GUATEMALA
SPANISH LANGUAGE IMMERSION
Step outside traditional learning and immerse yourself in the vibrant heritage, breathtaking landscapes and the warm spirit of Guatemala. Master Spanish in the classroom, hike active volcanic trails and share unforgettable cultural exchanges with the local community in Antigua.
Program Overview
Get ready for an immersive, exclusive 9-day journey designed specifically for high school students looking to elevate their Spanish skills while exploring the rich cultural heritage of Guatemala!
Based in the historic colonial city of Antigua (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), this program blends daily language instruction with real-world practice, cultural workshops, exploration of ancient Mayan ruins, and community engagement, including a unique lava-cooked pizza experience on the Pacaya volcano.
With 24 formal classroom hours paired with 80% total language exposure, students step outside traditional classrooms into Antigua’s vibrant streets, markets and communities.
On GLA’s Guatemala: Spanish Language Immersion program you will:
- Step beyond textbooks into 80% total language exposure – combining 24 classroom hours with real-time, high-energy conversational practice in Antigua’s colorful markets and cobblestone streets
- Hike up the surreal volcanic slopes of Pacaya for an unforgettable bucket-list adventure: eating fresh pizza cooked directly over active subterranean volcanic heat
- Turn food into a language lesson: shop Antigua’s bustling open-air markets for fresh local ingredients before mastering authentic Guatemalan recipes in a hands-on cooking class
- Build genuine bonds and leave a lasting mark through direct community engagement with local youth at Project Children in Antigua
- Explore ancient Mayan pyramids at Iximche and make your own local crafts in a fun, hands-on textile workshop!
Program Menu
GUATEMALA
SPANISH LANGUAGE IMMERSION
Sample Itinerary Coming Soon!
Let’s take a sneak peek at what your program experience might look like this summer! Please note that the order of activities may differ for each program session. The details provided here represent a general outline of what you can anticipate, though community service projects and activities are subject to change based on the needs of our local community partners, cultural celebrations and traditions, weather conditions and the specific requirements of the student group.
GUATEMALA
SPANISH LANGUAGE IMMERSION
Program Details
Dates & Tuition
2027 Session Dates
June 22 – 30, 2027
July 27 – August 04, 2027
Immersion Language Target: 80% of the Program in the Target Language
What's Included in Tuition
In-country transportation
Lodging
3 meals per day
Professional full-time staff and experts
24/7 parent support hotline during program
Secondary medical and evacuation insurance
Cultural activities, lectures and excursions
Pre-departure materials and support
Educational materials
to hold your spot on-program.
Program at a Glance
Every GLA Program is 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
Local Partner Spotlight
The Voluntarios Afines Foundation
The Voluntarios Afines Foundation has been based in Quetzaltenango since 2009, working with commitment and solidarity to generate a positive impact in the communities that need it most. Their work focuses on providing selfless support through intercultural exchange, with the purpose of empowering the local population and contributing to sustainable development. The foundation was born from the experience and dedication to service of its founders, who have extensive experience in the field of international cultural exchange, both as participants and collaborators in volunteer and cooperation programs. Voluntarios Afines experience has strengthened their vision that the encounter between cultures is a powerful tool for transforming lives, building bridges of understanding, and fostering mutual respect. Voluntarios Afines firmly believe that intercultural exchange promotes shared learning, the understanding of differences, and the building of a more humane and supportive society.
The Program Experience
Language Immersion
Elevate your fluency by stepping far beyond traditional textbook learning and into 80% total language exposure! Based in the historic colonial city of Antigua, this program pairs 24 formal classroom hours with high-energy conversational practice integrated into daily life. Turn food into an interactive language lesson as you shop Antigua’s open-air markets for fresh local ingredients before learning authentic Guatemalan recipes in a hands-on cooking class. Put your skills to work during hands-on textile workshops, Mayan cultural lessons and meaningful community engagement with local youth at Project Children building genuine cross-cultural bonds through shared dialogue.
Adventure
Travel on an extraordinary adventure through Guatemala’s dramatic landscapes and ancient historic sites! Hike up the volcanic slopes of Pacaya for an unforgettable bucket-list experience: eating fresh pizza cooked directly over subterranean volcanic heat. Travel back in time as you explore the ancient Mayan pyramids and plazas at Iximche and navigate Antigua’s vibrant cobblestone streets, iconic archways and surrounding mountain trails alongside your fellow travelers.
Country Spotlight
Immerse yourself in the colorful traditions, breathtaking volcanic scenery and warm hospitality of Guatemala’s central highlands.
Lodging: Enjoy a comfortable, secure Home Base in Antigua—a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its preserved Spanish colonial architecture, cobblestone avenues and mountain views. Students stay in gender-segregated hotel rooms exclusive to GLA.
Meals: Savor authentic Guatemalan food featuring rich regional flavors! Enjoy dishes centered on fresh tortillas, black beans, fried plantains, grilled meats and traditional stews like Pepián, alongside abundant tropical fruits and freshly harvested local vegetables.
GUATEMALA
SPANISH LANGUAGE IMMERSION
Photo Gallery
GUATEMALA
SPANISH LANGUAGE IMMERSION
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