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MAXIMO NIVEL

4.69 (3,213)VerifiedSince 200347 Programs

Why choose MAXIMO NIVEL?

Maximo Nivel is a leading educational travel and study abroad organization. We offer a range of programs in Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Peru, including Volunteer Abroad, International Internships, Native Spanish Program, TEFL Certification, Adventure and Culture programs, and more. We offer comprehensive instruction and learning, academic credit for most programs, and a fun and professional environment. Founded in 2003, Maximo Nivel is a professional, ethical, and hardworking organization dedicated to providing a great experience to every student, participant, and client. We aim to deliver safe, affordable, high-quality programs, provide the best Spanish language immersion in Latin America, improve the impact at every volunteer project site where our volunteers work, train and certify world-class ESL teachers, organize excellent internships, and help people see the world.

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MAXIMO NIVEL Reviews

Hear what past participants have to say about the programs

Overall Rating

4.69

Total Reviews

3,213
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I learned a huge amount in a short space of time

August 18, 2026by: Dominique Baptie - South Africa

Program: Online TEFL Certification with Job Placement Guarantee

5

The Online TEFL course was a big surprise to me once I got started. I did not expect such a comprehensive program, covering the depth that it did. As a complete beginner, not just to Teaching Mythologies, but also to online platforms and computer technology, I felt rather overwhelmed in the beginning. As I got into it, I realized that a great support system has been built into the entire experience, from start to end. There was always a trainer/facilitator available to me for any questions or assistance I needed. The learning platform was user friendly and easy to navigate, even for a "newbie". Loads of learning material and class observation sessions were provided throughout the course. The mythologies taught, proved imperative and extremely valuable when applying them to teaching classes during my practical assessment week. It was a tough, challenging course that was also fun and offering lots of room for creativity. I surprised myself with just how much I learned and gained through Maximo Nivel's TEFL course. Instructors were friendly, open to all questions and queries and most importantly, available! I did not feel at any stage, "left in the dark". The support system that is built around this program, is what I was most impressed by. Every student has immense talent to bring to the table. A solid support structure is essential to crossing the finish line or standing at the beginning of a brand new path. Great instructors, great communication, great challenge and lots of fun! I had an awesome experience and I would definitely recommend Maximo Nivel to anyone looking to gain their TEFL certification.

Dominique Baptie. TEFL certified August 2026

I had an amazing time

August 16, 2026by: worthy Idahosa - Canada

Program: Top-Rated Volunteer Abroad Programs in Latin America

5

I really enjoyed becoming interconnected with the Costa Rican experience. My host parents Tulio and Carmen were the best people ever. They became my home away from home. They were so kind and showed me the true Costa Rican kindness everyone talked about!

Amazing

August 16, 2026by: Valerie Casserly - Canada

Program: Top-Rated Volunteer Abroad Programs in Latin America

5

It was a great experience I would do it again 100 hundred percent would recommend to everyone I know.i loved my host family so much and the food was great the kids were amazing and the people were super friendly

An Unforgettable Costa Rica Experience

August 15, 2026by: Noemi Vitalini

Program: Working with Kids—Volunteer in Costa Rica!

5

I volunteered in Costa Rica, working with children, and had an amazing time! I met many wonderful people, made new friends, and enjoyed incredible experiences like ziplining, waterfalls, and many adventures. I highly recommend it!

My Volunteering Experience in Costa Rica

August 15, 2026by: Noemi Vitalini

Program: Working with Kids—Volunteer in Costa Rica!

5

My Volunteering Experience in Costa Rica My volunteering experience in Costa Rica was amazing and unforgettable. I had the opportunity to work with children, and I really enjoyed spending time with them. different countries and made new friends. We worked together to plan activities and help the children, which was a very rewarding experience. During my free time, I explored Costa Rica and visited beautiful waterfalls. The nature was incredible, and I had so much fun. I would definitely recommend this experience to anyone who wants to help others, meet new people, discover a new culture, and have an amazing adventure. It was a fantastic experience that I will never forget!

My experience was so fun!

August 13, 2026by: Ana Laura Caligiuri - Brazil

Program: Working with Kids—Volunteer in Costa Rica!

4

I had a really good time in Costa Rica. It was my first time in the country, and probably not the last! The children I worked with were so adorable and I enjoyed every moment of it, when teaching, feeding, putting them to sleep or just disciplining them! I also had some excursions, in the Catamaran and Manuel Antonio Park, and I was lucky enough to get both days very sunny with a clear water. The program in general was so fun, not to mention that I met so many amazing people that helped me throughout the journey.

I completed the Online TEFL program

August 13, 2026by: Siana Smith - United States

Program: Online TEFL Certification with Job Placement Guarantee

5

The TEFL program had a lot of information. There was so much to consume. I appreciated the live recordings of the classrooms and critique assignments that were a part of the modules. My instructor was consistent with their feedback and was always available when I needed them. I appreciate that they were accessible and responded quickly whenever I needed some assistance or extra feedback.

Happy

August 09, 2026by: Hamza Talhawi - Morocco

Program: Explore Latin America! Volunteer, Internships, TEFL, Spanish

5

Lettre de motivation – Candidature pour une mission de volontariat Madame, Monsieur, Je souhaite vous présenter ma candidature pour participer à votre programme de volontariat. Motivé, sérieux et ouvert d’esprit, je souhaite vivre une expérience internationale qui me permettra de développer mes compétences, de découvrir une nouvelle culture et surtout de contribuer activement aux activités de votre organisation. Je suis une personne dynamique, responsable et capable de m’adapter facilement à de nouveaux environnements. J’apprécie particulièrement le travail en équipe, la communication avec les autres et l’apprentissage de nouvelles compétences. Je suis également prêt à participer aux différentes tâches proposées et à m’investir pleinement dans la vie quotidienne du projet. Pour moi, le volontariat représente bien plus qu’un simple voyage. C’est une occasion de rencontrer des personnes venant de différents horizons, de partager nos expériences et de contribuer positivement à la communauté d’accueil. Je suis prêt à sortir de ma zone de confort, à apprendre et à donner le meilleur de moi-même. Je serais très heureux d’avoir la possibilité de rejoindre votre projet et de mettre ma motivation, mon énergie et mon sérieux au service de votre équipe. Je vous remercie pour l’attention portée à ma candidature et reste à votre disposition pour tout entretien ou information complémentaire. Cordialement, Hamza Talhawi

Happy

<childcare <review

August 08, 2026by: <heather <street - United States

Program: Working with Kids—Volunteer in Peru!

4

<we had a lot of fun working with the kids at our daycare placement. <also, the care and attention of the <maximo Nivel staff was top notch. <i had a minor illness while abroad and they got me all the treatment <i needed to be back on my feet in a day without missing my excursions.

Medical volunteering

August 08, 2026by: Braeden Chipman - United States

Program: Medical Volunteers Needed—Work in Costa Rica!

5

I really enjoyed my volunteer experience with Maximo Nivel at the nursing home. The staff was welcoming, supportive, and made me feel like part of the team. While it wasn’t quite the hands-on medical experience I was expecting, it was still incredibly rewarding to spend time with the residents and learn more about the local culture and healthcare environment. The experience reminded me that compassionate care is about more than medical procedures. Overall, I had a great time, met amazing people, and would recommend this program to anyone looking for a meaningful volunteer opportunity in Costa Rica.

Volunteering in Peru

August 08, 2026by: CHIARA MARUCCI - Italy

Program: Working with Kids—Volunteer in Peru!

5

IT WAS AN AMAZING EXPERIENCE FOR PERSONAL GROWTH, EVERYONE IS VERY WELCOMING, KIND AND HELPFUL. IT WAS WONDERFUL SPENDING TIME WITH THE CHILDREN, HELPING THEM WITH THEIR HOMEWORK, AND PLAYING WITH THEM. I LOVED BEING HERE.

Great way to be immersed in another language. Had a brilliant time!

August 08, 2026by: Aiden Lindsay - Scotland

Program: Explore Latin America! Volunteer, Internships, TEFL, Spanish

5

The home stay was great, felt very welcome always and the food was great. My lessons were well organised and the teachers were always passionate in helping me improve, and felt like I improved a lot in only 3 weeks. Great experience overall, and i would recommend to anyone that wants to learn a new language.

amazing opportunity to grow

August 08, 2026by: John Avasapian - United States

Program: Medical Volunteers Needed—Work in Peru!

5

I had a great time volunteering for this program. I did not know what to expect from Cusco and it was a cool way to throw myself out there and get out of my comfort zone. For people solo travelling alone, this program made it easy and comforting to do. I learned a lot and had lots of hands on experience.

The most fun time!

August 07, 2026by: Julia Hiel - Netherlands

Program: Working with Kids—Volunteer in Costa Rica!

5

I was teaching kids in Costa Rica and it was so much fun the people there were really nice and always smiling. I made many friends in the time that I was here and I always was busy with fun exciting stuff.

In the hot springs in La FortunaThe waterfall in La fortuna

Amazing experience

August 07, 2026by: Martina Lara Gasparotto - Italy

Program: Volunteer Teaching English in Costa Rica

5

I did the teaching project in a community center for two weeks and it was an incredibly memorable experience; the people in San José are so lovely and I got to immerse in a lively culture through the students and the host family. Absolutely recommend this project!

It was an experience amazing

August 07, 2026by: Adélaïde Graux - France

Program: Top-Rated Volunteer Abroad Programs in Latin America

5

It was amazing to meet all these People ! meeting these children and teaching them was incredible. I learned every day. My family was really Nice ! I made friends for life !! I recommend this trip for everyone !

Absolutely Phenomenal Learning And Immersion Experience

August 01, 2026by: Merrill Scarbrough - United States

Program: Intern Abroad in Latin America | Top-Rated Internships

5

The medical internship was amazing. I interned at Hogar Nuestra Señora de la Esperanza and was able to be fully immersed in Costa Rican culture by participating in La Romería with the patients. In addition, I was able to learn so many medical terms in Spanish and was able to do many hands-on patient care activities within the clinic.

Visit to the Catholic Church in Cartago!

A great experience!

August 01, 2026by: Max Otto - Switzerland

Program: Explore Latin America! Volunteer, Internships, TEFL, Spanish

5

Honestly, I went into this with no expectations and then was really surprised with the beauty of peru. We got to see evey hike that we wanted to see, and they were all so beautiful! I also got a great room allocation with a lot of friends and made new ones as well! My first time in South America was such a different experience toi what I had known before and I was happy to contribute, if only for such a short time to this project.

Volunteering in Peru

August 01, 2026by: etan bryois - France

Program: Construction Programs—Volunteer in Peru!

5

it was an amazing experience, I had a great time and made many new meaningful connections that I never would have been able to make anywhere else. Overall, I would highly recommend this experience as it is truly eye opening and will change your life.

A great trip and voluteering experience in Cusco

August 01, 2026by: Antoine Khatchatourian - United States

Program: Explore Latin America! Volunteer, Internships, TEFL, Spanish

5

This experience was my first time in South America and I couldn´t have wished for a more satisfying visit. Maximo was very helpfull in any inquiries I had and provided a tremendous amount of aid with city life, exploration, and my construction project. Finally, my host family was great and made me feel comfortable and welcomed me to the new country.

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Interviews

Read interviews from alumni or staff

Sarah Danielle Mestas

Sarah Danielle Mestas

Participated in 2018

Alumni

After teaching English in Italy in 2016, I realized that I wanted to take this career path more seriously and invest in my education with a TEFL certification. I want to teach in a country that is different than America, where I can genuinely make a difference and help children to have more opportunities in their lives by speaking English and having me as their teacher.

Show Full Interview
Ken Jones

Ken Jones

Interviewed in 2018

Staff

What inspired you to travel abroad?

Today on GoAbroad we bring you an interview with Ken. Our interview today jumps into some of the new and exciting developments at Maximo Nivel. See why going abroad with this dynamic organization could be the perfect fit for you!

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Tyler Werboweski

Tyler Werboweski

Participated in 2017

Alumni

By volunteering with Maximo Nivel, I was able to volunteer and be immersed in the culture of the city I helped in. Traveling has always been a passion of mine, and this program allowed me to travel the world in an aspect most tourists never get to experience!

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Joy Lafferty

Joy Lafferty

Participated in 2017

Alumni

I love to travel and felt I needed a purpose, and volunteering in any capacity certainly fulfills that need.

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Casandra Fountain

Casandra Fountain

Participated in 2016

Alumni

The purpose for this trip was to "find" myself.

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Yijia Wen - 2016 Program Participant

Yijia Wen - 2016 Program Participant

Participated in 2016

Alumni

I am always longing to live with a clear purpose, to make sure I am pursuing what I really want. So, I chose to go abroad to find myself. Before leaving, I was always not sure whether "I want to be a teacher" or "my mother wants me to be a teacher", whether "I want to live in New Zealand" or "my mother wants me to live in New Zealand". In my first year at uni, I have been getting to know that something you like might not be what you really like. Instead, you are just imagining "I like it. I like it." The only way to clarify my genuine enthusiasm and imaginary enthusiasm is to try to experience it by myself.

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Candace Taylor

Candace Taylor

Participated in 2015

Alumni

I have always loved traveling. I've been to several counties within Asia, Europe, North America, as well as Australia and New Zealand. I was always moved most when I traveled to 3rd world countries and saw just how much they needed and yet how welcoming and happy they appeared. I wanted to go to South America, particularly Cusco, Peru. This time I decided it was time to give back. So I applied for a volunteer mission as a nurse, which is the profession I hold in Canada. As expected, there was a very strong need for nurses and health care workers in general so the process was short and sweet. I saved for my plane ticket and off I went.

Show Full Interview
Emily Zaye

Emily Zaye

Participated in 2016

Alumni

As a foreign language teacher, languages and travel are my passion. I try to travel as often as possible to improve my language skills and create new experiences I can share in my classroom.

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Katherine Trudel

Katherine Trudel

Participated in 2015

Alumni

I never did much when I was in high school. I wasn't exactly the ambitious type. Then when my Mom died, something changed. I wanted to step out of my comfort zone and see the world. All I did was work and study. Life is too short to be stuck behind a desk! At that point, I had made a list of places I wanted to visit and Machu Picchu was at the top of that list. Originally, a group of us were going to go; just a quick, week long trip. But that never happened, because there was too much work to be done, bills to pay, and never a good time.

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Gerhard Uys

Gerhard Uys

Participated in 2016

Alumni

I've always wanted to travel and see the world, but fear of the unknown kept me back and I slowly began to settle into a stable but monotonous job. Near the end of 2015, I realised that if I did not take action I could very likely live my whole life without ever having traveled abroad. After reading many motivational books and considering the pros and cons of my big decision over and over again, I finally decided to take a leap of faith and signed up for the TEFL training course, with the plan to work abroad immediately after completing the course.

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Maggie Kirkpatrick

Maggie Kirkpatrick

Participated in 2016

Alumni

I studied Latin American Studies and Spanish in University, so working abroad was always the goal in mind. I have also been interested in teaching English for years, and this seemed like the perfect opportunity to blend all my interests.

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Jennifer McCarron

Jennifer McCarron

Participated in 2016

Alumni

Last year, my husband and I visited Cusco briefly as a part of guided tour of Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. Over the four or five days we were there, I was thrilled to feel my Spanish-speaking muscles bulking up quickly. On a cab ride back from the train station at Ollantaytambo on our second to last day, I was practicing my Spanish with the cab driver. He mentioned that many Cusquenas and Peruvians want to learn English and take advantage of the area's booming tourism industry. In that dark and bumpy ride, I began planning my return trip! The clouds of ideas were forming. I wanted to learn to teach English as a Second Language, and teach it Cusco.

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Josue Alcantara

Josue Alcantara

Interviewed in 2016

Staff

What inspired you to travel abroad?

Since I was a child, I always enjoyed traveling. I grew up between Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic, traveling to several parts of the U.S. often. Also, during high school, I carried out several missions trips with churches to Colombia and Mexico. So, you can say the travel bug definitely bit me pretty early on, and it definitely infected all of me.

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Chelsey Rickert

Chelsey Rickert

Interviewed in 2016

Staff

What inspired you to travel abroad?

I first came to Maximo Nivel as a volunteer in 2013. I worked in a childcare project at a preschool for about three months. 

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Jennifer Herndon

Jennifer Herndon

Participated in 2015

Alumni

Why did you decide to apply for an international program?

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David Garner

David Garner

Participated in 2015

Alumni

I applied for this program because I wanted the opportunity to live in a different country, to be able to work there, and experience a new culture. I knew also that it would give me new skills and potentially lead to a new career in a rewarding profession.

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Christine Olijnyk

Christine Olijnyk

Participated in 2015

Alumni

As my favourite saying goes, life is not meant to be lived in one place. I wanted to get out of my comfort zone and be immersed into a culture completely different from the one back home in Canada.

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Gabriela Pechova

Gabriela Pechova

Participated in 2015

Alumni

I traveled to many places, but as tourist only. I think I was just ready to take my experiences to a new level, really get to know the country as if I lived there. I traveled to India and China in the past, saw all the touristy places but didn't experience as much of their culture as I would like to. Volunteering in Guatemala was exactly what I was looking for: interaction with locals and living just like one of them.

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Jordan Parry

Jordan Parry

Participated in 2014

Alumni

I want to go to graduate school to pursue a PhD in Romance Languages. I have a degree in Spanish, but I knew I wanted to live abroad, immersed in the language and culture, and really perfect my Spanish skills before beginning such a high-caliber program. Having a degree in teaching ESL already, I knew I could get a job teaching English abroad without going through a TEFL/TESOL Certification program, but I wanted to go through an organization so that I would have a support system in my new home and could ease into life abroad with a group of peers who were doing the same type of thing as I was.

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Riley Dwyer

Riley Dwyer

Participated in 2014

Alumni

I'd previously volunteered in Cambodia teaching English, and I was keen to head somewhere else and help out. I had previously quit university and was tired of working two jobs...so I booked a ticket to South America.

Show Full Interview
MAXIMO NIVEL

MAXIMO NIVEL

4.69Verified

Ready to Learn More?

Maximo Nivel is a leading educational travel and study abroad organization. We offer a range of programs in Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Peru, including Volunteer Abroad, International Internships, Native Spanish Program, TEFL Certification, Adventure and Culture programs, and more. We offer comprehensive instruction and learning, academic credit for most programs, and a fun and professional environment. Founded in 2003, Maximo Nivel is a professional, ethical, and hardworking organization dedicated to providing a great experience to every student, participant, and client. We aim to deliver safe, affordable, high-quality programs, provide the best Spanish language immersion in Latin America, improve the impact at every volunteer project site where our volunteers work, train and certify world...

Awards

Check out awards and recognitions MAXIMO NIVEL has received

Top Rated Program High School Abroad in Costa Rica 2026
Top Rated Program Language Schools in Costa Rica 2026
Top Rated Program Adventure Travel in Costa Rica 2026
Top Rated Program TEFL Courses in Peru 2026
Top Rated Program TEFL Courses in United States 2026
Top Rated Program Volunteer Abroad in Costa Rica 2026
Top Rated Program Language Schools in Costa Rica 2025
Top Rated Program TEFL Courses in Costa Rica 2025
Top Rated Program TEFL Courses in Peru 2025
Top Rated Program TEFL Courses in Guatemala 2025
Top Rated Program Volunteer Abroad in Costa Rica 2025
Top Rated Provider Volunteer Abroad 2025GoAbroad Top Rated Provider 2024 - Volunteer AbroadTop Rated Provider 2023 - Language SchoolTop Rated Provider 2023 - Volunteer AbroadPeople’s Choice Award 2023 FinalistTop Rated Language School 2022Notable Mention 2021 - Gap YearTop Rated Organization 2021 - Volunteer Abroad