Many of your patients will come from the indigenous tribes in the areas; others will have been greatly affected by the most volcano and those in the not so distant past.
Imagine waking up surrounded by 3 volcanoes with the smell of pan (bread) baking in old ovens and the song of the local birds as they welcome the sunrise. If that's what you are imagining, you must be in La Antigua, a small city in south central Guatemala known for its colonial and Spanish baroque architecture, active and dormant volcanoes, multicolored buildings, secret doorways and warm people.
It has also been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is where you will be based during the week as you travel out to areas where medical care is scarce and dental care is almost non-existent. Please join us as we care for the people of Antigua, many of whom suffered greatly during the 2018 volcanic eruptions that left many families without their loved ones and villages covered in ash.
Clinics will take place in the beautiful valleys around La Antigua and in schools and orphanages near the city. Many of your patients will come from the indigenous tribes in the areas; others will have been greatly affected by the most volcano and those in the not so distant past. This area has seen great hardship and great loss and your team will make a tremendous difference in your patient's life.
You will have the opportunity to provide medical care, dental care, and health and hygiene education to hundreds of patients during the week - are you up for the challenge? Your reward will be the hugs and laughter of the children and the shy smiles of their parents as they thank you for caring enough to help their families.
The team will be staying in a simple, safe, clean and friendly hotel located in this beautiful city where you can enjoy the local food, music, and an array of shops. Tour the Chocolate Museum, where you will learn how to make chocolate from the bean! Everything is within walking distance and the city is full of color, wonderful smells, and amazing food. . The culture of Guatemala will come alive as you explore the city after clinic and during your day off.
Upon your arrival in Antigua, all transportation to clinic has been arranged for you. Professional drivers, safe vehicles, and security are some of the many reasons to join IMR on a trip. Don't nap - there's a lot to see in the valleys and hills surrounding your home away from home this week!
Families are the most important patients you will see and in Guatemala, you will see a lot of families. Everyone wants you to help them keep their children healthy and their elders comfortable. It is our patients - and there are a lot of them! - that are the highlight of this trip.
You will have a free day to explore Antigua with its quaint cobblestone streets and colorful colonial architecture. Salsa dancing on your list? Try it out! Always wanted to hike a volcano? Do it here! Always wanted to be a chocolatier? Visit the famous chocolate factory! Enjoy your day - make it your own!
You’re journeying halfway across the globe, have you considered extending your stay to visit some of Guatemala’s top spots? Join International Medical Relief on an exclusive trip extension provided by our partner, Worldwide Navigators!
- Discover the villages of San Juan La Laguna, San Pedro La Laguna, Santiago Atitlan and Maximon
- Experience the vibrant center of culture and artistic creations of Chichicastenango Market
- Enjoy a private walking tour of the ancient ruins of Tikal