This is a fantastic Spanish school – if you’re thinking about getting some lessons then DO IT! Rafael is the most amazing teacher. He makes the lessons relentlessly fun and engaging, he’s very patient, he has incredible knowledge of English as well as Spanish, and he effortlessly adapts the pace and the content of the lessons to best suit your needs. I’m a beginner, and took a one-week course, and I’m so glad that I did. Estelí itself is an authentic and calm place, very different from the other touristy destinations in the country. If you want to escape the crowds and really focus on improving your Spanish then this is the place to do it.

I just spent a phenomenal week studying Spanish with Rafael Castillo at Spanish School Nicaragua in Esteli, Nicaragua. I *highly* recommend his classes to anyone who wants to study Spanish and learn about Nicaragua. I've studied several different languages,and speak 2 well (plus English). I think that Rafael is one of the two best teachers I've ever had. Here are the details: I could already communicate in Spanish, but knew that I was making tons of errors. He had exercises to start conversations on various topics, and made notes while we conversed - this helped me catch careless errors,as well as errors I didn't even know about. And, he always did this with good cheer and encouragement. He also identified my biggest language weaknesses, and had specific lessons on those concepts, including practice & homework. In between, he answered many questions I had about life in Nicaragua. I can't believe how much I learned! Finally, he helped me find accommodations for the week (I chose not to do a homestay), and provided delicious coffee during the break each morning. And, Esteli is a great place to spend a week. I can't recommend him strongly enough! Nell, Portland, OR, USA

Rafeal is a fantastic Spanish teacher! My spanish has definitely improved! Each class we do conversation with corrections as we speak (best way to practice, learn and reinforce a language in my opinion), followed by a structured lesson on grammar. Very highly recommend!!!!!!

Rafael Castillo is an excellent and engaging teacher. Our conversations have become more interesting and FUN as my Spanish has improved! He is a fine human being and and a very intelligent person

I have been a student of Rafael's for 18 months. I have learned a great deal about the Spanish language. The focus is on understanding not just speaking and writing. This is important because it will help prepare you for any situation. He is always available via email and promptly answers any questions, concerns, and schedule issues. Topics that are confusing to me are explained in a variety of ways until they become clear, catering to my learning styles and abilities. Study guides are also provided for extra help when needed. Sessions are comfortable and productive whether I have done well on the lessons or not. I will continue taking lessons because they are helpful. fun. and very reasonably priced. Check it out and you will not be disappointed

My son and I spent a week studying at the Spanish School Nicaragua and staying with a host family. My only regret is that we could not stay longer. Rafael custom structured our daily classes to focus on our weak areas, and really challenged us to improve our Spanish language skills. His unique teaching style made the time we spent in class fun and exciting. He didn’t just focus on the language, but also emphasized the cultural differences offering tips on effectively communicating like a native speaker. He helped us organize our afternoons to experience Estali and the surrounding area. Our accommodations were awesome! Miriam, our host, went out of her way to ensure we were comfortable. She was friendly, interactive, and a culinary expert! I would strongly recommend Spanish School Nicaragua for anyone looking for a true Nica adventure.

Rafael is a total legend! I did a 5 day course with him back in March and had an amazing time. The lessons really helped grow my confidence speaking Spanish. We would often chat in Spanish until I got stuck on something, then Rafael would explain it to me. We also did a couple of lovely field trips - one to the countryside and one to a cigar factory. It was great to mix a bit of culture with the learning. Esteli is off the beaten Gringo track too, so it’s really a breath of fresh air. I was set up with a wonderful host called Miriam, who was super sweet and served delicious Nicaraguan food. If you’re on the fence about doing this, do it!