Ixim Ulew students and volunteers have the opportunity to participate in a variety of social and cultural programs, which can be arranged depending on students’ interests. Activities include: presentations on a variety of ecological and political themes (such as the impacts of mining and water privatization in Guatemala); cooking classes to learn to prepare typical foods, including cheese-making and chocolates; exploration of the mountains surrounding Cantel; a Mayan spiritual ceremony; environmental education; work demonstrations by local artisans; demonstration of natural medicine with plants local to Pachaj; meeting with local youth; overnight camping trip to Quiaq Peak to admire nature, the stars, the moon, and a beautiful view of the Santa María and Santiaguito volcanoes.
In addition to the activities listed above, which are included in the language study package, we can arrange group excursions at an additional cost.
- Fuentes Georginas, volcanic hot springs located about twenty minutes from Pachaj. Cost: Q200 per student (approx. $25 U.S.), includes: food, transportation, and entrance fee.
- Laguna Chicabal, a beautiful crater lake surrounded by scenic hiking trails, located about one hour from Pachaj. Cost: Q300.00 per student (approx. $37 U.S.), includes: entrance to the park, food, transportation, and a Mayan ceremony at one of the 20 Mayan alters located around the lake.
- Day-long trek on horseback starting from Pachaj through the forested mountains surrounding Cantel. Cost Q500.00 per student (approx. $62 U.S.), includes: guided tour of the forest on horseback, food, a Mayan ceremony, and visit to the lookout point with a view of Sololá and the Lago de Atitlán.
Weaving courses are also available at a cost of $250 (U.S.) for four hours of daily instruction for a period of five days. The fee includes placement in a home stay, all meals, materials and instruction, and the opportunity to participate in the cultural programs listed above.
A student learns from local artisans
