Group Volunteering opportunities are continually available in Comalapa, Guatemala!

In the right hand column there are links to documents relative to individual volunteers, groups and internships. In particular, the Volunteer Manual provides in-depth information about the program including accommodations, travel, food and costs. We encourage you to review the relative documents carefully.

Cultural immersion and making a positive difference in the world are the defining missions of a volunteer vacation with Long Way Home. We encourage you to think of your trip as a chance to integrate into the Guatemalan community through various service opportunities while simultaneously taking advantage of the rich cultural opportunities within your grasp. As international volunteers working side-by-side with local people and fellow volunteers you will make a meaningful contribution.

Our site can handle up to 15 participants. We feel that smaller groups yield greater opportunities for everyone to interact with community members, as well as maintain cohesiveness within the group. We also offer service trips to a variety of participants:

Corporate organizations
Professionals/Non-denominational groups
Church youth and adult groups
College students /High School Students normally over age 18

No special skills are required as we provide full instruction, however, various skills can be useful for various projects. Special project placements will be given for applicants with specific expertise.

Registration

The process is fairly simple. Your group coordinator will need to submit a volunteer group application on behalf of the entire group. Once your program is approved, you will need to have all of the members of your group fill out an individual volunteer application and release form. You can find links to all necessary documents and additional information in the right hand column. We encourage you to review them carefully first. You may also contact our Executive Director Matt Paneitz directly if you have specific questions or concerns.

Program

It is important for volunteers to know that it is difficult for Long Way Home to determine the projects that groups will be working on before arrival to San Juan Comalapa. Requested volunteer efforts are based on project needs at that specific time. They change frequently. To get an idea of possible projects in which your group will be engaged, please visit our Projects page to see what we are working on currently. And please let us know which project appeals to your group. While your group's placement will depend on our areas of greatest need, we will also attempt to fill your requests.

Fees, Food, Accomodations & Travel Information

Standard Cost of $600 U.S.D. per person, per week includes:

• Antigua

  This city is the ancient capitol of Guatemala and has many historical sites. It is a clean city with truly unique Spanish colonial architecture. Located within an hour's drive from Comalapa, this trip will give you a chance to visit a coffee farm, hike a volcano, mingle in the local "gringo" scene, or do some shopping. The price includes transportation and lodging. Meals and additional outings are on your own.

• Lake Atitlan

  This 360-meter deep picturesque volcanic lake is known for being tucked between three volcanoes. Approximately two hours from Comalapa, it is a center of international travel and has many intriguing towns with distinct personalities, such as San Marcos and Panajachel. These villages can be reached by outboard motorized boats that carry up to 20 passengers and make short stops at rustic docks. The price includes round-trip transportation between Comalapa and one lakeside town and lodging.

  ***For both overnight excursions food and cultural activities i.e. tours, entrance fees, etc . are not included in Long Way Home Program Cost***

Cultural Activities Included:

Market Day – Spend time walking browsing the products of the local Comalapan farmers, enjoy the hand crafted blankets, bags and clothing made by the local women. Practice your Spanish skills bartering for the best price you can get.

Artisans - San Juan Comalapa is known as being the art capital of Central America. Enjoy watching local women weave, the art exhibition and just browsing through the streets and chatting with local artists.

Cultural Activities Not Included:

Spanish Lessons- Regardless of what level you are, Spanish lessons with a local woman from Antigua can be arranged. Lessons cost approximately $7.00 per hour. Spanish lessons can be done in groups or individually depending on skill level.
Day-trips

Chichicastenango: $50/person

This city, known for its large indigenous handicraft market, is a 2 1/2 hour trip from Comalapa. "Chichi" as the locals call it, is rich in tradition and culture, and is the right town for you if you are looking for handmade souvenirs. The price includes transportation and lunch. (Shopping is at your own expense.)

Iximche/Tecpan: $30/person

The majestic Mayan ruins of Iximché are a must-see in the area. Iximché teaches of an ancient civilization that created an empire of learning, art and language that continues to influence daily life in the surrounding area of Tecpán. This city is located within one hour of Comalapa. The price includes transportation, lunch and entrance fees.

Volcán Pacaya: $60/person

Located a two-hour drive from Comalapa, this 2,552-meter-high volcano has been active since 1965 and takes about 1.5 hours to climb (the descent is quicker). Depending on the time of your visit and the mood of the volcano, you might observe such volcanic activity as quiet ash, lava, steam emissions or even full-throttle eruptions hurtling rocks skyward. The price includes transportation, lunch, and entrance fees.

* Service Groups should do further research on these tourist areas before their arrival. We recommend travel guides, such as Lonely Planet and Internet websites. Each service group will create individual itineraries depending on their travel plans.