FAQs
Q: DO I NEED TO BE A CERTAIN AGE TO PARTICIPATE ON A MISSION TRIP?
A: It is recommended that participants be over the age of 10. Children younger are allowed if they are accompanied by their legal guardian or parent. Please be aware some activities will be more strenuous and may not be appropriate for a young child. A family trip is suggested if you desire to bring younger children.
Q: DO I NEED A PASSPORT TO TRAVEL TO GUATEMALA?
A: A passport is required to travel to the Guatemala. Processing times and fees to obtain a passport vary, so it’s important that you apply early. Please visit the US Passport Requirements section on the US Department of State’s website for further details.
Q: DO I NEED TO ACQUIRE MY GUATEMALAN VISA BEFORE TRAVEL?
A: U.S. citizens do not need a visa for a stay of 90 days or less.
Q: IS IT SAFE TO TRAVEL TO GUATEMALA?
A: Any foreign travel can be dangerous and Guatemala is no exception. If you have concerns we suggest that you connect with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program in order to obtain updated information on local travel and security. Rest assured, we take every precaution possible to keep you safe during your visit.
Q: WHAT IMMUNIZATIONS DO I NEED BEFORE TRAVEL TO GUATEMALA?
A: HRI highly recommends up-to-date Tetanus/Diptheria vaccinations for all trips. The Center for Disease Control also recommends the following: Hepatitis A&B, Typhoid, Malaria RX, and Travelers Diarrhea RX. Recommended vaccinations may change as conditions change in various areas so please see www.cdc.gov for current updates. Let us know if you have more specific questions about planned locations or activities.
Q: CAN TRIPS BE CUSTOMIZED TO BEST FIT MY GROUP?
A: Yes, trips can be customized to fit your group. We highly recommend different projects and activities that will make the greatest impact on both your group and the people you will work with. You can request certain destinations and programs and we will do all we can to fulfill your request.
Q: WHY DO YOU NOT INCLUDE AIRFARE IN YOUR MISSION TRIP FEES?
A: We do not include airfare because many individuals have access to airline discounts or use frequent flyer miles to travel to Guatemala. This allows members of the mission teams to shop for the best rate or use any vouchers or frequent flyer miles they want. We are happy to advise on answer any additional questions around air travel.
Q: WHAT HAPPENS IF I GET SICK WHILE IʼM TRAVELING ON THE MISSION TRIP?
A: Your trip leader will make arrangements to get you to a doctor. Please be sure to check your health insurance prior to travel. Some plans cover medical expenses outside the country. If your plan does not we can help you choose a travel insurance plan.
Q: CAN I RAISE FUNDS TO COVER THE COST OF MY TRIP?
A: Yes, once you pay your deposit, you will be supplied some mission trip resources, one of which will walk you through the steps to do fund raising letters.
Q: IS MY TRIP TAX DEDUCTIBLE?
A: Yes, portions of your trip cost will be deductible. We will supply you with a tax receipt for the donation and project portion of your trip. We recommend that you speak to your tax adviser for additional details.
Q: WHAT IS THE MAXIMUM SIZE GROUP YOU CAN TAKE?
A: We can comfortably accommodate 25 but we are open to working with larger groups, even up to 75, with advanced notice.