Imagine a land where the remnants of ancient Mayan civilizations blend seamlessly with vibrant Spanish colonial towns, all against a backdrop of misty volcanoes and sapphire-blue lakes: This is Guatemala. Steeped in history, this country is brimming with unique experiences waiting to be discovered.
Have you ever seen a sea of clouds? In Guatemala, you can!
Have you ever thought: why study abroad in Guatemala? From its natural beauty to its affordable living, Guatemala has a lot to offer students looking to get off the beaten path.
Below are 14 of the top reasons to study abroad in Guatemala, along with a few renowned study abroad programs to get you started.
14 reasons to study abroad in Guatemala
Here are 14 reasons you should consider studying abroad in Guatemala:
1. Rich Cultural Heritage
Guatemala is a complete blend of Spanish colonial influences and traditions of the indigenous Maya. By studying here, students get the privilege to witness this coalescence firsthand.
Students can sometimes get the opportunity to interact with indigenous communities and organizations during their stay. Student life in Guatemala is a captivating exploration of history, traditions, and cultural phenomena that a mere textbook can't replicate.
2. Affordable Living
There’s a nice blend of affordability and comfort that awaits students in Guatemala. The cost of living in Guatemala is significantly lower than in many Western countries, which gives more room for experiences like local dining, traveling while studying remotely, and events without breaking the bank.
This ultimately means more exploration and less financial stress compared to other destinations.
3. Natural Beauty All Around
The sights in Guatemala will leave you speechless.
From the majestic Lake Atitlán to the lush Petén rainforests, Guatemala's landscapes are breathtaking. Students can spend their weekends and breaks exploring these natural wonders, creating memories that last a lifetime. It’s also a great experience for any budding student photographers looking to expand their portfolio.
4. Discover Archaeological Wonders
Historical gems like Tikal and Yaxhá stand as testaments to the grandeur of ancient Maya civilization. These archaeological sites let students walk straight through history, showing off ancient architectural prowess and societal structures in the process. History majors in particular will find this to be an exciting location for this reason.
5. Language Immersion
Want to brush up on your Spanish? Guatemala is an authentic environment to learn and practice your language skills. The clarity and cadence of the local accent are especially conducive to learners. This immersion helps to accelerate fluency and deepens the understanding of the language in its cultural context, which is a learning opportunity you just can’t experience at home.
6. Warm and Welcoming Locals
The heartwarming hospitality of Guatemalans makes students never feel like outsiders. This welcoming nature aids in cultural immersion and fosters lasting friendships and connections. Many study abroad programs have students stay with host families who love to teach students about their culture.
7. Experience Culinary Delights
Lucky you—you’ll have easy access to some of the best coffee in the world!
Guatemalan cuisine is some of the tastiest out there. Dishes like pepián and tamales are a delicious way to explore the country’s cultural and historical layers, making every meal a true delight. Students can also learn recipes to take home with them from locals or host families - a great way to show off to family members at home!
8. Volunteer Opportunities
Guatemala's varied societal needs open doors for meaningful volunteer work. Students can teach, contribute to conservation projects, or assist in local community development, adding purpose to their study abroad experience. There’s really no shortage of opportunities to help in the local community.
9. Sustainable Tourism
Worried about your carbon footprint? Guatemala is a world champion in eco-friendly travel. Students are able to stay in eco-lodges, participate in sustainable farming, and support conservation initiatives during their trip. These opportunities can help make their travel experiences environmentally responsible and impactful.
10. Health & Wellness Retreats
If you love to relax, this is a great place to go. Studying abroad in Guatemala is perfect for holistic well-being. Yoga retreats, meditation centers, and thermal springs dot the landscape to offer relaxation during your time off. These locations are some great opportunities to rejuvenate and find a balance between studies. Its still ideal to try to keep up your fitness regime while traveling, so that you feel good, look good and stay mentally sharp and alert.
11. Educational Diversity
Guatemala is a great destination for learning history, but it’s great for many other fields as well!
The educational courses in Guatemala are quite impressive, from in-depth biodiversity studies in its natural habitats to history lessons focused on ancient civilizations. Every academic interest finds a fitting niche within the country’s diversity, so there’s a lot to learn.
12. Incredible Location
Guatemala’s central location makes travel to and from North America relatively quick and affordable. This proximity is ideal for those who might want visits from family or occasional trips back home. It also offers opportunities to visit nearby South American countries during the trip.
13. Dynamic Urban Life
Cities like Guatemala City and Quetzaltenango pulsate with modern energy. There’s lots of nightlife and local events that fuel student life in Guatemala, giving students a chance to experience urban Guatemala at its finest.
14. A Life-Changing Experience
More than just an academic pursuit, studying in Guatemala reshapes personal outlooks and broadens horizons. It gives students the chance to experience a culture outside of their own, including a language that isn’t their native tongue. The memories and lessons gathered here remain with students for a lifetime.
Are you ready to discover what Guatemala has to offer?
3 unique study abroad programs in Guatemala
There are so many amazing study abroad programs in Guatemala, but here are three favorites:
1. Social Change in Central America
Cities:
- Panajachel, Guatemala
- San Jose, Costa Rica
- Merida, Mexico
The "Social Change in Central America" program offers students an unparalleled opportunity to experience multiple South American countries beyond just Guatemala.
Students will have the unique chance to engage directly with members of Indigenous and Afro-descendant communities and organizations, granting them firsthand insights.
An added advantage? The program is inclusive for all students across the spectrum of Spanish proficiency, ensuring that even beginners can partake in this transformative experience. Plus, students will have the chance to immerse themselves and connect on a personal level by staying with local host families. Read Center for Global Education program reviews.
2. Green Building Academy, Guatemala
City: Comalapa, Guatemala
Long Way Home’s Green Building Academy program gives students the opportunity to engage in socially responsible community development, directly contributing to positive change.
As a hands-on application, students will delve into green building techniques, and in doing so, construct a home for a family with limited economic resources.Not only is this experience rewarding, but it also comes with the added benefit of college credit upon completion.
Students studying abroad in Guatemala can also choose to learn Spanish or Kaqchikel, and even dive into local art forms like painting, weaving, or the culinary art of tortilla making through optional classes. Read Long Way Home program reviews.
3. SCUBA Certification in Guatemala
Cities:
- Antigua, Guatemala
- Panajachel, Guatemala
Ever considered diving into the mesmerizing depths of Lake Atitlan? Situated just a short 15-minute boat ride away from Panajachel, Santa Cruz is a hidden gateway to an unparalleled SCUBA experience. Lake Atitlan, with its serene waters cradled within a volcanic crater, offers an off-the-beaten-path destination for PADI Open Water Diving certification.
Taking up the 4-day PADI Open Water Diving Certification doesn't just offer you a dive; it's a holistic package. You'll have top-notch English instruction from a PADI-certified expert, all the essential diving gear, course materials, and a cozy 4-night accommodation to relax after your aquatic adventures.
Plus, if you're someone who wants to blend this thrill with some academic pursuits, you can pair up this diving adventure with intensive Spanish lessons, give back through international volunteering, or kickstart your teaching journey with a TEFL Certification. Read Maximo Nivel program reviews.
Find and compare study abroad programs in Guatemala with MyGoAbroad
Go off the beaten path and study in Guatemala!
Next stop: Guatemala!
Among so many different study abroad destinations, Guatemala stands out. With a rich blend of history, culture, natural splendor, and unparalleled educational opportunities, it’s the perfect destination for students seeking more than just the conventional academic experience.
As you look to study abroad in Guatemala, remember that Guatemala is not just a destination, but an opportunity to learn and enrich your perspectives.
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