

The semester begins with an orientation in the town of San Lucas Toliman on the shores of lake Atitlan. Here we spend our days getting to know one another, setting goals for our time together, and learning how to safely navigate new places and experiences. San Lucas is home to the Mesoamerican Permaculture Institute, where we learn about traditional agricultural practices and how they can help respond to many of the issues facing contemporary Guatemalan society. During this phase we practice Spanish, learn about cultural norms, try new foods and come together as a group.
From San Lucas we travel north to the Cuchumatanes mountains and the town of Todos Santos. Here we dive into Spanish study while living with local families. Todos Santos is a very traditional community where many ancient customs are preserved. We learn about how traditional clothing is made, how food is prepared and what it’s like to live in a rural Guatemalan home. We learn about the traditional celebrations and beliefs of the highland people as well as contemporary issues like immigration and climate change.