Traveling Spanish Program
Travel Costa Rica and Learn Spanish
The Ultimate 10-Day Learning Adventure
Tico Lingo’s Traveling Spanish Program is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Costa Rica’s vibrant culture and natural beauty. Over 10 days, you’ll enjoy an intimate, curated adventure that includes the city, mountains, cloud forests, and beaches of our beautiful country while boosting your Spanish skills with 20 hours of engaging classes spread across 7 sessions. Tico Lingo attracts a diverse population of people from all over the world, and with a cap of nine students per session, you will enjoy a personal and interactive learning experience and many opportunities to practice your Spanish skills with the friendly people of Costa Rica.
Adults
10 Days
Starting at $2700 p/p
Payment Plans Available
¿Preguntas?
Fill out the short form below and a Program Advisor will contact you within 24 hours
What's Included
The Traveling Spanish Program is jam-packed! From daily meals, comprehensive Spanish classes, immersive educational tours, and luxury transportation, there’s a lot included in the program. See below for a breakdown of everything you get with your tuition payment:
Lodging
During the Traveling Spanish Program, you’ll experience a variety of accommodations that showcase the beauty and diversity of Costa Rica. From authentic homestays in the heart of Heredia to serene mountain retreats and breathtaking coastal getaways, each stay is designed to deepen your immersion in both the Spanish language and Costa Rican culture. We will begin with an introductory class at the Tico Lingo home base in Heredia and soon depart on an adventure that includes a stop at a coffee plantation in Tres Rios, a tour of Costa Rica’s first and only winery, a Spanish class beside a waterfall, and a peaceful beachside dinner. For a detailed itinerary of the program click here.
3 Nights in a Local Homestay:
Immerse yourself in Costa Rican culture by staying with a local family in Heredia. Enjoy delicious home-cooked meals and a welcoming environment that provides ample opportunities to practice your Spanish. For more details about the homestay experience, check out our dedicated page on our website.
2 Nights in the Orosí Valley:
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Orosí Valley, known for its stunning views, waterfalls, and lush hummingbird gardens. Relax in comfortable accommodations that offer a serene tranquility allowing us to study in nature.
2 Nights in Santa María de Dota:
Discover the charm of Santa María de Dota, nestled in the highlands, where you can enjoy cooler temperatures and explore the rich biodiversity of the area.
2 Nights on the Pacific Coast:
Unwind at Uvita Beach, where you can savor the relaxed pace of life. Take in the stunning ocean views, enjoy beach activities like surf and yoga, and immerse yourself in the vibrant coastal culture.
Meals
Your Costa Rican culinary experience begins with two warm, home-cooked dinners with your homestay family. These meals offer a glimpse into authentic Costa Rican cuisine, often featuring fresh vegetables, plantains, and hearty proteins like chicken or fish. As we travel through different regions, the majority of your other dinners will be at our selected hotels, where you’ll enjoy local and international dishes. We make it a point to dine together as a group, making dinners a time to relax, share experiences, and taste a variety of dishes ranging from pizzas and salads to local specialties.
9 Breakfasts:
Each morning, you’ll wake up to a delicious breakfast, whether it’s a traditional Costa Rican meal like “gallo pinto” (a savory rice and beans dish) or more familiar Western options such as pancakes, waffles, or toast. You’ll also get to savor Costa Rica’s world-famous coffee, served hot and fresh to start your day off right.
2 Lunches:
We only include two lunches as part of the program to offer you more flexibility throughout the day. Most days, you’ll have the opportunity to choose your own lunch from local restaurants or cafes, giving you the perfect chance to put your Spanish into practice in real-life settings. Not only does this help improve your language skills, but it also allows you to explore Costa Rican cuisine on your terms.
9 Dinners:
Your Costa Rican experience begins with two warm, home-cooked dinners with your homestay family. These meals offer a glimpse into authentic Costa Rican cuisine, often featuring fresh vegetables, plantains, and hearty proteins like chicken or fish. As we travel through different regions, the majority of your other dinners will be at our selected hotels, where you’ll enjoy local and international dishes. We make it a point to dine together as a group, making dinners a time to relax, share experiences, and taste a variety of dishes ranging from pizzas and salads to local specialties.
Spanish Classes
Dive into the heart of language learning with our immersive Spanish classes, designed to help you develop your skills in a supportive and engaging environment. Our program emphasizes real-world application and cultural integration, ensuring you not only learn the language but also experience the vibrant culture of Costa Rica. Here’s what you can expect from our Spanish instruction:
20 Hours of Spanish Instruction
Over the course of the program, you’ll attend 7 Spanish lessons each designed to improve your language skills through interactive activities and real-world practice.
Small Group Size
With a maximum of 9 students per class, you’ll receive personalized attention from your experienced Spanish instructor.
Comprehensive Syllabus
A structured course following the appropriate Spanish level syllabus, with all necessary materials provided.
Cultural Language Integration:
Additional conversational practice during tours, meals, and homestays to enhance immersion.
Tours and Activities
Experience the vibrant culture and breathtaking nature of Costa Rica with 6 Educational Tours included in your program. Each tour offers a unique opportunity to learn and immerse yourself in the local environment. Here’s what you can look forward to:
Chocolate Tour:
Delve into the delicious world of chocolate on this interactive tour. Discover the history of chocolate, from its ancient roots in Mesoamerica to its modern-day delights. Participate in the chocolate-making process, from bean to bar, and enjoy tasting fresh, rich chocolate.
Coffee Tour:
Visit a traditional coffee plantation where you’ll learn about Costa Rica’s coffee culture and its significance to the economy. Walk through the coffee fields, observe the meticulous harvesting process, and enjoy a fresh cup of locally brewed coffee while soaking in the breathtaking views.
Wine Vineyard Tour:
Explore Costa Rica’s only winery, where you’ll learn about the unique challenges and triumphs of wine production in a tropical climate. Discover the winemaking process and sample some of their distinctive wines, accompanied by local cheese and snacks.
Cartago City Tour:
Step back in time in Costa Rica’s first capital, Cartago. Visit historic sites, including the stunning Basilica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles, and learn about the city’s colonial past. Your guide will share fascinating stories that highlight the rich cultural heritage of this important city.
Birdwatching Tour:
Embark on an exciting birdwatching adventure in search of Costa Rica’s feathered wonders. Keep your eyes peeled for vibrant hummingbirds, exotic toucans, and the elusive quetzal, known for its striking plumage. This tour is perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.
Waterfall Tour:
Experience the natural beauty of Costa Rica on a hike to the breathtaking Nayauca Waterfall. Surrounded by lush vegetation, you’ll have the chance to swim in its pristine waters, relax, and take in the stunning scenery. This tour is a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility, offering a refreshing way to connect with nature.
Program Support and Materials
Dedicated Tico Lingo Staff and Emergency Care:
Our staff will be on hand 24/7 to ensure your experience runs smoothly, offering guidance, translation, and assistance with anything you may need. We’re fully equipped to handle minor injuries and are never more than 45 minutes away from a major hospital in case of emergencies.
Pre-Program Materials
To ensure you’re fully prepared for your adventure in Costa Rica, we provide a comprehensive set of pre-program materials before your arrival. Here’s what you can look forward to:
- Detailed Packing List:
Our carefully curated packing list will help you know exactly what to bring for your stay in Costa Rica. It will include essential items for daily life, clothing suitable for various activities (such as hiking and city tours), and recommendations for personal items like toiletries and sun protection. We’ll also provide tips on what to pack for specific weather conditions to help you stay comfortable throughout your journey. - Homestay Family Bio:
To make your transition into your homestay as smooth as possible, you’ll receive a short bio of the family you’ll be staying with. This introduction will include information about their interests, daily routines, and what you can expect during your stay. Accompanying this bio, you’ll find photos of the family members and your assigned room, giving you a glimpse into your home away from home. - WhatsApp Group Invitation:
We’ll add you to our dedicated WhatsApp group, where you’ll meet our friendly staff and connect with other participants before your program begins. This group is a fantastic way to ask questions, share excitement, and start building relationships with your fellow travelers. It’s also a platform for our team to provide updates and share helpful information as your arrival date approaches.
- Detailed Packing List:
Transportation
Absolutely all transportation is included in every Traveling Spanish Program.
Private Luxury Transportation:
You’ll be chauffeured in comfort, with a private driver accompanying the group throughout the entire program.
All Transfers:
Includes pick-up AND dropoff from Juan Santamaria International airport (SJO), all transfers between tour locations, and transportation to and from daily activities.
Program Pricing and Dates
The price of the program is dependant on the type of lodging you prefer. See below for more details. Prices are listed per person in full. A $500 deposit is required per participant and will be applied toward the total cost of the program.
Welcome Solo Traveler!
As a solo traveler, you will receive:
• A private bedroom with a full, queen, or king-size bed
• A private bathroom exclusively for your use
Dates
Level
Syllabus
Price
Couples | 1 Bed
• A private bedroom with 1 queen or king-size bed
• A private bathroom exclusively for the two of you
Friends/Family | 2 Beds
• A private bedroom with 2 full or queen-size beds
• A private bathroom exclusively for the two of you
Dates
Level
Syllabus
Price
Welcome to Heredia, Costa Rica
- Location: Heredia
- Meals: Lunch and Dinner
- Stay: Local Homestay Family
Welcome to Costa Rica! Upon arrival, a Tico Lingo team member will meet you at the airport and transport you to your homestay in the charming city of Heredia. Known for its colonial architecture, small-town charm, and close proximity to the international airport (SJO), Heredia is the perfect place to begin your Costa Rican adventure. You’ll meet your homestay family, settle into your room, and depending on your arrival time, share a delicious lunch or dinner. This is your chance to unwind, explore the neighborhood, and start practicing your Spanish with your welcoming hosts.
Orientation + Spanish Class + Chocolate Tour
- Location: Heredia
- Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
- Stay: Local Homestay Family
Morning:
- Breakfast (7:00 AM): Your first morning in Costa Rica starts with a traditional breakfast of Gallo Pinto, Costa Rica’s beloved rice and beans dish, along with fresh fruit and the region’s renowned coffee.
- Orientation & Spanish Class: After breakfast, walk with your homestay mom to Tico Lingo, located in downtown Heredia. Meet Program Director Chris and Spanish teacher Freddy Fariñas, who will introduce you to the week’s schedule and ensure you’re set up for a smooth and enjoyable trip. We’ll dive right into our first Spanish class with interactive icebreakers, and Freddy will help you brush up on your conversation skills.
Afternoon:
- Lunch (12:45 PM): We’ll head to a cozy restaurant for a casual lunch of wood-fired pizza, fresh salads, and artisanal paninis, with plenty of vegetarian options.
- Chocolate Tour: Next, we’ll embark on a tour of a local chocolate producer. Learn the rich history of cacao in Costa Rica, the importance of sustainable production, and the unique flavors that have made Costa Rican chocolate world-famous. Of course, you’ll also get to sample a variety of chocolates, ranging from rich dark bars to delicate milk chocolates infused with local ingredients.
Evening:
- After the tour, head back to your homestay for dinner and some free time to practice your Spanish and prepare for tomorrow’s adventures.
- Dinner (7:00 PM)
Tres Ríos + Cartago City + Orosí Valley
- Location: Orosí Valley
- Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
- Stay: Hotel Quelitales
Morning:
- Breakfast (7:00 AM): Another hearty breakfast with your homestay family to start the day.
- Check-out (8:00 AM): The Tico Lingo shuttle will be picking you up! Say goodbye to your homestay family! Until next weekend.
- Spanish Class (9:15 AM): Our classroom for the day will be in Tres Ríos, a town nestled in the mountains and known for its coffee plantations. We’ll meet at a quaint café and ceramic studio, where you can enjoy a coffee as we begin our Spanish lesson.
Afternoon:
- Lunch (12:00 PM): Choose from fresh local trout, organic chicken, or grass-fed beef, all accompanied by fresh salads.
- Cartago Walking Tour: After lunch, we’ll visit Cartago, Costa Rica’s first capital and a city steeped in history. With Professor Freddy as your guide, explore La Basílica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles, a stunning church that is an important pilgrimage site for Costa Ricans. You’ll also visit colonial ruins and learn about Cartago’s role in shaping Costa Rica’s cultural and political landscape.
- Orosí Valley: We’ll then travel to the picturesque Orosí Valley, a lush region surrounded by mountains, hot springs, and coffee farms. Known for its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere, Orosí is a popular spot for bird watching and hiking. We’ll check into a rustic, cozy hotel nestled in the valley, where you can relax before a group dinner at 6:30 PM.
Bird Watching Hike & Afternoon Spanish
- Location: Orosí Valley
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Stay: Hotel Quelitales
Morning:
- Breakfast (8:00 AM): Enjoy a breakfast with your group before setting off on a guided hike. A local biologist will lead us through stunning trails on site near our hotel. Keep your eyes peeled for hummingbirds, toucans, and perhaps even the elusive Resplendent Quetzal, one of Costa Rica’s most beautiful and revered birds.
- Lunch (12:00 PM): Recharge with a fresh, locally sourced meal before continuing the day’s activities.
Afternoon:
- Spanish Class (1:15 – 5:15 PM): We’ll hold our afternoon Spanish class in a scenic spot next to a waterfall. The soothing sounds of nature will make for an inspiring learning environment. You’ll continue practicing conversational skills, guided by Freddy’s engaging teaching style.
Evening: Enjoy a relaxing dinner with a view over the entire valley, soaking in the tranquility of the region.
Morning Spanish + Wine Tour
- Location: Santa María de Dota
- Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
- Stay: Cedrela Lodge
Morning:
- Breakfast & Spanish Class (8:00 AM – 10:00 AM): After breakfast, we’ll gather for a short morning language session to further improve your speaking and comprehension skills.
- Commute to Lunch (10:30am – 12:30pm: We’ll drive through the mountains and make a quick stop for baños along the way
- Lunch (12:30 PM): We’ll then head to Copey Vinícola, Costa Rica’s first and only winery, located in the cool highlands of Dota. Here, you’ll savor a farm-to-table lunch surrounded by breathtaking views of the vineyard.
Afternoon: After lunch, we’ll embark on a wine tour led by an expert sommelier. Learn about the history of winemaking in Costa Rica and how the region’s unique climate allows for wine production. You’ll sample a variety of local wines and gain a new appreciation for Costa Rica’s lesser-known viticultural side.
Evening: After the tour, we’ll travel to a charming hotel in Dota, where you’ll have time to rest before enjoying a delicious dinner at 7:00 PM.
Morning Coffee Tour + Afternoon Spanish
- Location: Santa María de Dota
- Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
- Stay: Cedrela Lodge
Morning:
- Breakfast (8:00 AM): Start your day with breakfast before heading to a local coffee plantation for a tour. Learn about the meticulous process that goes into growing, harvesting, and roasting Costa Rican coffee, one of the country’s most important exports. You’ll get to sample a variety of roasts and see firsthand why Costa Rican coffee is so renowned.
Lunch (12:00 PM): Enjoy lunch with the group before another immersive afternoon class.
Afternoon:
- Spanish Class (1:00 – 5:00 PM): Continue practicing your Spanish in the peaceful surroundings of Dota. You’ll break at 3:00 PM before concluding the lesson at 5:00 PM. Dinner will be served at 6:30 PM.
Nauyaca Waterfalls + Pacific Ocean
- Location: Pacific Coast
- Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
- Stay: Uvita
Morning:
Breakfast & Spanish Class (8:00 AM – 12:00 PM): We’ll start with a morning language session in Pérez Zeledón, followed by lunch.
Afternoon:
After lunch, we’ll travel to the Nauyaca Waterfalls, one of Costa Rica’s most spectacular natural attractions. You can hike or take a horseback ride through lush jungle to reach the falls, where you’ll have time to swim in the cool, crystal-clear pools. After enjoying the refreshing waterfalls, we’ll continue our journey to the Pacific coast, where you’ll check into your beachfront hotel.
Evening:
Relax, swim in the ocean or pool, and enjoy a peaceful dinner by the beach at 7:00 PM.
Yoga/Surf Class & Spanish Graduation
- Location: Pacific Coast
- Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
- Stay: Uvita
Morning:
Breakfast & Leisure: Kick off the day with a relaxed breakfast, followed by an optional yoga class or surf lesson on the beach. Whether you’re perfecting your yoga poses or learning to ride the waves, it’s a great way to enjoy Costa Rica’s famous coastline.
Lunch: Explore the local town and grab lunch at one of the many beachfront restaurants.
Afternoon:
Spanish Class (3:00 – 5:00 PM): Your final Spanish class takes place with the beach as your backdrop. Afterward, celebrate your achievements with a special graduation ceremony at sunset. Raise a glass and toast to your new language skills!
Dinner follows at 6:30 PM.
Return to Heredia
- Location: Heredia
- Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
- Stay: Local Homestay Family
Morning and Afternoon
- Breakfast & Departure (11:00 AM): We’ll start the journey back to Heredia, with several scenic stops along the way. Our first break will be in Manuel Antonio, where you’ll enjoy lunch overlooking the ocean. Afterward, we’ll take a brief stop in Jacó, a lively beach town, before heading to Atenas, known for its cool climate and breathtaking mountain views.
Evening: Arrive back at Tico Lingo and reunite with your homestay family for your last night in Costa Rica. You’ll share one final meal and have the chance to reflect on how far your Spanish has come.
Program Departures
- Location: Uvita
- Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Morning:
Depending on your flight time, our Tico Lingo transport will take you to the airport at the appropriate time. If you’re continuing with a Tico Lingo Spanish Immersion Program, you can relax and enjoy your Sunday, knowing that classes resume Monday morning. If not, check-out is at 11:00 AM.
- Travel & Payment Questions
Once you’ve paid your deposit, you’ll receive a confirmation email from our team with an outline of your next steps. First, we’ll ask you to complete a brief online registration form, where you’ll provide important information such as dietary preferences, allergies, flight details, and any specific goals or expectations you have for the program.
After you’re fully registered, we’ll make sure you’re fully prepared for your adventure! You’ll receive:
- A detailed packing list with all the essentials.
- Access to our program’s WhatsApp group, where you can meet fellow participants and connect with our Tico Lingo team.
- A short bio of the homestay family you’ll be staying with, along with photos of the family and your accommodations.
We’ll be available to answer any questions you have leading up to your trip. Our goal is to ensure you feel excited and ready for your unforgettable Spanish immersion experience!
Your outstanding balance will be invoiced one week before the program begins. You’ll receive an email with a link to securely pay online using a debit or credit card. This gives you plenty of time to review the invoice and settle the payment at your convenience. If you have any questions or concerns about the payment, our team will be available to assist you. Rest assured, all payments are processed safely and quickly so you can focus on preparing for your adventure!
Need a little more time to pay off your balance? No problem! Just reach out to us, and we’ll create a custom payment plan that breaks your outstanding balance into three equal payments. This gives you more flexibility in managing the costs. There is a small 1% fee for setting up the plan, which will be added to your total balance. Once the payment plan is in place, you’ll receive a schedule of the due dates for each installment, ensuring you can plan your payments smoothly. We’re here to make sure the process is as hassle-free as possible.
Our friendly team will be waiting for you just outside the terminal! They’ll hold a sign with your name and the Tico Lingo logo so they’re easy to spot. You’ll be whisked away to your homestay in Heredia, where you’ll meet your local family. They’ll welcome you with open arms and make sure you feel right at home. It’s a warm introduction to Costa Rican culture!
- Lodging & Meals Questions
Yes, absolutely! Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, or have any specific dietary restrictions, just let us know during registration, and we’ll make sure your meals are tailored to your needs. Our homestay families and partnering restaurants are very accommodating.
Our accommodations are selected for their comfort, charm, and reliability. All lodging options along the itinerary have hot water, reliable internet, and clean, comfortable rooms. You’ll stay in everything from local homestays to cozy rural hotels, each one offering a unique experience of Costa Rican hospitality.
We want to give our students some freedom to explore the local cuisine and practice their Spanish in real-world situations. Navigating a restaurant menu and ordering food is a key part of travel and an excellent way to use your Spanish skills in the real world.
Your homestay includes a private bedroom, daily breakfast and dinner, and the opportunity to practice your Spanish with a local family. You’ll also have access to essential amenities like hot water, Wi-Fi, and laundry services. It’s a wonderful chance to immerse yourself in Costa Rican culture, make personal connections, and enjoy authentic home-cooked meals.
- Spanish Class and Program Questions
No problem! We recommend starting with our free online Spanish exam to assess your level. You can also read our blog article, “What Is My Spanish Level?” to guide you through self-assessment using the CEFR scale. Each Traveling Spanish Program follows a specific syllabus based on the language level required for that trip. You can easily review the syllabus by clicking the “Syllabus” link next to the program you’re interested in. This will help you decide if the program matches your current abilities and goals!
For each program to run, we need a minimum of 4 participants, and we cap the group at 9 to keep things personal and interactive. If we don’t reach the minimum, we’ll refund your deposit in full and help you book an alternative Spanish Immersion Program in Heredia if your flights are non-refundable.
Yes, you’re both welcome to join! While it’s important to review the syllabus and make sure the program is a good fit, our Spanish professor will ensure that both of you get the support you need. However, the class will progress according to the majority’s level, so we recommend that each of you be as close in level for your desired program as possible to get the most out of the experience.
All necessary materials for your Spanish lessons are provided, including a course booklet, worksheets, a notebook, and writing utensils. Your booklet will serve as a key guide, containing vocabulary, grammar exercises, and cultural insights that aligned with the level of the program.
No need to worry! Our small class sizes (maximum of 9 students) ensure personalized attention, so your instructor can work with you if you have questions or need extra help. We also encourage participants to practice their Spanish outside of class with their homestay families, local hotel staff, and tour guides. Also remember, we’ll be traveling with our Spanish teacher who will almost always be available to answer questions.
If you’re eager to continue your language journey, we invite you to join our full Spanish Immersion Program after completing the Traveling Spanish Program. This option allows you to stay with the same homestay family in Heredia and attend daily Spanish classes at our school. You’ll enjoy 4 hours of instruction each day, focusing on more in-depth language skills and conversational practice. Plus, you’ll have more time to explore the local area and deepen your immersion experience. If you’re interested, just let our staff know, and we can help coordinate your extended stay!
- Health and Safety Questions
We will always prioritize the health and safety of our students. Our staff is trained to handle minor injuries like cuts or bruises, and we have immediate access to transportation if further medical care is needed. Additionally, we’re never more than 45 minutes away from a major hospital. Rest assured, you’re in good hands during your experience with Tico Lingo.
We recommend purchasing travel insurance before your trip. While we provide access to medical facilities in case of an emergency, having insurance ensures that you’re covered for any unforeseen incidents. Most medical insurance providers in the USA, Canada, and other parts of the world will reimburse you for treatments received in Costa Rica.
To ensure your peace of mind, we suggest checking in with your insurance provider to confirm their coverage process while traveling in Costa Rica. If you’re unsure where to start, we can recommend some trusted insurance providers that cater to international travelers. Taking this step will help you focus on enjoying your experience without worrying about potential medical expenses.
If you take regular medication or have a medical condition, just let us know ahead of time via our registration form. Be sure to pack all necessary prescriptions, as certain medications can be hard to find in Costa Rica. Our team is familiar with handling a variety of medical needs, and we will make accommodations to ensure you’re comfortable throughout the trip.
We take the health and safety of our participants very seriously. Each location we visit is carefully vetted for safety, and we provide 24/7 support from our on-site staff. First-aid supplies are always accessible, and we’re never more than 45 minutes away from a major hospital. Additionally, our guides are trained to respond to any medical emergencies, and all group activities are conducted with safety in mind.
Absolutely! Please bring any prescription medication you need, as some medicines can be difficult to find in Costa Rica. We recommend bringing enough for the duration of your stay, along with copies of your prescriptions in case of an emergency.
Still have some questions?
Don’t hesitate to contact us and talk directly to Program Advisor about the Traveling Spanish Program in Costa Rica!