Guatemala is one of the most bio-diverse and historically significant countries in Central America. Because of its shape, the country is bordered by four different countries - Mexico to the north, Belize to the northeast, and Honduras and El Salvador to the southeast; as well as Pacific Ocean and Caribbean coasts.
The country's abundance of biologically unique ecosystems makes the entire Meso-American region a biodiversity hotspot. The Classic period of Meso-American civilization corresponds to the height of Guatemala's Maya Civilization and is represented by countless sites throughout the country, and today "Guatemaltecos" are very proud of their indigenous cultures.
The School
The TEFL course is given in La Antigua, Guatemala, a city situated at 1,500 meters (5,000 feet) above sea level in the central highlands of Guatemala in the department of Sacatepequez. It is the most popular destination in the country for both tourists and Guatemalans alike, and is famous for its well preserved colonial architecture and spectacular ruins - so much so that the entire city has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Antigua's Central Plaza is the heart of the city, and the center bustles with locals and international visitors year round. La Antigua is the first stop for everyone visiting Guatemala and it's the perfect launching point for trips to the Lake Atitlan, Tikal, the jungle, and Pacific coast, all of which are just a few hours away.
This extensive 4-week/150-hour program includes 100 hours of classroom instruction and 25 hours of practical teaching and observation accompanied by an additional 25 hours of required self-study and research outside of the classroom. Both thorough and fun, the TEFL program provides participants with comprehensive training in a professional and supportive environment.
Housing
Housing options and pricing are dependent upon availability and season at the time of your course. Your onsite coordinator will be able to provide more details and recommendations.
During your course of study, there are several housing options to choose from. NOTE that housing costs are separate from course or project tuition. Your onsite coordinator can help you arrange a family-stay or a private apartment.
Host Family-Private: $545 (3 meals/day included)
Host Family-Shared: $445 (3 meals/day included)
Private Apartment: $550
Prices for 4 weeks during the course (one day prior to course start date and two days after)
Housing prices are approximate figures. Housing options and pricing are dependent upon availability and season at the time of your course.
Transportation
The school in Guatemala can arrange airport pick up. Located just 30 mi (45 km) west of Guatemala City, you can arrive in 45-60 min from La Aurora Airport. There are regular shuttle vans directly from the airport to Antigua costing around Q80 and leave regularly all day until 8PM. You don't need to prearrange, but demand can be high depending on the number of flights arriving at the same time, so pre-purchasing a ticket from a local travel agent is best. A taxi from the airport to Antigua is around Q350. Antigua is very compact and easy to walk around.
Climate
Antigua is located in the tropics and has nice weather all year long. Its high elevation keeps the city from getting too hot in the summer, the average daytime temperature all year 'round being in the 70's. Antigua's night time temperatures tend to drop into the 50's. Antigua does have a rainy season which lasts from May through September. During this season it rains nearly every day in the late afternoon and evening. The remainder of the calendar year is relatively dry. Because of its pleasant weather Antigua is a great place to visit at any time of year.
Tuition Includes
Tuition Includes:
Tuition DOES NOT Include:
Course fee
Job placement assistance
Computer and internet access at school
Course materials
Accommodation and meals
Personal expenses
Travel to and from the course
Visa, if needed
Airport pickup
Medical insurance (TEFL Institute can recommend medical insurance)
The TEFL course is given in La Antigua, Guatemala, a city situated at 1,500 meters (5,000 feet) above sea level in the central highlands of Guatemala in the department of Sacatepequez. It is the most popular destination in the country for both tourists and Guatemalans alike, and is famous for its well preserved colonial architecture and spectacular ruins - so much so that the entire city has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Antigua's Central Plaza is the heart of the city, and the center bustles with locals and international visitors year round. La Antigua is the first stop for everyone visiting Guatemala and it's the perfect launching point for trips to the Lake Atitlan, Tikal, the jungle, and Pacific coast, all of which are just a few hours away.
