Who We Are

Founders of Volunteer Guatemala

Rooted in guatemala, driven by impact

We are a small-but-mighty team, driven by a simple idea: travel should build bridges, not just bucket lists.

Here at Volunteer Guatemala, we are the volunteering arm of Spanish Marks – a Guatemala-based organization that started with a passion for Spanish language, human connections, and cultural exchange. 

We know Guatemala inside out. And not just the landscapes, but the people, the challenges, and the movements pushing for change. We’ve spent years working alongside local organizations, and now, we want to bring you into that story.

volunteer guatemala x spanish marks

From classroom to community

It all started with a love for Spanish language and a desire to connect people across cultures. Back in 2015, siblings Rustom and Phiroza along with their friend Sandy from Guatemala set up Spanish Marks - an online Spanish school based in Guatemala.

Through teaching Spanish, we got to know incredible students from around the world, and realised there was something bigger waiting to happen.

That connection turned into collaboration, and soon, Spanish Marks expanded into something more action-driven, matching passionate travellers with grassroots projects in Guatemala that matter. Volunteer Guatemala was born.

Volunteer with indigenous women in Guatemala

spark connections, build change.

We believe in volunteering with purpose; the kind that supports communities in meaningful ways. And we’re honest about this as the depth of your impact depends on the time you give. A few weeks can spark connection and understanding. Whilst a longer stay can create lasting change, for you and local communities.

Healthcare volunteer with children in Guatemala
Tourist with tour guide in Guatemala
Waterfall in Guatemala

We work with a growing network of organizations across Guatemala focusing on human rights, healthcare and community outreach.

Whether you’re looking to apply your skills, gain experience in a new field, or just do something meaningful, we’ll match you with a project that matters.

No voluntourism. Just real people, real needs, and real impact. For you and the community.

Oh, and we don’t stop there.

We also run cultural immersion tours in Guatemala that takes you way beyond the Instagram version of the country. Think sunrise hikes up secret volcanoes, hands-on visits to community-run coffee co-operatives, chocolate-making with local artisans, and honest conversations about the country’s past and present. It’s a deep dive into Guatemala’s soul, with no tourist trap in sight.

What makes us different

We don’t drop you into any project, but instead match you with grassroots partners who actually want you there. It’s volunteering that’s built on relationships and understanding.