Costa Rica – Spanish & Adventure Camp for Teenagers

Costa Rica is one of the most exotic places on Earth, offering unparalleled natural beauty with white sand beaches, rainforests, and many national parks. Located in Central America, it borders Nicaragua to the north and Panama to the south. The Andean-Sierra Madre mountain chain runs the length of the country, separating the Caribbean Sea on the east coast from the Pacific Ocean on the west coast. With thousands of miles of gorgeous coastline and abundant sunshine, Costa Rica provides an inspirational learning environment.

The capital city of San Jose (week 1) and the beach towns of Manuel Antonio and Quepos (week 2) serve as the primary locations for the Spanish Camp. These areas are rich in culture, biodiversity, and offer a perfect blend of urban and natural settings.

Spanish Camp is dedicated to fostering intercultural exchange and language immersion for young learners. The program combines Spanish language instruction with cultural activities and nature tours. The goal is to help students grow as global citizens, improve their Spanish proficiency, and develop self-confidence.

Internet: Wi-Fi is available at the host families’ homes and at the camp’s computer lounge.

Laundry: Laundry services are included with host family accommodations.

Accommodations: Volunteers stay with carefully selected host families in San Jose and Manuel Antonio. The accommodations are comfortable and provide a safe environment for participants. Host families offer a unique opportunity for cultural exchange and Spanish practice.

Food: Three meals a day are provided, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Meals are prepared by host families and caterers, offering a mix of traditional Costa Rican dishes and familiar foods.

• Interview with GoEco Advisor
• Parental consent is required
• Two Character Reference Letters
• Age 14-17
• No previous Spanish knowledge required
• Willingness to take part in all scheduled activities and volunteer work
• Positive attitude and openness to new experiences

Costa Rica is known for its breathtaking natural beauty and rich biodiversity. Participants will explore the vibrant capital city of San Jose, with its historical landmarks and bustling markets. Manuel Antonio offers pristine beaches and stunning national parks. Campers can expect to experience the thrill of jungle ziplining, the tranquility of hot springs, and the adventure of scuba diving. Cultural activities include salsa dance classes, traditional cooking lessons, and local festivals. The program also includes educational tours, such as the famous Costa Rican coffee tour and visits to significant historical sites. Overall, the Spanish Camp provides an immersive experience that blends learning, adventure, and cultural exchange.

Summary of Camp Activities

San Jose Activities:

• City Tour & Souvenir Shopping: Explore the main points of interest in San Jose, including the downtown area, “Plaza de Cultura,” Costa Rica’s first Airport, the National Theater, Central Avenue, and the Central Market. Shop for souvenirs at traditional markets and local stores.
• Cooking Class: Learn how to prepare typical Costa Rican food, such as tamales and empanadas, in a participatory cooking class taught by a local host mother.
• Coffee Tour: Experience the original Costa Rican coffee tour to learn how coffee is grown, roasted, and processed from bean to cup.
• Recreation & Sports: Spend the afternoon at a local sports facility, such as an indoor soccer field, trampoline park, or basketball court. Play soccer and other sports with host families and staff.
• Mini Golf or Go Karts: Enjoy a fun evening racing around the indoor go-kart track or playing mini-golf.
• Ram Luna: Visit the Ram Luna center, perched high above the mountains overlooking San Jose. Enjoy panoramic views, traditional dances, marimba music, and a delicious buffet with traditional Costa Rican dishes.
• Tours: University Tour & Scavenger Hunt, La Paz Waterfall Gardens, Irazu Volcano & Sanatorio Duran Tour
• San Luis Zipline: Exhilarating experience soaring above the rainforest canopy, providing breathtaking views of the lush landscape below.

Manuel Antonio Activities:

• Surf Lessons: Spend the day on one of Costa Rica’s most beautiful beaches, learning to surf from professional instructors. Enjoy body surfing, boogie boarding, and paddleboarding.
• Scuba Course: Participate in a 2-day introductory “Discover Scuba” course, which includes safety and equipment training in a swimming pool and a supervised ocean dive.
• Manuel Antonio National Park Tour: Take an informative hike through Costa Rica’s most famous national park, led by an experienced nature guide. Discover small beaches, ocean inlets, and a variety of wildlife.
• Mangrove Kayaking Tour: Paddle through the estuary of the Paquita River, led by an expert naturalist guide, to observe diverse wildlife in the mangrove ecosystem.
• Hanging Bridges Tour: Trek through the rainforest along hanging bridges and natural trails up to the top of Rainmaker Mountain, with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and visits to picturesque waterfalls.
• Costa Rica BBQ: Enjoy a typical Costa Rican barbecue with traditional “Tica” music.

Evening Activities:

• Salsa Lessons: Learn popular Latin American dances such as Salsa, Merengue, and Bachata from a professional instructor.
• Bonfires, Karaoke, Game Nights, Movie Nights: Spend evenings socializing with fellow campers through various fun and engaging activities.
• Evenings with Host Families: Practice Spanish and immerse yourself in Costa Rican culture by spending quality time with your host family.