Teach English in Bolivia

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How to Begin Teaching in Bolivia

Rugged and Remote Beauty

The country boasts amazing natural wonders, such as the Andes, the Amazon.

Bolivia is a country of rugged and remote beauty, a keeper of ancient cultures, and has a rich mixed indigenous community. The country boasts amazing natural wonders, such as the Andes, the Amazon, and the stark salt lakes set against the rich blue sky. For those who love outside adventure and exploration, they will feel at home in this country.  

Beyond nature, Bolivia has played a key role historically in the region. Surprisingly, it has been able to shun modern urbanisation, allowing it to maintain an air of authenticity. The ancient ruins of Tiwanaku and Samipata are remnants and physical reminders of this glorious past. The influence of the Incas and the Aymara is still felt today. Bolivia also boasts one of the most diverse populations in the Latin American region, due to the sheer number of indigenous groups. The capital city La Paz, situated at approximately 4050m above sea level, combines this diversity with a combination of modern, Spanish and indigenous architecture. This is also reflected in language. Although Spanish is the official language of Bolivia, both Aymara and Quechua are still spoken. Such diversity can lead to culture shock for the foreign visitor. If you are looking for a life of constant learning and paradoxes, to challenge every stereotype you have ever accumulated in life, then Bolivia is your destination.

In the same way as other countries in Latin America, football is an all-consuming passion, as well as the inhabitants' love for animals.  This is reflected in the nature reserves and zoos found throughout the country.

There are 30 languages spoken in Boliva. Quechua and Aymara are two commonly spoken languages, however Spanish is the most spoken language. Spanish and Quechua are the main language spoken in the Andes, while Altiplano, Aymara is the more commonly spoken language.

The highest lake in the world is to be found in Bolivia. Lake Titicaca is located in western Bolivia. It is also one of the deepest lakes in the world with its greatest depth at 280 meters.

Teaching Opportunities

Bolivia is still a relatively poor country, which means that it is similar to the way Cambodia was about 10 years ago. This means that the number of volunteer opportunities seem to outweigh paid work. For those interested in teaching as a volunteer, it is important to remember that even though accommodation might be provided, your airfare and daily spending money will not be paid for by your organisation. You will, therefore, need to have savings in order to come to the country. Volunteer job opportunities can be found through NGO organisations that are based in Bolivia. Despite the number of volunteer opportunities, recently there has started to be more opportunity for paid work. These opportunities can be found in La Paz, Cochabamba, El Alto and Santa Cruz. The salaries are not huge, but the cost of living is low, so you should be able to cover your expenses while living there.

Teaching Requirements

Degree Requirement Typical Contract Length Peak Hiring Seasons Visa Info Typical Students Average Monthly Cost of Living in £ GBP & Local Currency Average Monthly Salary in £ GBP & Local Currency
Not required1 - 12 months January - February and June - July Tourist visa Business professionals, children 2,780 - 4,174 BOB (250 - 375 GBP) 2,780 - 4,174 BOB (250 - 375 GBP)
Not required
1 - 12 months
January - February and June - July
Tourist visa
Business professionals, children
2,780 - 4,174 BOB (250 - 375 GBP)
2,780 - 4,174 BOB (250 - 375 GBP)

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