The Mountain
Code: 8087406d-8f3a-11ec-93d7-fa163ef8d720 Copied
About the project
The Mountain
📝 Detailed information
🏢 About the local organisation
Our partner is a civil society organisation (CSO) founded by former Mexican volunteers and professionals seeking to contribute to the country's development, while also integrating international volunteering into projects organized in Mexico and becoming more involved in community work.
As a CSO, our partner engages in managing the organization, connecting it with projects of public interest, and representing it at various forums, events, national, and international meetings.
San Cristóbal de las Casas is a tourist city that hosts hundreds of travellers throughout the year, which has caused environmental problems such as water shortages and contamination, changes in land use, air pollution, excessive logging, bad solid waste management, etc. With this background, the initiative arises to create an agrotourism center that offers a sustainable alternative and a space where environmental education, courses and workshops on issues related to the regeneration and care of the environment are promoted. The main activities of the project are: use of agroecological systems, dry toilets, solid waste management, compost, vermicompost, hiking and immersion in the process and space for learning and awareness.
💼 What the programme involves
- the maintenance of cultivation beds, germination, planting and harvesting of vegetables;
- the work in the greenhouse to maintain the crop in favorable conditions for harvesting, mainly tomato and pepper;
- the bioconstruction works. Sometimes activities are carried out with the general public so that they know and learn about these techniques.
- the vermicomposting and collecting humus.
- the feeding of pigs that transform waste organic compost for the earth.
- the activities in general that contribute to the maintenance of the center.
🏠 Accommodation on site
Shared rooms in the VIVA volunteer house. It has all the basic services (water, light, gas).
🍲 Food
Meals are NOT included in the participation fee. Vegetarian option is available. In each project, the volunteers prepare their own food
and they organize themselves or with other volunteers. Sometimes they may be invited to someone's home or a local restaurant.
In San Cristóbal de las Casas, you will find a rich variety of traditional dishes and regional specialties. Some notable options include Tamales chiapanecos, Cochito chiapaneco, Pozol, Enchiladas chiapanecas, Queso de Chiapas, Pache, and Chiapaneco coffee. These culinary delights offer a wonderful sampling of the local cuisine available in San Cristóbal de las Casas.
📍 About the location
San Cristóbal de las Casas is located in the state of Chiapas, in an area called Los Altos de Chiapas, 1 hour from the state capital, Tuxtla Gutiérrez.
San Cristóbal de las Casas, located in the state of Chiapas, Mexico, is a charming colonial town nestled in the highlands. With its colorful streets, historic buildings, and vibrant cultural scene, it offers a unique blend of indigenous traditions and modern influences. Visitors can explore its bustling markets, visit ancient Mayan ruins, and immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of local art and cuisine. The town's stunning natural surroundings, including lush forests and towering mountains, provide ample opportunities for outdoor adventure and exploration. Overall, San Cristóbal de las Casas is a captivating destination that enchants visitors with its beauty, history, and cultural richness.
🎒 Leisure activities
In San Cristóbal de las Casas, there are plenty of activities to suit all interests. Visitors can explore the charming colonial streets, visit historic churches, and admire the colorful buildings. The city is also known for its vibrant arts and crafts scene, with numerous galleries and shops showcasing local artisans' work. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the lively markets, such as the Santo Domingo Market, where you can find a variety of local products and handicrafts. Nature lovers will enjoy exploring the surrounding countryside, which offers opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring waterfalls and caves. Additionally, San Cristóbal is a great base for visiting nearby indigenous communities and archaeological sites, such as the ancient ruins of Palenque and Toniná. Finally, be sure to sample the delicious Chiapanecan cuisine at the city's many restaurants and street stalls, where you can taste traditional dishes like tamales, pozol, and cochito chiapaneco.
⚠️ Requirements
The activities are part of a learning process through agroecology, so it is not necessary to have previous experience on the subject. What is required is a taste for activities in the field and the ability to work in a team.
ℹ️ Additional information
Interested in this project? Create your account and apply online.
Sign in to apply📅 Available sessions
AMVIAC – 05 MLTVAUTO-EXT
17/12/2022 → 22/11/2023
AMVIAC – 05 MLTVAUTO-EXTAUTO-EXTAUTO-EXTAUTO-EXT
02/01/2026 at 00:00 → 02/01/2027 at 00:00
AMVIAC – 05 MLTVAUTO-EXTAUTO-EXT
01/01/2024 at 00:00 → 31/12/2024 at 00:00
AMVIAC – 05 MLTVAUTO-EXTAUTO-EXTAUTO-EXT
01/01/2025 at 00:00 → 01/01/2026 at 00:00
AMVIAC – 05 MLTV
10/01/2022 → 16/12/2022
ℹ️ Key information
Age required
18–99 years old
Solidarity donation
3700.00 MXN ≈ 178 EUR
French tax residents may be eligible for a tax reduction of up to 66% of their costs (membership, plane tickets, solidarity donation).
📍 Location
San Cristobal de las Casas, Chis., Mexico
Mexico
🌍 Location info
Local currency
Mexico Peso (MXN / Mex$)
Exchange rate
1 MXN = 0.048171 EUR
Rate as of 31/05/2026
Timezone
Central Standard Time
Local time: 20:58 (12/11/2026)
🛡️ Before you leave
✅ Features
🏠 Accommodation
🗣️ Languages spoken