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VOLUNTEER
SUMMER CAMP

VOLUNTEER TEEN CAMP IN COSTA RICA

An impactful summer begins here! Join Maximo Nivel’s Volunteer Teen Camp in Costa Rica and contribute to the global community while immersing yourself in the local culture. Experience the coastal beauty of Manuel Antonio and the bustling city life of San Jose as you volunteer at community service projects that make a real difference.

Maximo Nivel’s Volunteer Teen Camp is designed for ages 13-17, giving teens a safe, secure, and supportive environment to explore, learn, and give back. Beyond hands-on service, campers also enjoy cultural activities, creative workshops, sports, and adventure tours. Volunteer Camp helps young people make new friends and grow into true global citizens by fostering social responsibility and cross-cultural understanding.

Working side-by-side with local grassroots organizations, community leaders, and other teens empowers campers to step outside their comfort zones and exercise their team-building and communication skills. Teens also learn how to become independent and self-reliant. These transformational qualities give students a uniquely distinct edge, helping them stand out in competitive environments, such as job interviews and university admissions.

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Schools & Campuses

Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica
Maximo Nivel’s Rainforest-Beach Institute in Manuel Antonio – Quepos is in an open-air, 2-story building in the heart of town. Spanish campers study amidst Costa Rica’s beautiful rainforest and white sand beaches. The campus includes 10 classrooms, swimming pool, snack bar, and on-site travel office. There is also free WiFi throughout the institute. In true Costa Rican pura vida lifestyle, the Maximo Nivel Manuel Antonio campus is a great home base and social center where campers can relax, socialize, and even sunbathe.

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San Jose, Costa Rica
Maximo Nivel is located in San Pedro, the university district in the capital city of San Jose. The neighborhood offers a great student vibe, lots of cafes, restaurants, and parks. The institute has 15 classrooms, lots of indoor/outdoor common areas, WiFi, computer lab, and snack bar. Spanish campers have their own designated area in the institute just for them.

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2027 Camp Schedule

Destination	Travel In	Start Date	End Date	Travel Out
Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica	10-July	11-July	17–July	18–July
San Jose, Costa Rica	17–July	18–July	24–July	25–July
Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica	24–July	25–July	31–July	01–August

*Participants may join for 1 to 3 weeks.

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Program Fees

Dates	San Jose, Costa Rica	Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica
11-July to 18-July	–	$2,395
18-July to 25–July	$2,395	–
25-July to 01-August	–	$2,395

*Participants may join for 1 to 3 weeks.

Apply now and take advantage of travel grants to make your program more affordable!
2 Weeks = $200 travel grant
3 Weeks = $300 travel grant

What’s Included:

− All tours and social activities
− Private transportation to/from all activities
− Chaperones 24/7; 8:1 student-chaperone ratio
− Airport pick-up and drop-off
− Host family accommodations
− Breakfast, lunch, dinner, 7 days/week
− Small group Spanish classes, 15 hours/week
− Spanish books and materials
− Program and safety orientation
− Official certificates for Spanish and volunteering
− Summer Camp T-shirt
− Free WiFi and computer lounge
− 10-Year Payment Guarantee

Why I Maximo Nivel

WHY VOLUNTEER TEEN CAMP?

VOLUNTEER TRACK

Volunteering abroad is an opportunity for teens to expand their perspectives of the world in a way that could never be achieved in a classroom. Through hands-on community service such as light construction work, tutoring English, and organizing activities with kids at local schools, teens learn to communicate and collaborate to solve problems in a new environment.

Projects run for 3 hours each afternoon and are based on community needs, ensuring teens can make a sustainable impact that lasts long after their summer camp experience.

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Volunteering abroad also helps teens understand the importance of community, empathy, and what it means to be a responsible global citizen. These qualities help teens grow in confidence and independence, giving them an advantage as they move into higher education and successful careers.

An official certificate for community service is provided at the end of the program.

Volunteer Teen Camp participants can also join Maximo Nivel’s Spanish Summer Camp, which runs simultaneously. Teens can divide a 2- to 3-week experience between meaningful volunteer work and immersive Spanish learning, enjoying the benefits of both tracks in one unforgettable summer!

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CAMP ACTIVITIES

ADVENTURE & CULTURE DURING VOLUNTEER CAMP

All Costa Rica Summer Camp participants join adventure and cultural activities every morning, before splitting into their chosen track for the afternoon session. Activities led by camp counselors and local professional guides include:

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JUNGLE ZIPLINE
Move from platform to platform on a zipline high above the jungle, taking in spectacular views of the lush landscape and surrounding rivers along the way. With a series of suspension platforms and exhilarating zipline runs, this is an exciting way to experience Costa Rica’s incredible natural environment.

MANUEL ANTONIO NATIONAL PARK
Explore one of Costa Rica’s most famous national parks with an experienced nature guide. Campers follow scenic trails through tropical rainforest, visit beautiful beaches and ocean inlets, and experience firsthand the park’s incredible wildlife. Keep an eye out for monkeys, sloths, colorful birds, and other rainforest residents along the way.

IRAZU VOLCANO
Head high into the mountains and discover one of Costa Rica’s most impressive natural landmarks! Campers visit Irazu Volcano National Park to explore its dramatic volcanic landscape, take in breathtaking views, and learn more about the geological forces that have shaped the country. On clear days, the summit offers sweeping views across Costa Rica—and, from certain viewpoints, both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts.

HANGING BRIDGES
Take adventure to new heights with a trek through the rainforest! Campers follow natural trails and cross suspended hanging bridges, enjoying a closer look at the forest canopy and surrounding landscape. The experience also includes picturesque waterfalls and the opportunity to cool off in a natural lagoon. It’s the perfect combination of exploration, fresh air, and unforgettable rainforest scenery.

SURF SCHOOL
Catch a wave and experience the pura vida lifestyle! Campers spend the day at one of Costa Rica’s beautiful beaches, where a professional surf instructor teaches them the basics of riding the waves. Between lessons, students can enjoy body surfing, boogie boarding, and paddleboarding— or if they don’t like the water, campers can simply relax on the sand, soak up the sunshine, and cheer on their friends. Whether they’re first-time surfers or already comfortable in the water, everyone can enjoy a day at the beach.

SCUBA DISCOVERY COURSE
Ready to discover a whole new world beneath the waves? Campers take part in an optional 2-day introductory Discover Scuba course, led by certified diving instructors. The experience includes 1 day of safety instruction and equipment training in a swimming pool, followed by 1 day of supervised ocean diving. Scuba is completely optional, so parents and teens who prefer not to participate can enjoy other camp activities instead.

RAINFOREST NIGHT TOUR
When the sun goes down, the rainforest comes alive. Campers explore Manuel Antonio’s jungle after dark, when many of its most fascinating creatures become active. With the help of experienced guides, teens look for tree frogs, colorful insects, and other elusive rainforest wildlife.

MANGROVE KAYAKING TOUR
Paddle into the fascinating world of Costa Rica’s mangroves. After a safety orientation and introduction to basic kayaking techniques, campers explore an estuary of the Paquita River with an expert naturalist guide. As they glide through the peaceful waterways, students can look out for white-faced monkeys, iguanas, turtles, crabs, anteaters, and a wide variety of bird species. It’s an exciting opportunity to experience one of Costa Rica’s most important ecosystems up close.

LA PAZ WATERFALL GARDENS
Discover the beauty of Costa Rica’s cloud forest at La Paz Waterfall Gardens. Campers explore rainforest trails, visit spectacular waterfalls, and encounter fascinating wildlife in the park’s nature and rescued animal exhibits. From colorful butterflies and hummingbirds to frogs, monkeys, big cats, and other incredible species, this experience brings Costa Rica’s biodiversity to life.

COFFEE FARM
Discover the journey from bean to cup on a traditional Costa Rican coffee tour. Teens explore how coffee is grown, harvested, processed, and roasted while learning about the important role coffee plays in Costa Rica’s culture and economy. It’s a chance to experience one of the country’s most famous exports up close—and enjoy the delicious results!

COOKING CLASS
Get a taste of Costa Rican culture in a hands-on cooking class led by one of Maximo Nivel’s Costa Rican host moms. Campers learn how to prepare traditional dishes, such as tamales and empanadas, while discovering local ingredients, cooking techniques, and the stories behind the food.

GO-KARTS
Ready, set, race! Teens hit the indoor go-kart track in San Jose for an adrenaline-fueled evening of friendly competition. Challenge fellow campers—and even Maximo Nivel staff—to see who can take the lead and cross the finish line first.

MUSEUM TOUR
Step into Costa Rica’s fascinating past with a tour of San Jose’s historic museums and cultural landmarks. Campers visit the National Museum and Jade Museum to learn about the country’s history, including its pre-Columbian cultures, art, and traditions. It’s an engaging way to learn about the stories and heritage behind modern-day Costa Rica.

CHOCOLATE TOUR
Follow the delicious journey from tropical cacao bean to chocolate treat. Campers visit a private, working farm to learn about tropical agriculture, learn how cacao is grown and processed, and explore how some of their favorite chocolate treats are made. Along the way, they’ll enjoy the farm’s lush surroundings—and, of course, some tasty samples!

TIQUICIA DINNER SHOW
Experience the sights, sounds, and flavors of Costa Rican culture at the Tiquicia Dinner Show. Perched high in the mountains overlooking San Jose, Tiquicia offers panoramic views of the Central Valley alongside traditional music, marimba performances, and folkloric dances. Campers enjoy a delicious buffet of Costa Rican dishes while taking in an evening of local culture and entertainment.

SALSA DANCE CLASS
Turn up the music and learn some Latin dance moves! Led by a local professional instructor, this fun and relaxed class introduces campers to Salsa, Merengue, Bachata, and other popular Latin American dances. No previous experience is needed—just a willingness to move, laugh, and enjoy the rhythm.

SPORTS & RECREATION
Get moving, make new friends, and enjoy some friendly competition. Campers spend the evening at a local sports and recreation facility, including indoor soccer, pickleball, and a basketball court. Spanish Camp and Volunteer Teen Camp participants come together with host families and Maximo Nivel staff for games and activities—including lively matches!

And lots more!

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DAILY ROUTINE

Every morning, the entire group comes together to explore Costa Rica through activities like jungle ziplines, rainforest hikes, surf lessons, coffee and chocolate farm tours, salsa classes, cooking classes, and much more. After a catered lunch at the institute, the group splits into their respective Volunteer and Spanish tracks for the afternoon session.

Volunteer Teen Camp participants head out for their afternoon volunteer projects, working alongside local organizations and community members. Depending on their placement, teens may help with projects focused on education, conservation, community development, or supporting local construction projects. These hands-on experiences give campers the opportunity to learn new skills, connect with new people, and make a meaningful contribution while gaining a deeper understanding of life in Costa Rica.

In the evening, teens return to their host family for dinner and a shower, and then get ready for the evening’s events. These activities include bonfires, nighttime jungle tours, Costa Rican BBQs, movie nights, games, quality time with host families, and lots more!

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ACCOMMODATIONS

During the Costa Rica Summer Camp program, teens stay with pre-approved, middle-class family-stays in Manuel Antonio and San Jose. Accommodations include shared rooms with 1-2 other campers of the same gender and similar age. Private rooms are available upon request, and travel buddies can be housed together. In the family-stay, breakfast and dinner are included every day, and lunches are catered in at the Maximo Nivel institute.

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Accommodations Spanish Summer Camp Costa Rica

ABOUT COSTA RICA

Costa Rica is by far one of the most exotic places on Earth! The country offers unparalleled natural beauty, white sand beaches, rainforests, and a wide range of national parks. Costa Rica is located in Central America and borders Nicaragua to the north and Panama to the south. A chain of mountains—part of the Andean-Sierra Madre chain—runs the length of the country and separates the Caribbean Sea on the east coast from the Pacific Ocean on the west coast. Costa Rica has thousands of miles of gorgeous coastline and copious amounts of sunshine, which makes it the most inspirational learning environment in the world :)

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Costa Rica is a very safe and democratic country. The country is one of the top international tourist destinations in the world and is recognized as the adventure and language-learning capital of Latin America. With a population of just over 5 million people, Costa Rica is a small country, but it has the most developed economy in Central America, and it is one of the leading countries in education and healthcare in the region. The local people (“Ticos”) are known for their peaceful culture and their friendly and helpful nature, and they are always ready to greet you with a smile, give directions to anywhere you need to go, and they love to help you improve your Spanish!

Population	5.1 Million
Geography	51,100 km² (19,730 square miles). Costa Rica is approximately the size of West Virginia. The highest point is Cerro Chirripo 3,810 meters/12,460 feet above sea level
Capital	San Jose
Founded	15 September 1821
Currency	Colon (₡) U.S. dollars are accepted in all places of business and are available at most ATMs. Other currencies can be easily exchanged.
Languages	Spanish
Time Zone	UTC -6:00
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SUPPORT FOR PARENTS

The Maximo Nivel team is absolutely dedicated to safety and great client service. We understand it can be challenging to let your teenager fly off to another country. We pride ourselves on going the extra mile and ensuring great support for every parent!

Pre-Departure Support
The Maximo Nivel team is here to provide all pre-departure support:

− Where and how to book flights
− How to arrange airline assistance for unaccompanied minors
− Getting comfortable with the Spanish and Volunteer track options, and what to expect
− Understanding passports and visas

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In-Country Support
During Volunteer Camp, we are your direct link to your teenager 24/7:

− 24-hour Emergency phone number
− We require all participants to call home upon arrival in Costa Rica
− Daily updates on your teen and how they are doing
− We make you aware of any urgencies, changes, or updates
− Direct communication with the Camp Director throughout the program
− We notify you when your teen has boarded their flight and safely departed

Important Note to Parents
Maximo Nivel’s Volunteer Teen Camp is carefully designed to maximize international community service work and intercultural immersion. We work very hard to ensure the program creates a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment—the program is always fully chaperoned 24/7. Please make sure you and your family discuss what it means to be far from home and the importance of being a good ambassador for your home country while traveling abroad.

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WHAT TO PACK

Before packing up and heading out to Summer Camp in Costa Rica, we strongly encourage participants to travel with everything on the list below.

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Documents	Travel Gear	Clothing	Toiletries
Passport valid for at least 6 months	Water bottle	Shorts	Toothbrush
Credit card	Backpack	Pants	Toothpaste
International medical insurance & insurance card	Umbrella	T-shirts	Deodorant
Emergency contact information		Light sweater	Sunscreen
Maximo Nivel’s contact information		Bathing suit	Mosquito repellent
		Raincoat	Prescription medicine
		Hiking shoes
		Sneakers
		Sandals

*Sending packages to Costa Rica via postal services is not recommended. Packages can take 2-6 weeks to arrive and an additional 2 weeks to clear customs.

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NICHOLAS ‘NICO’ JONES

CAMP DIRECTOR, COSTA RICA SUMMER CAMP

Nicholas “Nico” Jones serves as the Summer Camp Director in Costa Rica. Born in Cusco, Peru, Nico brings a truly international perspective to the program, holding triple citizenship: Costa Rica, Peru, and the United States. He is fluent in both Spanish and English and connects easily with participants from diverse backgrounds.

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Currently, Nico is studying Industrial Engineering at The Ohio State University in the United States. He holds a TEFL certification and has taught English as a second language in both Peru and Brazil. As a passionate traveler, Nico has visited more than 20 countries, with the Czech Republic, Japan, and South Africa being some of his favorite destinations. He is a certified Scuba Rescue Diver and free diver, reflecting his calm and disciplined approach to adventure and safety. Nico’s personal interests include music, cooking, stand-up comedy, volleyball, and chess.

As a teenager, Nico attended the Summer Camp in Costa Rica for 3 years, giving him a unique understanding of the program. Since 2024, Nico has led the camp with energy, warmth, and a strong commitment to creating a safe, dynamic, and memorable experience for everyone.

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VOLUNTEER TEEN CAMP FAQs

Is Volunteer Teen Camp in Costa Rica safe for teens?

Yes. Safety and student well-being are central to the Volunteer Summer Camp experience. Teens receive a program and safety orientation, have access to 24/7 emergency support, including an after-hours Urgent Services Manager. All campers are supported by the camp director and chaperones with an 8:1 participant-to-chaperone ratio. Maximo Nivel also provides safe accommodations with vetted host families, airport pickup and drop-off, transportation to and from program activities, and ongoing support from the local Maximo Nivel team.

What age is Volunteer Teen Camp for?

Maximo Nivel’s Volunteer Teen Camp is designed specifically for teens ages 13–17.

Do teens need previous volunteer experience to join Volunteer Teen Camp?

No previous volunteer experience is required. Volunteer Teen Camp is designed for teens who are ready to learn, contribute, and take part in meaningful community-based activities. Students receive guidance throughout their placement and participate in projects appropriate to their abilities and the needs of local communities. A positive attitude, willingness to learn, and respect for the community are essential.

What kinds of volunteer projects do Volunteer Campers participate in?

Volunteer projects vary depending on the needs of community-based organizations. Potential areas include working with kids, teaching English, construction, conservation, and other volunteer initiatives. Maximo Nivel’s professional team leads campers in their work and guides the service learning experience.

How are participants supervised during volunteer projects?

Volunteer Teen Camp participants receive support from Maximo Nivel staff and local project partners. Campers are introduced to their project and receive guidance about their responsibilities before and during their volunteer experience. Camp counselors and other Maximo Nivel staff organize and supervise all volunteer activities.

Do campers need to speak Spanish to participate in Volunteer Teen Camp?

No. Participants do not need Spanish to take part in volunteer projects. That said, campers should be ready for some language barriers and cultural differences. The Maximo Nivel team carefully organizes community service projects appropriate for teens regardless of their current Spanish level.

Do Volunteer Teen Camp participants join in the Costa Rica Summer Camp group activities?

Yes. Volunteer Teen Camp participants join the same shared morning activities, excursions, and evening events as their peers in Spanish Camp. Together, everyone enjoys daily adventures such as surfing, jungle ziplines, rainforest hikes, cooking classes, and cultural activities while also following their chosen track—Volunteer or Spanish.

Do Volunteer Teen Camp participants receive a volunteer certificate?

Yes. Volunteer Teen Camp participants receive an official certificate for their community service, which provides an important record of their participation in the program.

Can teens participate in both Volunteer Teen Camp and Spanish Camp?

Yes. Volunteer Teen Camp and Spanish Camp run simultaneously, and the Maximo Nivel team can work with participants and their families to create a customized 2- or 3-week plan that combines both experiences. Participants can divide their time between volunteer activities and Spanish classes while continuing to enjoy group adventures and activities with their friends.

Do Volunteer Camp participants require a visa to travel to Costa Rica?

Entering Costa Rica is simple and straightforward for most international travelers. Citizens holding passports from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, EU member nations, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and dozens of other countries enjoy visa-free entry.

Visa requirements for people from other countries depend on nationality. Most travelers can enter Costa Rica without a visa, while some must obtain a visa before traveling. Families should check the current entry requirements with the nearest Costa Rican embassy or consulate before booking travel.

All international travelers must have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond their travel date. All travelers must provide proof of onward or return travel and sufficient funds for their stay. Families are responsible for confirming that their teen has the correct travel documents before departure.

The Maximo Nivel team is always available to answer any questions regarding visa requirements and provide professional guidance.

Who are the Volunteer Teen Camp chaperones and how are they selected?

All Costa Rica Summer Camp chaperones are mature, experienced camp counselors who are multilingual, first-aid certified, and have lived and worked in Costa Rica for years. Chaperones are carefully interviewed and background-checked prior to being hired. Read more about the Summer Camp Director.

Where do campers stay during Volunteer Teen Camp?

Volunteer Camp participants stay with carefully selected, vetted local host families, giving campers the chance to experience everyday life in Costa Rica. Participants share rooms with 1-2 other campers of the same gender and similar age. Private rooms are available upon request.

What if a Volunteer Teen Camp participant has strict dietary requirements or restrictions?

Host families are happy to accommodate special dietary requirements or restrictions. Families should share dietary requirements, allergies, and other special needs with Maximo Nivel when registering so the team can plan appropriate arrangements.

Can friends and family join Volunteer Teen Camp together?

Absolutely! Teens can join Volunteer Teen Camp in Costa Rica with “travel buddies” and enjoy the experience together. Families should provide the name of the camper’s travel buddy when registering so the Maximo Nivel team can coordinate housing and other arrangements.

Even if travel buddies choose different tracks (e.g., Volunteer Camp or Spanish Camp), they still come together each day for group adventures, cultural experiences, and evening activities. This means friends can enjoy the excitement of exploring Costa Rica together while also pursuing their individual interests in volunteer work or Spanish learning.

What is the weather like in Costa Rica during Volunteer Camp?

Costa Rica enjoys warm weather year-round, but conditions vary depending on the region, elevation, and time of year. The country generally has 2 main seasons: the dry season, which runs from December to April, and the green season, which runs from May to November.

During green season, mornings are usually warm and sunny, and in the afternoons there are often rain showers. In San Jose, temperatures can feel cooler because of the city’s elevation; meanwhile, Manuel Antonio and the Pacific coast have tropical conditions with very warm, humid weather.

The weather can change quickly, so campers should pack lightweight clothing, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a light rain jacket or poncho. A cheerful, flexible attitude and the right gear make it easier to enjoy Costa Rica’s outdoor adventures in every season!