Purposeful travel. Genuine connection. Shared humanity.
somos.travel was born from a belief that travel should do more than take you places. It should bring you closer to people, purpose, and the possibility of a better world.
Our story began in Guatemala, where co-founders Shad Qudsi, a regenerative farmer and community organizer, and Kyle Weinstein, an environmentalist and tour guide, were working side by side on a grassroots nonprofit. As they partnered with local changemakers, they noticed a painful gap. Impactful, community-led organizations were creating real change but struggling for resources and visibility. At the same time, tourism in the region was booming. Yet many travelers passed through without ever engaging with the local efforts shaping the future of the communities they visited.
That disconnect sparked a shared vision. somos.travel was created to close the gap.
Today, we design immersive travel experiences that connect people to the real stories, leaders, and movements making a difference across Latin America. We believe the best trips change you not just by what you see but by what you support and who you stand with.
We also believe in keeping the adventurous spirit of travel alive. Every journey with us is full of discovery, wonder, and the thrill of going somewhere new with purpose.
Whether you’re a student, a family, a company, or an educator, we invite you to travel not just as a visitor but as a participant in something meaningful.
Impactful, community-led organizations were creating real change but struggling for resources and visibility. Yet many travelers passed through without ever engaging with the local efforts.
Because at somos.travel, we are connected.
To connect travelers with grassroots nonprofits and community-led change through immersive, purpose-driven travel while preserving the joy, curiosity, and adventure that make travel unforgettable.
A world where every journey strengthens local communities and deepens our shared sense of global responsibility while inspiring inner growth, resilience, and transformation in every traveler
Every itinerary is designed to create meaningful impact for both travelers and the communities we partner with.
We prioritize genuine relationships and cultural exchange over checklists and photo ops.
Our trips support local organizations and protect natural ecosystems for travel that truly gives back.
Every meaningful journey begins with human connection.
We meet communities with humility and we listen first.
Travel should move the world forward.
We believe in giving back as much as we receive.
Our team is made up of passionate humans from across the world who bring decades of experience in travel, education, environmental action, and social impact. From trip design to in-country leadership, we work closely with local partners to ensure each journey reflects the values of connection, respect, purpose, and reciprocity. Whether you’re meeting us on a video call or exploring a village trail together, you’ll feel the heart behind what we do.
Head of Growth and Partnerships
Shad Qudsi is a regenerative farmer, educator, and social entrepreneur who has spent the past 15 years living and working in Guatemala. After graduating from Johns Hopkins University and leaving the corporate world, Shad settled near Lake Atitlán.
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Director of Travel Experience
Born and raised in the Western Highlands of Guatemala to an American-Canadian family, Kyle Weinstein brings a unique cross-cultural perspective and a lifelong connection to the landscapes and communities of Central America.
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Director Communications and Operations
Originally from Austin, Texas, Michelle Fajkus has called Guatemala home since 2009. With a diverse background in advertising, education, and retreat center management.
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Director of Guide Development and Experience Quality
Irmante Sungailaite is an educator at heart and an adventurer by nature. She has spent over a decade guiding travelers through more than 40 countries.
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Purposeful travel that connects people, places, and impact.
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