Na'atik Language and Culture Institute

The Na'atik Institute offers an excellent Spanish (and Maya) immersion experience. They have a beautiful, comfortable school building with air conditioning and a terrific library. Their teachers are excellent and the teaching was personally crafted to focus on my goals as a student. I loved staying with and getting to know my Mayan host family. I very much enjoyed the chance to visit the Raxalaj and tortilla making Mayan cultural centers. It was really fun playing games in English and Spanish with the teenage English students from Carrillo. This was my second visit to Na'atik and I plan to go back and begin studying Yucateca Maya. For me, an experience where my investment in a weeklong class supports Na'atik and its staff, my host family, and Na'atik's ability to help local kids go to university by strengthening their English skills is ideal. I also deeply appreciate the chance to spend so much time with Mayans in the school, my host family and the community and to learn about their culture, history, and language.

My experience with Na'atik was incredible. I stayed in Carrillo for two weeks and enjoyed every minute. The classes were very helpful and covered a wide array of topics. Coming in I had little practical Spanish experience, but now I feel much more confidence. Not only were the classes amazing, I also had an very positive experience with my host family. They were welcoming and supportive and made an effort to include me despite my limited Spanish. They also provided me with an amazing place to stay and three delicious meals per day. The Na'atik excursions were also a highlight. During my stay I enjoyed a bike ride in the jungle, a tortilla making class, a trip to Chancchoben and Bacalar, and a cenote swim. Additionally, I was also able to explore Carrillo thanks the the bike provided by Na'atik. I highlight recommend this program. Everyone at Na'atik is amazing!

I had a wonderful time studying at Na’atik. This is my second time here and it was been amazing. My homestay family was awesome, the food tasted great, and you have frequent and easy opportunities to immerse yourself into the local communities. Additionally, my Spanish improved so much and is significantly better than it was before. The classes have definitely taught me more than those that I take at home. Overall it was an amazing experience and I would definitely recommend.