Ratings
- 5 locations, all offering the same Spanish program
- Unique eco classroom (outside)
- Balcony setup with hammocks for students to relax in.
- Hotel / Hostel accommodation very close to school
- It is a 2-hour bus or taxi ride from San José.
Location: The school is located a little outside of the typically 'tico' town of Turrialba. The school offers an incredible view of the lush green surroundings, including the active Turrialba volcano. The capital city, San Jose, is a 2-hour bus ride from the city, so it is a good location to enjoy day trips to the bigger city. Turrialba itself is walkable, and there are restaurants, shops, gyms, cafes and other things students will need during their learning experience.
Ethos of the town: The town still has a very traditional feel, and Spanish is used by the locals, with very few understanding other languages. This means it is excellent for total immersion. Although the town is small, there are plenty of activities, most of which take place in the surrounding nature. One thing not to miss is the weekly farmers market, where students can learn more about the local produce of the area and interact with people living in Turrialba.
Spanish classes: Classes are often held on the balcony, from where you can spot exotic birds like toucans, hummingbirds and many other tropical animals. There are standard courses or intensive courses, and the option to combine these with private lessons.
Social activities: The school organises visits to historical sites, a volcano tour, extreme sport excursions such as white water rafting and ziplining, hiking trips and sport activities such as yoga, dancing and horse riding.
School chain: This school is part of a larger organisation, with other locations not just in Panama, but also in Costa Rica. With the course Travelling Spanish Classroom, students are able to learn a language whilst also travelling around different areas, enhancing their understanding and use of Spanish in different accents and regional expressions on this unique 4 week package.
- The language school Spanish by the River was founded in Turrialba, Costa Rica in 2002.
- Legal name / parent company: Spanish by the River, SA
- Tax registration ID: CPR3-101-320172
Spanish Courses


Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Price in US$ | 306 291 | 597 568 | 872 829 | 1132 1076 | 1387 1318 | 1642 1560 | 1897 1803 | 2152 2045 | 2662 2529 | 3172 3014 | 255 243 |
Morning: 8:00 - 12:00
Afternoon: 13:00 - 17:00

Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Price in US$ | 230 219 | 444 422 | 643 611 | 826 785 | 1005 955 | 1183 1124 | 1362 1294 | 1540 1463 | 1897 1803 | 2254 2142 | 179 171 |
Morning: 8:00 - 12:00
Afternoon: 13:00 - 17:00
Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Price in US$ | 306 291 | 597 568 | 872 829 | 1132 1076 | 1387 1318 | 1642 1560 | 1897 1803 | 2152 2045 | 2662 2529 | 3172 3014 | 255 243 |
Morning: 8:00 - 12:00
Afternoon: 13:00 - 17:00
Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Price in US$ | 230 219 | 444 422 | 643 611 | 826 785 | 1005 955 | 1183 1124 | 1362 1294 | 1540 1463 | 1897 1803 | 2254 2142 | 178 170 |
This option is for those who want to focus on specific fields of study, for example:
- Business Spanish
- Spanish for Health Professionals
- Spanish for Law Professionals
- Spanish for Teachers
Morning: 8:00 - 12:00
Afternoon: 13:00 - 17:00
Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Price in US$ | 306 291 | 597 568 | 872 829 | 1132 1076 | 1387 1318 | 1642 1560 | 1897 1803 | 2152 2045 | 2662 2529 | 3172 3014 | 255 243 |
This option is for those who want to focus on specific fields of study, for example:
- Business Spanish
- Spanish for Health Professionals
- Spanish for Law Professionals
- Spanish for Teachers
Morning: 8:00 - 12:00
Afternoon: 13:00 - 17:00
Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Price in US$ | 367 349 | 714 679 | 1040 988 | 1346 1279 | 1652 1570 | 1958 1861 | 2264 2151 | 2570 2442 | 3182 3023 | 3794 3605 | 306 291 |
This option is for those who want to focus on specific fields of study, for example:
- Business Spanish
- Spanish for Health Professionals
- Spanish for Law Professionals
- Spanish for Teachers
Morning: 8:00 - 12:00
Afternoon: 13:00 - 17:00
Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Price in US$ | 163 155 | 316 301 | 459 437 | 592 563 | 724 688 | 857 815 | 989 940 | 1122 1066 | 1387 1318 | 1652 1570 | 133 127 |
Two-to-one semi-private lessons delivered to two students of the same language level.
This option is for those who want to focus on specific fields of study, for example:
- Business Spanish
- Spanish for Health Professionals
- Spanish for Law Professionals
- Spanish for Teachers
Morning: 8:00 - 12:00
Afternoon: 13:00 - 17:00
Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Price in US$ | 245 233 | 474 451 | 689 655 | 893 849 | 1097 1043 | 1301 1236 | 1505 1430 | 1709 1624 | 2117 2012 | 2525 2399 | 204 194 |
Two-to-one semi-private lessons delivered to two students of the same language level.
This option is for those who want to focus on specific fields of study, for example:
- Business Spanish
- Spanish for Health Professionals
- Spanish for Law Professionals
- Spanish for Teachers
Morning: 8:00 - 12:00
Afternoon: 13:00 - 17:00
Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Price in US$ | 306 291 | 597 568 | 872 829 | 1132 1076 | 1387 1318 | 1642 1560 | 1897 1803 | 2152 2045 | 2662 2529 | 3172 3014 | 255 243 |
Rafting & Camp Pacuare Weekend includes:
- 2 days rafting
- 1 night in tents on platforms in the jungle
- breakfast, lunch and dinner
- transportation
Applicable supplementary cost: Rafting & Camp Pacuare Weekend USD178.50
Morning: 8:00 - 12:00
Afternoon: 13:00 - 17:00
Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Price in US$ | 337 321 | 658 626 | 963 915 | 1255 1193 | 1540 1463 | 1826 1735 | 2111 2006 | 2397 2278 | 2968 2820 | 3539 3363 | 286 272 |
This course consists of the intensive Spanish course of 30 lessons and 3 yoga classes per week.
This does not include transportation to and from the yoga classes. Prices are subject to change.
Morning: 8:00 - 12:00
Afternoon: 13:00 - 17:00
Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Price in US$ | 230 219 | 444 422 | 643 611 | 826 785 | 1005 955 | 1183 1124 | 1362 1294 | 1540 1463 | 1897 1803 | 2254 2142 | 179 171 |
Rafting & Camp Pacuare Weekend includes:
- 2 days rafting
- 1 night in tents on platforms in the jungle
- breakfast, lunch and dinner
- transportation
Applicable supplementary cost: Rafting & Camp Pacuare Weekend USD178.50
Morning: 8:00 - 12:00
Afternoon: 13:00 - 17:00
Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Price in US$ | 260 247 | 505 480 | 734 698 | 949 902 | 1158 1101 | 1367 1299 | 1576 1498 | 1785 1696 | 2203 2093 | 2621 2490 | 209 199 |
This course consists of the standard Spanish course of 20 lessons and 3 yoga classes per week.
This does not include transportation to and from the yoga classes. Prices are subject to change.
Morning: 8:00 - 12:00
Afternoon: 13:00 - 17:00
Information for all courses offered by Spanish by the River
Spanish and activities courses are subject to availability and prices may vary throughout the year.
01 Jan. 2023, 06 Apr. 2023, 07 Apr. 2023, 10 Apr. 2023, 01 May 2023, 24 Jul. 2023, 02 Aug. 2023, 14 Aug. 2023, 03 Sep. 2023, 15 Sep. 2023, 01 Dec. 2023, 25 Dec. 2023.
Lessons needed per Spanish language level
Our price includes
- INCLUDED Organized activities
- INCLUDED Internet access and use of school computers
- INCLUDED Wireless LAN zone at school
- INCLUDED Free certificate of course attendance
- INCLUDED Language level placement test at first day of classes
- INCLUDED Language level placement test before arrival
Spanish by the River
“You will not regret coming to study in Turrialba for a bit, live the real Tica experience and immerse completely! ”



General school facilities
Kitchen for student use
Microwave for student use
Fridge for student use
Library
Movie rental
Movie room
Games room
Lounge
Garden
Balcony / terrace
Student support desk
Copy machine
Printer for student use
Soccer field / football pitch
Free coffee
Free WIFI
Non-smoking (all indoor and all outdoor areas of school)
Facilities for islamic students
Available area to pray at the school
Facilities to wash feet before praying
Classroom equipment
Ample natural light in all classrooms
Number of classrooms: 10Free parking (<500m)
Student Age / Nationality
Top student nationalities
Age of students
Airport transfer
Visa Documents
Accommodation

weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Price in US$ | 221.48 | 442.96 | 664.44 | 885.92 | 1107.4 | 1328.88 | 1550.36 | 1771.84 | 2214.8 | 2657.76 | 221.48 |
Prices based on accommodation from Sunday to Sunday
Price per person

weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Price in US$ | 197.75 | 395.5 | 593.25 | 791 | 988.75 | 1186.5 | 1384.25 | 1582 | 1977.5 | 2373 | 197.75 |
Prices based on accommodation from Sunday to Sunday
Price per person
weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Price in US$ | 253.12 | 506.24 | 759.36 | 1012.48 | 1265.6 | 1518.72 | 1771.84 | 2024.96 | 2531.2 | 3037.44 | 253.12 |
Prices based on accommodation from Sunday to Sunday
Price per person
weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Price in US$ | 189.84 | 379.68 | 569.52 | 759.36 | 949.2 | 1139.04 | 1328.88 | 1518.72 | 1898.4 | 2278.08 | 189.84 |
Prices based on accommodation from Sunday to Sunday
Price per person
weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Price in US$ | 237.3 | 474.6 | 711.9 | 949.2 | 1186.5 | 1423.8 | 1661.1 | 1898.4 | 2373 | 2847.6 | 237.3 |
Prices based on accommodation from Sunday to Sunday
Price per person
weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Price in US$ | 332.22 | 664.44 | 996.66 | 1328.88 | 1661.1 | 1993.32 | 2325.54 | 2657.76 | 3322.2 | 3986.64 | 332.22 |
Prices based on accommodation from Sunday to Sunday
Price per person
weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Price in US$ | 442.96 | 885.92 | 1328.88 | 1771.84 | 2214.8 | 2657.76 | 3100.72 | 3543.68 | 4429.6 | 5315.52 | 442.96 |
Prices based on accommodation from Sunday to Sunday
Price per room
Ratings of Spanish by the River compared to ratings of all schools in Costa Rica
Spanish by the River Turrialba | Average of all other schools in Costa Rica | |
---|---|---|
Overall school rating | ||
Location of the school | ||
Facilities | ||
Social activities | ||
Organisation | ||
Quality of teaching | ||
Value for money | ||
Homestay | ||
Shared flat |
Student opinions about Spanish by the River, Turrialba
Questions and answers about Spanish by the River
- I was wondering if it is possible to live in the city of Turrialba and go by bicycle to the school.“Yes, it is possible to move around the area and go to school by bicycle, but it is very hard and you will definitely want to take a shower when you arrive at school and before taking classes... ;)
Also, it is very difficult to find bicycles to rent in Turrialba.”Ingrid Lommers, Reservations team from Spanish by the River - Oct 14, 2021 - I’m interested in booking a 2-weeks course in a homestay (with 2 meals) but would need a location that doesn’t require a lot of walking, as I’ve got a bad knee. Do you have any suggestions?“In Turrialba, I am afraid that homestay accommodation is not located within walking distance of the school. The average location is 20 minutes by public transport.
As an alternative, you can book a single room in a hostel, but meals are not offered.”Ana Carolina, LanguageCourse.net - Apr 04, 2022 - How far is the hostel from the school?“The classrooms are at the same property as the hostel!”Richelle, Administration from Spanish by the River, Turrialba - Mar 01, 2023
FAQ about Spanish by the River, Turrialba
- I am wondering if I should book full board or half board with the host family. Is there any restaurant or cafeteria near the school where I can have lunch?“Near the school there is a small restaurant called Casa del queso.
The school has a well-equipped kitchen so you can prepare your own lunch, if necessary.
On the other hand, if you request full board as a family, the family can prepare packed lunch for you so that you can eat it at school.”Ingrid Lommers, Reservations team from Spanish by the River - Oct 14, 2021 - At Spanish by the River are there any Specialised Spanish Programmes for Senior students?“Spanish by the River in Turrialba does not offer a specialised Spanish programme for senior students. The school offers Spanish lessons for students of mixed ages.
Teachers have plenty of experience in having students of all ages and adapting the content and rhythm of the class to students regardless of their age.
In the case it does not work for the student, the school can convert the amount paid for group lessons to private lessons.”Richelle Lankhaar, Reservations team from Spanish by the River - Dec 13, 2021 - Will I be in contact with the school before the course starts?“You should contact the contact person Ingrid by Whatsapp before 5 p.m. on the day of arrival (Sunday) at the latest. You will also discuss the times of the lessons on the following days as well as organisational matters.”Sabine Krafack, from LanguageCourse.net - Dec 21, 2021
- What is the qualification of the teachers at Spanish by the River?50% of teachers at Spanish by the River hold a university degree. 80% hold a recognized language teaching certificate.
- Which countries are students of Spanish by the River from?The highest Nationality percentage at Spanish by the River comes from Germany with a 25% representation, followed by students from Switzerland (25%) and Netherlands (20%).
- Is this price lower than booking directly with the school?Yes, there is an exclusive discount that only applies when booking online here.
- Spanish by the River offers courses for which ages?Spanish by the River offers courses from 15 years to 99. Average age is 20 during the summer and 25 for the rest of the year.
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