The 10 Best Spanish Immersion Programs Around the World

Let’s face it: learning Spanish as an adult can be tough. Aside from the boring and repetitive nature of a lot of traditional classroom methods, there’s also a certain level of vulnerability you expose yourself to by making mistakes. However, while you may save yourself from feeling silly by avoiding rolling your R’s, you won’t notice real improvement. This is where Spanish immersion programs abroad come in.

It might seem overwhelming to jump into the deep end of learning Spanish by surrounding yourself with native speakers, but anyone fluent in a second language will tell you that full immersion is the best way to learn it. If you’re ready to take that leap, check out these 10 best Spanish immersion programs for adults!

Spanish immersion programs take away the boring monotony of classroom verb drills and endless flashcards and instead have you living and breathing the language from day 1. Immersion programs focus on getting you to use the language both inside the classroom and out, often pairing instruction with cultural activities, language exchanges with local residents, roleplaying, day trips, and more.

Here are some of the top benefits of Spanish immersion programs overseas.

• They’re fully immersive: Maybe it sounds redundant to describe immersion programs as immersive but they are truly designed to surround you with all things Spanish language 24/7.
• It’s the best way to learn: Learning Spanish in a natural setting with native speakers allows you to hear and use the language daily. You’ll start to pick up on vocabulary and expressions simply from their context clues.
• You’ll develop fluency faster: Because of the intensive nature of immersion programs, you’ll see your skills soar even if you only have a week to spare to attend a program.
• You’ll build stronger conversational skills: Whether it’s living in a homestay with a host family or chatting with a conversation partner from the town in the evening, you will engage with people and learn in an authentic and practical way.
• You’ll find your “why”: Finding the motivation to learn a language can be hard when you feel like you’re never going to use it. Learning Spanish in a Spanish-speaking country means you’ll need it every day, from ordering a coffee at the corner cafe to bonding with your host family.
• They’re fun! If you’re not someone who learns languages as a hobby, chances are that you are one of the many people who have had unpleasant experiences in a classroom setting before. Learning Spanish through an immersion program takes the pain, embarrassment, and boredom out of the acquisition process by providing a supportive and fun atmosphere. You’ll be traveling, trying new foods, and making a ton of international friends – what’s not to love?

Read more: Should You Learn a Language Through Immersion or in the Classroom?

One of the most exciting aspects of learning Spanish is all the places you can go to study it! Spanish is the official language of 21 countries and is spoken by over 550 million people globally. Each destination has its unique draws but here are some of the best places to learn Spanish abroad.

• Spain: Birthplace of the Spanish language, Spain is a dynamic country with a wide range of sights and experiences for every study. Have a glass of wine in Madrid’s famous Plaza Mayor, lounge on the sunny beaches of Valencia, or become one with nature as you hike the Sierra Nevada mountains of Andalusia.
• Mexico: The warmth and hospitality of Mexico will win your heart. Get to know our southern neighbor by surrounding yourself with the delicious food, lively music, and joy for life and family that defines Mexico.
• Colombia: Known among Spanish learners as a country with a smooth and comprehensible accent, Colombia is also steeped in a fiery and passionate culture that will leave you wanting just one more week abroad. Find your rhythm in both language and dance.
• Peru: From the Andes to the Amazon, Peru is a great destination for both history and nature lovers. Outside of class, you’ll have plenty of time to marvel at Inca architecture and enjoy the incredible biodiversity Peru has to offer.
• Costa Rica: If you’re looking for a place to truly unwind, Costa Rica is the place to do it. Friendly and laid-back locals will make practicing your conversation skills a breeze!
• Panama: Panama is a vibrant and exciting fusion of cultures. The country is a diverse melting pot of Indigenous, African, and European roots that influences the food, folklore, music, art, and architecture.

It’s important to remember that similar to English, accents, dialects, and vocabulary will vary depending on where you are in the world. If you are planning to use Spanish to work with a specific population or have a country or region of the world in mind where you’d like to live or study in the future, it’s best to pick an immersion program in that country. If not, the world is your ostra!

Location: Spain
Program length: 3 or 5 weeks in summer
Starting price: $7,950 for 3 weeks
What’s included: homestay accommodation, meals, language classes, in-country transportation, cultural events & activities, 24/7 support, personalized pre-travel orientation, hotels & BnBs at beginning and end of trip, internship for 5-week option

Pros:

• You’ll be matched with a host family that has teens your age with similar interests and personalities.
• Living in rural Spain while taking language classes and completing an independent project will significantly boost your Spanish level, research skills, and confidence.

Cons:

• If this is your first time away from home, you may experience homesickness.
• Total immersion is worth it but can be mentally exhausting at times.

LITA is the best of the best when it comes to high school Spanish immersion programs. If you’re in grades 9 through 11, you can choose from a 3 or 5-week program in the summer that will take you through the real Spain you don’t see as a tourist. Explore the beauty of rural Spain, while learning about food, music, history, and ecology.

Past participants have said that living with a local Spanish family was one of the best parts of their experience with LITA. LITA will match you carefully with your hosts so you feel right at home from day 1. The use of Spanish in all situations will help you to gain confidence speaking and to form cross-cultural bonds. This program has helped countless students gain a greater sense of independence and travel savvy over the years – don’t miss out on your chance!

Location: Spain
Program length: 1-4 weeks
Starting price: $1,588 for 1 week
What’s included: homestay, meals, 15 hours of Spanish classes a week, excursions, cooking class

Pros:

• Improve your Spanish while you recharge at a beachfront villa.
• Class sizes are limited to 4 students at a time, ensuring personal attention and plenty of opportunities to practice.

Cons:

• If you’re looking for an immersion program in a bustling big city, this probably isn’t the best fit.
• Spanish is the only language allowed during your stay so if you’re a complete beginner, you may find it difficult to communicate.

You’ll be hard-pressed to find critical reviews from past participants who spent time at Agualivar Spanish School. From the tranquil seaside location to the homey, hospitable atmosphere, former students felt welcomed and relaxed throughout their program.

At Agualivar, your hosts are also your teachers! The villa accommodation is owned by the family who runs the school, giving you a unique experience that is both homestay and independent living at the same time. Students receive 15 hours of Spanish instruction a week through games, workshops, and conversation groups. There are also outings arranged to the local area to learn more about the history, culture, and food of Southern Spain.

3. Best for budget-conscious students: Maximo Nivel
Location: Costa Rica, Guatemala, or Peru
Program length: 1-52 weeks
Starting price: $70 for 1 week
What’s included: 2 or 4 hours of Spanish lessons per day, cultural and language exchange with local residents, airport pickup, 24/7 emergency line, books and materials, cooking and dance classes, walking tour

Pros:

• Get paired with a local language exchange partner by joining Maximo Nivel’s free Tandem Conversation program – meet your new Spanish-speaking bestie!
• Classes start every Monday so jump in whenever your schedule permits.

Cons:

• Secure your own housing or book accommodation at an additional cost through Maximo Nivel.
• Excursions aren’t included in the price.

Maximo Nivel offers independent students a customizable a la carte experience in either Costa Rica, Guatemala, or Peru. Choose from one of their intensive, low-cost immersion programs and spend your days exploring on your own, or add in volunteering, an internship, or cultural excursions for an extra cost to put your Spanish skills into action in the community.

Class sizes at Maximo Nivel are limited to between 3-6 students so you’ll never feel like you’ve disappeared in the crowd. An emphasis is placed on improving spoken Spanish naturally, not only through interactions with your teacher but also by immersing yourself in the local community. If you’re looking for a flexible and laid-back program, Maximo Nivel is a great option.

Location: Costa Rica
Program length: 1-24 weeks
Starting price: $350 for 1 week
What’s included: 20 hours of classes a week, airport pickup, orientation, books and materials, dance and yoga classes, language exchange with local residents

Pros:

• With 20 hours of classes of small group classes a week, your skills will soar in a short period of time.
• Heredia, a friendly city just north of the capital San Jose, is a stone’s throw from much of the natural beauty that defines Costa Rica..

Cons:

• You’ll need to budget additional money for accommodation.
• No trips are included but staff can point you to the best attractions.

Tico Lingo’s Spanish immersion program for adults will build your confidence in speaking through 20 hours of classroom instruction a week and opportunities to participate in local life. Past participants noticed a huge improvement in their skills at around the 4-week point, with many who originally planned to only do a week or two extending their stays. Tico Lingo’s program is flexible and allows you to make last-minute extensions or to add private classes to your package at any time.

Outside of class, get involved in language exchanges with native speakers or take one of Tico Lingo’s free dance or yoga classes with other students. Students particularly loved their homestay experiences and felt they were truly included and welcomed like a members of the family. If you’ve always wanted a second family abroad, this program is a great place to find one!

Location: Spain
Program length: 2-52 weeks
Starting price: $1,380 for 2 weeks
What’s included: homestay, meals, between 20-36 hours of classes a week, books and materials, activities, 24/7 support

Pros:

• College students can earn credits for any program 4 weeks or longer.
• Pick add-on classes tailored to your interests or prepare for the DELE exam.

Cons:

• Experiences with host families can be hit or miss.
• If you want to volunteer while on your program, it is an extra fee.

If you want to study Spanish in Spain, EF offers customizable intensive Spanish immersion courses. EF Spain runs top-rated language centers in Barcelona and Malaga where students can stay with a local host family or in a dorm with other language students from all over the world.

EF allows you to design the perfect learning experience to meet your goals. Aside from your language instruction classes, choose from optional modules like Spanish culture, current affairs, business Spanish, or exam preparation for the DELE Spanish proficiency test. Outside of the classroom, enjoy organized trips and activities that will have you jet-setting around Morocco and Andorra, touring the impressive architecture of Gaudí, and surfing the southern coast of Spain.

Location: Spain
Program length: 1-4 weeks
Starting price: $1,500 for 1 week
What’s included: accommodation, meals, excursions, grammar & conversation classes, materials, pre-departure support

Pros:

• Get private, 1-on-1 attention from your teacher, even outside of scheduled class times.
• Tailor your experience and instruction completely to your needs and interests, whether that be test prep, a focus on arts and culture, or formal Spanish for business or university study.

Cons:

• The immersion program isn’t designed for long-term stays.
• If you’re drawn to the social aspect of group classes, this program may not be right for you.

Spanish Express offers a unique take on Spanish immersion: live with your private teacher! If you want an intimate and highly personalized experience, Spanish Express might just be the program you’ve been searching for. Choose from a variety of cities across Spain including Barcelona, Cádiz, Burgos, Mallorca, Valencia, Murcia, Seville, and Girona.

Before you go, you’ll be paired with your tutor who will meet with you via video chat to discuss your goals and interests. Once in Spain, you’ll get 15 hours a week each for grammar, speaking, and excursions. During this time, your tutor is also your guide and roommate! Gain an insider perspective of Spain by immersing yourself in the language and culture 24/7.

Location: Panama
Program length: 1-52 weeks
Starting price: $279 for 1 week
What’s included: 20 hours of classes a week, cultural activities, walking tour, dance classes, conversation sessions, course book, Spanish language movie nights

Pros:

• Friendly and welcoming teachers take the fear out of language learning.
• Group classes are capped at 4 students – you’ll get plenty of personal attention.

Cons:

• Accommodation is not included but it can be arranged with an additional fee.
• If you’re looking for relaxed activities, the salsa classes, bike rides, hikes, and beach volleyball might be too high energy.

Experience Panama’s beautiful and historic Casco Viejo area of Panama City with Casco Antiguo Spanish School. This immersion program blends classroom learning with excursions into the local community and meaningful cultural activities. Past students felt they had plenty of opportunities to practice their Spanish both during lessons and while out and about in a natural setting.

Casco Antiguo arranges evening events throughout the week, from happy hour on Monday to beach volleyball on Thursday. Whether you’re keen to learn to dance Salsa, do restorative yoga, or try local beers on a brewery tour, this school has plenty of exciting things to do.

Location: Peru
Program length: 2-26 weeks
Starting price: $3,195 for 2 weeks
What’s included: accommodation, some meals, airport pickup and dropoff, in-country transportation, activities & excursions, customized internship and mentorship, pre-departure support, 24/7 support

Pros:

• Participate in a Spanish immersion internship in your field of choice and gain personal mentorship.
• After successful completion of your internship, receive a resume review and letter of recommendation.

Cons:

• Formal Spanish classes can be arranged but for an extra cost.
• Efforts are made to acclimatize interns to the elevation but altitude sickness is still possible.

Students, new grads, and career changers can all benefit from a Linguistic Horizons internship in Peru. If you want to put your Spanish skills to good use, Linguistic Horizons will work with you to customize an internship tailored to your interests and career goals. Past internships have been arranged in fields like education, physical therapy, social work, marketing, web development, and more.

Outside of your community-focused internship, there are opportunities to arrange additional travel around Peru to see iconic places like Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca, and to join multiday treks through the Andes. Work experience, cultural and language immersion, and tourism – what more could you want?

Location: Mexico
Program length: 1-52 weeks
Starting price: $774 for 1 week
What’s included: homestay, meals, 18 hours of classes a week, guided tour, excursion to Mayan cenote, immersion coordinator

Pros:

• Practice your Spanish, learn some Quechua, and engage with Mexico’s Indigenous community in a meaningful way.
• Felipe Carrillo Puerto is a safe, quiet city where English isn’t widely spoken – the perfect place to put your Spanish to the test.

Cons:

• Students looking for a touristy city experience won’t find many flashy things to do.
• Most excursions and activities cost extra.

At Na’atik Language and Culture Institute, helping students learn Spanish is equally as important as being immersed in indigenous Maya culture. This Spanish immersion program in Mexico is based in Felipe Carrillo Puerto, a small city with a population of people mostly of Maya descent. Through this nonprofit, you’ll engage in cross-cultural exchanges with locals to learn about the history, culture, and traditions of the Maya people all while improving your Spanish skills.

The best part? Your program fees subsidize English lessons for Indigenous students and help fund a free local library. Experiencing the beauty of the Yucatan Peninsula while helping fellow language learners: it’s a win-win!

Location: Spain
Program length: 1-52 weeks
Starting price: $150 for 1 week
What’s included: 20 hours of classes a week, books & materials, cultural activities, 24/7 support, legal support

Pros:

• If you want to stay in Spain longer than 90 days, Instituto Hemingway’s in-house lawyer will help you through the visa process.
• As an Instituto Cervantes-accredited school, you can both prepare for and take the DELE during your time as a student.

Cons:

• Accommodation is extra and starts at $290 a week.
• If you’d also like to volunteer, you will need to pay a separate fee.

Instituto Hemingway is an accredited and respected language school that offers unparalleled support for students hoping to study in Spain long-term. Located in Bilbao, this program gives serious students a chance to really dig into the mechanics of Spanish while refining their speaking skills. Outside of class, the school arranges a variety of things to do, from culinary and cultural activities to sports and the arts.

For those interested in long-term study, Instituto Hemingway has an in-house lawyer who specializes in both visas and residence permits, which you’ll need to apply for if you want to stay in Spain longer than 90 days. The paperwork and process for residence permits is especially tricky so having an experienced lawyer on your side is priceless!

The cost of learning Spanish abroad varies depending on a number of factors, including length, location, and inclusions. In general, a week-long Spanish immersion program can cost anywhere between $70 to $2,500 USD. Programs at the higher end of the price range usually include housing, meals, and excursions.

When calculating an overall estimate of your costs, don’t forget to include airfare, visa fees, travel insurance, and any housing, meals, transport, and activities that aren’t included.

Take the guesswork out of choosing a Spanish language program abroad with these 3 simple steps!

It can be hard to pick just one destination from the list of all of the amazing Spanish-speaking countries. To narrow down your options, ask yourself how you feel about the following factors.

• Accent: Just like with English, accents and vocabulary differ across Spanish dialects. Some countries have accents that are considered “easier” (Colombia) or “harder” (Argentina) for English speakers to understand but this isn’t universal. Spend some time listening to different accents on YouTube and see which you like best.
• Location: Every country has unique and wonderful things to offer. Want to spend your mornings in class and your afternoons on the beach? Interested in taking weekend trips to trek through the jungle or up a famous mountain peak? Pick a place where you can do all your favorite things!
• Length: Whether you only have two weeks of paid vacation to use or are taking an adult gap year, some programs are better tailored to short or long-term stays.
• Budget: There are programs for every budget. If you don’t have a lot to spend, outside of the program cost, also consider the cost of living and transportation to and from the country.
• Goals: Are you pursuing serious Spanish study to improve your job prospects or simply for the love of language learning? Defining your goals will help you select a program that can get you where you want to be.

We highly recommend the 10 top programs featured above but if you haven’t found one that fits your needs, we’ve got hundreds more here on GO!

Once you’ve picked the perfect program, all that’s left to do is apply! Doing a Spanish immersion program abroad through a program provider makes the whole process super easy. You’ll be supported from start to finish with visas, settling in, and any questions you have along the way.

Without all the stress, you can focus on what’s important: improving your Spanish and having a great time!

Wherever you decide to learn Spanish, you’re sure to have an experience that will improve your language skills and introduce you to a new part of the world. So spin the globe, and go!