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Mexico, Costa Rica & Guatemala Gap Semester

by: Pacific Discovery

8.33 (21)Verified

Uncover the spirit of Central America on a 10-week journey through Mexico, Guatemala, and Costa Rica. Trek lush rainforests, hike volcanoes, raft wild rivers, and explore ancient Mayan ruins. More than just adventure, this program invites you to live alongside local communities, learn Spanish through immersion, and engage in meaningful sustainability projects that leave a lasting impact. Designed...

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Program Highlights

Learn to scuba dive and explore the underwater world in Cozumel.

Witness volcanoes glowing in the dark from your tent on overnight hikes.

Care for sloths and monkeys at an animal rescue center.

Exciting 4-day white water rafting journey through rapids and waterfalls on the Pacuare river.

Swim in the crystal-clear waters of a cenote, a natural underground cave.

Quick Details

Locations:
  • San Jose, Costa Rica
  • San Marcos, Guatemala
  • Cozumel, Mexico
Availability
Year(s) OfferedYear RoundDuration:
  • 9-12 Weeks
Cost Per Week$1250-1500
Age Requirement:Varies
Types & Subjects
Adventure Types:
  • Backpacking
  • Camping
  • Climbing
Causes:
  • Agriculture
  • Animal Welfare
  • Building & Construction Projects
  • See more
Guidelines:
  • All Nationalities
See all program details

Awards

GoAbroad Top Rated Provider 2025 - Gap Year2025 Finalist - Innovation in DiversityGoAbroad Top Rated Provider 2024 - Gap Year AbroadTop Rated Provider 2023 - Gap YearPeople’s Choice Award 2023 FinalistInnovation in Sustainability 2023 FinalistInnovation in Sustainability 2023 WinnerTop Rated Gap Year Provider 2022Innovative New Program – Volunteer Abroad Finalist 2022Innovation in Marketing & Digital Media Finalist 2022Top Rate Organization 2021 - Gap Year

Program Reviews

Hear what past participants have to say about the programs

Overall Rating

8.33

Total Reviews

21

Had a great time

April 06, 2021by: Anna Prendergast - United States

Program: Mexico, Costa Rica & Guatemala Gap Semester

9

I had a great time traveling with pacific discovery. There is a lot of variety in activities and they try to give you a taste of a lot of different aspects of traveling in Central America. The budgeting seemed a little weird, especially our food budget, and sometimes seemed a bit disorganized, but everything always worked out

Amazing 10 weeks in Central America!

April 06, 2021by: Katharine Tilson - United States

Program: Mexico, Costa Rica & Guatemala Gap Semester

8

I had a great time during my trip! Because of Covid, we only went to Mexico, Guatemala, and Costa Rica but I think that made it even better because we could really get to know the countries we visited. There was a huge range of things we did throughout our time including scuba diving, surfing, challenging hikes, kayaking trips, and a yoga retreat + more. It was great to get so close with the group of students and the instructors and I learned a lot.

Had a great time meeting new people!

April 06, 2021by: Annelot Beckand Verwee - Netherlands

Program: Mexico, Costa Rica & Guatemala Gap Semester

6

I had a great time with Pacific discovery! This was specifically because of the people I met on this program and some of the activities. I loved scuba diving, hiking and Spanish lessons. The budget can be better and also the itinerary needs to be updated. The packing list said that you a lot of conservative clothes and this is also not true

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

  • San Jose, Costa Rica
  • San Marcos, Guatemala
  • Cozumel, Mexico

Types and Subjects

  • Adventure Types
  • Backpacking
  • Camping
  • Climbing

Availability

Years Offered: Year Round

Duration:
  • 9-12 Weeks
Gap Year Timing:
  • After College
  • Post High School

Age Requirement

Age Requirement Varies

Guidelines

All Nationalities

Cost per week

$1250-1500

Program Cost Includes

  • Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
  • All Program Activity Costs
  • Tuition & Fees
  • Weekday Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Accommodation Options

  • Dormitory
  • Group living
  • Guest House
  • Home-stays

Qualifications & Experience

    Language Skills Required

  • English

    Accepted Education Levels

  • Any/All Education Levels Accepted

Application Procedures

  • Online Application
  • Phone/Video Interview

Frequently Asked Questions

Pacific Discovery

Pacific Discovery

8.33Verified

Ready to Learn More?

Uncover the spirit of Central America on a 10-week journey through Mexico, Guatemala, and Costa Rica. Trek lush rainforests, hike volcanoes, raft wild rivers, and explore ancient Mayan ruins. More than just adventure, this program invites you to live alongside local communities, learn Spanish through immersion, and engage in meaningful sustainability projects that leave a lasting impact. Designed for students and young adults seeking growth, clarity, and purpose, Pacific Discovery blends challenge with support. You’ll gain confidence traveling with a small group and experienced instructors who mentor you through guided reflection and leadership activities. Days balance cultural exchange, service, and personal exploration—so you’re not just passing through, but truly connecting. Whether y...

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