August 7-15, 2027
We invite you to join us on a thoughtfully-crafted travel experience that brings education to life through rich cultural immersion and meaningful connection.
This exclusive program, designed specifically for our Eckerd community of lifelong learners, offers a wonderful opportunity to explore Guatemala through the voices of its people and the stunning landscape.
Colorful, welcoming and full of surprises, Guatemala offers an extraordinary mix of living Maya culture, exploration of Maya ruins, dramatic landscapes, and meaningful community connections.
The program begins as we explore historic, colonial Antigua, which sits at 5,029 feet above sea level and is surrounded by three dramatic volcanoes. This ancient city is famous for its cobblestone streets, colorful Spanish Baroque architecture, and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
At beautiful Lake Atitlán, you will be surrounded by the most incredible scenery in Guatemala’s breathtaking western highlands. This journey ensures connection with both the landscape and the people. Visit with local Maya communities, and learn through hands-on experiences ranging from weaving and chocolate making to the tradition of Guatemala’s beloved worry dolls.
This program is crafted for a small group and includes several options that allow you to choose your Guatemala: hike (or ascend via horseback) Pacaya Volcano or enjoy birdwatching on a guided hike through Lake Atitlán Nature Reserve with a local naturalist. Or, maybe you prefer to explore a Maya village along the shores of Lake Atitlán visiting with craft makers or enjoy a meal and learn about culinary traditions in the home of a local family.
With experiences for the curious, the active and everyone in between, this is a journey that invites you to experience Guatemala rather than simply see it.
Expect moments of discovery. Expect community. Expect an unforgettable journey of a lifetime. Highlights include:
Exclusive Eckerd Moments
- Connect with educators and students at Niños de Guatemala to discover how education is creating opportunities and transforming lives within the local community.
- Step inside the home of a local family in San Lorenzo El Cubo to learn the cherished tradition of crafting Guatemala’s famous worry dolls and the stories they represent.
- Travel across the sparkling waters of Lake Atitlán to connect with Maya communities through immersive workshops in traditional weaving, medicinal plants, chocolate making, and honey production.
Cultural Heritage and Discovery
- Designed with flexibility in mind, several days include thoughtfully curated choice experiences, allowing you to personalize your journey based on your interests and preferred activity level.
- Explore Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage city celebrated for its colorful cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, volcano views, and rich cultural heritage.
- Experience the spiritual traditions of the Maya during a traditional ceremony at the ancient city of Iximché, one of Guatemala’s most important archaeological sites.
- Discover Guatemala City’s vibrant historic center through its Central Market, local cuisine, lively plazas, cathedral, and cultural landmarks.
Stunning Lake Atitlán
Program Details:
Dates: August 7-15, 2027
Cost: $5,399 per person double occupancy, through September 18, then $5,699. Single occupancy: please add $999 per person. Note: Airfare is not included but our partners at Nanda Journeys can assist you with booking your flights.
Group Size: 16-20 participants maximum
Your registration includes:
- Pre-Departure Learning – We’ll host an informative session on the Maya civilization
- Accommodations – 8 nights in 4-star, locally-owned establishments that prioritize sustainability practices
- Culinary Delights – Most meals included
- In-Country Private Transportation – Comfortable motorcoach transportation within Guatemala and group air transfer; flights from the U.S. are not included
- Community Insights – Engaging presentations and conversations with locals and subject-matter experts on Maya history and culture
- All Entry Fees – for all group activities
- Local Professional Guide – with us the entire trip, along with an Eckerd Staff member
- Emergency Medical Insurance – includes cancellation for new medical conditions, death in the family, etc., also includes trip cancellation/interruption coverage due to airline issues, and emergency treatment (includes coverage for pre-existing conditions) while abroad
- MORE!
Interested? Have questions? Contact Eckerd Study Travel Manager Judy Tilton at tiltonjd@eckerd.edu.
Zoom Information Session
On August 20th we held a live information session that to kick-off this program. Watch the recording and learn more about the itinerary and what you can expect with this amazing tour.
Why Travel with OLLI at Eckerd?
At OLLI at Eckerd College, we curate intellectually enriching journeys tailored for passionate lifelong learners. Whether engaging in local history, exploring world-class museums, or enjoying curated cultural events, our programs blend adventure with education—because travel should be as enlightening as it is inspiring.
“It is wonderful to have the opportunity to travel solo but with a group that I have an Eckerd connection with. It is a great learning experience and provides a safe and secure way for me to adventure out into the world. These programs open my eyes to different experiences that I would not have he [sic] courage to go, do, amd [sic] see on my own.“—2024 Buenos Aires Participant
