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- Mexico, Costa Rica & Guatemala Gap Semester

Mexico, Costa Rica & Guatemala Gap Semester
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...
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...
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.
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Quick Details
- San Jose, Costa Rica
- San Marcos, Guatemala
- Cozumel, Mexico
- 9-12 Weeks
- Backpacking
- Camping
- Climbing
- Agriculture
- Animal Welfare
- Building & Construction Projects See more
- All Nationalities
Awards















Program Reviews
Hear what past participants have to say about the programs
Overall Rating
Total Reviews
Had a great time
April 06, 2021by: Anna Prendergast - United StatesI 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 StatesI 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 - NetherlandsI 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
- 9-12 Weeks
- After College
- Post High School
Age Requirement
Age Requirement Varies
Guidelines
All Nationalities
Cost per week
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
- English
Language Skills Required
- Any/All Education Levels Accepted
Accepted Education Levels
Application Procedures
- Online Application
- Phone/Video Interview
Frequently Asked Questions
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...

Pacific Discovery

Pacific Discovery
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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