Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica

Spanish, Surf & Rainforest Adventure Camp in Costa Rica

Learn Spanish in one of the world's most biodiverse regions. This isn't classroom-only—you'll surf the Caribbean waves, trek through rainforest spotting sloths and monkeys, and live the pura vida lifestyle with students from around the world.

Run by Planet ConservationAges 18+

Language Immersion Adventure & Outdoors Multi-Activity

Dates and prices

Dates2027 dates pending

Duration2 weeks

Fees2027 prices pending

About this camp

Escape to Costa Rica's Caribbean coast this summer for a two-week immersion that blends language learning with pure adventure.

Based in Puerto Viejo, you'll join a small group of just 16 students aged 18-25 for 20 hours of Spanish instruction in an open-air classroom setting, followed by afternoons riding the region's famous waves with professional surf lessons.

Stay in our colourful student house complete with a swimming pool, sharing meals and experiences with new friends from around the world while enjoying daily breakfast and dinner prepared on-site.

Beyond the classroom and surfboard, you'll trek through lush rainforest teeming with sloths, monkeys, and toucans, participate in local volunteering activities, and experience the laid-back "pura vida" lifestyle that defines Costa Rican culture.

With airport transfers from San José included, a certificate upon completion, and a local bilingual group leader ensuring your safety throughout your stay, this programme offers the perfect gap year summer experience—whether you're building your CV, preparing for university, or simply seeking an unforgettable summer abroad.

Two sessions available: July 4-18 or July 18-August 1, 2026, from price to be confirmed for 2027 with early booking or friend discounts.

Learn Spanish in an open-air classroom minutes from the Caribbean surf
Ride world-class waves with professional instructors regardless of skill level
Spot sloths and monkeys during guided rainforest treks
Live in a cool student house with pool and global community
Support local conservation activities with our local team and experience authentic pura vida culture.

What the price covers

20h Language course including all tuition and course materials
shared accommodation and two daily meals
2x2h surf lessons board and rash guard
city tour
local transportation
extracurricular program including cultural tour and guided rescue center visit

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Academics

The Spanish and Surf Summer Camp delivers 20 hours of immersive group instruction, with classes tailored to all proficiency levels from complete beginners to advanced speakers; the programme emphasizes practical, conversational Spanish rooted in real-world contexts rather than textbook memorization, ensuring students gain confidence for everyday interactions, travel, and future academic or professional pursuits.

What you'll do

Volunteering

Beyond language learning, the programme immerses students in Costa Rica's adventure culture through professional surf instruction on Caribbean waves, guided rainforest wildlife treks, hands-on volunteering with local communities, and beachside social activities that foster genuine connections with fellow international students.

Accommodation and food

Students reside in a sustainable eco-travel hostel featuring shared rooms, a swimming pool, yoga deck, and communal social areas including a recycling workshop and shared kitchen access, fostering an environmentally conscious community atmosphere just steps from the beach.