GUATEMALA
GLOBAL HEALTH IN THE LAND OF THE MAYA
Work alongside Guatemalan doctors to provide public health access to rural indigenous communities. Explore Guatemala's diverse cultures, traditions and history in the heart of the Mayan Empire.
Highlights
FOR THE GUATEMALA: GLOBAL HEALTH IN THE LAND OF THE MAYA™ PROGRAM
- Gain hands-on healthcare experience in rural Indigenous communities
- Be trained by medical professionals, learn basic first aid and get CPR certified
- Shadow medical professionals and observe best practices in healthcare
- Shop at the largest Indigenous craft market in the Western Hemisphere
- Venture across sacred Lake Atitlán, one of the most beautiful lakes in the world
This program is a finalist for the 2024 Go Abroad Innovation Awards in the category of Innovative Volunteer Abroad program!
Program Menu For
Global Health in the
Land of the Maya
GUATEMALA
GLOBAL HEALTH IN THE LAND OF THE MAYA
Program Overview
On this program you will be immersed in public health and sanitation projects taking place in the heart of indigenous communities. Work alongside local medical professionals and, with their guidance, gain field experience by providing care to communities whose access to healthcare is limited. Receive training from medical professionals, learn basic first aid and get certified in CPR. You’ll be captivated by the fascinating Maya heritage and splendid Central American landscapes. While healthcare and medicine are the core focus of this program, every GLA experience also brings adventure! Zipline through the Guatemalan mountains and embark on a journey across the sacred, awe-inspiring Lake Atitlán.
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GUATEMALA
GLOBAL HEALTH IN THE LAND OF THE MAYA
Community Service
Shadow and assist local medical professionals as they provide free health checks, basic exams and assessments. Learn firsthand the importance of providing free quality care to communities without access to healthcare. After a bit of learning, put your new medical Spanish into practice by accompanying qualified professionals as they offer medical care!
Hands-On Learning
Gain exposure to various healthcare settings as you deepen your understanding of how political, economic and environmental disparities shape global health. Explore key challenges rural communities in Guatemala face, including limited access to healthcare and public health initiatives. You’ll also confront the complex issue of preserving indigenous culture in a rapidly modernizing world. Under the guidance of medical professionals, you’ll receive first aid training and get certified in CPR.
Your experience won’t stop there. You’ll visit an organic coffee plantation, learning directly from master artisans about traditional Guatemalan arts like weaving. Dance to the rhythm of salsa, sample sweet treats during a Guatemalan chocolate class, and fully immerse yourself in the local culture by participating in a traditional wedding ceremony. To top it all off, you’ll meet with a local shaman — an experience you will never forget!
Adventure
Hike to Laguna Chicabal, a serene crater lake nestled in the caldera of a volcano, where you’ll uncover the mystique and natural beauty of Guatemala. Zipline through the Guatemalan mountains, taking in breathtaking views. Explore the charm of Antigua’s streets, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and immerse yourself in its colonial architecture. As part of your weekend excursion, journey cross the sacred Lake Atitlán and visit the vibrant Chichicastenango market, the largest indigenous craft market on the continent.
Lodging
Home Base is an enclosed compound located in the mountainous city of Xela, providing students with a tranquil and peaceful environment. Students stay in gender-segregated rooms and have access to shared bathrooms with both hot and cold water. The harmonious atmosphere and shared common spaces foster a strong sense of community among students and staff.
GUATEMALA
GLOBAL HEALTH IN THE LAND OF THE MAYA
Dates & Tuition
Everything you need to know before you apply.
14-Day Program
| 2025 Dates |
|---|
| JUL 18 – JUL 31, 2025 |
Tuition Includes All In-Country Expenses
- Airport pick-up/drop-off
- In-country transportation
- Lodging
- 3 meals per day
- Professional full-time staff and experts
- 24/7 parent support hotline during the program
- Secondary medical and evacuation insurance
- Cultural activities, lectures and excursions
- Pre-departure materials and support
- Educational materials
To save your spot, an application fee and $600 deposit are required.
Backed by our 5-Point Safety System™
GLA HOME BASE:
SAFE & SECURE LODGING
CARING SUPERVISION &
EXPERT LOCAL KNOWLEDGE
SAFE
TRANSPORTATION
HEALTHY FOOD
& PURE WATER
24/7 SUPPORT &
EMERGENCY RESPONSE
Speak with the GLA Admissions Team
Admissions
Phone Number
1-858-771-0645
USA Toll-Free
Phone Number
1-888-358-4321
Admissions
Email Address
info@experienceGLA.com
GUATEMALA
GLOBAL HEALTH IN THE LAND OF THE MAYA
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