Chile: Andean Adventure for TEFL Teachers with Mountain-High Aspirations

Chile stretches like a ribbon along South America’s western edge, offering TEFL teachers a unique blend of natural splendor, vibrant culture, and professional opportunity. While not the most lucrative TEFL destination globally, Chile provides a comfortable lifestyle alongside unparalleled access to some of the world’s most stunning landscapes—from the towering Andes mountains to diverse ecosystems that will captivate nature enthusiasts. 

Teaching Landscape

Chile represents a moderate opportunity in the South American TEFL market. The country’s relatively higher standard of living compared to neighboring nations translates to better working conditions and more professional teaching environments. However, this also means competition can be fiercer, with many schools preferring candidates who already have some teaching experience under their belts. Our cheap TEFL course can help give you a bit of an edge, but be aware that popularity makes experience the preference here.

Most teaching positions are concentrated in major urban areas, with Santiago, Valparaíso, Antofagasta, and Concepción offering the highest concentration of opportunities. The academic culture tends to be more structured than in some other Latin American countries, with schools expecting professionalism and commitment from their teaching staff.

Salary Expectations

TEFL teachers in Chile typically earn between £427–£625 ($550–$800) monthly. While these figures won’t have you building significant savings, they generally allow teachers to break even while enjoying Chile’s lifestyle and natural attractions. Many teachers supplement their income with private tutoring or online teaching to enhance their financial situation.

The cost of living, while higher than in some neighboring countries like Peru or Bolivia, remains reasonable by Western standards. This creates a situation where your salary stretches further than you might expect, especially if you embrace local living practices rather than maintaining expensive expatriate habits.

Qualifications and Requirements

Chile has relatively straightforward requirements for TEFL teachers:

• A bachelor’s degree (in any subject)
• TEFL certification (120 hours minimum)
• Teaching experience is preferred but not always mandatory

While not a strict requirement, having some Spanish language skills significantly enhances both your employability and your daily life experience in Chile. Those who complete online TEFL course training before arrival will find themselves better positioned in a competitive job market.

Finding Work

Several pathways exist for finding teaching positions in Chile:

• Academia de Idiomas del Norte recruits TEFL-qualified teachers
• The Association of British Schools in Chile connects teachers with elite educational institutions
• British Council offers Assistant Language Teacher positions
• ChilEnglish hires TEFL-qualified teachers (experience preferred)
• Executive English Solutions recruits degreed teachers with at least one year of experience for 6-12 month contracts
• English Opens Doors Program provides volunteer teaching opportunities across the country

The Chilean academic year begins in February, making December and January prime hiring seasons, though language institutes often hire year-round.

Lifestyle and Culture

Chile’s greatest asset may be its remarkable diversity of landscapes and activities. Football fans will find themselves in heaven, as the sport holds near-religious status among locals. Food enthusiasts can indulge in Chile’s culinary culture, with avocados featuring prominently in many dishes.

After completing a cheap TEFL course online, imagine spending your weekends hiking in the Andes, where snowcapped peaks tower above alpine meadows, condors soar on thermal currents, and hidden hot springs provide the perfect relaxation after a day of adventure.

Chileans are known for their friendly, good-humored nature, making cultural integration easier than in some more reserved societies. The country maintains a more formal business culture than some Latin American nations, which translates to professional teaching environments but also clear expectations from employers.

Chilean Festivals

Chile hosts numerous fascinating festivals throughout the year. The Tapati Festival on Easter Island celebrates Rapa Nui culture with traditional competitions and performances. In September, the country comes alive for Fiestas Patrias (Independence Day celebrations), featuring rodeos, cueca dancing, and asados (barbecues) that showcase Chilean hospitality at its finest.

The Final Word

Chile offers TEFL teachers an adventure rather than a fortune. The country’s appeal lies not in its salary prospects but in its lifestyle opportunities and natural beauty. Teachers seeking career advancement might find Chile a stepping stone rather than a long-term destination, but those prioritizing quality of life, outdoor adventures, and cultural immersion often extend their stays far beyond their initial plans.

For teachers who value experiences over savings and want to improve their Spanish while working in a relatively stable economic environment, Chile represents an excellent introduction to South American life and a cheap TEFL course investment that returns rich cultural dividends.