High School Spanish Immersion Trips
Amazing Summer Spanish Immersion Trips for Teens
Watch your students’ Spanish come to life! Students will gain Spanish fluency, cultural understanding, independence and be pushed outside their comfort zone on this adventure of a lifetime. By simply practicing Spanish in everyday situations, they will immerse themselves in the language and culture, enhancing their learning experience.
Costa Rica
Spanish Immersion Program in Costa Rica
Highlights
- Host family stay – Live like a local
- Spanish & Cultural Classes 15 – 30 hrs.
- Community service projects – work with local children, immerse yourself in the community and enhance your language skills.
- Beach & surfing lesson
- National park excursions with local guides
- Volcanoes & waterfalls
- Toucans, sloths, monkeys and more
- Zip-line & hanging bridges
- Volcanic hot springs
- Turtle and kayak experience (3wk program)
- Salsa & cumbia dancing classes
- Cooking classes
Location
Dates
Feb. 14 – 22nd +/-1 one day, 2026
14 – Day Program:
July 9 – July 22, 2026
21 – Day Program:
July 9- July 29, 2026
24/7 Support
Possible to combine with Ecuador programs
Ecuador
Spanish Immersion Program in Ecuador
Highlights
- Host family stay – Live like a local
- Spanish & Cultural Classes 15 – 30 hrs.
- Community service projects – work with local children
- Straddle the equator @ Mitad del Mundo
- 5 days Amazon backpacking adventure (3wk program)
- Work with local biologists and geologists in Amazon
- Experience the Inca Empire while standing at the temple of sun & moon
- Soak in volcanic hot springs
- Explore Cajas National Park- Gateway to the Andes
- Cooking classes
Location
Dates
June 20 – July 11, 2026
2 – week Program: (no Amazon backpacking)
June 27 – July 11, 2026
24/7 Support
Possible to combine with Costa Rica programs
High School Spanish Immersion Combo Program
1.5 weeks Costa Rica
Highlights
- Live with a family in Ecuador & Costa Rica
- Spanish classes- massively improve your fluency in a month!
- Volunteer work with kids in each country
- Amazon backpacking trip (EC)
- Learn about the Inca empire as you visit the temple del sol y luna (EC)
- Beach excursion to Manuel Antonio National Park (CR)
- Adventure Excursion to Arenal Volcano (CR)
- Hot springs, zip-line, hanging bridges, waterfall hike & swim
- Dancing & cooking classes
- Benefit from personalized instruction in small groups
Location
2025 Dates
24/7 Support
Possible to extend longer
Why travel with Common Ground International (CGI)?
We’re different from most student travel programs. We specialize in taking a deep dive into Spanish and cultural immersion through close contact with students and families, ensuring they meet ACTFL’s World Readiness Standards. It’s like a study abroad program for teens but with the safety parameters and leadership for high school students. Teens walk away with…
If your goal is to become a better Spanish speaker then you’ve landed in the right place. Our objective is Spanish and cultural immersion.
These 4 program elements guarantee you walk away more fluent, with greater cultural understanding, more mature and independent
HOST FAMILY LODGING
Spanish only
Host families keep you speaking Spanish 24/7 AND you learn cultural insights that you would never pick up if you stayed in a hotel.
Host families go through a rigorous vetting process as they are an integral piece of this program.
COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECTS
Completed in Spanish
Spanish and humanitarian work mix to create the ultimate learning opportunity, not just about Spanish but about life!
This is a fantastic way for you to lend a hand to those in need while speaking Spanish to meet real objectives.
SPANISH CLASSES
Taught by native Spanish speakers
Your fluency will increase on immersion and Spanish classes help you sort out all the fast paced language you hear daily.
Spanish classes help you maximize all the day-to-day learning you’re doing outside of class.
ADVENTURE TRAVEL TO HOTSPOTS
in Spanish
Every Spanish immersion trip should include some adventure to the hot spots and hidden gems.
Experience beaches, volcanoes, trekking through the rain forest, ziplining, volcanic hot springs y mucho más!
Testimonials from Teen Spanish Immersion Travelers
We chose the 4-week Costa Rica immersion program. I believe my rising 10th grader said it best after her return: “Mom, if I hadn’t gone I wouldn’t be who I am now. I have friends from all over the country, my Spanish has improved so much, and I don’t think there are many people who can say they’ve worked on a real chocolate farm.” The program offered so much: community service opportunities with local children, a high school visitation program to meet Costa Rican peers, 3 weeks living with a kind local family and 3 weeks of Spanish instruction…and that doesn’t even touch the adventures. I cannot begin to share all the program offered. And I can see the growth and confidence my daughter gained from the experience.
– Sarah Craig
“Common Ground International does an amazing job with their Spanish Immersion program. It was everything that I had anticipated for my teenagers to experience, and more! Both of my kids were not really excited about going to “school” over summer, but both have said that the school part of the program was perhaps the most interesting and fun part of it. The host families are truly special. My children really felt right at home almost immediately. It was more than just immersion though. By the end of the two weeks, both of them said that they could have stayed for a third week. They have made friends from across the country and continue to keep in touch with them. They also now have a “family” in Costa Rica whom they continue to communicate with as well!”
– James Crowther
More reasons to join our high school summer study programs
Diversity and Inclusivity on High School Spanish Immersion
Our mission of Impacting Communities Through Language extends to ALL travelers and learners regardless of age, gender identity, physical ability, race, religion, sexual orientation and socioeconomic status.
Program Details and Logistics
Our Spanish Language Immersion programs are designed to provide a comprehensive and enriching experience for high school students. The programs’ length varies from 10 days to up to 4 weeks, allowing students to choose the duration that best fits their schedule and goals.
Age range: 14-18 years old
Our programs are specifically designed for high school students aged 14-18. This age range ensures that participants are surrounded by peers at a similar stage in life, fostering a supportive and engaging environment. The activities and curriculum are tailored to meet the interests and developmental needs of teenagers, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.
Language level: beginner to advanced
No matter your current proficiency in Spanish, our programs are structured to accommodate all language levels, from beginner to advanced. Our experienced instructors will assess your skills and place you in a group that matches your level, ensuring that you receive the appropriate support and challenges to improve your Spanish skills effectively. This inclusive approach guarantees that every student can benefit from the program, regardless of their starting point.
Activities and excursions: cultural, historical, and outdoor
Our programs include a wide range of activities and excursions designed to immerse you in the local culture and environment. From exploring historical landmarks and participating in cultural festivals to engaging in outdoor adventures like hiking, zip-lining, and beach excursions, there is something for everyone. These activities not only enhance your language learning but also provide a deeper understanding of the local culture and history, making your experience truly enriching.
Choosing the Right Spanish Immersion Program
Choosing the right Spanish immersion program can be a daunting task, especially for high school students. With so many options available, it’s essential to consider several factors before making a decision.
