ACTIVIDADES PROGRAMADAS EN CELAS MAYA

Celas Maya ofrece un programa de actividades en las que los estudiantes tienen la oportunidad de sumergirse en nuestra cultura y practicar español de una manera divertida y enriquecedora.

Trip to Champerico

Distance: 92 kilometers
Meeting time: 7 am
Departure time: 7:30 am
Arrival time: 10:30 am
Return time: 4 pm
Arrival back in Xela: 7 pm

Description of Champerico:
It is one of the most visited beaches by locals due to its proximity. The sand is black and the water is warm (20°C). We will stay parked at a very clean and comfortable restaurant called 7 Mares.
There aren’t many options for vegetarians, except for french fries and salads.
We can buy fruit along the way.

What you shouldn’t forget:
Swimsuit, sunscreen, water.
Sufficient money for lunch and breakfast.

Precautions:
It is recommended to bring sunscreen and follow the instructions from local guides. Always keep your phone handy and bring enough water to stay hydrated.

Spanish schools in Guatemala

Cooking Class (Rellenitos)

The cooking class is one of the most important activities at Celas Maya, as it allows us to meet, speak Spanish, and learn specific vocabulary.
Rellenitos are a dessert made from plantains and beans. It is a somewhat high-calorie and fatty food, as it is fried and topped with cream.
Activity start: 3 pm
Duration: 1.5 hours

Special Recommendation:
On the blackboard, the most commonly used verbs will be written, and one of the students can translate. Use many synonyms.
When performing an action, it’s important to describe it. For example: “Now we are going to flip the rellenitos so they cook evenly.”
It’s essential to get ripe plantains, and if possible, fry the beans in advance.

Food allergies:
If you have any allergies or special dietary preferences (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free), please notify us before the activity.

Spanish schools in Guatemala image celas maya web

Maya Ceremony

The Maya ceremony is not a show, it is a ritual where Celas Maya expresses its thanks and establishes its intentions and requests.
What is it? It is a ceremony with three key elements: the energy of the day, the Here, and fire.
Each day in the Maya calendar has a special energy, making it more suitable for certain activities.
The Ajq’ij is the person who leads the ceremony, with the knowledge and preparation necessary to perform the celebration. In the Maya concept, the Ajq’ij presents our requests to Ajaw, God, or the Creator, according to each person’s belief.
The fire is the space where we place offerings to carry our petitions, thanks, or complaints to the supreme being.

Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours

Recommendation:
Celas Maya will have an offering for everyone, with candles and natural resins, but if you wish, you may bring your own offering (candles, honey, chocolate, or other items to offer to nature or God). You can ask your teachers or the administration for more details.

Cultural Dinner

Meeting: 3 pm
End: 8 pm (after dinner)
Vegetarian option available.
Music: first part marimba, then varied and danceable music.

The cultural dinner is one of the most beautiful activities at Celas Maya, led by a teacher with culinary experience. During this activity, we prepare a typical Guatemalan dish, usually related to special events in Guatemalan life.

In the first part, participants go to the market to buy the ingredients, which is a unique experience.
In the second part, the teacher explains the ingredients, where they come from, and who cultivates them.
In the third part, we prepare and cook together.
In the fourth part, we share the meal.

Trip to Fuentes Georginas

The hot springs and natural beauty of Fuentes Georginas attract many people. There are several pools, some hotter than others.
The place is located 2500 meters above sea level, making it a place with cold weather, surrounded by a cloud forest that gives it a mystical and beautiful atmosphere.

Precautions:
The weather is cold, so it’s important to wear appropriate clothing. Also, it is recommended to bring a fully charged mobile phone and enough water to stay hydrated.

Duration: About a 45-minute drive and 3 hours in the hot springs. Return at 6:30 pm.

Spanish schools in Guatemala

Let’s Cook Together

It’s a space to speak Spanish, get to know each other, and enjoy a delicious meal. Together, we will decide what dish to cook, organize into teams, and cook together.
On the board, we will write important verbs and vocabulary for the activity. This time, we will have a vegetarian dinner with beans, herbs, vegetables, and chai tea.

  • Ping Pong Tournament

Time: 3 pm
Objective: Have fun and practice Spanish while playing. The winner will receive a chocolate bar.

  • Trip to Laguna de Chicabal
    It is one of the most beautiful hikes. We drive to the slopes of the volcano and then start the hike. The ascent takes about 2 hours, and after a 30-minute descent, we reach the lagoon.
    At the viewpoint, we take a short break to take photos. We will walk around the lagoon to see the Mayan altars and explain one of them.

Precautions:
Wear comfortable and suitable clothing for hiking. Also, remember to bring enough water, sunscreen, and a hat or cap.

  • Visit to the Churches of San Andrés Xecul and Salcajá
    The church of San Andrés Xecul is iconic for religious tourism in western Guatemala, representing the union of Christian vision and local traditions.

 

  • Trip to El Baúl
    El Baúl is a hill located east of the city, with an elevation of 2650 meters above sea level. It is a popular place for morning walks or bicycle rides.

 

  • Irtra
    There are three parks located south of Guatemala, near Xela. The water park has artificial wave pools and several slides, while the Xetulul park is themed and offers mechanical rides. The Xejuyub park has animals and activities such as fishing and horseback riding.

 

  • Soccer
    Recreational soccer game, sometimes competitive. It is a fun activity to participate in with friends and other teams.

Safety Recommendations:
It’s important to stay hydrated during the game and wear proper footwear to avoid accidents.