Mountainous, heavily forested and dotted with Mayan ruins, lakes, volcanoes, orchids and exotic birds, Guatemala, “the land of eternal spring,” is one of the most beautiful countries in Central America.
*Cost with the CCS Subsidy. The $200 nonrefundable application fee is not included in this amount. The CCS Subsidy applies to 1st CCS program only.
CCS trips are not guaranteed and are subject to change.
"Guatemala was a chance for me to be challenged to go out of my comfort zone and embrace the Mayan culture. I grew so much from my trip, and so much from being involved with and serving those who don't have the privileges that I have. My time in Guatemala was beyond amazing! I loved being able to show God's love to the Mayan people just by being willing to open up and embrace their culture. My favorite part was showing love and spending time with the children of the Mayan village."
Kamijha Hein
Spend time in schools and understand the challenges of gaining an education in Guatemala. Visit with SAU alumni teaching in international schools!
Understand the issue of the “disappeared” in conversation with support groups for their families. Learn to make Mayan cuisine, especially tortillas. Experience the Mayan culture in a mountain village. Participate in a typical Mayan wedding. While in Antigua, we may live with Guatemalan host families.
Experience the colonial capital of Antigua and beautiful Lake Atitlan surrounded by three majestic volcanoes. Meet with organizations monitoring work conditions in the maquiladoras, export assembly plants.
Visit missionaries and fellowship with Guatemalans. Learn about Mayan beliefs as well as the influence of the Catholic Church in Guatemala.
Learn about ministries to thousands of impoverished people. See how families scavenge at the city dump. Visit markets displaying artisan crafts. Gain a better understanding of the roots of poverty and marginalization.
May 2026 experiences will begin sometime during the week following the projected commencement date. Students should not make irreversible plans until their departure date is confirmed by the CCS office in February 2026.
This experience, like all CCS experiences, is subject to political and safety realities at the time of departure. CCS options can be physically and emotionally intense and stretching. Before enrolling, all participants should consult the disclosures on Physical Hardships of CCS.
Covid shots are not required as of December 2022 for Guatemala. For more details on required immunizations consult the immunizations chart.
Passport and immunizations required (both at additional cost).
