Are you a high school student, faculty leader, or guidance counselor seeking a study abroad and adventure programs that go beyond the classroom? Maximo Nivel offers specialized transformative programs for individual teens and groups in the vibrant countries of Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Peru. Since 2003, Maximo Nivel has provided safe, structured, and supportive experiences where young people truly learn and flourish. Teen programs are thoughtfully and intentionally designed for immersive, hands-on learning, real-world experiences, and significant personal growth. Participants can master the Spanish language, contribute through meaningful volunteer projects, enjoy cultural and adventure travel, and confidently immerse themselves in international travel. Planning for an unforgettable summer, a valuable gap year, or a solid head start before university? Program advisors can recommend the best programs and Maximo Nivel’s experienced and dedicated team is available for 24/7 support. With a strong focus on safety and comprehensive care, Maximo Nivel is the ideal setting to explore Latin America, develop life skills, and experience true intercultural exchange.
Why Choose Maximo Nivel? Our Commitment to Safety and Excellence
At Maximo Nivel, pre-arrival and in-country teams are absolutely dedicated to safety and providing exceptional client service. We understand embarking on an international journey can be challenging, which is why we pride ourselves on going the extra mile to ensure personalized support for every teen and their parents. We take you out of your comfort zone while keeping you comfortable.
Experienced Support Every Step of the Way
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- Comprehensive Pre-Departure Guidance: We provide all necessary pre-departure support, covering essential details like where and how to book flights, arranging airline assistance for unaccompanied minors, and understanding passport and visa requirements.
- Experienced Staff 24/7: Our experienced multi-lingual staff are available 24/7 to ensure participant well-being and provide ongoing support throughout all programs. This includes a 24-hour emergency phone number, immediate relay of messages between parents and participants, and prompt communication regarding any urgencies, changes, or updates.
- Hands-on Learning: Maximo Nivel programs emphasize practical, real-life application of skills, whether it’s gaining confidence in Spanish or making a tangible difference through community volunteering.
- Host Family Housing: All programs include accommodation with carefully selected local host families. This offers authentic cultural immersion, home-cooked meals, and a supportive living environment.
Tailored Teen Programs: Explore Your Potential
Maximo Nivel offers a variety of immersive programs specifically designed for teenagers seeking adventure, education, and personal development in Latin America.
Spanish Immersion: Speak with Confidence
Maximize your Spanish language skills with Maximo Nivel’s top-rated Spanish immersion programs in Latin America. Whether you’re just starting your language journey or you’re looking to significantly boost your conversational fluency, you’ll discover the ideal environment to enhance your Spanish abilities and build confidence.
- Certified, Native-Speaking Teachers: Classes are led by certified, native-speaking teachers who make learning interactive, engaging, and fun.
- Flexible Study Options: You can choose to study in small groups or receive one-on-one instruction.
- Real-Life Practice: Practice Spanish daily with your host family, during cultural activities, and while exploring the local community. We focus on using Spanish in real life, moving beyond textbooks into conversations that truly matter.
- Campus Facilities: Institutes are open 7 days a week, offering snack bar, free tutoring, computer labs, and fun extras like salsa dance lessons and cooking classes.
Volunteer Abroad: Make a Real Difference
Volunteering abroad with Maximo Nivel offers a truly meaningful way to give back, explore new places, and connect with people from diverse backgrounds. With a strong track record since 2003, we are proud to provide some of the most impactful volunteer programs in Latin America.
- No Expertise Required: You don’t need to be an expert to make a difference; simply bring your curiosity and readiness to help.
- Student-Focused Projects: Many projects are specifically designed for students, ensuring academic alignment when needed. Onsite Academic Directors support participants every step of the way.
- Flexible & Year-Round: Programs begin every Monday, year-round in Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Peru. Placements run Monday through Friday, leaving weekends free for fun and exploration.
Summer Spanish Camp: Adventure with Purpose in Costa Rica
Maximo Nivel’s Spanish Summer Camp in Costa Rica is specifically designed for high school students seeking a summer filled with language learning, exciting adventures, and real purpose. It offers a perfect balance of academic growth, meaningful community service, and cultural immersion. Summer Camp is designed specifically for teens between 13 to 17 year old.
- Integrated Learning: Summer camp is about making memories, gaining confidence, and engaging in meaningful activities. You’ll contribute to local communities, participate in vibrant cultural activities like salsa dancing or cooking classes, and build friendships with other teens from all over the world.
- Fully Supervised: Summer camp is fully supervised with 24/7 chaperones, and is all-inclusive—accommodations, all meals, all activities, airport pickup and drop off, and much more!
- Pump-up University Applications: International experience, living and studying abroad, not only provides invaluable real-life skills, but also looks impressive on university applications.
Gap Year: Learn, Grow, & Travel
Considering a break before university? Embrace the world with Maximo Nivel’s Gap Year Programs! Whether your goal is to volunteer, immerse yourself in different cultures, or build your Spanish skills, Gap Year programs in Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Peru provide an ideal pathway to learn, grow, and travel.
- Real-World Experience: Gap Year programs are centered on authentic experiences, combining meaningful community service, immersive Spanish classes, valuable skill-building courses, and epic adventure travel.
- Personal Discovery: It’s not just about visiting new places; it’s about discovering who you are and what truly matters to you.
- Flexible Dates & Country Jumping: Most Gap Year programs run for 12 to 52 weeks, with lots of options to create customized itineraries. You can even be a “country jumper” and explore Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Peru in one itinerary.
- Global Connections: During your time abroad, meet people from all over the world, gain international experience, and earn academic credit.
Program Locations: Your Gateway to Latin America
Costa Rica: Where Adventure Meets Paradise
Get ready for an epic journey in Costa Rica, one of the most exotic places on Earth! Imagine exploring active volcanoes, trekking through lush rainforests teeming with wildlife, and discovering a wide range of national parks. This Central American gem boasts over 1,000 miles of stunning white and black sand beaches, endless sunshine, and incredible opportunities for thrilling activities like surfing and scuba diving. Maximo Nivel’s programs are located in vibrant San Jose and beautiful Manuel Antonio—your perfect base for an unforgettable adventure!
Guatemala: Ancient Mysteries & Rich Culture Await
Step into Guatemala, literally “the land of many trees,” a warm, friendly, and historically significant country in Central America. Prepare to be amazed by its incredible biodiversity, making it a top eco-tourism destination filled with unique ecosystems. Here, you’ll delve into the rich ancient Maya civilization, exploring countless archaeological sites that tell stories of a proud indigenous heritage. Maximo Nivel’s programs are based in the charming city of Antigua, offering you a deep dive into this captivating culture!
Peru: Explore Ancient Empires & Breathtaking Landscapes
Embark on an incredible adventure in Peru, a country renowned as one of the world’s greatest centers of ancient civilization. Discover its amazing history and diverse cultures, including the legendary Inca Empire, which left behind a stunning collection of architecture and art. Peru is also incredibly beautiful and biodiverse, with dramatic landscapes that stretch from the Pacific coast to the majestic Andes mountains and into the vast Amazon Jungle. With Maximo Nivel, you’ll experience this rich tapestry from our program location in Cusco—the historic heart of the Inca world!
What’s Included in Your Maximo Nivel Teen Programs
Maximo Nivel ensures a comprehensive and comfortable experience. Teen programs typically include the following:
- Airport pick-up and drop-off
- Host family accommodations
- Meals, 7 days/week
- Safety orientation & walking tour
- WiFi & computer lab
- All books & materials
- Free Spanish language tutoring
- Tandem Conversation Program
- Salsa dance classes
- Cooking classes
- Coffee & tea @ onsite snack bar
- Campus is open 7 days/week + holidays
- Emergency contact number 24/7
- And much more!
Academic Credit Opportunities
Maximo Nivel programs are designed to fulfill major, minor, and elective requirements. Academic credit is available in two ways:
- Your University: Maximo Nivel’s Academic Team works directly with university Advisors, Registrars, and Study Abroad offices to pre-approve academic credit. We provide official transcripts and any required progress reports.
- Official School of Record: Maximo Nivel also offers academic credit through our official U.S.-based School of Record. This 4-year university provides official transcripts directly to your home university.
Partnering with Us: Empowering Global Citizens
Maximo Nivel proudly partners with high school administrators and teachers to extend their classroom learning into the world, inspiring young people to become global citizens. Teens can advance their studies, learn a new language, engage in impactful community service, and gain essential international experience. We are dedicated to providing schools, teachers, parents, and students with professionally-run, carefully-supervised, and structured study abroad programs that integrate Spanish immersion, service learning, and rich cultural travel experiences.
Ready to empower your teen with an unforgettable journey? Schedule a call with us!