Volunteer Resources

Welcome! We are so excited to have you visit Guatemala and volunteer with our organization to give back to those in need. Below are volunteer resources for traveling to Panajachel, a recommended pack list, and additional resources. While these lists go over the basics, please check all local government travel advisories for additional information for your upcoming trip. If you have any questions or concerns, please get in touch with us. 

Getting There

During your visit, you will stay just outside the city of Panajachel, which is located 2.5 hours from Guatemala City. We have two homes available, located in Los Robles and Lomas. Both homes are fully furnished, equipped with full kitchens, bathrooms, and living rooms to ensure a comfortable stay. Our organization has worked with local transportation shuttles for over 10 years to provide safe, reliable transfers. Once your airline tickets have been booked, we will book and coordinate all of your transportation needs to and from the airport on your respective dates. During your stay, we have a local team member who will assist with driving your team around for the volunteer projects, as well as to town for shopping, dining, and exploring. There are also local taxis for hire that are inexpensive and reliable. 

Recommended Pack List:

Please check the local weather before you begin packing for your trip. During the summer months light, breathable clothing is ideal as the temperatures are in the high 70’s to mid 80’s. At night the temperature drops to the mid 50’s.

During the months of April and May it’s typically raining sporadically throughout the day – bring a light rain jacket and a compact umbrella. Guatemalan homes are not equipped with AC or heat. It’s recommended that you pack clothes that are easy to layer.

There are pharmacies in Panajachel but your preferred medications may not be available.

The streets are cobblestone so you will find it much easier to use a backpack instead of a roller suitcase.

Here’s a recommended packing list:

  • A large backpack
  • A fleece / rain jacket
  • 3 – 4 short sleeve, light shirts
  • 2 -3 long sleeve shirts
  • 4-6 Linen pants / yoga pants / shorts
  • A bathing suit
  • Durable tennis shoes / 3-4 thick socks
  • A hat / sunscreen
  • Chacos or a similar sandal
  • Basic toiletries (travel size shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothbrush, toothpaste)
  • Hygiene Products (Tampons, pads)
  • Small first aid kit (Bandaids, hydrocortisone cream, neosporin)
  • Medicine (tylenol, ibuprofen, sudafed, claritin, an anti-diarrheal, benadryl)
  • A portable power bank / power plug adapter
  • Physical copies of all important documents (Passport, ID, airbnb reservations, car rental, etc)

Wifi Information

The infrastructure for the WiFi in the area is fairly consistent but does not have unlimited data. In panajachel, there are many cafes that offer wifi for their patrons if you find that the wifi connection in the home isn’t sufficient for your needs or you’d like to ensure a quality connection for any meetings or video calling.

Safety Information

It is not recommended that you travel with expensive equipment like cameras, jewelry, or laptops. While the accommodations are safe and on private grounds, there are pick pocketers around most major attractions and the airport. It’s recommended that you keep cash in a smaller pack that is carried across your chest or waist.

Passport / Visa Information

A valid passport is required for travel and must be valid for 6 months from the last date of intended travel. For US citizens, there is no visa required. Please follow the link below and check for any updated information on travel requirements. 

Shopping / Currency

The currency is the Guatemalan Quetzal and the current exchange rate can be found online but is typically $1 USD = 7.50 Q. It’s recommended that you exchange your USD at a local Guatemalan bank for the best exchange rate. In the cities of Panajachel and Santiago there will be restaurants that accept major US credit cards like Visa and Mastercard, however the markets and street vendors accept quetzals. The markets and shopping centers are significantly cheap and while the culture does accept bargaining, it’s important to be mindful that many of these families live on less than $10/day. For this reason, we hope you are respectful of the many individuals working at these markets and the financial hardships they endure.

Translator Tools / Navigation

In heavily trafficked areas like Antigua and Panajachel, you will find people who speak English. However, it’s always a good idea to have a way to communicate. Before your trip, call your cell phone company and inquire about their international calling plans and rates.
  • “Google Translate” – This app allows you to enter phrases and translate them directly.
  • “Maps.Me” – Similar to Google apps and more user-friendly
  • “Uber” – Antigua and Guatemala City both have Uber
  • “Google Voice” – If you are from the US, you can use this app to call US numbers for free. It must be set up before you leave the United States.
  • “FreeTour.com” – This website offers free tours in areas, however they are walking tours.

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