by MAXIMO NIVEL
Plan the ultimate gap year in Costa Rica with Maximo Nivel!
Through this transformative adventure, you will explore the vibrant city of San José and the beach paradise of Manuel Antonio, getting involved in impactful, skill-building activities along the way.
Shape your gap year to suit your needs—join hands-on volunteering projects, make an impact through sea turtle conservation, build your resume by teaching English, and level up your Spanish with the most immersive curriculum in Latin America. You can also get academic credits upon completion of your program!
The standard gap year program in Costa Rica is a 12-week or 24-week itinerary, but you can create a custom itinerary. Take a look at our FAQ section to learn more :)
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Updated Aug 30, 2026
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Locations
Types & Subjects
Available Terms / Availability
Eligible Nationalities
Education Levels & Language
Accommodation Options
Application Procedures
Age Requirement
14+
Duration
Starts At
Refund Policy
Full Refund
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Hear what past participants have to say about MAXIMO NIVEL
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Review this ProgramShowing 1-10 of 10 reviews
This Gap year helped me realize what I wanted to pursue in my future. Anika and Roger were amazing and great help. The area was nice, my home stay was very nice loved my host family. I enjoyed this trip very much.
Spanish classes were good I’m definitely improving which is spectacular. The volunteering was really cool for turtle conservation - not much sleep but a whole lot of turtles. Haven’t finished program but am looking forward to Manuel Antonio.
Spent a month volunteering with the turtles in ostional. Such an incredible experience to see the arribada and all of the turtles in the night. Beach and sunsets were so beautiful and I met so many amazing cool people!
I was in Quepos for 6 weeks did Spanish classes, surf classes and two volunteer projects (working with kids and teaching english). I made a lot of new friends, got more independent and experienced an amazing country like a local.
Everything is part of the experience. Learning how to go with the flow is an essential part of staying here. I’ve made so many new friends, locally and from around the world. The workers are fantastic and super accommodating, as long as you’re reachable and communicating. I’ve enjoyed working with kids and every new day brings about something new to learn. I love my Spanish classes and we’ve been correcting things I learned in school and building off of it. I’m really excited for the rest of my time here. ¡Pura vida!
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I stayed in Costa Rica for 4 months and for my Gap Year with Maximo and it was the best choice I could’ve made. I did the customized path with Spanish Immersion and Volunteering with Children. They were extremely accommodating to my needs and made sure I had the best experience. From the close proximity to many beaches to my classes to my host family. This program was everything I could’ve dreamed of and more. So much so that I already planned my next journey back for the New Year!
I loved being in Costa Rica, it honestly was the best experience I met so many people from all over and we made so many fun memories. I would definitely come back to Costa Rica I loved my host family they were truly amazing and so kind I will definitely recommend doing this.
The best part of Maximo has to be the Spanish teachers! They are always super helpful and I wouldn’t want to learn Spanish any other way. Volunteering has also helped me with my Goal of learning Spanish by putting to use my practice in the real world.
I had the best time volunteering at Maximo Nivel, I like that they put a very thoughtful approach to my trip! I felt safe throughout my entire stay, I really appreciate the careful thought that the staff put in not only for my experience but everything else involved.
Máximo Nivel is a program that offers fantastic Spanish courses and flexibility to travel around Costa Rica. The Spanish instruction was fantastic and it was the perfect place to improve my fluency! Highly recommend
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FAQs
Get answers to all the most common questions about MAXIMO NIVEL.
– At least 16 years of age
– Able to be creative with limited resources
– Hard-working, ready to do anything!
– Positive mindset
– Background check is required for all gap year participants working with children
Yes! Suggested gap year itineraries are very flexible, so you can pick and choose to create a personalized program.
Yes, you can! Gap year programs are flexible, allowing you to stay for as long as you wish. With Maximo Nivel, you can also take part in the Country Jumper Gap Year. This unique program leads students and travelers through a cultural and academic immersion experience in 3 of the most amazing countries in Latin America. This distinctive program is available year-round.
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The GoAbroad team is here to support you as you choose the best program for you, and MAXIMO NIVEL is also happy to answer any questions you have.
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