Common scam patterns — Guatemala
Last updated:
Editorial notice
Patterns documented from public scam reports and provider feedback. New patterns emerge; report new ones to us via /contact.
- Spanish-language schools selling 'community service' add-ons that produce little impact.
- Childcare programs in indigenous communities — documented displacement of local caregivers.
- 'Construction' programs in indigenous villages where local builders do the actual work after volunteers leave.
- Operators in Antigua that exist primarily to serve the language-tourism market.