The Top Programs For Teaching English in Latin America

Latin America continues to attract English teachers looking for more than just a job—it’s a region where culture, language, and community intertwine to create rich and unforgettable experiences. With its year-round warmth, low cost of living, and diverse landscapes, it’s no surprise that so many TEFL teachers head south.

Unlike Europe, Latin America doesn’t offer a wide network of centralized government programs. But that doesn’t mean opportunities are scarce. From structured placements in Chile to in-country TEFL courses in Costa Rica and volunteer-led projects in Guatemala, there are multiple pathways to get started—whether you're looking for a stepping stone or a long-term stay.

This guide covers some of the most trusted and rewarding programs across the region, helping you find the one that fits your lifestyle and goals.

🇨🇱 English Open Doors Program (Chile)

The English Open Doors Program (EODP) is one of the few formal, government-run teaching initiatives in Latin America. Backed by Chile’s Ministry of Education, this program places native or near-native English speakers in public schools across the country, where they serve as co-teachers alongside local staff.

It's a volunteer-based program, but participants receive a monthly stipend, free housing with a host family, and in-country support throughout the placement. The real draw? Full cultural immersion in communities that often don’t have much access to fluent English speakers.

Whether you're in a dusty desert town or a village nestled in the Andes, you’ll find yourself at the heart of something meaningful—helping students build real-world language skills while forming relationships that often outlast the program itself.

Best for: Adventurous, open-minded teachers who want to immerse themselves in local life and make a lasting impact—even if the paycheck isn’t the main priority.

🇧🇷 Fulbright ETA Program (Brazil)

The Fulbright English Teaching Assistant (ETA) Program in Brazil offers one of the most prestigious teaching opportunities in Latin America for U.S. citizens. Funded by the U.S. Department of State, this competitive program places recent graduates in Brazilian universities to assist in English language instruction while promoting cultural exchange.

As an ETA, you’ll work alongside university faculty, lead conversation groups, and often engage in community outreach or side projects. You’re not just teaching—you’re acting as a cultural ambassador.

While the program includes a generous stipend, visa assistance, and professional development support, it also demands a strong academic background, well-crafted application essays, and ideally some teaching, mentoring, or cross-cultural experience.

Best for: Graduates with an eye on international education, public diplomacy, or global nonprofit work. If you're seeking a career-launching experience with name recognition and long-term impact, Fulbright is as good as it gets.

TEFL Course + Job Placement (Costa Rica)

Costa Rica has become a hub for new ESL teachers, thanks to its blend of natural beauty, safety, and well-developed TEFL infrastructure. One of the easiest ways to get started here is by enrolling in an in-country TEFL course that includes job placement support.

Providers like Maximo Nivel, International TEFL Academy, and Costa Rica TEFL offer courses in places like San José, Manuel Antonio, and Playa Samara. You'll spend 3–4 weeks getting certified while soaking in the local culture—and once you graduate, you’ll be connected with schools or language centers hiring locally.

These programs often include observed teaching practice, job coaching, and lifetime job support. While salaries in Costa Rica are modest, many teachers find the work-life balance and tropical setting well worth it.

Best for: First-time teachers who want a smooth, supported entry into teaching abroad, and those who prefer to live in a place where the beach is never far away.

🇲🇽 Private School and Volunteer Opportunities (Mexico)

Mexico offers a diverse and dynamic teaching market, even without a formal national program. English teachers can find opportunities in private language schools, especially in cities like Mexico City, Oaxaca, Guadalajara, and popular expat areas such as San Miguel de Allende or Playa del Carmen.

Most roles require a TEFL certificate, and while pay is modest by international standards, the low cost of living makes it manageable. For teachers looking to make a deeper impact, there are also NGO-led volunteer programs that focus on underserved communities and youth education.

Whether you're teaching business English in a bustling capital or volunteering in a village classroom, Mexico gives you the freedom to choose your pace, environment, and level of commitment.

Best for: Teachers who value flexibility, culture, and variety. This is a great option if you want to experience authentic Mexican life while building your teaching experience on your own terms.

🌍 Other Notable Countries and Options

Colombia

Colombia has seen a surge in demand for English, especially in major cities like Medellín, Bogotá, and Barranquilla. One standout opportunity was the Heart for Change program, which partnered with Colombia Bilingüe to place teachers in public schools. While the original government program has scaled down, private schools, NGOs, and local initiatives continue to hire international teachers.

Good for: Teachers open to urban placements, community outreach, and high-energy environments.

Ecuador

Ecuador offers a mix of urban and rural opportunities, especially in cities like Quito and Cuenca. There are a handful of NGO-led teaching projects, as well as roles in private language centers and business English programs. While salaries are on the lower side, Ecuador’s affordability, scenic diversity, and relaxed lifestyle make it an attractive option.

Good for: Teachers seeking cultural immersion, especially those interested in community-driven education or sustainable travel.

Argentina & Peru

In both Argentina and Peru, many teachers enter through in-country TEFL certification programs that include job placement support. Buenos Aires and Lima are the major hubs, but smaller cities and tourist towns also offer freelance and short-term roles.

Argentina appeals with its European-influenced culture, while Peru offers Andean charm and historical richness. Expect jobs in language institutes, summer camps, or even private tutoring markets.

Good for: Teachers who want a mix of freedom, training support, and access to vibrant cities or natural wonders.

🎒 Volunteer Programs and NGOs Across the Region

Beyond the better-known countries and programs, Latin America is full of grassroots teaching opportunities through small NGOs and nonprofit organizations. Countries like Guatemala, Nicaragua, Honduras, and Bolivia often have community-led projects aimed at improving English access in rural or marginalized communities.

These roles are typically unpaid or offer a small stipend, but in return, you gain deep cultural immersion, Spanish language exposure, and the chance to live in tight-knit communities where your presence has visible impact.

Volunteer teachers might work in after-school programs, women’s education centers, or village schools, often designing creative lessons with limited resources. Housing is sometimes provided, and you’ll likely share meals or live with host families.

Best for: Those who prioritize social impact over salary—whether you're taking a gap year, switching careers, or simply looking to give back in a meaningful way.

🌐 Online Teaching While Living in Latin America

Online teaching is quickly becoming one of the most flexible and sustainable ways to live in Latin America while still earning a stable income. With reliable internet in most cities and tourist hubs, it’s entirely feasible to teach online by day and explore by night.

Many teachers work with platforms like iTalki, Preply, Cambly, or Outschool, while others build their own roster of private students. Earnings vary depending on the platform and hours worked, but it's often significantly more than local teaching salaries.

This path pairs well with part-time local roles or volunteering and is especially useful for teachers who:

• Want to stay longer-term without relying on a tourist visa
• Prefer to work remotely, but still crave cultural immersion
• Need location flexibility, whether for travel or cost-of-living preferences

Latin America offers a compelling mix of low living costs and vibrant lifestyle, making it one of the best regions for digital TEFL teachers to call home.

🎯 Choosing the Right Program or Path

With so many options across Latin America, the best path depends on your goals, experience level, and lifestyle preferences. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

• Want structure + cultural immersion?
  → Go with Chile’s English Open Doors Program or the Fulbright ETA in Brazil for organized placements and built-in support.

• Need first-time support?
  → Choose a TEFL course with job placement in Costa Rica, Argentina, or Peru for training and a smooth start.

• Looking for flexibility?
  → Explore private schools in Mexico, Colombia, or Ecuador, where hiring is year-round and roles vary widely.

• Want to give back?
  → Volunteer with NGOs in Guatemala, Honduras, or rural areas across the region to make a community impact.

• Prefer remote work?
  → Base yourself in any affordable Latin American country while teaching online, giving you income and independence.

There’s no one “best” way to teach in Latin America—only the best fit for you.

🌟 Latin America Has More to Offer Than You Might Expect

While it may lack the structured teaching programs of Europe or the high salaries of the Gulf, Latin America offers something just as powerful: authenticity, adventure, and human connection.

Whether you're heading to the Andes, the Amazon, or the coast, you'll find warm communities, diverse classrooms, and a teaching experience that stays with you long after your contract ends.

With a little planning—and an open mind—you’ll discover that teaching English in Latin America isn’t just possible. It might be exactly the kind of life-changing experience you’ve been looking for.