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Excellent 4.88rating (10)
  • Sustainable Cities And Communities

Building Altares for the Day of the Dead

location
1 - 7 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+
Verified

Highlights

  • Experience the Day of the Dead in Mexico and discover the traditions behind one of the country’s most iconic celebrations.
  • Build and decorate a traditional Mexican altar using marigolds, candles, papel picado, photographs, and symbolic offerings.
  • Learn the meaning and history behind altars, offerings, Catrinas, marigolds, and other Day of the Dead traditions.

Highlights

  • Experience the Day of the Dead in Mexico and discover the traditions behind one of the country’s most iconic celebrations.
  • Build and decorate a traditional Mexican altar using marigolds, candles, papel picado, photographs, and symbolic offerings.
  • Learn the meaning and history behind altars, offerings, Catrinas, marigolds, and other Day of the Dead traditions.
  • Connect with local people and international participants while sharing stories, traditions, and cultural perspectives.
  • Explore Morelia during the Day of the Dead season and experience its colorful decorations, altars, markets, and cultural atmosphere.
    • You don't have to pay anything yet

    Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    Families
    Groups
    50+

    About the program

    Experience Mexico’s Day of the Dead traditions by helping build and decorate a traditional altar while learning about its cultural meaning and symbolism.

    Building Altars for the Day of the Dead is a cultural volunteer experience in Morelia, Mexico, designed for international participants who want to experience one of Mexico’s most meaningful traditions from the inside.

    Participants will learn about the history, symbolism, and cultural significance ...

    About the program

    Building Altars for the Day of the Dead is a cultural volunteer experience in Morelia, Mexico, designed for international participants who want to experience one of Mexico’s most meaningful traditions from the inside.

    Participants will learn about the history, symbolism, and cultural significance of the Day of the Dead while actively helping to create and decorate a traditional altar. Activities may include preparing the altar structure, arranging marigold flowers, candles, papel picado, photographs, food, and other traditional offerings.

    This is more than a cultural tour. Participants become actively involved in the celebration while learning directly about Mexican traditions and the importance of remembering and honoring loved ones who have passed away.

    The experience also provides an opportunity to interact with local people and other international participants, exchange traditions, practice Spanish, and discover Morelia during one of the most colorful and culturally significant times of the year.

    Participants are encouraged to bring a photograph of a relative, friend, or person who has passed away and whom they would like to honor on the altar.

    No previous experience is required. The program is open to participants interested in Mexican culture, traditions, community activities, and meaningful cultural exchange.

    Typical day

    A typical day starts with breakfast and preparation for the day’s activities. Participants then join the local team to learn about Day of the Dead traditions and help prepare materials for the altar.

    During the day, volunteers may decorate the altar with marigold flowers, papel picado, candles, ...

    Typical day

    A typical day starts with breakfast and preparation for the day’s activities. Participants then join the local team to learn about Day of the Dead traditions and help prepare materials for the altar.

    During the day, volunteers may decorate the altar with marigold flowers, papel picado, candles, photographs, food, and traditional offerings while learning about the meaning behind each element.

    Some days may also include Spanish lessons, cultural workshops, visits to local markets, the historic center of Morelia, traditional altars, or other Day of the Dead activities.

    Afternoons and evenings provide time to explore the city, connect with other international participants and locals, and enjoy Morelia’s unique atmosphere during this special celebration.

    Schedules and activities may vary depending on the day and local events.

    Free-time activities

    During your free time, you can explore Morelia, a beautiful UNESCO World Heritage city known for its colonial architecture, vibrant culture, and traditional Mexican cuisine.

    Walk through the Historic Center, visit the Cathedral, explore local markets, museums, cafés, and traditional candy shops, or ...

    Free-time activities

    During your free time, you can explore Morelia, a beautiful UNESCO World Heritage city known for its colonial architecture, vibrant culture, and traditional Mexican cuisine.

    Walk through the Historic Center, visit the Cathedral, explore local markets, museums, cafés, and traditional candy shops, or simply enjoy the city's lively plazas and atmosphere.

    During the Day of the Dead season, Morelia becomes especially colorful, with public altars, decorations, cultural events, exhibitions, music, and celebrations throughout the city.

    Participants can also discover nearby destinations such as Pátzcuaro, Tzintzuntzan, Santa Clara del Cobre, Quiroga, and other traditional towns around Lake Pátzcuaro.

    For longer free periods or weekends, participants may organize trips to destinations such as Guanajuato, San Miguel de Allende, Mexico City, or local natural attractions.

    Morelia also offers plenty of opportunities to socialize, practice Spanish, try local food, enjoy cafés and nightlife, meet local and international people, and experience everyday life in Mexico.

    Our local team can provide recommendations about places to visit, transportation, food, cultural activities, and safe ways to explore the city and surrounding areas.

    Requirements

    Requirements

    Minimum Age: 18 years

    In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.

    Nationality Restrictions

    No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

    Other Skills

    No previous experience or specific skills are required. Participants should be open-minded, respectful of Mexican traditions, interested in cultural exchange, and willing to participate in creative and community activities. Basic Spanish is helpful but not required.

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 10:00 - 15:00

    What's Included

    What's Included

    On-site Services

    The program fee includes:

    • Accommodation in Morelia during the program.
    • Basic breakfast.
    • Airport or bus station pick-up in Morelia.
    • Orientation and induction upon arrival.
    • Spanish lessons.
    • Materials for building and decorating the traditional Day of the Dead altar.
    • Day of the Dead cultural activities included in the official program.
    • Night of the Dead cultural tour.
    • Local cultural experiences and activities.
    • Program coordination and local support.
    • 24/7 emergency support during the program.
    • Certificate of participation.

    The fee does not include:

    • International or domestic flights.
    • Travel insurance.
    • Visa expenses, if applicable.
    • Lunches and dinners unless specifically indicated.
    • Personal expenses.
    • Optional activities, nightlife, additional tours, or trips.
    • Transportation during personal free time.
    • Catrina makeup, crafts, and other optional activities with an additional cost.

    Airport Pickup at Morelia Airport

    Airport and bus station pickup in Morelia is included in the program fee.

    Participants can be picked up from:

    • Morelia International Airport (MLM)
    • Morelia Bus Terminal (TAM – Terminal de Autobuses de Morelia)

    To arrange your pickup, please send us your complete arrival information in advance, including your arrival date, estimated arrival time, flight or bus details, and a contact number.

    A member of the Impacta México team or an authorized driver will meet you at the agreed meeting point and take you directly to your accommodation.

    Please inform us as soon as possible about delays or changes to your travel itinerary.

    Pickup from airports or bus stations outside Morelia is not included and may be arranged separately upon request for an additional cost.

    Accommodation

    Participants stay at Impacta México’s accommodation in Morelia, a welcoming shared house designed for international participants and located in a safe and convenient residential area of the city.

    The house offers shared and twin rooms, a fully equipped kitchen, Wi-Fi, drinking water, common areas, and the basic facilities needed for a comfortable stay. Depending on the assigned room, participants may have a private bathroom or share bathroom facilities with other residents.

    Living at the Impacta México house is also part of the cultural experience. Participants share the space with other international volunteers and travelers, creating opportunities to socialize, practice languages, cook together, and make friends from different countries.

    Want more privacy? Participants can upgrade to a private room for an additional USD 200, subject to availability.

    Accommodation is included for the official duration of the program. Additional nights before or after the program may be available upon request and are subject to availability and an additional fee.

    Food & Beverages

    A basic daily supplies for breakfast are included in the program fee.

    Breakfast may include simple options such as eggs, beans, bread, fruit, coffee, tea, or other basic Mexican breakfast items. The menu may vary from day to day.

    Lunch and dinner are generally not included, giving participants the freedom to explore Morelia’s wide variety of local restaurants, markets, cafés, and traditional Mexican food.

    Participants also have access to the shared kitchen at the Impacta México accommodation, where they can prepare their own meals and store groceries.

    Drinking water is available at the accommodation.

    During some cultural activities or special events, food may be included or participants may be invited to prepare and share dishes together.

    Internet Access

    Good access at the project site
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    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Morelia Airport (MLM) in Morelia. We assist you to find cheap flights to Mexico. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

    Travel Insurance

    Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for Mexico provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

    If you are intending to volunteer in Mexico you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Mexico. VACCINE CHECKER

    Details on arrival

    Start Dates and Details on Arrival

    The program takes place during the Day of the Dead season, usually at the end of October and beginning of November. Participants should plan to arrive in Morelia before the official orientation and first scheduled activities.

    Participants can arrive at Morelia International Airport (MLM) or the Morelia Bus Terminal. Arrival and transportation details will be coordinated with each participant in advance.

    Before traveling, participants must provide their confirmed arrival information, including date, time, flight or bus details, and a contact number.

    On arrival, participants will be welcomed in Morelia and receive information about accommodation, the program schedule, local transportation, safety recommendations, and upcoming activities.

    -From october 26th, 2026 to 04th november, 2026
    -From october 26th, 2027 to 04th november, 2027
    -From october 26th, 2028 to 04th november, 2028
    -From october 26th, 2029 to 04th november, 2029

    Availability
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

    Program Fees

    $542 per week 1 - 7 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES

    Duration

    1 - 7 weeks

    Deposit

    Reserve your spot with just a few clicks and a small, secure deposit. You can pay by credit card, PayPal, or other convenient methods.

    Final Payment

    You’ll agree on the final payment method with your local organization during the application process. This final payment is only due closer to the start of your trip.

    You don't have to pay anything yet

    4.88
    ・
    10 reviews

    •
    2022
    The best voluntary in life. I had a great opportunity to better get know the culture and traditions, cousine. I had many local trips where ...
    Sylwia Niedzwiedz

    English Assistant Teacher

    Location

    Americas > Central America > Mexico > Morelia

    Meet your project coordinator

    Daniel
    10
    reviews
    4.88
    Excellent
    2015
    Founded

    Verified

      Very high response rate
    Spoken languages: Spanish, English
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