Gap Year Programs in Central America

Spend 12 incredible weeks exploring Tamarindo, Rome, and Tokyo, three unforgettable destinations that showcase the world’s diversity. This immersive semester blends cultural discovery, new adventures, and light language learning with a supportive travel community. In Tamarindo, Costa Rica (Weeks 1–

Your First Year Abroad program in Monteverde lasts 12 weeks and is designed for students from all academic backgrounds. You will enroll in a combination of CIEE courses and courses taught online through CIEE’s global academic partner, Arizona State University (ASU). Enhance your experience with co-c

At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 96 countries who want to make a meaningful difference while exploring the world. With 300+ projects in 40+ destinations, IVHQ offers the widest selection of volunteer programs globally from Teaching and Childcare to Wildlife Conservatio

GoEco is one of the world’s top volunteer organizations, with award-winning and ethical programs selected by sustainable travel experts. Since 2006, tens of thousands of volunteers have taken part in projects and internships worldwide, focusing on wildlife and marine conservation, education, and med

In three of the world's most beautiful countries—Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Peru—Maximo Nivel offers its unique Native Spanish Program. Join our "Country Jumper" program and begin your GAP Year in one of our countries and then jump to another and another. Experience different aspects of each countr

Seamester is the educational adventure of a lifetime! For more than 40 years, we have offered unparalleled educational voyages where students spend a semester at sea sailing between islands, countries, and even continents. We design our programs to provide engaging learning experiences with real out

Adventure and animal lovers rejoice! Alongside its stunning jungles, beaches, and volcanoes, Costa Rica is known for its astonishing biodiversity. The country accounts for as little as 0.03% of the earth’s surface yet contains nearly 6% of the world’s biodiversity. Although such a small country, Cos

Venture through Guatemala and Costa Rica, exploring lush tropical rainforests, towering volcanoes, steep-sided mountains, and extended coastlines. Embrace the spirit of "pura vida" and learn from the unique crossover of individuals who call these nations home. Living alongside Indigenous communities

Uncover the spirit of Central America on a 10-week journey through Mexico, Guatemala, and Costa Rica. Trek lush rainforests, hike volcanoes, raft wild rivers, and explore ancient Mayan ruins. More than just adventure, this program invites you to live alongside local communities, learn Spanish throug

Joining a Raleigh Costa Rica Expedition is a truly unique experience that allows you to take part in different projects, equip yourself with new skills, create lasting change with the communities we work with and take urgent action on environmental issues. Work with local initiatives and organisati

Looking to apply your talent and expertise to a good cause? Find a program that matches your interests and skills through Volunteer World! We are the largest volunteer abroad comparison platform around the globe, enabling you to seek and compare offers from major travel agencies as well as smaller g

Our intensive Spanish program is offered year-round and is highlighted by our 10 and 20-hour intensive Spanish programs, which can also be combined with Surfing or Yoga, or our Family program. At NS, we focus on the communicative approach to language learning, which focuses on communicative competen

Learn the language. Live the culture. Be the change. Join our summer camp for ages 13 - 17! Ready for a meaningful immersion experience? Take part in our Teen Summer Camp for a more encompassing adventure than the usual camp routine. Our new language program also empowers you to become an agent for

Are you a student or young professional looking to enhance your career prospects through international work experience and hands-on learning? At Intern Abroad HQ, we help students and young professionals turn career aspirations into reality. We organize affordable internships in 20 destinations ac

Discover Panama: Make an Impact in El Valle de Antón Experience Panama, a land of vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and extraordinary ecological diversity. From the iconic Panama Canal to lush rainforests and pristine beaches, this is the perfect destination for an adventurous, meaningful gap y

Sea turtle and marine conservation volunteer abroad projects are fun and combine your beach vacations with meaningful work which goes a long way in the concentrated efforts globally to prevent these enchanting marine creatures from going extinct. All seven sea turtle species are endangered today and

Build Spanish language fluency: learn from local communities and engage with diverse cultures throughout Guatemala and Costa Rica. For students interested in community engagement, sustainable agriculture, Latin American history, and dramatically improving their Spanish language skills through classe

Spend 7 to 10 weeks in a valley off the beaten path, surrounded by lush scenery, and in an indigenous area. Join the Community and Conservation Gap Year in Costa Rica if you want to reflect on the best next steps in your life. While doing so, make a lasting, positive impact on the lives of indigenou

Costa Rica is where adventure, service, cultural immersion, and the wonders of nature intersect. Our programs focus on turtle conservation, surfing, and connection with the local communities. With programs for high school students, college students, and young explorers, there’s an exciting opportuni

IGS has placed students in some of the world’s most exciting museums. Our internship placements typically fall into two categories: working on the floor or conducting research and marketing behind the scenes. Floor work includes assisting the docent in the setup and interpretation of current exh