Nestled amongst world-renowned rivers and misty mountain tops, the small and welcoming town of Turrialba is an ideal location to study Spanish. But don’t let the quaintness of the town fool you; the amount of daily activities and events both indoors and out are numerous. Raft the Pacuare, attend a Swing Criollo dance class and catch a live band all in the same day! Furthermore, this super friendly, non-touristy and non-English speaking community encourages a true language immersion in a place that feels more like home than living abroad.

Our Spanish school in Turrialba is perfect for adventurous people that love to learn about different cultures, ecosystems and tropical farming. The school was founded in June 2002 and is located a little outside of the typically "Tico" town of Turrialba. When coming from San José, 10 minutes before entering town, you take a left into "Barrio El Recreo" to enter the "Entrada de Chirraca" and arrive at our Spanish school, an oasis of peace and therefore a great place to study spanish and relax. At 850 meters, it seems a little less hot and more "tranquilo" than in downtown Turrialba.

Spanish classes are mostly held outside, in one of the little huts or on the roomy porch, from where you have a beautiful view of the volcano and the lush, green surroundings. You can spot exotic birds like toucans, hummingbirds, and other tropical species while attending classes. During breaks we serve delicious coffee from the surrounding highlands. If you want to stretch your legs, you can walk down the street in front of the school and maybe see some leafcutter ants coming by or even a sloth!

Who likes to study at Spanish by the River - Turrialba?
Are you looking for an authentic living abroad experience in a place where Spanish is actually spoken and tour groups rarely go? The welcoming community of local ticos and ticas provides an excellent setting to integrate and engage with the Latino culture. Our homestay opportunities provide even more immersion into the local culture and customs as you will participate daily in family meals, outings, occasions and holidays. From yoga to live music, salsa classes to river rafting, Turrialba is nothing shy of weekly activities and events, concerts and excursions to further your exposure to the language and culture.

Have you considered staying with a host family?
Living with a local host family is a unique experience that will provide you the opportunity to not only learn the language but also explore the culture of Costa Rica. A homestay is an essential part of an immersion Spanish course; only by mixing with the local people and having to speak the Spanish language you are going to do it and learn it naturally!

Maybe you are a bit hesitant but you need to know that our families are used to receiving foreigners like you in their homes and making them feel comfortable even if you don’t speak Spanish. They will be able to communicate with you!