Guatemala is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after destinations for Rotary volunteer trips. With vibrant communities, real service needs, and deep-rooted nonprofit networks, this Central American country offers an ideal setting for clubs seeking international engagement with impact.
But not all trips are created equal. Planning a responsible, high-impact service trip takes the right partnerships, logistics, and alignment with Rotary values.
This guide walks you through what to expect and how to get started — whether you’re a Rotary club leader, Rotaract advisor, or community service coordinator.
Guatemala is a natural fit for Rotary clubs looking to serve internationally without flying halfway across the world. Here’s why:
Somos.travel was co-founded by a longtime Rotarian — now Treasurer of the Lake Atitlán Rotary Club — and specializes in volunteer travel programs in Guatemala that are ethical, safe, and built to last.
The most successful Rotary service trips are built on partnership, not charity. Here’s what to prioritize:
At Somos, all volunteer experiences are designed with vetted grassroots nonprofits. Projects are selected based on community need and sustainability — not convenience or photo ops.
We remove the guesswork from international planning. Our team handles:
Each trip is grounded in the Rotary Four-Way Test and can be designed to align with global grant goals or local club partnerships.
Rotary members can travel alongside Rotaractors or youth groups as mentors and collaborators, with clear structure and shared purpose.
Here’s an example 9-day itinerary for a Rotary club or mixed-age service group:
These trips balance action with cultural immersion, creating opportunities for service, storytelling, and shared leadership.
Most clubs begin with a simple consult call, followed by budget planning and fundraising. The easiest way to start is by downloading our toolkit.
Get the Rotaract Trip Planning Toolkit — designed for both Rotary and Rotaract clubs. It includes:
Yes. While many groups travel with Rotaract members, we also design programs for adult Rotary clubs, especially those focused on project alignment and long-term partnerships.
No problem. We can align the trip with Rotary’s global grant categories like water, education, or the environment.
Groups of 8 to 20 work best. We can accommodate larger delegations with advanced notice.
Rotary volunteer trips to Guatemala are more than an inspiring experience. They are an invitation to serve ethically, connect across cultures, and support projects that live far beyond your visit.
At Somos, we bring deep Rotary knowledge, local partnerships, and logistical excellence to every step of the journey. Let’s build something meaningful together.
Visit somos.travel/rotaract to get started or schedule a planning call.
Yes. Trips can be designed for adult-only Rotary service delegations.
All Somos programs include insured transport, bilingual guides, and full safety orientation.
Absolutely. Many of our projects align with Rotary’s Areas of Focus and long-term partnerships.
