21 Countries that Speak Spanish: Take a Trip to Learn Spanish

If you’re looking for a vacation destination that will take you around the world, look no further: Spanish is spoken in 21 countries! 

From Spain and Mexico to Argentina and Peru, this popular language is spoken in some of the most beautiful and diverse places on Earth.

Ready to start planning your trip? 

Here’s a quick rundown of the 21 Spanish speaking Countries, plus a few fun facts about each. ¡Buen viaje!

1) Morocco

If you’re looking for a genuinely immersive Spanish-speaking experience, look no further than Morocco. 

This North African country boasts a rich culture and strong Spanish influences. 

You’ll be able to practice your Spanish skills while indulging in authentic Moroccan cuisine and culture.

One word of advice: make sure you come prepared for the heat!

2) Cuba

From the Caribbean to South America, there are a ton of countries that speak Spanish, and each one of them has something unique to offer. 

Take Cuba, for example. This tropical paradise is known for its beautiful beaches, rum, cigars, and music scene.

If you’re looking to experience the vibrant culture of Cuba, you can find it in the capital city of Havana. 

Here you’ll be able to explore the historical sites of Old Havana and dive into their unique cuisine. 

If you’re looking for a more laid-back atmosphere, drive to Viñales Valley or head east towards Trinidad.

Whether you experience Cuban nightlife or soak up some sun on the beach, discovering Cuba’s culture and language is an experience that any Spanish speaker should not miss out on!

3) Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is an incredible place. From the turquoise ocean to the stunning mountains, it’s no surprise that many people flock here for a vacation.

But did you know that besides being a paradise, it’s also a great place to learn Spanish? 

You can enjoy the culture and practice your Spanish at the same time! Plus, as Spanish is the official language here, you’ll be able to practice with locals wherever you go.

The Dominican Republic also has its unique spin on Spanish. 

For example, they often use slang words and phrases like “qué más” (what else) or “dale” (go ahead) that you won’t hear in other Latin American countries. 

It’s a great chance to learn some new vocabulary!

4) Puerto Rico

Belonging to the United States but with its unique character, Puerto Rico is known for its Caribbean-style flavors, deep-rooted culture, and, most importantly: Spanish. 

Many people living in Florida have roots on the island. They are bilingual in English and Spanish, so it’s essential to pay attention to what the locals call their language, español or “puertorriqueño.”

The people of Puerto Rico are proud of their heritage, with a language that represents much more than mere words. 

It encapsulates a rich history passed down from generation to generation. The culture here is heavily rooted in Spanish, making it easy for visitors to appreciate the flavor and flair of this country.

Whether you’re here for business or pleasure, take some time to explore the area. 

You’ll be amazed by how quickly you pick up the language, and all of those postcard-perfect memories will last a lifetime.

5) Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a great country to visit if you want to learn Spanish and appreciate breathtaking nature. 

This tiny country has some of the best beaches in the world and stunning rainforests filled with diverse wildlife. 

The Spanish language is considered the most neutral accent out of the Spanish-speaking countries; natives don’t have solid foreign influences.

What’s particularly impressive about Costa Rica is that locals are proud to promote sustainability and respect for nature; for example, the country is known for having one of the highest percentages of protected land in the world. 

Beyond tending to temper, Costa Ricans are warm and welcoming people with a laid-back attitude. 

While spending time in this peaceful paradise, try out your Spanish with locals or sign up for a language class; it’s easy to find one that suits your needs!

6) Ecuador

Ecuador is another South American country that speaks Spanish. Ecuador is known for its diverse landscapes, ranging from the Galapagos Islands in the Pacific Ocean to the Andes Mountains.

With its tropical climate, Ecuador offers a variety of activities for visitors. Whether you love to hike, swim or explore the unique wildlife, Ecuador has something for everyone. 

In addition to its stunning natural beauty, Ecuador offers some engaging cultural experiences, such as salsa dancing and music festivals.

The Spanish spoken in Ecuador is similar to that of other countries in Latin America and is full of slang and local words. 

If you plan on visiting Ecuador, it’s a good idea to learn a few basic phrases, as most locals will be happy to help you out with your Spanish if they hear you trying!

7) Venezuela

Venezuela is another country that offers a unique experience for Spanish speakers. With its warm climate and lush jungles, it’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

In addition to being one of the most biodiverse countries in the world, Venezuela is known for its lively culture and vibrant music. 

With its traditional cuisine, delicious coffee, and exotic wildlife, you’re guaranteed a fantastic time exploring its unique cities and landscapes.

Venezuela also offers a rich cultural heritage with centuries-old churches, archeological sites, and colonial buildings preserved in several regions of the country.

Learning Spanish in Venezuela will give you a taste of Latin America and an opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and local culture truly. We guarantee you will love every second of your trip!

8) Mexico

From the Caribbean to the Pacific, Mexico is one of the countries that speak Spanish. 

The exciting thing is that while the first language is Spanish, more than 68 languages are spoken in Mexico, including some indigenous ones!

Due to its location, you can easily find various accents and dialects in Mexico. 

In addition to that, Mexican Spanish has a lot of words and phrases influenced by indigenous language.

Whether you’re looking for beautiful beaches and nature or culture, rich history, and gastronomy Mexico has it all! 

And with its 126+ million speakers, it’s a great place to improve your Spanish-speaking skills.

9) Colombia

Ninth on our list is Colombia. Home to the cities of Bogotá and Cartagena, Colombia is a heavily populated country with a population of over 51 million people.

The language in Colombia is Castellano, which differs from the standardized Spanish used in other countries. This includes variations in pronunciation, grammar, and vocabulary.

Colombia is full of exciting sights and unique cultural experiences that range from the hustle and bustle of Bogotá to the charming colonial architecture of Cartagena. And if you’re looking for a little bit more adventure, you can always escape to one of its many tropical beaches or explore the Amazon rainforest.

So if you’re looking for an unforgettable journey full of fun, culture, and outdoor exploration, Colombia might be your next destination!

10) Peru

If you’re looking for a place to practice your Spanish skills, look at Peru. This country is home to more than 33 million Spanish speakers. 

And while the official language of Peru is Quechua, Spanish is the predominant language spoken in the Lima Metropolitan Area.

You’ll find everything you could want in Peru, from snow-capped mountains and stunning lakes to vibrant cities and ancient ruins. 

So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and start planning your trip!

11) Chile

Chile is a great place to visit if you want to find million a large number of spanish speakers. This country is located in South America and is home to more than 19 million people.

One of the best things about Chile is its diverse landscape. You can find everything from snow-capped mountains to lush rainforests here. 

And the culture is just as varied as the landscape; you’ll find everything from indigenous tribes to cosmopolitan cities.

Chile also has a rich history. Spanish explorers first arrived in this area in the 1500s, and the country has been under Spanish rule ever since. As a result, Spanish is the official language of Chile.

So if you’re looking for an authentic Spanish-speaking experience, Chile is worth considering.

12) Argentina

This beautiful country is located in South America and is home to more than 45 million people. 

Argentina’s official language is Spanish, a rich culture that Europe heavily influences.

One of the best ways to experience Argentina is by visiting its capital city, Buenos Aires. 

This metropolis is full of life and bursting with culture and history. You’ll find everything from exquisite opera houses to trendy wine bars in Buenos Aires. 

And, of course, no visit to Argentina would be complete without sampling some of its famous steak dishes!

13) Paraguay

Paraguay is a landlocked country in South America that has a rich Spanish-speaking culture. 

While the official language is Spanish, there are various native languages spoken throughout the country, including Guaraní and Jopará. 

It’s also an incredibly diverse country with large Afro-Paraguayan and Mestizo populations that bring their unique cultural elements to the mix.

The capital of Paraguay is Asunción, which sits on the banks of the Paraguay River. 

This city is filled with gorgeous neoclassical architecture and plenty of outdoor markets to explore. 

It’s also home to incredible natural sites like Cerro León National Park, where you can spot exotic birds like toucans and macaws as you traverse its lush landscapes.

No matter which cultural corner you explore in Paraguay, its cities, beaches, or forests, you’re bound to find yourself surrounded by vibrant Spanish conversations and plenty of delicious cuisines.

14) Uruguay

We’re heading to Uruguay, where Spanish is the country’s official language. 

Located along the Southern Atlantic Coast, it’s often referred to as “the Switzerland of South America” because of its high standard of living and low crime rate.

Visitors will find a mix of cultural influences in Uruguay. For example, there are plenty of Italian restaurants and intriguing examples of colonial architecture. 

The food here is delicious and includes tasty dishes such as chivito, which consists of a grilled steak sandwich with lettuce, tomatoes, mayonnaise, and cheese.

The capital city Montevideo is a great place to start your Uruguay journey. Here you’ll find some lively street scenes and even a few impromptu tango performances! 

There’s also lots to do outdoors, like horseback riding on the beach or taking a boat trip up the Rio de la Plata estuary. 

If you’re looking for a more relaxed setting, head to one of Uruguay’s small towns, Colonia del Sacramento, where you can explore cobbled streets and enjoy stunning views across the river.

15) Honduras

Spanish is the official language in Honduras, with over eight million people speaking it! It is one of the most impoverished countries in Central America and has many political problems. 

Spanish has a unique dialect and accent as with other Central American countries.

Visiting Honduras would be very rewarding if you are looking for cultural experiences. 

In this country, you can see ancient Mayan ruins, zip-lining in tropical rainforest canopies, or explore the islands of Roatán and Utila for some beautiful beach escapes.

Honduras’ Spanish also offers a unique perspective on Spanish mixed with indigenous languages like Garífuna, Miskito, and Xinca, as well as some native English words as American traders brought them over. 

16) El Salvador

Next on our journey worldwide is El Salvador, located in Central America. Spanish is the official language of El Salvador, and more than 6 million people speak it!

El Salvador has many exciting things to explore, from its vibrant culture to stunning beaches. 

You can even visit the ancient Mayan ruins at Joya de Ceren or explore the many national parks. 

Plus, if you’re a fan of coffee or chocolate, you’ll find plenty of places to sample local delicacies.

El Salvador is also home to some fantastic wildlife. 

There’s something for everyone, from howler monkeys to sea turtles to various birds. 

And with so much diversity, you’re sure to find something that speaks to you no matter what kind of traveler you are.

17) Nicaragua

Although Nicaragua is not a mighty nation, its Spanish language is particularly unique. 

With influences from Caribbean Spanish and indigenous tongues, Nicaraguan Spanish features various grammar, pronunciation, and slang twists. 

The country is known for its colorful culture, friendly people, and stunning landscapes, making it the perfect environment to soak up all things Spanish.

The capital, Managua, is the largest city in Nicaragua and home to over one million people. 

This bustling metropolis boasts a vibrant nightlife scene featuring concerts by local artists and salsa dancing in the parks. Nearby colonial cities like Leon and Granada are rich with history, filled with ancient churches and cobblestone streets.

Nicaragua offers exceptional nature experiences, including awe-inspiring volcanoes at Volcan Masaya National Park or Isla Juan Venado Nature Reserve, a lush mangrove sanctuary. 

18) Guatemala

The Spanish spoken in this Central America has a unique spin: it’s heavily influenced by the Maya language.

In Guatemala, they refer to the Spanish they speak as “Castellano” or “español criollo,” and it’s known for its distinctive pronunciation, expressions, and slang. 

So if you want to get the full flavor of what it’s like to speak Spanish in this region, then Guatemala should be your top choice.

The people of Guatemala are proud of their culture, and rightly so. 

On a visit here, you’ll experience Mayan traditions passed down from generation to generation, from colorful local festivals like Semana Santa and Dia de Los Muertos to breathtaking natural attractions like Lake Atitlán and Volcán de Fuego.

19) Bolivia

Following Costa Rica, the following country on our list is Bolivia. It is located in South America and bordered by Peru, Chile, Brazil, and Paraguay. 

Bolivia is home to 12 million people who primarily speak Spanish and 36 other native languages.

Spanish is considered a lingua franca for communication in many rural areas in Bolivia. 

And due to its enormous Mesoamerica legacy and little influence from European invasion, the Spanish spoken in Bolivia maintains its Inca origins. 

Bolivian Spanish differs from the Standard American dialect because of indigenous effects on syntax and vocabulary that give it a unique flair.

In addition to having a unique language, Bolivia is home to over 40 national parks packed with biodiversity and breathtaking landscapes like Salar de Uyuni, an enormous salt flat in the world, as well as colonial cities like La Paz and Sucre with deep cultural roots throughout the country.

20) United States

We start our journey in the United States, home to the world’s largest Spanish-speaking population. 

With around 41 million native Spanish speakers, it’s estimated that about 12% of Americans speak Spanish. 

Not to mention, many businesses and organizations use Spanish as a second language.

Given its proximity to Mexico and other Spanish-speaking countries in the Caribbean, it’s no surprise that Spanish is so prevalent in the U.S. 

But aside from its geographic location, there are also a variety of cultural influences from Latin America that have helped the language become firmly entrenched in American society today.

It can be heard everywhere you go, whether you’re visiting big cities like New York and Los Angeles or smaller towns like Miami or San Antonio. 

So if you’re looking for a unique way to explore our diverse country, why not learn Spanish and go on an adventure?

21) Spain

As the birthplace of the Spanish language, it’s no surprise that Spain is one of the countries where Spanish is spoken. It’s the official language of the country.

Spain is a diverse country with plenty to offer tourists. 

From stunning beaches and coastal towns to vibrant cities and picturesque villages, there’s something for everyone.

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Why Do so Many Countries Speak Spanish?

Spain is a country that has had a significant influence on the world. The Spanish Empire was one of the most powerful empires in history. 

Spain controlled much of South America and North America during this time. 

During the Spanish invasion, the Spaniards imposed their culture on these regions, although some indigenous languages survived.

Spanish is a beautiful, lyrical language that’s easy to learn. It’s also the second most spoken language in the world, so there are a lot of opportunities to use it. 

And with Spanish-speaking countries located worldwide, it’s the perfect way to connect with people from all corners of the planet.

Spanish is a universal language. It can be used for business, travel, socializing, or just about anything else you can think of.

So if you’re looking for a way to connect with more people and explore new cultures, learning Spanish is a great place to start.

Conclusion

Spanish may be an excellent option if you want to explore the world and learn new languages! 

There are many countries where Spanish is the official language, and by learning Spanish, you’ll be able to communicate with people in those countries.