How will the weather be? What should I wear?
We will be at several different altitudes on our trip, and the temperature varies quite a bit, so layers will be the way to go. Definitely bring rain gear, and sturdy shoes. Many streets in Guatemala are cobblestone, so if you have hiking boots with some ankle support, they may serve you well.
Can I bring kids? Is there a children’s rate?
We like kids, and see the value in international experience for them. Sarah has traveled with her two children, and we are open to having other children along, too. You know your child best, and whether your child can adjust agreeably to irregular schedules, travel, and food. If you think your child/ren will be easy with all of this, we are delighted to have them along. Please ask about this possibility so we can discuss what it would look like and also what the children’s rate would be.
Is it safe?
This is, of course, a nuanced question. We don’t want to downplay the fact that Guatemala has a relatively high rate of violent crime. At the same time, that risk is not evenly distributed, it is largely concentrated in specific regions and, in many cases, in particular neighborhoods within cities.
Our work and travel take place in rural communities and established areas where we have long-standing relationships and a strong understanding of the local context. We plan our itinerary carefully, partner closely with trusted local leaders, and make decisions with safety in mind at every step. We also work with licensed and insured local drivers who know the roads, conditions, and communities well.
That said, travel anywhere, whether internationally or at home, comes with some level of risk. While we take thoughtful precautions and will do everything we reasonably can to support a safe experience, we can’t eliminate risk entirely. Each participant ultimately assumes responsibility for their own well-being, and for any children traveling with them.
Many people have traveled with us over the years and have found Guatemala to be a deeply welcoming and meaningful place. Our goal is to approach the experience with awareness, respect, and care for one another and for the communities we’re visiting.
Will we be doing a project/mission work?
We may have an opportunity to help out a bit at one of our partners’ sites, but this is not the primary purpose of the trip. For the most part, we are seeking to learn, to understand, to make new friends. If further relationship grows from this trip, we can figure out together how best to be friends to each other in ways that foster dignity, respect, and affection, rather than categorizing people as ‘helper’ or ‘helped,’ which can sometimes dehumanize everyone involved, in spite of good intentions.
Can I arrive late? …depart early? …stay longer?
Building group cohesion and processing our experience together will be an important part of our experience, and we strongly encourage participants to be a part of the group for the whole trip. If you would like to come to Guatemala before the trip, or stay longer, we are happy to offer tips on things to do or places to visit, or to connect you with a good language school and lodging. Just let us know. If you have other questions, don’t hesitate to drop a note to Sarah at Sarah@SenderosGuatemala.org
Health precautions?
We recommend that you check with your healthcare provider or a travel clinic a few weeks before departure to make sure you’re up to date on routine vaccinations and to ask about any additional recommendations for travel to Guatemala. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website is also a helpful resource for current guidance.
In terms of day-to-day precautions, we encourage drinking purified or bottled water (which we will provide), avoiding tap water, and being mindful with fresh fruits and vegetables unless they’ve been washed in purified water. We’ll guide you along the way so you can enjoy the incredible food while staying well.
It’s also a good idea to bring any personal medications you may need, along with basics like sunscreen, insect repellent, and hand sanitizer.
Will there be electricity/Wi-Fi?
Yes, throughout our trip, you’ll have access to electricity. Guatemala uses the same standard voltage and plug types as the United States, so you won’t need an adapter for your devices.
We will also have access to Wi-Fi in the places where we stay. You’re welcome to check with your phone carrier about international plans if you’d like to use mobile data while traveling.
That said, occasional outages can happen (of power and Wi-Fi), especially in more rural areas, so it’s wise to keep devices charged when you can and consider bringing a small portable battery pack if you rely on your phone or camera.