Located on the Pacific coast of Guatemala, this project is dedicated to wildlife and environmental conservation in the El Hawaii region. By working hand-in-hand with nearby communities, the project ensures this beautiful ecosystem is safeguarded for generations to come. As a volunteer, you’ll have the chance to contribute to various important areas of the project.
The centre runs the most successful turtle hatchery in Guatemala, collecting up to 40,000 eggs each year from olive ridley and leatherback sea turtles.
Depending on the season, your tasks may include:
Due to habitat loss and illegal hunting, these species are in decline. The project breeds spectacled caimans and green iguanas with the goal of reintroducing them into nearby mangrove forests.
As a volunteer, you’ll assist with feeding and caring for these animals, playing a direct role in species recovery efforts.
The centre runs education programs focused on topics like waste management, ecology, and endangered species. Activities include:
Volunteers help plan, support, and lead these sessions, and may also contribute by teaching or developing new program ideas.
Help protect and re-plant the region’s 3,500-hectare mangrove forest which is a vital ecosystem under threat from illegal logging and wildfires.
You’ll work with local schools and conservation groups on reforestation activities and awareness efforts to preserve this coastal treasure.
One key to long-term conservation success is collaboration with local communities, especially in countries like Guatemala, where resources or political will may be limited.
As a volunteer, you’ll support staff in working closely with residents to promote sustainable practices and local conservation leadership.
7:30 AM - Breakfast.
8:00 AM - Begin daily tasks, which may include turtle patrols, animal care, cleaning, watering plants, or assisting with maintenance.
12:30 - 2:00 PM - Lunch break and rest.
Afternoon - Lighter activities or preparation for evening duties.
7:00 - 8:00 PM - Dinner.
Are you passionate about animals and the environment? Want to make a real difference while living by Guatemala’s beautiful Pacific coast? Then this project is for you!
Mijs vrijwilliger in Guatemala
Het heeft mij doen inzien hoeveel hulp er nodig is op ieder klein plekje op de wereld.
Anouk in Guatemala
Als je in de juiste tijd gaat zie je bijna elke dag wel baby schildpadjes die je dan mag vrijlaten op het strand wat echt super schattig is!
Marleen in Guatamala
Met name het vrijwilligerswerk ga ik missen!!!
Your working hours depend on the time of year you're at the project. Most activities are done in the morning due to the heat. Afternoons are usually quieter, but there are always extra tasks you can help with, like making eco-bricks (plastic bottles filled with plastic litter), making bracelets, or doing some admin work.
During turtle season, night patrols take place, often lasting throughout the night.
There are 11 permanent staff members at the project you'll work alongside. In addition, there are usually 1 or 2 long-term volunteers on-site.
Both Spanish and English are spoken. You'll speak Spanish with local staff and visitors. The more Spanish you know, the more you’ll be able to help, for example, giving tours or doing school visits for educational outreach.
This project is open year-round, so volunteers are always welcome.
You’ll stay directly at the project. There are small beach huts and a dorm where volunteers sleep. A Western-style toilet and shower are available, and you'll be provided with three meals per day. There’s a shared space with hammocks and tables where you can relax. There’s no WiFi on-site, but access can be arranged for an additional fee.
Since you’ll be staying at the project, no daily transport is required.
If you have some extra room in your bag and would like to bring something for the project, it’s greatly appreciated. Please check with us first about what items would be most useful.
We can arrange an airport pick-up and transport to the project for you. Costs depend on your arrival location and time.
Check out our additional trips to see what you can do in your free time! We offer some incredible excursions, and since you're already in such a beautiful destination, it's the perfect chance to explore more of the country.
If you're not yet confident in Spanish, you can choose to learn the language locally. Not only is this a unique experience, but learning from the locals is the most effective way to pick it up. You can choose between private or group lessons in Guatemala.
Petra is your contact person in Guatemala.
For this project, we’re looking for volunteers who want to contribute to the conservation of marine life and their natural habitats along the Pacific coast in the El Hawaii region. You’ll help with a range of tasks including monitoring sea turtle nests, caring for caimans and iguanas, delivering environmental education, and taking part in mangrove reforestation efforts.
This project is open to volunteers aged 17 and older.
Interest in Conservation and Education: Enthusiasm for animal and environmental conservation is essential. Experience is a plus.
Initiative and Proactivity: Being able to work independently and take initiative is important.
Patience and Empathy: You’ll need to be understanding and patient when working with animals and the local community.
Cultural Sensitivity: Respect for local customs and traditions, and a willingness to learn from the local culture.
Flexibility and Adaptability: It's important to be flexible and adaptable to changing conditions in Guatemala.
Communication Skills: Strong communication skills help with working alongside local staff and other volunteers.
Team Spirit: Collaboration is key.
As a volunteer, you’ll assist with collecting and incubating sea turtle eggs, caring for caimans and iguanas, and delivering environmental education at local schools. You’ll also help reforest mangrove areas and work alongside the local community on sustainable initiatives. Work usually takes place from 7:30am to 5:00pm, with afternoons off.
Your time in Guatemala will offer opportunities for personal and professional growth, cultural exchange, and unforgettable experiences.
If you have a passion for conservation and education and are ready to contribute in a challenging but rewarding setting, this project in Guatemala is the perfect fit. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the protection of these beautiful coastal environments.
We completely understand that having your child volunteer overseas can feel like a big step. In fact, it’s often just as exciting for parents as it is for the young person themselves, and sometimes even a little more nerve-racking. That’s why we want to reassure you that your child is in good hands.
Since 2004, we’ve been supporting volunteers and have guided many young people through meaningful international experiences.
We take safety seriously. That begins with carefully selecting our partner organisations, volunteer projects, and host families. Every placement is thoroughly checked to make sure it meets our high standards for safety, support, and ethical practices.
Our experienced and caring local contacts are always there to support volunteers throughout their journey. From clear pre-departure preparation to personal assistance during the project, we’re available to help whenever needed.
We believe strongly in open communication. You're always welcome to contact us with any questions or concerns. We’re here not only for the volunteers, but for their families too.
You can feel confident knowing we are fully committed to creating a safe, supportive, and positive experience. Your child’s wellbeing, safety, and overall happiness are our top priorities.
If there's anything you’d like to ask or talk through, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We're here to support you every step of the way.
Warm regards,
The Volunteer Worldwide Team
2 weeks of volunteering: $1550
3 weeks of volunteering: $1985
Each additional week: $520
*All prices are in AUD.
Before Departure
Online introductory meeting
Information pack with details about the culture and customs of Guatemala, as well as a checklist of all necessary preparations including insurance, money matters, and other travel tips
Preparation training
Help with applying for a police check (VOG)
Access to the online community
Assistance with your visa application
Help with booking your flight (upon request)
During Your Trip
Airport transfer to the project
On-site introduction
Support with visa extension (if needed)
Ongoing guidance during your stay
Accommodation in the volunteer house
Three meals per day
Upon Return
Evaluation session
Certificate (on request)
Opportunity to stay active in our WhatsApp community
Memories for life!
Flight
Vaccinations
Visa
Police check (VOG)
Travel insurance
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