Check the Schedule for upcoming trips, join one.
October 2025 (26 October-1 November 2025)-CME and Endocrinology Brigade
Join GHI in Santiago Atitlán this fall!
At the end of October, as the community prepares for Day of the Dead and All Saints Day—a celebration that, much like American Thanksgiving, brings families together to share meals and visit loved ones—GHI will host two unique opportunities:
Spanish Language & Culture Continuing Education (CME/CE/CEU): Immerse yourself in language learning while experiencing the rich cultural traditions of Guatemala. [More info here.]
Endocrinology Brigade: Volunteer alongside GHI to provide consultations for community members on diabetes, thyroid disease, and other endocrinology-related concerns. To join the Brigade, contact GHI.
March 2026 (7-14 March 2026)- Spring Break and Community Clinic
Join GHI for our 21st Annual Spring Break Trip! March 7–14, 2026
Designed for college-aged participants, this immersive experience introduces students to the Tz'utujil Maya community of Santiago Atitlán and the Lake Atitlán region. Highlights include:
- Learning about local food traditions and cooking practices
- Volunteering with an elementary school partner
- Supporting Hospitalito Atitlán through rural primary care clinics
- Exploring community medicine alongside Guatemalan professionals
The trip blends cultural learning with hands-on volunteer activities in both education and health. Participants will also enjoy a day on Lake Atitlán and a day in the colonial city of Antigua.
Special opportunities:
-
If the coffee harvest is still underway, join local farmers for a morning of harvesting coffee cherries.
-
Arrive two days early to connect with Guatemalan university students before the trip begins.
This year’s trip will be led by Drs. Bream and Siddiqui. Contact GHI to learn more or to register!
Coming Soon — Summer 2026 Opportunities with GHI
Exact dates for our summer programs will be announced soon!
10-Week Community Medicine Research Training
Spend the summer on Lake Atitlán, living with a host family while supporting Asociación K’aslimaal and Hospitalito Atitlán. Participants will contribute to qualitative research projects, build research skills, and gain hands-on global health experience. For some students, this work has even led to publication.
One-Week Summer Trip (July 19–26, 2026)
Celebrate the Feast of Saint James while learning about Tz’utujil Maya culture and health. Participants will:
-
Visit local cofradías (religious brotherhoods)
-
Join in town processions and celebrations
-
Volunteer with Hospitalito Atitlán
This week-long program offers a meaningful way to learn about global health and collaborative partnerships—while experiencing Santiago Atitlán’s biggest annual festival. A memorable mid-summer adventure that broadens perspectives and builds connections.