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    Spanish in Motion with EF: 12-Week Gap Program (Costa Rica, Barcelona, And Malaga)

    Spanish in Motion with EF: 12-Week Gap Program (Costa Rica, Barcelona, And Malaga) CalenderRecently Updated

    Details

    • Listing Type: Gap Year Programs
    • Program Delivery: Residential
    • Destinations: Costa Rica, Spain
    • Credit Awarded: College
    • Program Length: Semester
    • Start Month: January, September
    • Category: Language
    • Selective: No
    • Gender: Coed
    • Ages: 18, 19+, 19
    • Housing: Dorm, Homestay, Student Apartment
    • Financial Aid: Grants/Scholarships, Other
    • Minimum Cost: $10,000 - $20,000
    • Last Updated:October 2025
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    Overview

    This 12-week Spanish immersion program takes students on a journey across Latin America and Europe. From the laid-back surf town of Tamarindo to the sun-soaked coast of Málaga and the vibrant streets of Barcelona, students will build language skills while experiencing the diversity of Spanish-speaking cultures across two continents.

    Sample Program Itinerary

    Weeks 1 - 2: Barcelona, Spain

    Stroll the winding streets on a guided tour of Barcelona’s historic Gothic Quarter, savor local flavors on a tapas crawl through the creative Poblenou neighborhood, and feel the rhythm of Spain as you learn the art of flamenco in an interactive dance class.

    Weeks 3 - 4: Barcelona, Spain

    Set sail on a scenic catamaran tour along Barcelona’s coastline, get hands-on with tradition during a ceramics workshop, and take in sweeping city views on a hike up Tibidabo.

    Barcelona Highlight Getaway: Day trip to Costa Brava

    Take a day trip to Costa Brava, where you’ll dive into water activities along the Mediterranean, stroll through vibrant botanical gardens, and cap it off with a fun game of beach volleyball on the sand.

    Weeks 5 - 6: Málaga, Spain

    Explore the artistic legacy of Pablo Picasso at the Picasso Museum and step back in time with a guided visit through the ancient Alcazaba Castle.

    Weeks 7 - 8: Málaga, Spain

    Journey to Granada for a day trip to explore its rich history and stunning architecture, then unwind on a catamaran trip along Spain’s sun-drenched Mediterranean coast.

    Málaga Highlight Getaway: Weekend trip to Morocco

    Cross continents for an unforgettable weekend. Wander colorful souks, explore ancient medinas, and savor the rich flavors of Moroccan cuisine.

    Weeks 9 - 10: Playa Tamarindo, Costa Rica

    Catch the waves with surf lessons on Tamarindo Beach, then connect with nature at the Ostional Wildlife Reserve, where you’ll witness sea turtle conservation efforts up close.

    Weeks 11 - 12: Playa Tamarindo, Costa Rica

    Take a day trip to Rio Celeste, where you’ll hike through Tenorio National Park to its turquoise waterfall and volcanic landscapes, then set out by boat through lush mangroves, spotting crocodiles, exotic birds, and other wildlife along the way.

    Playa Tamarindo Highlight Getaway: Weekend trip to the Arenal Region

    Visit the beautiful Arenal Volcano, go hiking, relax in hot springs, see the La Fortuna Waterfall, and go rafting through the rainforest.

    Cost and Session Information

    This program starts at $18,000 and includes:

    Interactive language classes

    Spanish offered at all learning levels in Barcelona, Málaga, and Tamarindo.

    Activities & excursions

    2-3 cultural activities per week, and 1 overnight weekend excursions or extended day trip per location.

    Flights & transportation

    Internal flights and transfers between locations, including airport pick-up.

    Room & board

    Accommodations in an EF Student Residence with other members of your cohort.

    EF Global Support Network

    One-on-one mentorship and 24/7 travel support before and during your program.

    Travel protection

    Enrollment and cancellation protection fees included.