Learn spanish surrounded by nature
An immersive Spanish school nestled on a private nature reserve, where rivers, waterfalls and gardens become your classroom.
Immersive spanish
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San Rafael, Antioquia
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3 hours from Medellin
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Online classes available
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Volunteer program
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Immersive spanish ✳︎ San Rafael, Antioquia ✳︎ 3 hours from Medellin ✳︎ Online classes available ✳︎ Volunteer program ✳︎
Ritmo del Río is not a typical language school. It is a living, breathing place — a private reserve where the sound of the river sets the rhythm of your learning.
Located in La Vereda El Macanal near San Rafael, Antioquia, our school sits within a lush jungle reserve full of rivers, waterfalls, and native gardens. We believe that immersion means more than sitting in a classroom — it means experiencing Colombian culture and nature as you learn.
Where Language Meets the Wild
OUR STORY
Our programs
Three plans designed for different travelers, all delivering the Ritmo experience of nature-immersed language learning.
Volunteer Plan
Basic Plan
Premium Plan
Upcoming Events
FAQs
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We offer programs for all levels, from complete beginners to advanced students. Your teacher would assess your level and the skills you want to develop and work with you to improve your goals from any starting point.
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Most courses start every Monday, and you can study from one week to several months depending on your goals and availability.
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Yes. In addition to Spanish immersion, we offer instruction in other languages depending on availability and student demand. Please contact us to learn which languages are currently offered.
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Many nationalities can study short-term on a tourist entry. For longer stays, a student visa may be required. We recommend checking with your local Colombian consulate.
“I had a very positive experience. The program is very personal and dynamic, and everything is tailored to your level and interests. I had many opportunities to practice outside the classroom.
I originally chose it for the Spanish classes, but the activities were also a huge highlight. The Thursday hike and the language classes were my favorite parts.”
— Lieke van der Aalst (Netherlands)
What our students are saying
“The experience has been really good. I really like the teachers, they are very friendly. I liked the activities, and I’m glad they offer options on most days. They are fun, organized, and led by good instructors.
In the volunteer program, I really like the farm work. It feels good to do something physical, and it’s great Spanish practice time talking with the guys there.
The environment and nature really stand out. The wildlife constantly surrounding you makes it interesting and engaging.”
— Jacob Fanning (Texas, USA)
“I love the personalization of Ritmo's spanish program! It was so helpful to work one on one with an insctructor so they can meet me at my fluency instead of a mixed-ability group setting with many levels present. The one on one approach really accellerated my learning and I'm excited to have a stronger Spanish fluency in my community as I head back home to San Diego after this trip!”
— Kamren Coutee (San Diego, USA)
Start your
Next adventure
Step beyond the classroom and into a living Spanish experience. At our school, learning the language means connecting with real people, exploring vibrant culture, and immersing yourself in the beauty of nature.
Join a global community of students who come not just to study Spanish, but to live it, through meaningful conversations, cultural activities, and unforgettable outdoor experiences. Whether you're sharing stories with new friends, practicing Spanish on a river hike, or discovering local traditions, every day becomes part of your journey.