Antigua, Guatemala

A surgical and audiology mission destination since 2001, Antigua is our oldest and largest mission. The team annually travels to Hermano Pedro Hospital in late January for two weeks.

Antigua, a World Heritage Site, is one of the oldest Spanish settled cities in central America. The community reflects a mixture of Guatemalans as well as significant domestic and international tourists. It is surrounded by several active volcanoes creating a spectacular setting.

Obras Sociales del Hermano Pedro Hospital is a large facility with eight ORs. Our surgical programme is set once the professional make-up of the team is established, usually in late fall of the previous year. In a typical year, surgical specialties include gynecology, general surgery and ear, nose and throat (ENT). We also offer a Hearing Clinic at the hospital and services include hearing testing and the fitting and programming of hearing aids.

General Surgery

Many Guatemalans work in agriculture or other physical labour and hernias are a common condition. A hernia repair can get a patient back to work and providing for their family.

Gynecology Surgery

It is challenging for indigenous Guatemalan women to access gynecology health care. Our team provides essential surgeries that often ends years of discomfort and helps women return to their normal daily activities.

ENT Surgery and Hearing Clinic

Patients of all ages often travel long distances to visit our busy hearing clinic.

Children with hearing loss are unable to attend school and often experience social challenges. Through our program, we are committed to helping them integrate more fully into their communities.

Surgeries include tonsillectomies ( children over age 2), adenoidectomies, septoplasties, and other procedures.

Antigua Mission

Our dedicated medical team provides the highest quality of care to our patients. Our 2025 mission completed over 218 surgeries and medical procedures. completed. The very busy hearing clinic saw 141 patients and dispensed 210 new hearing aids and distributed an astounding 10,500 batteries!

We are grateful for the support of our donors and volunteers who contributed to the mission's success. Thank you!

Next Mission: 2025 completed. Watch for 2026

Application Deadline:

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What is an average day like?

The average day begins with an early morning start with at least 6 surgeries scheduled for the day. Surgeries are typically finished by 4 pm. In the evenings, volunteers enjoy their down time exploring the Antigua, a World Heritage Site, and try one of many nearby restaurants.

Guatemala Mission Newsletters

Our Guatemala Mission Newsletter is dedicated to providing up-to-date information about our surgery and medical care projects in Antigua. In it, you can find travel planning tips and key information for volunteers, and updates on our hospital and medical facilities in Antigua. See our most recent newsletters below or click the past newsletters button to view more.