Help with an isolated eco-jungle project on the shore of Lake Atitlan, Guatemala

Informationen

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  Beschreibung

  Stay with us by a beautiful lake, wake up to the sound of birds, enjoy the sunrise from our beach, disconnect from the noise, become more sustainable, feel the essence of nature, explore local culture and climb the volcano where we live.
  
  We are looking for self-sufficient and collaborative individuals to join our team of three volunteers helping to mantain the property. We offer a simple exchange: work in return for food and accommodation. If you enjoy being in nature, value independence and appreciate a self-directed lifestyle, this is the place for you!
  
  NEXT AVAILABILITY (individual): 5th Dec!
  NEXT AVAILABILITY (couple): 8th Mar!
  MINIMUM STAY: 1 month
  ONLY 4H WORK: compared to the average 5h+/day requested by most hosts
  ALL MEALS EVERY DAY: included on both working and resting days
  UNIQUE PROJECT: secluded, silent, nature, slow life, lake beach, stunning views
  
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  𝗣𝗟𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗘 𝗣𝗟𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗘 𝗣𝗟𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗘: 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗳𝗶𝗹𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗰𝗸 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗮𝘃𝗮𝗶𝗹𝗮𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗯𝗲𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘂𝘀. 𝗠𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝘀𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗢𝗞 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘄𝗿𝗶𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲. 𝗣𝗹𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲, 𝗱𝗼 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗰𝘁 𝘂𝘀 𝗶𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗱𝗼𝗻'𝘁 𝗮𝗰𝗰𝗲𝗽𝘁 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴, 𝘄𝗲 𝗱𝗼𝗻'𝘁 𝗺𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗲𝘅𝗰𝗲𝗽𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀!
  
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  Hello! My name is Hugo, and I live on the slopes of San Pedro volcano in Guatemala, in a wild and truly isolated area of Lake Atitlán, accessible only by water. There are no roads, no close neighbors, and no noise—just pure nature, the songs of birds, and a stunning beach. I’m on a journey to build a home in this paradise. Most of the time, I share this space with a few other people, some chickens, a cat, and two dogs.
  
  For the past three years, we’ve been dedicated to various projects on this land, all aimed at becoming more self-sufficient and sustainable with each passing day. The tasks you’ll be performing won’t include the following, but you’ll have the chance to expand your knowledge on:
  
  -Beach creation: we’ve constructed two massive natural retaining walls that not only help us collect an abundance of sand for future construction but also allow us to create our very own beach—a serene spot where the lake meets the land, perfect for relaxation and enjoying the breathtaking views.
  
  -Tul cultivation: along our lakeshore, we’ve introduced tul, a remarkable aquatic plant. Its roots help reduce water contamination, and when dried, its leaves become versatile materials for crafting mats, pillows, and more. It’s a perfect example of using nature’s gifts to enhance both our environment and daily life.
  
  -Multigrafted trees: we’re preparing rootstocks for 10 different fruit tree genera (citrus, prunus, persea, mangifera, malus, pyrus, solanum, morus, ficus, and annona). In just a few years, these trees have the potential to produce over 50 different types of fruit, creating a diverse and bountiful orchard that nourishes both body and soul.
  
  -Vermicomposting: we manage a thriving population of over two million Eisenia fetida (red wigglers/Californian red worms) that diligently process 100% of our food waste, turning it into rich, fertile compost that feeds our gardens and plants.
  
  -Dry toilet composting: thanks to wild Hermetia illucens (black soldier fly larvae), we’ve successfully achieved 100% feces processing. This sustainable approach not only eliminates waste but also contributes to a healthier environment.
  
  -Chickens: we’re breeding an autonomous, resilient species of chicken that thrives independently. Currently, 12 of these hardy birds roam freely across the land, sourcing their own food and water, and contributing to the balance of our ecosystem.
  
  -Living mulch: to keep our soil healthy and protected, we use four different species as cover crops: white clover, comfrey, baby sun rose, and asthma-plant. These living mulches enrich the soil, prevent erosion, and support biodiversity.
  
  -Plant diversity: in addition to the native species of the area, we’ve introduced a wide variety of other plants—cacti, palms, succulents, orchids, medicinal and aromatic herbs—that we’ve gathered from friends, local nurseries, and places we’ve visited. This rich diversity not only enhances the beauty of our surroundings but also supports a more resilient ecosystem.
  
  -Animal diversity: we are actively documenting the animal biodiversity on our land using the iNaturalist application. To date, we have recorded over 250 species, contributing valuable data to the scientific community and fostering a deeper connection with the natural world around us.
  
  -Nursery: we’ve created a dedicated plant nursery space where we care for over 5,000 small seedlings and propagate numerous plant species. This nursery is the heart of our reforestation and gardening efforts, ensuring a continuous supply of healthy, vibrant plants.
  
  -Tree forest: half of our land is being reforested with a diverse mix of trees—pine, cypress, cedar, teak, eucalyptus, jacaranda, matilisguate, mango, lychee, jackfruit, papaya, lemon, and other firewood, fruit, and medicinal trees. This growing forest will provide resources for generations to come and restore the natural balance of the land.
  
  -Living fence: to protect and enclose our tree forest, we’re cultivating a massive living fence made of lemongrass and sugarcane. Once fully established, this natural barrier will allow goats, sheep, and pigs to thrive within a secure, sustainable environment.
  
  -Transforming raw materials: from jams and tinctures to soaps, shampoos, and lipsticks, we’re committed to making the most of the abundance nature provides. We transform raw materials into a wide range of products—syrups, glycerates, balms, wines, vinegars, incenses, oils—ensuring nothing goes to waste and everything is cherished.

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  Arten von Hilfe und Lernmöglichkeiten

  Hilfe bei Ökoprojekten

  Gartenarbeiten

  Betreuung von Tieren

  Mithilfe auf einem Bauernhof

  Hausarbeiten

  Handwerkliche Arbeiten
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  UNO-Ziele für nachhaltige Entwicklung, die dieser Gastgeber verfolgt

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  Was ist das?
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  Kultureller Austausch und Lernmöglichkeiten

  The local language spoken around this part of Lake Atitlán is Tz'utujil, a living testament to the rich heritage of the Mayan people. The inhabitants of Santiago Atitlán, the nearest town, actively preserve and practice it. This vibrant town is not just a place to visit but a cultural experience in itself. You can reach it by rowing boat in about 45 minutes (you’ll need to rent your own for just $0.70 per day), or if you prefer a quicker journey, a private boat ride takes only 5 minutes and costs $6.50. Once there, you can immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the bustling markets filled with handmade crafts, traditional Tz'utujil clothing, and fresh produce.
  
  You can also withdraw money, enjoy a meal at one of the town’s restaurants, or buy a SIM card to stay connected. From Santiago, you can catch boats to explore other towns around the lake, with an average trip costing $3.
  
  While you're on the land, your free time can be as active or as relaxing as you like. We encourage creativity and personal projects, offering tools for those who want to build, carve, or craft something unique. The lake is perfect for swimming, fishing, or trapping crabs. You might also find joy in painting, reading, or simply lounging in a hammock with the sounds of nature all around you.
  
  For those eager to explore further, we offer GPX tracks for a variety of treks that will take you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes:
  
  -San Pedro volcano (5h 10km 1500m+)
  -Toliman volcano (8h 19km 1600m+)
  -Atitlan volcano (6h 13km 1600m+)
  -Tepepul waterfalls (5h 12km 900m+)
  -Chuitinamit (2h 5km 200m+)
  -Walk to San Pedro village (3h 7km 100m+)
  -Walk to Santiago village (6,5h 15km 300m+)
  
  For more leisurely pursuits or to dive into the rich culture of the region, there are several tourism and relaxation options available. You can immerse yourself in local traditions, visit pottery studios, join a coffee or cacao tour, participate in a Mayan ceremony, or simply enjoy the natural hot springs. Here are some of the tours you can take:
  
  -Santiago Atitlan (3h $12.5)
  -San Lucas and Cerro de Oro (6h $20)
  -San Juan and San Pedro (6h $20)
  -San Marcos and Tzununa (7h $22.5)
  -Jaibalito and Santa Cruz (7h $22.5)
  -Panajachel and Sololá (8h $25)
  -San Antonio and Santa Catarina Palopó (8h $25)
  -Xela/Fuentes Georginas thermal baths (2 days $65)

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  Arbeit

  Help involves 4 hours a day, Monday to Friday, scheduled from 7:00 to 9:00 and 10:00 to 12:00. You’ll help independently, but don’t worry—detailed instructions will be provided.
  
  The work varies throughout the year, but it can often be routine and it’s likely that you will be doing the same task for the entirety of your stay.
  
  During the rainy season, tasks primarily involve clearing vegetation, while in the dry season, the focus shifts to building dry stone walls. However, depending on the needs at the time, you might not necessarily perform these specific tasks during your stay, as other types of work may also be required. Regardless of the exact nature of the work, meeting the following key physical and mental requirements will help you determine if you're well-prepared for the job. Feel free to ask us if you have any specific questions.
  
  Physically
  -Lift 25 kg and walk 100 m: Helps keep you active and fit.
  -Work in the sun for up to 4 hours (max 26°C): Enjoy a pleasant outdoor environment.
  -No allergies to bees, mosquitoes, dogs, or cats: Interact with nature worry-free.
  -Paddle for 1 hour in a flat-bottom canoe (only if you can’t pay for a boat ride or adapt to isolation): A chance to enjoy canoeing.
  
  Mentally
  -Adapt to isolation (only if you can’t paddle or pay for a boat ride): Develop independence and mental resilience.
  -Perform the same work each day: Ideal for those who prefer routine and stability.
  -Follow precise instructions and accept feedback positively: Grow and improve continuously in your role.

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  Sprachen

  Gesprochene Sprachen
  Catalan: Fließend
  Englisch: Fließend
  Spanisch: Fließend
  Französisch: Fließend

  Dieser Gastgeber bietet Sprachaustausch an
  Dieser Gastgeber gibt an, dass er dir gern seine Muttersprache beibringt oder selbst eine Sprache lernen möchte.
  Bitte wende dich direkt an ihn, um weitere Auskünfte zu erhalten.
  
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  Unterkunft

  We provide a tent, a sleeping mat and sleeping bag.
  
  In our outdoor kitchen, you'll find a well-equipped setup with a small solar oven, a gas stove, a boiling pan, an iron cast pan, and the essentials like plates, glasses, and cutlery. We ensure that basic needs are covered. Our kitchen includes drinking water and a variety of vegetables, fruits, rice, oats, eggs, beans, lentils, oil, salt... So you’ll have all the basics you need covered for all your meals throughout the week.
  
  Cooking, cleaning, and tidying up the common areas are shared responsibilities, and while these tasks are not included in work hours, we expect everyone in our community to pitch in equally. Breakfast is often a casual affair, while lunch and dinner are typically shared meals, allowing for a communal and social dining experience.
  
  We use a dry toilet, and currently, our bathing option is the lake. If you prefer more privacy while showering, you might want to use swimwear as the area is open. While we don’t have a biodigester yet, it’s essential to bring your own eco-friendly hygiene products (shampoo, soap, toothpaste). If you need any, please inform us in advance, and we can provide them for $4.50 each.

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  Was noch ...

  We never leave the property unattended, so we always coordinate to ensure that at least one of us stays behind. If we all want to head out together, we can hire a guardian to watch over the place for a day. This is a shared responsibility, and the cost ($12.50) is split among everyone.
  
  If you need to skip a working day for any reason, we ask for a small contribution ($6.5). This contribution helps maintain the balance within our community by ensuring that the workload is shared fairly.
  
  If it’s important for you to work alongside other volunteers, please let us know. While we strive to have volunteers on-site regularly, there may be times when there are fewer or no other volunteers present. By mentioning your preference, it helps us manage expectations and ensures that you are aware of the situation beforehand, so you can plan accordingly and have the experience you’re looking for.
  
  I spend 3 or 4 days a week working in Tzununa, another village around the lake, but everything is always well-prepared in my absence, with tasks organized and food supplies arranged in advance. During these days, volunteers will work and live independently, which may mean spending time alone or with another volunteer. It’s important to understand that this is part of the experience, and while I may not always be present, I’m here to support you when I’m around. If you’re looking for constant supervision or companionship, this may not be the right fit for you.
  
  We share this beautiful land with a diverse array of wildlife, including some potentially dangerous creatures like coral snakes, black widows, and scorpions. Fortunately, these animals are rarely active during the day, so maintaining a daytime routine is a good precaution. While we've never needed it, the nearest hospital is just a 15-minute boat ride away, giving us peace of mind.
  
  We strive to make life here as comfortable as possible, ensuring that there’s always food in the kitchen, gas for the stove, and running water. However, sometimes unexpected issues arise, and we might temporarily run out of supplies. Luckily, the forest provides us with food and firewood, and the lake supplies us with water. While we don’t live like our ancestors did, when a modern convenience fails, we rely on the land until we can restock.
  
  As we don't have electricity or lighting on-site, it's important to come prepared. We highly recommend bringing a reliable power bank to keep your devices charged and a good flashlight to help you navigate after dark. Being equipped with these essentials will ensure that you’re comfortable and able to make the most of your time here, even without access to power.
  
  Our location is remote, something important to consider. Social life here is limited and as we mentioned, there’s no electricity, so if you need to charge your phone or powerbank, you'll have to make your way to town—either by rowing, taking a boat ride across the lake, or by hiking three hours through the forest.
  
  As for the weather, it varies from year to year, but typically, temperatures range between 14-27°C year-round. The dry season, from November to May, brings little to no rain (maybe once a month), while the wet season, from May to November, sees afternoon showers about three to four days a week.

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  Etwas mehr Information

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    Internet Zugang

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    Eingeschränkter Internet Zugang

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    Wir besitzen Tiere

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    Wir sind Raucher

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    Familien möglich

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  Kann Digital Nomads unterbringen

  Absolutely! Even without constant electricity, I can manage to work up to 4 hours a day on my computer. The trick is to work at night and use a reliable power bank along with a SIM card with a 4G connection. It really works!

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  Platz zum Abstellen von Camper Vans

  If you're traveling in a campervan or motorhome, there's a place in Santiago Atitlán where you can park for a fee. It's called Firefly Garden.

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  Kapazität - wie viele Workawayer maximal

  mehr als zwei

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  Arbeitszeiten

  4 hours a day, 5 days a week

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