Frequently Asked Questions

How much does this trip cost?

Trip pricing varies by group. Each trip includes airfare, meals, lodging, in-country transportation, and all materials needed for service projects, allowing participants to focus fully on the mission experience. Specific pricing and details are provided on each trip’s page.

Where will we stay?

We will stay at a convent of Carmelite nuns in the town of San Andrés Iztapa, about 35 miles from Guatemala City, where we land. Depending on the size of the group, you will either have your own room with a private bathroom or share a room with one other person.

Where and what will we eat?

All meals will be eaten at the convent. The nuns prepare three meals a day for us—and the food is quite good!

Can I drink the water?

The water from the faucet is not considered potable. Bottled water will be provided in ample supply, and you should use bottled water for brushing your teeth as well.

Please also note that plumbing systems in Guatemala are not designed to handle flushed toilet paper. Covered trash cans are provided next to each toilet for the disposal of toilet paper. The nuns will empty these bins daily.

What will we do?

We will participate in a variety of service projects, which may include:

  • Building chicken coops and pig pens

  • Constructing cinder-block stoves

  • Pouring cement floors

In addition, we will bring food to the sick and elderly and visit an orphanage and a school for children with disabilities, where we will spend time playing games and interacting with the children.

What if I get sick?

For minor illnesses (such as a sore throat, runny nose, or mild nausea), there are several pharmacies in San Andrés.

Consult your insurance provider to verify the extent of your international coverage. Any supplemental travel insurance will be your responsibility to arrange.

Will I need additional money during the trip?

Items not included in the stated cost are:

  • Food in airports during travel

  • Souvenirs

  • Checked luggage fees if you choose to check a bag (typically around $30 each way)

What kind of clothing should I bring?

San Andrés Iztapa sits at about 7,000 feet above sea level, so the weather is generally mild—mid-70s during the day and low 60s at night. Evenings can feel cool, especially after sunset (around 6:30 p.m.).

Please bring:

  • Work clothes (jeans, sweatpants, etc. — you will get dirty)

  • A poncho or rain jacket

No shorts. And, we ask women to dress conservatively, and if wearing leggings, please wear a shirt long enough to cover your backside.

Additional recommended items:

  • Work gloves

  • Inexpensive safety goggles

  • Sunscreen

  • Towel

  • Toilet paper

  • Personal toiletries

Will we do any sightseeing?

Yes. We will take a short trip to Antigua, Guatemala, a beautiful colonial city surrounded by volcanoes. There is plenty to see, and it’s a great place to buy souvenirs. Lunch that day will be on your own; Antigua has many inexpensive dining options.

If I have to cancel my trip, can I get a refund?

Most of the cost of the trip (typically $900 to $1000) is the airfare. The rest of money is used for your room and board at the convent, buying materials for the work projects, and compensating the skilled workers and interpreters.

The airlines will not give a refund, so that money cannot be returned. If you cancel your trip 30 days prior to departure, the rest of your payment can be reimbursed. Short of 30 days is too late as money has already been committed for the workers, materials and the convent.

What else do I need to know?

  • You must have a valid passport, and it must be valid for at least six months beyond our return date. If your passport does not meet this requirement, you will not be allowed to board the plane. If you need to apply for or renew a passport, begin the process immediately.

  • You must complete an online Guatemala immigration form before travel: https://cdn.c.sat.gob.gt/declaDelViajeroGt-web/pages/public/declaracionJuradaDelViajer.html

    • However, do not fill out this form more than 7 days before our departure; otherwise, it is invalid.

  • You can find a sample completed form on the “Pre-trip Requirements Checklist” page after submitting your application.

    • You will automatically be directed to the “Pre-trip Requirements Checklist” page after filling out your sign-up form.

  • You must also sign a Hold Harmless form, which you can find on the same “Pre-trip Requirements Checklist” page. 

  • Be prepared for a fair amount of walking.

  • No alcohol is permitted on this trip.

You should also know that the leaders on your trip are volunteers. With the exception of the interpreters in Guatemala and the skilled workers on the project, everyone affiliated with KC Guatemala Alliance is a volunteer.