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Language Programs in Central America

Wedged between the Pacific and the Caribbean oceans, Central America boasts 30 active volcanoes, 16 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and more wildlife than you can shake a stick at. Thanks to the clear, comprehensible accents of locals, language study in Central America will be a linguistic dream compared to other Hispanic regions. Learn your verbos at a cafe in a stunning colonial city, practice your conjugaciones on a white sand Caribbean coastline, or learn the Spanish names of exotic animales while exploring the jungle (lémurs, anyone?). Central America is a place not to be underestimated; these seven small-but-perfectly-formed-countries will have you pushing back your flights home.
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Featured Language School of the Month

74 Language Courses in Central America

Top Rated Program Language Schools in Costa Rica 2025

MAXIMO NIVEL

9.49

634

Spanish Immersion Programs | Learn Spanish in Latin America

Live and study in Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Peru. Maximo Nivel offers the most intensive and professional Spanish immersion program in Latin America. Our Native Spanish Program emphasizes oral communication and integrated skills development to truly help build your Spanish language proficiency - this is a great immersion experience! Our native-speaking Spanish teachers are highly qualified professional instructors with years of experience. Our Tandem Conversation program pairs Spanish program participants with our local English students for free conversation practice.

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EF Education First

7

2

EF - Language Abroad

Step beyond the classroom and into the world with EF Language Abroad. Our immersive programs combine academic excellence with life-changing cultural experiences in 11 stunning global destinations across 8 countries and 7 languages. Whether you’re a high school student eager to explore the world, a college student preparing for international studies or simply seeking global fluency, EF offers customizable programs that meet your goals and fit your schedule. You will learn a new language better and faster in fun and interactive classes alongside new friends from around the globe. After class, explore the city through planned activities like cooking classes, city tours, student parties, and more. Over the weekend, travel with EF staff to neighboring cities and countries to practice your language skills with locals and see the sights. You have the power to tailor your journey—whether you’re testing your limits in an intensive track, earning career credentials, or preparing for major exams. You’ll develop language skills faster, gain global experiences, and return equipped for the next step. Earn transferable college credit through our partner in education, The University of Montana.

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Kaya Responsible Travel

9

1

Learn Spanish in Costa Rica

RECRUITING FOR 2023 Kaya's learn Spanish program in Costa Rica offers a unique Spanish immersion language course that enable students to learn the language and at the same time experience Costa Rican culture. While Spanish instruction is the focal point of all academic classes, you will have the chance to engage with Latin dance classes as well as cooking classes to practice and improve your speaking, dancing and cooking skills outside of the classroom. There are ten levels of instruction which we currently offer students: Beginner I, II & III; Intermediate I, II & III; Advanced I, II, & III, as well as specialized Spanish courses for medical, legal or business professionals, Spanish teachers, etc. Students will be placed in the appropriate level, according to your proficiency as determined by a written test and an oral evaluation. All of our classes are offered in small groups, with an average of 3 or 4 and a maximum of 6 to a class. Experience and passion for working in the community and interacting with the people are needed. Participants must also possess enthusiasm and a willingness to learn about the environment and the place's culture.

Intercultura Costa Rica

10

8

Spanish + Cultural Immersion - Beautiful Beach & City Campus

Learn Spanish and immerse yourself in Costa Rican culture at one or both of our two unique locations – Samara Tropical Beach Campus and/or Heredia Historic City Campus. Study Spanish in small, dynamic groups with students of all ages and nationalities. Live with a Costa Rican family or in a student apartment. Learn to dance salsa and bachata, cook local foods, learn to surf or do yoga. Travel to volcanoes, beaches & rainforests; make friends for life. Our caring and experienced staff & professors provide you with support every step of the way. Standard Group Immersion Course: 4 hours a day, Monday - Friday (20 hours a week) Private/Semi-Private Spanish Lessons: 10 to a maximum of 20 hours per week Intensive Spanish Course: Add a maximum of 5 private lessons per week to your standard group classes We offer a series of 18 courses designed by curriculum specialists, using interactive small groups in an environment of total cultural immersion. Our professors are dynamic, experienced, native speakers with minimum a BA, teaching certification and/or MA in Spanish as a Second Language. All are trained in the communicative approach, ensuring a fun and enjoyable learning experience!

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Greenheart Travel

9.5

2

Teen Language Camp in Costa Rica with Greenheart

Learn and improve your Spanish skills through full language and cultural immersion on Greenheart Travel’s summer language camp program in San Jose or Manuel Antonio! We welcome teen students of all skills, including beginners! Live with a Costa Rican host family and make friends from around the world, all while learning about the country and culture of Costa Rica. Program at a glance: - 15 morning classes a week (3 classes per day for 50 minutes each) - Schools in 2 locations — San Jose & Manuel Antonio - Classes are taught by native-speaking teachers who specialize in teaching Spanish as a foreign language - Written tests are given on the first day of class to determine the appropriate level: Elementary, Intermediate, or Advanced - Lessons involve speaking, listening, reading, and writing in lively and informal small classes

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Arcos Journeys Abroad

9.73

63

Spanish Language & Costa Rican Culture

Immerse yourself in the Spanish language of Costa Rica, the happiest country on the planet! Live like a true local in the traditional town of Atenas. Set in a tropical paradise, you will take Spanish classes in open-air classrooms on an orange and mango farm. Classes are small in size and perfect for truly learning the language. Gain a new level of confidence in your Spanish skills while toucans fly overhead. Live with a carefully selected homestay and enjoy home-cooked meals. The program is rich in activities and outdoor adventure. Experience the thrill of a zip-lining through the rainforest and the rush of white water rafting. Travel to Arenal Volcano, soak in hot springs and swim in the pool of a spectacular waterfall. Visit Manuel Antonio beach and the national park, which is full of native wildlife. Play soccer as well as participate in an art workshop, cooking class, and dance class while in Atenas. This program includes volunteering, which is a great way to use your Spanish skills while giving back to the community. Multiple summer sessions are offered. All levels of Spanish are welcome.

The National Registration Center for Study Abroad

0

0

Intensive Language Program in San Jose, Costa Rica

The NRCSA Center in San Jose offers exciting programs of instruction in the Spanish language. Its short term courses of two, three and four weeks are very popular among visitors to the country. The team of instructors are both professional and experienced. Located in a quiet, upscale residential area, the school's campus is but a 20-minute walk from downtown San Jose. It has comfortable, sunny classrooms, surrounded by green areas with a vista of mountains as the backdrop. The program is open to people of all ages. Students of the institute vary from high school and university students to diplomats and retirees who wish to keep active.

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Enforex - Spanish in The Spanish World

0

0

Learn Spanish in Latin America with Enforex

Learn Spanish in Latin America with Enforex and discover a country blessed with a vast array of natural wonders. Choose your destination and learn Spanish with Enforex in Mexico, Argentina, Colombia, Chile, or Bolivia. Our schools are located in the very center of the cities. That means you will be close to many conveniences and a lot of exciting things to see and do just outside the classroom. Buses and the metro system make it easy to travel anywhere in the city. We believe that students learn best when they are in charge of their own learning, which is why we tailor our Spanish courses to individual needs and are constantly upgrading our content. We develop action-oriented activities, place a strong emphasis on "real-life" situations, and constantly adjust projects and classes to fit each learner's needs and skill level. Our Spanish schools are specially designed and equipped with the facilities necessary for the best Spanish learning experience. Your progress is guaranteed through a carefully prepared curriculum and the expertise of our teaching team. You can also learn Spanish in Spain or online – in the comfort of your home or anywhere in the world!

Jakera: Learn Spanish, Volunteer and Adventure

10

1

Learn Spanish & Volunteer 2 or 4 weeks

The lively beach town of Santa Teresa in Costa Rica is world famous for surf breaks across pristine, uncrowded, and seemingly endless beaches. After surfing and sunbathing are over for the day, it's time for Spanish lessons and volunteering! – The town comes alive with funky surf shops, cafes, restaurants, and nightspots for every taste and budget. Your experience will be based at ‘Jakera Jungle Surf Camp’, where we have created a jungle paradise complete with a swimming pool overlooked by a rich tropical forest bursting with wildlife, including red squirrels, howler monkeys, and tiny magical hummingbirds. We are a 5-minute walk from the cool cafes, bars, and shops that line the 6km stretch of road and beach that make up Playa Santa Teresa/Playa El Carmen. Throughout the volunteer projects – approximately 20 percent of your time will be turtle conservation – you’ll assist in preserving precious ecosystems and help local people raise their quality of life. However, there is still free time to enjoy a great social life and participate in the many other activities to be enjoyed here.

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Language Vacation

0

0

Spanish Language Course and Immersion in Panama

Learn Spanish in Panama City, enjoy your Spanish learning vacation in this city of contrasts, colonial meets modern skyscrapers. Panama City is divide between old & new, Old Panama was the center for Spanish exploration interesting ruins include the Cathedral of Piedra, the Monasteries and stone bridges. Colonial Panama was constructed with a fortress during the colonial time and ruins can be visited. Modern Panama is composed of modern buildings and is now an International Banking Center. Located in Altos de Chases district an upper-middle class residential section that is peaceful and safe. Only a few minutes away is Centro Commercial El Metropolitano an area with good shopping and a very active night-life. 20 minute taxi or bus ride from the downtown 10 minutes from the Parque Natural.

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World Unite!

0

0

One-on-One Spanish Lessons in Nicaragua

The lessons are conducted one-on-one, allowing for personalized attention to your proficiency level. Every level of Spanish, from beginner to advanced, is possible. If two or three individuals with similar proficiency levels enroll, lessons can be conducted as a small group. Teachers set learning priorities based on your wishes and needs, such as focusing on grammar or vocabulary acquisition. They can conduct lessons in your accommodation, at a café, at their home, or in a rented space designated for instruction. You can decide on the course intensity, typically comprising 20 class hours weekly (5 sessions with 4 hours of lessons daily). You can also spread the hours over an extended period. The skills you acquire are applicable in everyday situations, such as a visit to a market or a museum. Language instructors are native speakers with several years of experience teaching Spanish as a foreign language. Their teaching materials often focus on Nicaraguan culture and daily life in León and the country.

Global Work & Travel

0

0

Study Spanish in Playa Samara, Costa Rica

Learn Spanish the authentic way by studying Spanish in Costa Rica. Learning a language is much easier when surrounded by people who speak it, and helps when you are immersed in the culture it’s a part of. You’ll be heading to Playa Samara, a little slice of paradise right on the world-famous coastline. Loaded with cultural activities, this trip will help you immerse yourself in the Costa Rican lifestyle. Plus, Playa Samara only has a population of around 1,000 people, so you’ll feel like a part of the community, too! Global Work & Travel offers the complete package for those wanting to learn Spanish with a real-world, international experience to go with it. We will get you sorted with all the essentials, from finding the appropriate class for you and securing your accommodation to all the support you need before, during, and after your trip. This trip is perfect for those who want to visit the country, learn the language, and become part of it! Get started today!

Don Quijote

0

0

Learn Spanish in Latin America at Don Quijote

Live "the Spanish way" while learning the language at Don Quijote. Our unique and immersive learning environment helps students reach their full language potential, inside and outside the classroom. We provide a range of courses for all skill levels based on individual needs. We achieve this by taking a personalized and student-centered approach involving instructors and students in the learning process. All our teachers are native speakers who hold university degrees and years of proven experience. We also offer online classes for those who do not have the opportunity to visit our locations. In addition, all students who attend at least 85% of classes during their Spanish course will receive a Don Quijote certificate at the end of the program. Whatever course students choose to enroll in or which skill they need to hone, we guarantee success at Don Quijote. Pick an ideal course and start a unique Spanish learning journey!

Tico Lingo - Spanish Immersion School

9.88

48

Adult Spanish Immersion Program

Tico Lingo offers the most comprehensive and expertly designed Spanish immersion program in Costa Rica. Our native Spanish professors help students focus on enhancing oral communication and integrating listening and writing techniques to help them achieve true proficiency in the Spanish language. Located in the heart of Costa Rica's Central Valley, in the vibrant city of Heredia, Tico Lingo guarantees significant progress in your language abilities. Our mission is to create a fun, interactive, and engaging learning environment that fosters an understanding of Costa Rican culture and the Spanish language. With our Homestay program, you'll live with nearby families and get to experience the Costa Rican way of life firsthand. We also offer on-site activities like yoga, dance, cooking, and conversational classes, as well as weekend adventure tours! We're young, we're connected, and we're passionate about creating the perfect environment for you to learn Spanish in Costa Rica. We're committed to sparking cultural exchanges on a global level and connecting people from all over the world. So, join the conversation and start learning Spanish with us today!

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Nosara Spanish Institute

9.81

21

Intensive Spanish Program @ Nosara Spanish Institute

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 competency and strategies so as to be able to use Spanish comfortably and confidently in everyday situations. Our intensive programs are the perfect combination of conversation and grammar. All of our instructors are native speakers of Spanish with University degrees and a combined total of over 25 years of teaching experience. Our campus is located just 500 meters from the ocean in a modern campus with six air-conditioned classrooms, free wi-fi, student lounge and eating areas, and free coffee all day. NSI also offers several accommodation options, including student apartments and homestay options. We invite you to truly experience Nosara with NSI!

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Manuel Antonio Spanish School

10

7

Affordable Spanish Program on the Beach in Costa Rica

This language program includes everything you need to learn, practice, and improve your Spanish in a truly idyllic location. The Standard Spanish Program accepts students aged 18 and above, from complete beginners to advanced speakers. Whether you need to improve your Spanish for professional purposes, prepare for an exam, or are just learning for fun, our team will create the environment you need to succeed. Receive four hours of group Spanish classes per day, Monday to Friday, from 9 am-1 pm. Group classes, with a maximum of six students, are led by professional teachers. In the afternoons, explore the nearby national park and numerous beaches. All of our programs include a complimentary program of activities, access to a swimming pool, snorkels, surfboards, and a tour office to assist you in booking other activities. Throughout the program, you have the option to stay with a local host family for maximum Spanish immersion. The alternative option is an 'on-campus' accommodation at the popular Hostel Plinio.

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Antigueña Spanish Academy

10

1

Spanish Program in Antigua, Guatemala

Learning the proper use of another language starts with grammar instruction. At Antigueña Spanish Academy, our program fosters a real understanding of grammar, along with a degree of fluency in speaking the language. Before anything else, our teachers conduct an evaluation to determine each student’s knowledge and mastery, as well as specific needs. Afterward, we come up with an individualized study plan. We offer one-on-one standard and intensive Spanish courses for all levels. Training generally involves written and verbal exercises, conversation practice, and the study of various topics tailored to the interests and/or professions of our students – literature, cooking, business, medicine, law, etc. Of course, we also set aside time for enjoying ourselves. Our school organizes two free activities each week. These could be sports, Guatemalan cooking classes, a tour of Mayan towns, and more. Feel free to contact us for complete details about our program.

Miguel Angel Asturias Spanish School

9

1

Miguel Angel Asturias Spanish School - Guatemala or Online

Miguel Angel Asturias Spanish School provides intensive one-on-one Spanish instruction. In addition, we sponsor half and full-time social volunteer programs for our students in education, health care, agriculture, rural development, journalism, and more. A Medical Spanish program (human and veterinary) is also available for medical students who wish specialized vocabulary and clinical experience. Other extras include cultural activities, trips, speakers, and optional general or technical conversation practice.

EPA! Español en Panamá

10

1

Spanish Language Program: One to One (Private Classes)

This program takes into consideration the individual goals, interests, flexibility of schedules, and needs of learners. Hence, programs are customized to suit the individual. A lesson takes about 60 minutes with a minimum duration of six hours each week to achieve expected goals. The venue for lessons is not confined to the classroom, as the participants and teacher can decide the most conducive location in the city to learn Spanish. This program is also open to families or business groups. As part of the Group ELS Panama, EPA! has been providing high-quality education since 2008. The center, with its ultramodern facilities and enthusiastic staff, is dedicated to promoting the country's spectacular local culture and traditions. The Spanish language enhancement is made more fun through the activities and cultural immersions the center offers.

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Kamalbe Non profit Spanish School and Volunteer Center

10

1

Kamalbe Non Profit Spanish School in Guatemala

Learn Spanish at Kamalbe Non-Profit Spanish School in Quetzaltenango (Xela), Guatemala, with one-on-one or group lessons designed to fit your level and interests. Our experienced teachers provide personalized lessons, ensuring rapid progress and confidence in using Spanish in real-life situations. Classes focus on conversation, grammar, reading, and pronunciation, with additional opportunities to practice Spanish outside the classroom. We offer flexible scheduling to fit your needs, with classes available any day of the week for 3, 4, or 5 hours per day. Whether you are a traveler, volunteer, or medical professional, we have specialized courses to help you communicate effectively. Students can also prepare for DELE exams (A1–C2 levels). All learning materials are provided, including notebooks, phrasebooks, interactive apps, and online exercises to keep practicing while traveling. This program is also offered online.

A Guide to Language Programs in Central America

Locations

Comprising incredible forests, jungles, coastlines, ancient Mayan ruins, and historic cities, Central America’s outstanding natural and cultural diversity is reflected in the sheer number of places to choose from for language study abroad. Deciding on where you want to learn a new language is often a question of budget; luckily, Central America has options to suit all kinds.

At the more expensive end of the spectrum, but by far the most popular country for language study in Central America, is Costa Rica. A country known for its political stability in the midst of a historically turbulent Latin America, it’s no wonder that aspiring language students come to Costa Rica in droves. With language course options in San José, the capital and culturally sophisticated hub, the sensational white beaches of Playa Flamingo, or the cloud-forest community of Monteverde, anyone can find a language program in Costa Rica to suit their interests, whether they’re a culture, coast, or cloud lover. Given that locals often greet one another by the saying pura vida (or good life), you’ll likely learn to appreciate Costa Rica’s warm and welcoming vibe quite quickly.

For mid-range budgets, give Panama a chance. Offering a multi-cultural, international fusion, thanks to its historical positioning amidst world trade and communication routes, most language learners in Panama head to Panama City. Viewed as the most cosmopolitan capital in Central America, it doesn’t have the same colonial architecture of most other countries, but language students will still be able to escape the cities for weekends of relaxation (or study) on untouched beaches.

If cheap living costs are a priority, join many savvy travelers in discovering Guatemala, and its language hotspot, Antigua. Although the prices of language classes are rock-bottom, you won’t be skimping on stunning surroundings or, more importantly, quality teaching. Once the administrative center for Central America and Mexico during the Spanish Empire, Antigua now combines charming colonial buildings with a modern, international ambience. Language students can savor its bar and restaurant scene while chatting with locals over a strong Guatemalan coffee.

If you’re feeling adventurous, consider language programs in Honduras. Safety concerns do remain a pressing issue in this politically-unstable country, but Honduras is doing its best to shift its reputation as the bad boy of the Central America circuit. The daring, but still cautious, traveler can discover the reality of this fascinating country, particularly in the tropical city of La Ceiba. A port town known for its lively Caribbean rhythms and one of the largest carnival parades in all of Central America, you’ll learn more than just a new language in Honduras.

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Frequently Asked Questions

The primary language spoken in Central America is Spanish, though there are variations in dialects across countries. In addition, some regions have indigenous languages like Garífuna and Maya, especially in Guatemala and Honduras. English is also spoken in Belize, the region's only English-speaking country.

Spanish language programs in Central America can be found at language schools, universities, and cultural centers across the region. Countries like Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Nicaragua are popular for immersive programs. Websites like GoAbroad can help you discover accredited schools offering both short-term and long-term courses.

Spanish language programs in Central America typically range from one week to one year, depending on your learning goals. Short-term programs focus on intensive immersion, lasting 1-4 weeks, while long-term options can span several months to a year, offering more in-depth language acquisition and cultural experience.

To make the most of short-term Spanish language immersion programs, engage fully in classroom activities and practice outside of class. Use the language daily by speaking with locals, watching Spanish media, and participating in cultural events. Being open to mistakes and seeking feedback will also accelerate your learning.

The best Spanish language school in Central America should offer immersive, communicative teaching methods with small class sizes. Look for schools with qualified, native-speaking instructors, a variety of course levels, cultural activities, and personalized support. Good locations, modern facilities, and flexible schedules also enhance the experience.

Latest Program Reviews

Everything was great!

December 15, 2025by: Robyn Hallet - United StatesProgram: Spanish Immersion Programs | Learn Spanish in Latin America
9

This was an incredible experience! I loved my teacher, Jairo, and my classmates. My home stay was amazing - I was placed in the best house with the best family! The staff at Máximo Nivel were so friendly and accommodating. They took good care of us, to make sure we felt comfortable and safe. My only suggestion would be to add more sound absorbers in the classrooms - learning requires being able to hear the teacher and other students clearly. The echo makes that very difficult.

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