Q. Are there any safety concerns when traveling to Chiapas, Mexico?

A. Safety is our top priority. We have been leading trips with families and youth to these specific indigenous communities in Chiapas for over a decade without issue. We operate differently than standard tourists; we work alongside trusted local leaders and vendors who ensure the security and well-being of our entire group from arrival to departure.

Q. Do I need vaccines to travel to Chiapas, Mexico?

A. There are no specific vaccinations required by the Mexican government for entry. We recommend consulting the CDC website and/or your personal physician regarding standard travel recommendations (such as Tetanus or Hepatitis A) to ensure you are comfortable and protected.

Q. What kind of hotel accommodations do we have during the trip?

A. We stay in safe, comfortable, and modern hotels in San Cristóbal de las Casas. You can expect hot showers, standard flush toilets, air conditioning, and clean linens. The electrical outlets are the same as in the U.S., and the rooms are equipped with blow dryers and fresh bottled water daily. They also offer laundry services.

Q. Is there cell service and wifi where we are going?

A. At the Hotel: Yes. Our hotel has Wi-Fi (though speeds may be slower than you are used to) and reliable cell service for most U.S. carriers with international plans.

A. At the Worksite: No. When we travel into the communities to work, we are "off the grid." This provides a wonderful opportunity to disconnect and focus on the service and the people.

Q. Is the water safe to drink? Can we eat the food?

A. We provide purified bottled water for the entire team throughout the trip. We strictly advise against consuming tap water or ice that isn't purified. Regarding food, we eat at established, sanitary restaurants and ensure that meals provided in the communities are safe. We recommend avoiding raw, unpeeled fruits or vegetables to avoid sickness.

Q. What types of work will we be doing?

A. No specific skills are required—just a willing heart and a pair of working hands! Our projects focus on educational infrastructure. Typical tasks may include mixing cement, laying block, painting classrooms, installing windows, cleaning up worksite, and moving materials. Don't worry if you aren't a pro—our local foremen will teach you everything you need to know!

Q. What are the physical demands of the trip?

A. We typically engage in moderate to high physical labor. While the work can be tiring, it is not technical. We believe there is a job for everyone, regardless of strength or skill level. If you need a break or a less physically demanding task (like organizing supplies or interacting with the students), we can easily accommodate that.

Q. What is your refund policy?

A. Because Koltael is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, all funds received are considered charitable donations and are non-refundable by law. However, if an emergency arises and you cannot attend, we will evaluate non-refundable expenses and do a partial credit for a future trip.

Q. Can I bring donations or gifts for the school or students?

A. We love your generosity! However, please contact us before the trip to determine the specific needs of the current project. As to not create inequality among the children, we cannot allow individual gifts to the students. Instead, we can collect school supplies or sports equipment to donate to the school as a whole.

Q. What is the age requirement to attend? And who can attend?

A. We ask that participants be 14 years or older. This ensures that all volunteers have the physical maturity to handle the work and the attention span to stay safe on a construction site without requiring constant adult/parental supervision. Youth ages 14–17 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. No specific construction skills are required—just a willing heart and a pair of working hands!

Q. I have a specific skill set that may be helpful, can I use it during the trip?

A. Absolutely. We love utilizing the unique talents of our volunteers. If you have a specialized skill, please let us know when you register. We often find ways to have volunteers teach a workshop or assist with specialized facility needs.

Q. My group (organization or family) would like to do a private trip, is this possible?

A. Yes! We love hosting private groups. Please fill out the ‘Contact Us’ form, and we can help design an itinerary and project that fits your group's specific size and goals.

Q. Are there any special passport or visa requirements to enter Mexico?

A. You must have a valid passport to enter Mexico. Please ensure your passport expiration date is at least 6 months past your return date. If you hold a U.S. or Canadian passport, no visa is required. If you are traveling from another country, please check your specific visa requirements.

Q. Do I need additional medical insurance while traveling?

A. Please check with your current health insurance provider to see if they offer international coverage. Koltael does not provide medical insurance for volunteers, so we strongly recommend purchasing a short-term travel insurance policy to cover you in case of a medical emergency.

Q. Do I need to speak Spanish to attend?

A. No, speaking Spanish is not required. While it is helpful, our trip leaders and local coordinators are fluent and will translate for the group.