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| GUATEMALA |
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Guatemala, meaning “land of trees,” is a heavily forested and mountainous nation—and the most populous in Central America. With its high and active volcanoes, scenic beauty and impressive Mayan ruins Guatemala is often known as the Mayan heart of Central America. The indigenous culture survives in the ancient ruins of Tikal, rituals of Chichicastenango and blazing colors of Mayan dress. Deeply rooted in the rural highlands of Guatemala, many indigenous people speak a Mayan language, follow traditional religious and village customs, and continue a rich tradition in textiles and other crafts. Guatemala’s
culture is a unique product of Native American ways and a strong Spanish colonial heritage.
However Guatemala is a country characterized by income disparities and extreme poverty. It has also suffered periods of political instability and turmoil in the past. YCI and local partner RJI are currently involved in a project, which is based in the La Communidad plantation.
The community where YCI volunteers will work is nestled amongst a large plantation of organic coffee and macadamia trees. Large tracts of natural tropical forest have been preserved and a walk through the plantation will bring you to cascading waterfalls with crystal clear water, verdant natural forest, edible and medicinal plants, and breathtaking views of volcanoes Santa Maria (3772m) and Santiaguito - an active volcano which erupts on average every hour!
| HDI: |
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118 /177 |
| Population: |
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12.9 million |
| Life Expectancy: |
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69.69 years |
| Infant mortality: |
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29.77/1,000 births |
| Adult Literacy Rate: |
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69.1% |
| HIV prevalence:
(ages 15-49) |
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3.1% |
Population living below
the national
poverty line: |
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1.1% |
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Program Overview
