Life-Changing Gap Year Volunteer Trips

Looking for a meaningful gap year abroad? Be Humanitarian ® offers volunteer trips, cultural immersion travel, and volunteer vacations abroad that blend adventure with purpose—experience culture, meaningful growth, and make a real impact.

Travel With Purpose

Make your gap year matter—this isn’t a year off, it’s a year forward.

Join us in Guatemala for a volunteer trip where you’ll install garden towers, deliver school supplies, and support sustainable development, plus explore Lake Atitlán, hike a volcano, visit black sand beaches, and dive into Guatemala’s rich culture—all while giving back.

Unlike traditional travel our purpose-driven vacations provide a deeper connection to the local communities. Our gap year trips are unforgettable, immersive, hands-on experiences. What are you waiting for? Learn more

How Voluntourism Works

Explore a new culture. Immerse yourself. Make a difference.

Affordable & Flexible

Fully hosted experiences starting at $77/mo or 0% APR financing options

Culturally-Connected

Travel, build connections, and give back, serving local communities

Ethical & Responsible

We’re a 501(c)3 nonprofit serving the impoverished people of Guatemala

Impact-Driven

Support long-term sustainability and fight childhood malnutrition

Why Choose a Volunteer Vacation

Rachel

South Dakota

Andrea

Utah

Bailey

Utah

Ella

Arizona

Gloria

Utah

Jane

Utah

Jenny

Utah

“

Such a once in a lifetime experience. If I could do this all day, everyday I would. Changing lives one trip at a time. And don't worry about being so far away from home, Tobie is great at what she does. Whether you need a hug or a lecture, she'll be the "mom" you need. Highly recommend!
Kenzie Stone

“

Most amazing and humbling experience of a lifetime.
Kitana Antolin

“

If you want to have an adventure in a beautiful far away place where you grow in gratitude, grow and share your gifts, and help other grow; GO!!!!
Jolyn

“

I don't know what in particular brought Brian's change of attitude but I am very grateful for it. I feel closer to Brian than I have in a very long time. Her carries more empathy with him than I have seen before. He is also more respectful and caring towards all of us than he was before the trip. Yay!
Jennifer

“

We saw (developing country) poverty and learned gratitude. We saw (developing country) hospitality and learned selflessness. Tobie planned the perfect array of experiences, and was very knowledgeable of our travels. I recommend her program to anyone with that hunger for learning and anyone with the fire to SEE something different!
Billie

“

This was an experience both my 16-year-old daughter and I had and we will never forget. We traveled this summer with Guatemalan Humanitarian Tours and it was powerful. What sets this opportunity apart from others is Tobie Spears and her connections. We were invited to eat in people’s homes, meet with NGO’s but also individuals in the communities who are volunteering their time to make things better for the kids in Guatemala.
Dana Ball

“

I have had the opportunity to assist Be Humanitarian a couple times and I have learned so much from its founder, Tobie Spears. Her willingness to help and to change the lives of those in Guatemala and those who visit this country is remarkable. This nonprofit understands that love and hope will change the lives of those that come across this organization.
Edgar

“

Traveling to Guatemala and experiencing their way of life for a few days was amazing. They are wonderful people. 'Humbling' doesn't even begin to describe it.
Darcy

“

Serving in Guatemala was an experience I'll never forget. It was so fun to see Guatemala because it's so different from where we were from. It made me come back more grateful for how I live! Also, our leaders Tobie and Darrin were great, and would do another service trip with them.
Athena

“

I loved my trip to Guatemala with Tobie! She is so inspiring, and it made such an amazing impact in my life. Getting to go and see how others live really got me out of my bubble and opened my eyes to hardships for others. The projects we did through Be Humanitarian made me feel like I was making a difference for those who were struggling. I would recommend doing this to anyone!! It’s a life changing experience.
Kyla

“

Was an amazing experience that taught me so much. I learned about the culture and lifestyle of those living in Guatemala. I would recommend it to anyone who wants to go and help outreach communities.
Lucy

“

My family and I sponsor a little girl through this organization. It is so nice to be able to contribute every month to an organization that is truthful and honest. 100% of the proceeds go to the children. Our small contribution, combined with many others, adds so much to this community. We are grateful for this opportunity. Rachel
Rachel

“

I have the great privilege of knowing Tobie Spears. I am so amazed at her talents and abilities to help mothers and children in Guatemala. I was able to help gather quilts for them. It was such a privilege to help with their projects. They are touching so many lives.
Cheryl

“

This was a very fruitful experience and I am very grateful to have the opportunity to go on this trip with this organization.
Calvin

“

Be Humanitarian is such a great organization! It’s run by an awesome bunch of people that are trustworthy and truly care about the people they are helping in Guatemala. I love sponsoring Alonso! I know that all of my money goes to help him get the food and schooling he needs. It’s the best $40 I spend every month because I know that $40 is truly making a difference in a little boy’s life!
Linda

“

My time in Guatemala changed my outlook on life. I learned it's the people you meet and the relationships you build that will fill your life with the feeling of true and genuine happiness. This experience helped me to feel how grateful I am for everything and it made me want to build relationships with complete strangers, even if we don't speak the same language, we can still become friends. I noticed how my attitude also changed. I was a lot happier because the people in Guatemala are so nice.
Emery

Best Gap Year Volunteer Trips

Traveling with Be Humanitarian ® enables you to make meaningful contributions to community projects in the area of early nutrition, education, and self-sustainability. Here’s where you can make a difference this year:

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October 2026 Day of the Dead
Volunteer Vacation
October 25 – November 4, 2026
Price range: $2,195.00 through $2,695.00
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Flower Festival
Volunteer Vacation
November 13 – November 22, 2026
Original price was: $3,195.00.Current price is: $2,695.00.
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Semana Santa Volunteer Vacation
April 3, 2026 – April 10, 2026
Original price was: $3,195.00.Current price is: $2,195.00.
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Journey With Purpose Volunteer Vacation
July 11, 2026 – July 18, 2026
Original price was: $3,195.00.Current price is: $2,195.00.
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Our Valued Partners

FAQS

What is a volunteer vacation?

A volunteer vacation combines travel with meaningful volunteer work, allowing participants to contribute to community projects while exploring a new culture. Be Humanitarian offers such experiences in Guatemala, where volunteers engage in activities like installing garden towers and delivering school supplies, enriching both their lives and those they serve.

What is the difference between volunteerism and voluntourism?

Volunteerism involves dedicating time and effort to community service, often locally. Voluntourism, however, merges tourism with volunteering, enabling travelers to support global communities during their trips. Be Humanitarian’s programs exemplify voluntourism by offering immersive cultural experiences alongside impactful service projects in Guatemala.

What is the main goal of voluntourism?

The primary goal of voluntourism is to facilitate cultural exchange and sustainable development by allowing travelers to contribute positively to the communities they visit. Be Humanitarian aims to inspire global citizenship and break the cycle of poverty through education, nutrition, and self-sustainability initiatives in Guatemala.

Why should I volunteer in Guatemala?

Volunteering in Guatemala with Be Humanitarian offers the chance to make a tangible difference in underserved communities. Participants support local families, enhance educational opportunities, and experience Guatemala’s rich culture and natural beauty, including Lake Atitlán, Antigua, Panajachel and sometimes Mayan ruins.

What skills do I need for a service trip?

No specific skills are required for Be Humanitarian’s service trips; a willingness to help and learn is essential. Tasks may include manual labor, teaching, or community engagement, with guidance provided to ensure meaningful contributions.

What types of volunteer work can I do in Guatemala?

Volunteers with Be Humanitarian engage in various projects, such as building garden towers, delivering educational materials, and supporting nutrition programs. These activities aim to promote self-sustainability and improve the quality of life for local communities.

Do I need a visa to volunteer in Guatemala?

U.S. citizens do not require a visa for stays up to 90 days in Guatemala. However, a valid passport is necessary. It’s advisable to verify current entry requirements before traveling.

Are there any age restrictions for volunteering?

Be Humanitarian welcomes volunteers of all ages. Our volunteer vacations are suitable for families, seniors, children, and young adults. Participants under 15 should be accompanied by an adult. Be Humanitarian offers tailored experiences to ensure meaningful engagement for all age groups.

Do I need to get vaccinations?

While specific vaccinations are not mandated for travel to Guatemala, it’s recommended to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice based on individual health needs and current guidelines.

What will my individual trip look like?

Individual volunteers with Be Humanitarian can expect a balanced itinerary of service projects and cultural exploration. Activities may include community development work, educational support, and visits to local landmarks, providing a comprehensive and enriching experience.

What will my group trip look like?

Group trips of 10+ are customized to align with the group’s interests and skills. For instance, if we have an entire group of adventurers, we may end up sleeping outside on top of a volcano for a night. Group trips, including volunteer trips for schools, families, church groups, friend groups, networking groups, associations, community clubs, and more, will collaborate on projects like constructing garden towers, distributing school supplies, and engaging in cultural exchanges, fostering teamwork and collective impact. We will also enjoy sightseeing and other activities together that allow you to experience the vibrant culture of this beautiful country while making a positive impact on the local communities.

Life-Changing Gap Year Volunteer Trips

Travel With Purpose