LOCATION and FACILITIES

Atenas, Costa Rica

Atenas, Costa Rica provides the ideal site for our Spanish language and cultural immersion program because of its friendly community and scenic tropical environment.  National Geographic describes Atenas, Costa Rica as having “the best climate in the world” with a population of 25,000 and average temperature of 20-30C-75-95F.

It is a safe place to take a leisurely walk or your daily run, through the 7 “barrios” (neighbourhoods) around the town.  The city is one of the cleanest in the country and noted for its beautiful gardens.

The views along the road are absolutely spectacular with picturesque homes surrounded by lofty mountains, butterfly farms, national parks, and marvellous wildlife. It is a community of traditions.  All year round there are charming festivals, sports activities, and local artisans displaying their crafts.

Other important reasons to come experience our immersion program in Atenas, Costa Rica:

  • It is a safe and friendly place to visit and live.
  • The location is 30 minutes from the international airport and 45 minutes from Costa Rica’s capital city, San Jose.
  • Atlantic and Pacific beaches (Jaco, Manuel Antonio, Quepos, Herradura, Chararra, Los Sueños Resort, etc.) can be reached in 75 to 90 minutes, all having excellent day and night time activities and entertainment.
  • National parks are a 30/45-minute bus ride (excellent bus service) through some of the most luscious tropical forests on the planet.
  • Museums and other cultural sites are very accessible for a day or half day trip.

Town Center
Our Town Center in Atenas is within walking distance to the central park, recreational swim areas, horseback riding, soccer fields, basketball courts, mountain bike trails, local boutiques, farmers’ market, public library, and more.  Having a Center in town provides students many opportunities to have meaningful interactions with the local community that will help advance one’s Spanish proficiency tremendously.

Green Classroom
Our Green Classroom is 2 miles northeast from the town center of Atenas.  The open air classroom boasts spectacular views of the mountains, tropical flora, and Costa Rica’s many species of birds and variety of trees.  Students become immersed in their study of the Spanish language as they hike nature trails, study plant biology, and pick and eat local tropical fruits.  Our Green Class provides an extraordinary outdoor environment for optimal learning of the Spanish language and Costa Rican culture.

Transportation between the two campuses and to all excursions and activities are in staff van.