In June 2025, high school students embarked on a Guatemala service trip and participated in a reforestation project. They traded a week of summer for shovels, seedlings, and the chance to make a lasting environmental impact in Guatemala’s Western Highlands. By raising nearly $9,000 before departure, they supported Wellkind Guatemala ONG in planting 1,000–2,000 new trees on degraded lands.
More Than Just Planting Trees
This trip was part of a long-term partnership between Somos Travel and Wellkind Guatemala. Each project is chosen and led by the local community.
Students spent mornings learning planting techniques from local agronomists. In the afternoons, they explored Guatemala’s cultural and ecological richness, visiting village markets and ancient Maya sites.
“Working with Somos Impact Travel brings an incredible synergy to our mission,” says a Wellkind Guatemala representative. “They come prepared, with resources already raised, and with a genuine commitment to learning from the community, not just helping it.”
Leadership Skills on a Guatemala Service Trip
Beyond environmental work, students developed leadership skills. They coordinated tasks, adapted to new environments, and communicated across cultures.
One student said, “I’d never done anything like this before. Now I see how my actions directly affect the planet, and I want to keep making that impact.”
Adventure and Learning in Guatemala
When not planting trees, students kayaked on Lake Atitlán, climbed trails, and participated in cooking classes with local families. This mix of service and adventure strengthens the connection to the place while creating lasting memories.
Growing the Reforestation Movement
The trip shows how youth-led initiatives have tangible results. Across Somos Travel programs, students have raised over $50,000 for reforestation and planted more than 10,000 trees in partnership with Wellkind and other grassroots organizations.
Next, the program plans to expand to more schools and communities. In this way, the seeds planted in Guatemala will grow into a global network of young environmental leaders.
Plan Your Own Guatemala Student Service Trip
Somos Impact Travel runs partnership-based learning expeditions across Guatemala, Belize, and Peru, connecting schools, corporate groups, Rotary clubs, and other donor groups with local NGO leaders. Visit somos.travel/experiences to explore programs or start planning your group’s expedition.
