Gap Year Programs in Central America

Like nearly 10% of the world’s species, you could visit all seven countries on the Mesoamerican Biological Corridor that put the “Central” in Central America...but slowing down to take it all in will ensure you sound really smart when you talk about them.

Belize. Don’t let your mouth gape while snorkeling the Belize Barrier Reef or diving the mysterious sinkhole that is the Great Blue Hole in Caye Caulker during Central America gap years. Need a water break? Visit Punta Gorda to admire the ruins of ancient Mayan city Lubaantun.

Guatemala. Architecture buff? Stroll down the colorful streets of Antigua, Guatemala, and admire its Spanish colonial houses. The view of Volcán de Fuego ain’t too shabby either. For more volcano views and endless indigenous villages, Lago de Atitlán won’t disappoint during your gap year in Central America. A visit to the capital, Guatemala City, will have your mouth watering for tamales.

Costa Rica. Wanna join the ranks of the world’s most adventurous surfers, or just lazily lust after them? The Guanacaste province of Costa Rica is perfect for either sport. Artsy-er gappers should visit capitol San Jose to catch a show at the National Theater during gap year programs in Central America. Off the beaten path is Barrio Amón, a neighborhood constructed atop a coffee plantation, boasting the best galleries in the city.

Popular Providers

Latest Program Reviews

Best experience ever

December 03, 2025by: William Parkinson-Lloyd - United KingdomProgram: Marine Scientist Training Costa Rica

9

This trip was the best it gave me so much travel confidence while still being in a secure and safe environment met so many new people and have made freinds which I can visit all over the world as well as in quepose

I grew so much and had the time of my life doing so.

April 28, 2025by: Kate McLain - United StatesProgram: EF Gap Year - The Globetrotter

8

The voyager program was the best possible program that I could’ve taken. Between the people I was surrounded with, the staff, and the cultures I was immersed in, I was able to learn and connect. I have grown so much and I will be so grateful to EF for that. Throughout the journey, I mostly felt supported, especially with having food allergies, however, in Japan, the first tour guide, and myself did not always see eye to eye, therefore I did not feel supported. However, once this situation was remedied, we were given a lovely tour director named Mari. She was kind and cordial with the group and very knowledgeable about the area which made our experience all the more wonderful we learned so much and I am so grateful to EF for having this program. Shout out to my blue group.

Best experience ever

December 03, 2025by: William Parkinson-Lloyd - United KingdomProgram: Marine Scientist Training Costa Rica

9

This trip was the best it gave me so much travel confidence while still being in a secure and safe environment met so many new people and have made freinds which I can visit all over the world as well as in quepose

I grew so much and had the time of my life doing so.

April 28, 2025by: Kate McLain - United StatesProgram: EF Gap Year - The Globetrotter

8

The voyager program was the best possible program that I could’ve taken. Between the people I was surrounded with, the staff, and the cultures I was immersed in, I was able to learn and connect. I have grown so much and I will be so grateful to EF for that. Throughout the journey, I mostly felt supported, especially with having food allergies, however, in Japan, the first tour guide, and myself did not always see eye to eye, therefore I did not feel supported. However, once this situation was remedied, we were given a lovely tour director named Mari. She was kind and cordial with the group and very knowledgeable about the area which made our experience all the more wonderful we learned so much and I am so grateful to EF for having this program. Shout out to my blue group.