Activities and Tours

Weekly Activities

Every Monday through Friday, Tico Lingo offers activities designed to help students get to know each other, experience different aspects of Costa Rican culture, and practice Spanish outside the classroom. Each activity is offered at least once a week and can be signed up for upon arrival. Just write your name on the whiteboard and you’re in!

Heredia Walking Tour

Join us for a 2.5-hour walking tour of Heredia! We’ll uncover the secrets of this vibrant city, exploring its historic landmarks and hidden gems. You’ll have the chance to exchange currency for colones, visit some of the city’s most beautiful parks, and even discover the best spots for a quick coffee or a delicious Costa Rican lunch.

Latin Dance Class

One of the most fun and energetic ways to experience Latin American culture is through dance. During this 1-hour class, you will get an introduction to the basic steps of popular Latin dances such as Cumbia, Salsa and Bachata. This activity is guaranteed to put a smile on your face and is the perfect way to get your blood pumping after a morning in the classroom.

Yoga & Pilates Class

Unwind after your Spanish class with an hour of yoga or pilates at Tico Lingo’s onsite studio. We offer vinyasa and meditative yoga practices focusing on strength, flexibility, and relaxation as well as a strength building pilates class. Suitable for all levels, these classes aim to leave you feeling calm and refreshed. Bring your own mat, or use one of ours!

Lunch with Yami

Join Tico Lingo’s “abuela” Yami (jah-mee) for this fun introduction to Costa Rican cuisine. Enjoy lunch with fellow Tico Lingo students and get an opportunity to try many different home-cooked Costa Rican dishes made to order right at Tico Lingo.

Chocolate Making Tour

Join us for a hands-on, 3-hour chocolate tour where students explore the rich history and cultural significance of cacao in Costa Rica. From bean to bar, participants learn about traditional brewing methods, the economic impact of chocolate production, and get to taste the magic of this ancient and beloved treat.

Costa Rican Cooking Class

Learn to cook like a local! In this hands-on class, you’ll prepare classic Costa Rican dishes like patacones, picadillo de papa, and sweet empanadas de piña. Held at a family-run restaurant in downtown Heredia, the class is a flavorful introduction to traditional recipes and cooking techniques. You’ll connect with local chefs, support small businesses, and practice your Spanish in a fun, immersive setting. Come hungry…tasting is part of the experience!

Intercambio

Held at either Tico Lingo or at a local bar/restaurant called “La Fortina”, this free activity invites you to practice your conversational Spanish skills with some locals in Heredia who are learning English. It’s a great opportunity to meet new local Ticos (Costa Ricans), help them with their English, and practice your conversational Spanish in a relaxed atmosphere.

Weekend Tours

We offer full-day weekend tours every Saturday and Sunday. These vary from week to week, but usually include one of the tours below. During your walking tour of Heredia (included in every adult Spanish immersion program) you’ll hear all about the tours being offered at Tico Lingo during the time you’re with us.

White Water Rafting

Experience one of Costa Rica’s most exciting outdoor adventures on the Sarapiquí River. With a combination of Class II and III rapids, this trip is perfect for both beginners and adventure lovers. As you paddle down the river, you’ll be surrounded by lush rainforest, tropical birds, and stunning natural scenery. The tour is led by certified local guides and includes breakfast, transportation, safety equipment, and a delicious local lunch. It’s a full day of nature, excitement, and unforgettable memories.

Arenal Volcano Hot Springs

Escape to one of Costa Rica’s most iconic natural landmarks with a full-day trip to Arenal Volcano and its famous hot springs. Start the morning with a traditional Costa Rican breakfast beside lush butterfly and botanical gardens. Then head north for a scenic hike along Lake Arenal with breathtaking views of the volcano. After the hike, relax at a luxurious hot springs resort, where geothermally heated pools surrounded by rainforest offer the perfect setting to unwind. The tour includes private transportation, a bilingual local guide, park entry, and a delicious lunch at the hot springs.

Coffee Estate + Poás Volcano + Strawberry Farm

This full-day tour combines three classic Costa Rican experiences. Start at the Doka Estate coffee farm, where you’ll explore the journey from bean to cup and enjoy unlimited fresh coffee. Then visit Poás Volcano for a short guided hike with views of its massive crater. After that, head to a local strawberry farm for a traditional lunch, a tasting of strawberry wine, and the chance to pick your own berries with sweet toppings like condensed milk and chocolate.

Manuel Antonio National Park

Spend the day exploring the world-famous Manuel Antonio National Park. Hike through the jungle, spot sloths swinging in the trees, and watch playful monkeys along the trails. Cool off with a swim at one of Costa Rica’s most iconic beaches, fuel up with a hearty local breakfast by the crocodile-filled Tarcoles River, and top it all off with an ocean-view lunch before heading back to Heredia.

Paradise Waterfalls

Get ready for an epic jungle adventure! Hike deep into Costa Rica’s rainforest and uncover a hidden paradise of waterfalls, swimming holes, and hanging bridges. This off-the-beaten-path trek takes you through rugged trails, past eight breathtaking cascades, and into crystal-clear pools perfect for a refreshing swim. Along the way, fuel up with authentic wood-fired meals and soak in stunning views that make every muddy step worth it.

Still have some questions?

Don’t hesitate to contact us and talk directly to a Program Advisor about our activities and tours!