Container
Grounding in our collective values
We will gather as a cohort twice prior to meeting in Guatemala, to get to know one another, prepare for the trip, and align our values and goals.
Pacing and Structure
This experience blends structured, facilitated days with intentional space for rest, exploration, and integration. Earlier days are more immersive and hands-on, focused on rescue work, and learning from organizations on the ground. As the trip progresses, the pace opens up to allow for reflection, independent exploration, and connection with place.
Group activities, speakers, transportation, and key grounding meals are coordinated, while free time is intentionally left flexible to support autonomy, rest, and individual interests. Kat is available to support with recommendations and logistics during any free time. Overall this is curated to be a collaborative, learning-oriented container.
The intention for the group dynamic is to cultivate a supportive, action-oriented container for networking, brainstorming, and collaborations. Everyone will be coming to this space with their own lived experiences, skills, perspectives, expertise, and contributions. We will learn from other women who have rooted their lives in this place and in this work, and encourage reflections on how and where we may be able to do the same.
Post-trip Integration
An optional post-trip Zoom meeting will be available to hold space for integration, reflection, and any next steps that may be of interest. Continued connection to each other, to Guatemala, and to the work is encouraged, and may be facilitated through a closed Facebook group or other similar platform.
Who is this trip for?
This experience is best suited for participants who are interested in learning how animal welfare work functions in under-resourced settings and within real-world constraints. Participants should be prepared to encounter animals living in difficult or dire conditions and to engage with that reality in a grounded, respectful way. Animal welfare standards, resources, and daily realities in Guatemala may differ significantly from what many participants are accustomed to. This trip centers relationship-based, locally led work–meaning responses are thoughtful, contextual, and guided by experience rather than impulse or shock.
Prior rescue experience is not required. Participants should be able to respond to challenging situations with respect for local expertise and cultural context. We are grounded in a shared understanding that meaningful action happens through collaboration and thoughtful, international responsiveness.
Physical Considerations
This trip takes place at higher altitude (5,000ft) and involves extended standing, walking, and navigating uneven terrain. Many villages around Lake Atitlán feature steep inclines, cobblestone roads, dirt or gravel paths, narrow or incomplete sidewalks, and frequent stairs.
Clinic day requires standing for several hours, and may include bending and lifting. Travel by lancha (boat) includes stepping on and off docks at varying heights and moving through tightly packed boats. The horseback trek will be for several hours, and is designed for beginners. It may require some walking on uneven terrain on the volcano. Participants should be comfortable navigating these conditions.
Access needs or mobility concerns should be discussed in advance. While accommodations are not always possible, we will communicate transparently about what can and cannot be supported.
Street Animal Rescue Alliance Abroad grew out of years of listening, learning, and showing up alongside rescuers in Guatemala. This trip is an invitation to step into that world with me—so the people, places, and animals that have shaped by path can begin to shape yours too.
Trip logistics & what’s included
Transportation
Flights are not included, participants are responsible for their own bookings.
All intercity travel and scheduled excursions are handled via private transportation arranged for the group.
Airport transfers are private unless participants are already traveling together.
Taxis, tuk-tuks, and lanchas utilized during free time are not included.
Accommodations
Accommodations are shared throughout the trip, with the exception of the final night in Guatemala City when all participants will have private rooms. Due to the small nature of the trip, private accommodations may not be possible but can be discussed for an additional cost if strongly preferred.
Breakfast is included with all accommodations, however participants are able to purchase alternative breakfasts during free time if desired.
Meals
Shared/included meals are outlined in the itinerary. Non-alcoholic beverages are included with group meals.
Most shared meals will operate off a fixed or limited menu to support logistics. Dietary preferences and access needs will be accommodated whenever possible.
Meals during free time are not included, allowing for autonomy and choice. Alcohol is not included.
Independent Activities
Optional or independent activities during free time are not included in the trip cost.
Insurance
All participants are required to carry their own travel/medical insurance.
The trip is also covered by tour operator insurance.
Miscellaneous
Cell coverage plans are not included, but Kat will have a full cell data plan
Tap water is not potable in Guatemala. Safe drinking water will be available at all accommodations and during group activities. Participants are encouraged to carry a reusable bottle and supplement with bottled water during free time as needed.
Most of the economy around the lake operates cash only (in local currency). ATMs can run out of cash. Participants should plan accordingly.
Terms & Next Steps
Application & Confirmation
Participation is confirmed through a brief application and follow-up phone call to ensure alignment with the trip. Invitations will be extended on a rolling basis until the cohort is full.
Payment Structure
The total cost of the trip is $3,600. A non-refundable deposit of $600 is required upon acceptance to reserve a spot, with the remaining $3,000 due by August 7, 2026.
NOTE: This experience requires a minimum of four (4) participants to proceed. If minimum enrollment is not met by August 7, 2026, the trip may be canceled and all payments (including deposit) will be fully refunded. If minimum enrollment is reached prior to that date, the trip may be confirmed early, at which point participants may book flights with confidence.
Cancellation & Refund Policy
Due to the intimate nature of this pilot program and advance commitments to accommodations, transportation, and local partners, all payments are non-refundable after August 7, 2026. If a participant must cancel after final payment, they may transfer their spot to another approved applicant; if the spot is filled, the $3,000 final payment will be refunded (the deposit remains non-refundable). Travel and medical insurance is required and should be purchased at the time of booking to protect against illness, emergencies, or unforeseen travel disruptions.
In the event of unforeseen circumstances, decisions related to safety, logistics, and programming will be guided by Kat in coordination with local partners.
