Gap Year Programs in Mexico

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32 Gap Year Programs in Mexico

International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]
At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 9...
CIEE High School Grads Abroad
Your First Year Abroad program in Mérida lasts 12 weeks and is de...
Institute for Global Studies
Get the chance to work with injured animals from the Amazon rainf...
See All 15 ProgramsGoEco - Top Volunteer Organization
Come explore Pez Maya, home to a conservation site aimed at prote...
See All 4 ProgramsIguana Abroad
Come and join the leading Spanish-language immersion program in M...
Projects Abroad
At Projects Abroad, we’re passionate about travel with a purpose....
Love Volunteers
Whether you want to support vulnerable communities in developing ...
Volunteer World
Looking to apply your talent and expertise to a good cause? Find ...
See All 2 ProgramsArcos Learning Abroad
Study abroad in the charming colonial city of Oaxaca, Mexico, a U...
Pacific Discovery
Uncover the spirit of Central America on a 10-week journey throug...
The High Desert Center
Join this gap year program designed for your adventurous soul and...
See All 2 ProgramsUnited Planet
Made up of many varied regions, Mexico makes up 1/5 of the United...
NOLS The National Outdoor Leadership School
Combine it all by joining a NOLs gap semester or gap year program...
A Guide to Gap Year in Mexico
Popular Locations
Taking a gap year in Mexico gives you lots of options, from living in the middle of a big city to spending your time far from civilization. Here are a few of the most popular places for your Mexican gap year.
Mexico City. The capital of Mexico, Mexico City is home to almost nine million people—so it sure has something for you! If you’re interested in working in business, marketing, law, medicine, or pretty much any profession, Mexico City has opportunities a-plenty. In addition to professional firms, you’ll find some of the best universities in Mexico here, which means if you want to study abroad, Mexico City is the perfect spot.
Playa del Carmen. Playa del Carmen is home to one of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico and, as a fun beach town on the Yucatan Peninsula, is a favorite for many foreign visitors who are looking for a less touristy option that Cancun. Whether you’re exploring architecture in the nearby ruins, studying marine biology in famous snorkel and SCUBA sites, saving sea turtles, or just enjoying the food and amazing beaches while volunteering, working, or studying, Playa del Carmen makes a great home base or pit stop on your gap year in Mexico.
Mazatlán. Halfway down the west coast of Mexico is Mazatlán, a beautiful beachside city home to about half a million people and full of opportunities for those on a gap year. Mexico has opportunities abound in the tourism industry, with many to be found in Mazatlán. With beautiful nineteenth-century architecture, quality universities, and one of the most affordable beach locations in the country, it’s popular with those backpacking Mexico and looking for cheap gap year programs.
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September 5, 2025


















