteers to discover the surrounding areas.
6:45 PM : Each evening, share a traditional dinner with your host family. Immerse yourself in the local culture, enhance your Spanish language skills, and make the most of your time in this captivating country.
Fees & Program Dates
Program Dates
IFRE programs begin every Monday year-round. If you have travel constraints, you can still start your chosen program on any day of the year.
Fees
Since 2006, IFRE has been the most trusted and respected volunteer abroad organization in the world, and also the most affordable. We’re dedicated to providing the highest quality volunteer programs at the lowest fees, which make it possible for everyone, especially students, to volunteer internationally and make a positive impact on the lives of others.
We believe in 100% transparency. Rest assured, we never use middlemen. Your one-time registration fee of $299 covers our administrative costs. The low weekly fee is paid in the host country directly to your host family and project (via country coordinator), and includes housing, food, and minor expenses. IFRE is a non-profit organization, so your program fees are tax deductible.
Volunteer Program Fees (US$)
| Duration | Project Fees |
|---|---|
| 1 Week | $475 |
| 2 Weeks | $830 |
| 3 Weeks | $1,110 |
| 4 Weeks | $1,375 |
| 5 Weeks | $1,645 |
| 6 Weeks | $1,915 |
| 7 Weeks | $2,185 |
| 8 Weeks | $2,455 |
| 9 Weeks | $2,725 |
| 10 Weeks | $2,995 |
| 11 Weeks | $3,265 |
| 12 Weeks | $3,535 |
Comprehensive Travel Insurance $3.49/day ( below 28 years) and $4.49/day ( above 28 years) »
Spanish Lessons (2 hours per day) $55 per week
Program Fees Cover:
- Shared Accommodation with host family from Sunday to Saturday
- 2 meals per day (Breakfast & Dinner)
- Airport Pick up
- In-country support
- Program Orientation, Walking Tour, Safety Presentation
- Project Management
- Volunteer Certificate
- Discount for returning volunteers
- Letter of Recommendation (upon request)
- Emergency contact 24/7
- Access to computer lab, high-speed office-wide wifi at the institute, and access to weekly salsa dance classes and cooking classes
- Free coffee and tea at the on-site snack bar
Program Fees Exclude:
- Visas
- Airfare
- Personal expenses such as soft drinks and snacks
- Daily transportation
- Airport return transfer
- Extra nights of housing (can be booked at an additional cost)
The volunteering in Guatemala program fees will cover expenses from the first day of the program to the last day of the program. If you arrive before the first day of the program or you decide you stay beyond your program’s last day, you will be responsible for the additional expenses.
Take a minute to complete the form and we will be in touch.
Accommodation and Meal
Begin your Guatemalan adventure by immersing yourself in the heart of local culture through our unique volunteer stay arrangements. Our volunteers in Guatemala find a welcoming home with respected host families who graciously open their doors to provide an authentic experience.
These experienced families, well-versed in hosting international volunteers, offer secure lodgings in friendly neighborhoods. Volunteers share gender-specific rooms, each offering simplicity, cleanliness, and comfort, complete with essential facilities like showers, hygienic toilets, and electricity.
The project's proximity to accommodation varies, some conveniently within walking distance, while others require a short journey via public transportation. Throughout your stay, relish two daily local meals (breakfast and dinner), ensuring your dietary preferences, restrictions, and allergies are accommodated at no extra cost—an early heads-up facilitates seamless communication with your host family.
Read more about the accommodations and meals you’ll enjoy while in Antigua, Guatemala.
For more readings:
Host family
What It’s like to Stay with a Host Family
12 tips to enhance cultural experience in host families
Free Time and Weekend Exploration
Engaging in international volunteer work provides a thrilling chance to explore unfamiliar places and play a role in enhancing the world. After dedicating your time and effort, IFRE suggests taking time for relaxation during evenings and weekends, enriching your experience in Guatemala. Delve into the captivating historical structures in Antigua, immerse yourself in lively local markets, explore ancient ruins, and journey to nearby destinations. Enhance your volunteer trip by not only contributing positively but also immersing yourself in the abundant culture and beauty that Guatemala showcases.
Safety and in Country Support
We want to make sure you're safe during your time volunteering. We've checked everything carefully, teamed up with trustworthy local partners, and got insurance to cover you. Our local team in Guatemala is always there, watching over things. If you ever need help, just send us a message, and our team will be ready to assist you. Your safety is our main concern, and we're committed to making sure your volunteer experience is both secure and enjoyable.
Learn more about our dedication to safety and our in-country team.
FAQs
There are a lot of little details that go into planning a volunteer experience in Guatemala, and you can relax knowing IFRE has taken care of all this for you. Here are a few details you should know about when traveling abroad with us.
Arrival and Departure
Your journey commences with a flight to Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City. Once your flight is confirmed, kindly share the details with our local coordinator. They will coordinate your airport pickup, ensuring a representative is present to welcome you upon arrival. Keep an eye out for a sign with your name, and they will guide you safely to your accommodations.
We recommend arriving a day in advance for a rejuvenated start. While this may involve an extra night of accommodation expenses, the advantage of starting your project well-rested outweighs the minimal cost.
Upon concluding your program, arranging your own taxi to the airport is necessary. Feel free to consult with the local project staff, who will gladly offer guidance on managing this process. Ensuring your journey is safe and comfortable remains our priority from beginning to end.
Visa
Whether you should apply for a tourist visa in advance to travel to Guatemala depends on your nationality. It's recommended to conduct some initial research to determine the specific entry requirements for your home country. Typically, individuals from the US, Canada, Australia, or the UK only need a passport valid for at least 6 months for a 90-day entry without a pre-applied visa. However, it's crucial to stay updated on any potential changes or updates.
For more detailed and current information, please visit Guatemala's Immigration website. This source will offer comprehensive insights into the specific visa and entry requirements based on your nationality, ensuring a smooth and trouble-free arrival process.
Vaccination
Before your volunteer journey in Guatemala, visit your doctor for updated vaccinations, ensuring protection against potential diseases and overall well-being abroad. Consult a travel doctor familiar with Guatemala's health issues and reliable sources like the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Global Health Canada, or Travelers' Health United Kingdom.
Recommended vaccines include hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, yellow fever, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia, and influenza. Prioritizing your health enhances the safety and impact of your volunteering experience.
For further readings:
Safety tips for your volunteer abroad trip
Why volunteer in the Eco-Agriculture Volunteer program?
Hands-On Impact: Contribute directly to sustainable farming practices through hands-on work.
Environmental Sustainability: Support initiatives like reforestation and organic cultivation for a greener future.
Local Community Well-Being: Your efforts enhance farming practices, positively impacting local communities.
Cultural Immersion: Immerse yourself in Guatemala's rich culture while exploring beautiful landscapes.
Valuable Learning: Gain insights into eco-friendly agriculture practices and make a positive difference.
Contact IFRE today to join the Eco-Agriculture Volunteer program in Guatemala!
Other Volunteering Opportunities in Antigua, Guatemala
If you are not keen on construction work, there are still ways for you to contribute in Antigua, Guatemala. You can join the projects below:
Contact IFRE today to learn more!
Volunteering in Construction Projects Worldwide
There is a great need for help with infrastructure building in underdeveloped communities and rural regions, to improve the quality of life for many people.
Besides Antigua, Guatemala, you can also volunteer in our Construction program in San Jose, Costa Rica.
Take a minute to complete the form and we will be in touch.