A Land of Cultural and Geographic Diversity

It is mind boggling to witness how much cultural and geographic diversity can fit into one small country, which is why many consider Guatemala to be a must-see destination. It’s home to everything from ancient Mayan temples and Spanish colonial cities to cloud-shrouded highland villages and vibrant Caribbean towns. There are sky-high volcanoes, winding rivers, remote cloud forests, and vast swaths of untamed jungle. But what truly makes this country unique is its indigenous people — including 21 Mayan groups and the Garífuna people — whose distinctive cultures, languages, and centuries-old traditions continue to thrive today.

Together Women Rise’s trip to Guatemala provided 14 members with the opportunity to connect with the beauty of Guatemala, its culture, and the work that Together Women Rise is supporting there.

Trip highlights included:

• Exploring the traditional cities and towns of Antigua, Lake Atitlán, Santiago, and San Juan La Laguna.
• Visiting TWR grantees Starfish Global, Women’s Justice Initiative, and Mercado Global.
• Partaking in a traditional shaman ceremony.
• Exploring Solola Market.
• Witnessing the world-famous Day of the Dead Kite Festival.

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