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The Official Belize Travel Guide

The ultimate guide to belize, why belize, this comprehensive belize travel guide features the best things to see and do in belize. belize is quickly becoming one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. while it has a reputation for its sandy beaches and the looming barrier reef, there's a lot more to belize than just waterfront property. you'll find jungle, caves, ruins, and a thriving population eager to share their lives and their experiences with you. if you're considering taking a trip to belize, we're here to provide you with all the information you need to make your vacation magical in this official belize travel guide., ambergris caye, popular activities.

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With one foot in the Central American jungles and the other in the Caribbean Sea, pint-sized Belize is packed with islands, adventure and culture.

Best Time to Visit

Best places to visit, attractions, must-see attractions.

Hol Chan Marine Reserve

Ambergris Caye

At the southern tip of Ambergris, the 6.5-sq-mile Hol Chan Marine Reserve is probably Belize's most oft-visited diving and snorkeling site. It offers…

Xunantunich

Cayo District

Set on a leveled hilltop, Xunantunich (shoo-nahn-too-neech) is one of Belize's most easily accessible and impressive Maya archaeological sites. Getting…

Belize District

If most zoos are maximum-security wildlife prisons, then the Belize Zoo is more like a halfway house for wild animals that can't make it on the outside. A…

Once one of the most powerful cities in the entire Maya world, Caracol now lies enshrouded by thick jungle near the Guatemalan border, a 52-mile, roughly…

Museum of Belize

Belize City

This modern museum in the Fort George District provides an excellent overview of the story of Belize, told through exhibits housed in the country's former…

Half Moon Caye Natural Monument

Half Moon Caye Natural Monument is known first and foremost as providing nesting grounds for the rare red-footed booby bird, but the island's enchantments…

Goff's Caye

Some of the most spectacular snorkeling in Belize happens just a short swim off the powder-white sands of Goff's Caye, a tiny, uninhabited island just a…

Green Iguana Conservation Project

San Ignacio

On the lush Macal Valley grounds of the San Ignacio Resort Hotel, this excellent program collects and hatches iguana eggs, raising the reptiles until they…

Top picks from our travel experts

23 of the best things to do in belize.

Lazy Lizard

Caye Caulker

The Lazy Lizard is described as a 'sunny place for shady people,' though most folks here tend to be attractive, young travelers, swimming about and…

Shark Ray Alley

Only snorkeling is allowed at this perennially popular spot, which is in a shallow part of the Hol Chan Marine Reserve. Shark Ray Alley was traditionally…

Chaa Creek Natural History Center & Butterfly Farm

Hike up the tree-covered hillside above the Macal River to reach the Chaa Creek Natural History Center & Butterfly Farm, a small nature center with…

Black Rock Lodge

High up the Macal in beautiful Black Rock Canyon, this is a stunning setting for a jungle adventure. Slate-and-wood cabins are fan-cooled and have lovely…

Ray Caye Resort

This spectacular private island resort, about 18 miles east of Placencia, should fulfill all of your tropical island fantasies without completely breaking…

Copal Tree Lodge

Southern Belize

Formerly Belcampo Belize, Copal Tree Lodge enjoys a superb hilltop setting overlooking miles of protected jungle stretching down to the Gulf of Honduras…

Marie Sharp's Factory

The super-hot bottled sauces that adorn tables all over Belize and beyond are made from habanero peppers here at Marie Sharp's Factory, 8 miles northwest…

A narrow channel that splits Caye Caulker into two, the Split has clean, deep waters free of seaweed, making it one of the island's best swimming areas…

Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary

The Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary is Belize’s most famous sanctuary and one of its biggest protected areas. This great swath of tropical forest…

The last word in ultra-chic luxury (with price tag to match), this Balinese-themed lodge is owned by the family of Francis Ford Coppola, where the…

Blancaneaux Lodge

Owned by movie director Francis Ford Coppola (who keeps a personal villa, 'the Francis Ford Coppola Villa,' complete with attendant and private pool;…

Turneffe Island Resort

At the southern tip of the atoll, the fanciest of the Turneffe resorts offers gorgeous cabañas with screened porches, wooden floorboards, and indoor and…

Errolyns House of Fry Jacks

Who said Belize had to be expensive? Locals and travelers alike descend on this neat takeout hut to chow down on the island's best-value breakfast –…

Ian Anderson's Caves Branch Jungle Lodge

Hummingbird Highway

Hidden away in dense jungle off the Hummingbird Hwy, Ian Anderson's is a 90-sq-mile private estate that acts as a base for a variety of exclusive jungle…

Pop's Restaurant

You may feel like you're in a Seinfeld episode at this friendly diner with booth seating. The best omelets in town, along with waffles and good coffee,…

Big Rock Falls

The small but powerful Big Rock Falls on Privassion Creek are, for many, more impressive than the Thousand Foot Falls – not least because you can get up…

Northern Belize

Perhaps the most fascinating Maya site in Northern Belize, Lamanai lies 24 miles south of Orange Walk Town up the New River (or 36 miles by unpaved road)…

Altun Ha, the Maya ruins that have inspired Belikin beer labels and Belizean banknotes, stands 31 miles north of Belize City, off the Old Northern Hwy…

High atop a hill about a mile south of San Ignacio, Cahal Pech is the oldest-known Maya site in the Belize River valley, having been first settled between…

The Maya ruins at Lubaantun, 1.3 miles northwest of San Pedro Columbia, are built on a natural hilltop and display a construction method unusual in the…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Best Things to Do

With a glittering Caribbean coastline, wildlife-filled jungles and beautiful coral reefs, there are many amazing experiences to have in Belize.

Things to Know

Jungle or beach? What street foods should I try? Why is everything so slow? Here is everything you need to know before traveling to Belize.

Transportation

Getting around the country of Belize can be an adventure in itself. Here are our top tips for a successful journey.

Visa Requirements

Here's what you need to know about visa requirements ahead of travel to Belize.

Money and Costs

Though it's more costly than its Central American neighbors, Belize is not beyond the reach of budget travelers. Just use our 9 top tips to plan your trip.

Traveling with Kids

Planning a vacation with the little ones? Here are some of the best things to do in Belize with kids of all ages.

Best Road Trips

Explore the beautiful country of Belize by car on these top road trip routes.

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Belize and beyond

30 Fun Facts About Belize 

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There are plenty of fun facts about Belize! But what makes this country so exciting and so much FUN? Read on to find out…

1. Belize Is a Small Country!

2. there are many forests in belize, 3. nobody knows the true origin of the word belize, 4. the british ruled over belize for over a hundred years, 5. belize was once the home of the mayan civilization, 6. the official language of belize is english, 7. belize has the most colourful flag amongst other flags, 8. the second largest barrier reef is in belize, 9. belize citizens love football, 10. there are no american fast food chains in belize, 11. belize is rich in flora and fauna, 12. marijuana is decriminalized in belize, 13. belize has many myths and folklore, 14. the black orchid is the national flower of belize, 15. don’t haggle or bargain in belize, 16. doyle’s delight is the highest peak in belize, 17. belize has the lowest population density in central america, 18. belize is a treat for chocolate lovers, 19. belize has one of the biggest marine sinkholes, 20. belize’s head of state is king charles iii , 21. the tallest structure in belize is a pyramid , 22. belize city is the largest city in belize, 23. the majority of belizeans follow christianity , 24. there are many ethnicities in belize, 25. belize doesn’t have a pacific coastline , 26. you shouldn’t swim on good friday in belize , 27. tourism and agriculture are the primary industries of belize, 28. belize has over 450 islands, 29. rice and beans is a popular dish in belize, 30. belize has many caves, fun facts about belize – further reading, fun facts about belize.

Located towards the northeast region of Central America, Belize is a small country, filled with a rich history, culture, and splendid sparkling-blue beaches . Now, most of us don’t know much about Belize, due to its tiny size. However, there are a lot of things about this country that are going to blow your mind!  

So, without any further ado, let’s unravel some secrets and fun facts about Belize, that the country has been hiding. 

Belize is one of the most underrated destinations. It has everything that every other beach or exotic country possesses. If you love exploring cultures, you’ll love this country’s rich history and people. Moreover, it’s also the perfect place for island and wildlife lovers , like me! 

These fun facts about Belize will help you know more about this amazing Central American country. 

Let’s discuss some general fun facts about Belize. It’s one of the smallest countries in the world. If we go by rankings, it’s the 48th smallest country ! 

The total land area of Belize is only around 22,965 square kilometres . Also, its size is pretty much equivalent to the size of US states, like New Jersey and New Hampshire.

If you love nature, you should read these fun facts about Belize. 

In a world where most countries are in a rat race to build big cities, Belize has decided to preserve its natural resources. Therefore, you’ll find that the majority of the country is covered by subtropical forests and rainforests . 

According to the official statistics , 61.1% of Belize is covered with forests, and some regions also fall under the protected category. 

Most of these forests are protected by the government, and they don’t allow human intervention. 

I’ve covered many fun facts about Belize in this article, but this one is one of my favourites. 

Usually, we know the origin of the name of most countries. However, in the case of Belize, it isn’t so straightforward. Even today, there are many different theories and ongoing debates regarding the origin of the name, ‘ Belize’ .

Some people believe that the name originates from the Mayan word, ‘ belix ’, which translates to ‘muddy water’. Hence, it might refer to the presence of the various rivers and marshy areas in the country. 

However, others believe that it originates from the Mayan phrase ‘bel Itza’ , which means ‘the road to Itza’ .

There are at least two to three more contradictions regarding the name’s origin!

Here are some historical fun facts about Belize for you.

It’s no secret that the British Empire had colonies all over the world, including Belize ! 

The British declared Belize as “ British Honduras ” in 1862. After Belize became a British colony, the country was used to source hardwood and dyewood. Many African slaves were also brought here during the 17th and 18th centuries. 

However, due to the growing resistance of people, the British gave independence to Belize on 21st September 1981. Before the independence, the country’s name was also changed from British Honduras to Belize, in 1973.

These fun facts about Belize are for my fellow history lovers! 

The Mayan civilisation is one of the oldest civilisations to exist. Most people believe that the Mayans only inhabited the areas of Mexico and Guatemala. But, that’s not the truth, as archaeologists found several ruins from the Mayan civilization in Belize too.

Between 1500 BC and 900 AD, the Mayan empire continued to flourish in today’s Belize. Therefore, you’ll find many Mayan sites in Belize today, like Caracol, Altun Ha, and Nim Li Punit . 

Here’s one of the surprising fun facts about Belize. Unlike other countries of the Central American region, the official language of Belize is English . 

It is because the British Empire continued to rule Belize for a long time. Hence, English has become the official medium for communication in government offices, schools, and judicial places too. 

However, English isn’t the only language spoken in Belize. You’ll also find people speaking other languages like Creole patois and Spanish.

It’s always fun exploring the flags of different countries. If you look at Belize’s flag, you’ll notice that it is the most colourful one!

Belize’s flag has around 12 colours on it. It’s also symbolic in nature, as it represents the country’s past as a British colony and the present as an independent nation too. You’ll also find a mahogany tree drawn on the flag, as it’s the national tree of Belize. 

There are many other objects present on the Belize flag such as two woodcutters, a shield, a ship, and a wreath of green leaves. 

Most of us are only aware of the largest barrier reef, the Great Barrier Reef, located in Australia . But, did you know that the second largest barrier reef is in Belize ? These fun facts about Belize are a must-know for divers. 

The Belize Barrier Reef is also the largest barrier reef in the entire Northern Hemisphere. It extends for approx. 300 metres in the north, and 40 kilometres in the south. 

Today, the Belize Barrier Reef is one of the best diving spots for both scuba divers and snorkelers!

Just like the whole world, the people of Belize are also crazy about football! If you visit Belize, you’ll notice that football matches are organised at every level – school, district, and national level too. 

The most popular national-level football competition, the Premier League of Belize , is held annually. Every year eight teams participate in this competition!

Belize also has a football team at an international level. It has qualified once in CONCACAF Gold Cup, but never in FIFA.   

If you’re a fan of American food chains, these fun facts about Belize are going to give you a shock! 

Even if Belize is a hotspot for American tourists, the country has no popular American fast-food chains. Not even a McDonald’s or Subway. It also doesn’t have American supermarket chains, like Walmart. 

On the contrary, you’ll find many local restaurants that offer authentic Mexican food, and make you feel like a true Belizean! 

Since a major portion of Belize is covered with rainforests, you can get to see a wide variety of flora and fauna there. 

There are more than 300 to 400 species of trees . Out of these, the common trees of Belize include Mahogany, Australian pine, palms, cedar, and papaya too. 

Belize is also home to over 145 species of mammals and 600 species of birds ! If you’re in Belize, you’ll spot many tapirs, jaguars, armadillos, macaws, and toucans.

There are only a handful of countries that have decriminalised marijuana , and Belize is one of them. Belize was also the first country in the whole of Central America to decriminalise marijuana. 

As of November 2017, the Belize government allows the possession or use of 10 grams of cannabis or less on private property. However, if you’re caught possessing more than that, you might get fined or imprisoned.

These fun facts about Belize are interesting to me, as folklore and myths depict the culture of any country! 

One of the most common myths of Belize is that of the Sisimitos and Sisimitas . The locals believe that they’re hairy men and women who used to live in the caves of Belize. Their appearance resembles more to apes due to their short figure, compared to humans. 

Some also believe that the Sisimitos and Sisimitas love snacking on human flesh. They were also known to abduct and molest humans. Sounds scary, doesn’t it?

Belize is known for its vivid flora, including its national flower, the Black Orchid . 

The Black Orchid ( Encyclia Cochleatum ) isn’t a black variation of the purple orchids. Instead, it is deep purple in colour, such that it almost looks black. On the contrary, the sepals and petals are slightly greenish-yellow.

The unique fact about Black Orchids is that you cannot purchase them in Belize, as selling or purchasing them is an illegal act!

One thing that all types of tourists love to do in small countries is haggle or bargain to get products at a discounted rate. However, you shouldn’t do the same in Belize, as it is considered rude.

The Belizeans don’t bargain or haggle even in local markets, or restaurants. Instead, they simply pay the official price of the product or service. 

When it comes to Belize, you might only think about beaches. However, it is not the case, as these fun facts about Belize show that it also has some mountain ranges. 

The northern area of Belize is full of flat and swampy regions, whereas the southern area has mountains. It has a mountain range, known as the Maya Mountains . These mountains are present in eastern Guatemala too.  

The highest peak in Belize, Doyle’s Delight, is also located in the southwest region of Belize. It has a height of 1,124 metres or 3,688 feet , above sea level. 

Belize isn’t one of the countries with a lot of population or even population density. These fun facts about Belize are about its population . 

As per recent studies , the population of Belize is around 410,825 . In the previous years 2022 and 2021, it was around 405,272 and 400,031 respectively. Hence, it is the least populated country in Central America. 

The population density of Belize is also the lowest in the entire Central American region. As of 2023, the population density of Belize is around 17.89 people per square kilometre . 

If you’re a fan of chocolates, you’re going to love these fun facts about Belize. 

Belize is the ultimate paradise for chocolate lovers, as there are many cacao trees there. Chocolate was discovered by Mayans, and they ate it during every meal time. 

In 1980, the famous chocolate company, Hershey, also had their main cacao farm in Belize. Hence, today, you can also take half-day chocolate-making tours. 

The locals will guide you through the cacao trees and the ancient process of making them. They’ll also give you a free chocolate bar to taste at the end! 

A sinkhole is nothing but a depression in the Earth’s surface. Similarly, a marine sinkhole is formed underwater due to various geological processes. 

Belize also has one of the biggest marine sinkholes, known as the Great Blue Hole . It’s present near the Lighthouse Reef, an atoll located 70 km away from Belize city. 

The Great Blue Hole is 410 feet deep and has a diameter of 300 metres (984 feet). Currently, it has also become a favourite spot for divers! 

Here are some surprising fun facts about Belize and its constitutional structure. 

Even though Belize gained independence, it is still a constitutional monarchy . So, the government body has to share its powers with a monarch.  

Previously, Belize’s head of state was Queen Elizabeth II. However, after her demise, the title was given to King Charles III. Note that the monarchs don’t have much involvement in the day-to-day affairs of the state. 

The tallest structure in most countries is usually a skyscraper or a tower! But, when it comes to Belize, a Mayan pyramid is the tallest structure here. 

The Mayan pyramid, named Canaa (translates to Sky Palace), has a height of 43 metres or 141 feet . If you want to visit it, you need to visit Caracol, an ancient Maya archaeological site in Belize. 

Belize is a pretty small country as discussed in other fun facts about Belize. You’ll find that it only has two main cities – Belize City and Belmopan (the capital), and many tiny towns like Dangriga and San Pedro. 

The largest city in Belize is Belize City, as it covers an area of 35.66 square kilometres . Belmopan is the second largest, as it is spread over an area of 32.78 square kilometres . 

Even though Belize has a low population, you’ll find people from various faiths and religions. Therefore, there are around 16 religions in Belize. 

The majority of Belizeans follow Christianity. Around 40.1% of the population are Roman Catholics, whereas some are Pentecostal (8.4%). Other divisions include Baptists (3.6%), Anglicans (4.7%), and Seventh-day Adventists (5.4%). 

Once you visit Belize, you won’t just see the native Belizeans. Instead, you’ll find people from various other ethnicities residing in Belize. 

Some of the common ethnicities include Mestizo, Maya, Creole, Garifuna, East Indian, and even Chinese! 

Mestizo and Maya are the most common ethnicities in Belize as 52.9% of the population descend from those groups. 

Here’s one of the geographical fun facts about Belize. 

There are many big and small countries in Central America. Now, all of them, except Belize, have a Pacific coastline ! 

As Belize is towards the eastern coast of Central America, it is bordered by the Caribbean Sea (in the Atlantic Ocean ), instead of the Pacific Coastline.

Every country has weird traditions, and these fun facts about Belize show that it isn’t an exception. 

One of the most common traditions in Belize is to not swim on the auspicious occasion of Good Friday. 

As per one superstition, people who swim on Good Friday turn into fish or even mermaids/mermen! You may also attract bad luck for the rest of the year. 

Let’s talk about some economic fun facts about Belize. 

Just like other beach countries, the dominant industries in Belize are also tourism and agriculture. 

Tourism contributes around 41.3 percent of GDP whereas agriculture contributes around 15% to 20% of GDP .

Belize is known for its islands , as it has over 450 of them scattered across the Caribbean Sea! The locals also call these islands “ cayes ”. 

The largest island in Belize is Ambergris Caye, as it is 40 kilometres long and 1.6 kilometres wide. Other popular islands also include Caye Caulker and St. George’s Caye . 

These food fun facts about Belize are for those who love everything about food!

Rice and beans is the national and the staple food for many Belizeans. Red kidney beans are cooked with various traditional spices and also coconut milk. They’re served with steamed rice! 

Some other delicious food items to try in Belize are Ceviche, Chimole, and Fry Jacks. 

You need to know these fun facts about Belize if you’re into exploring caves. 

Belize has many caves through which you can explore the country’s geographical and cultural history. The most popular caves in Belize are Actun Tunichil Muknal, Chumpiate, and Caves Branch. 

The country of Belize is small, but it is a kaleidoscope of vibrant culture, breathtaking sights, and flourishing flora and fauna. 

These fun facts about Belize only cover a little bit about the country’s richness. Once you visit the country, you’ll get to know much more from the locals!

If you enjoyed reading these fun facts about Belize, I’ve also delved deep into other locations as mentioned below. 

•  The 12 Essential Panama City Things To Do
• Visiting the Costa Rica volcanoes: What you should know
• 13 shocking facts about the biggest caves in the world
• Are islands countries? + 8 brilliant island facts!
• How Many Continents Of The World Are There? + Detailed & Fascinating Facts

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• 3.1 Maya ruins
• 4.1 History
• 4.2 Climate
• 4.3 Terrain
• 4.4 Visitor information
• 6.1.1 Visa-free
• 6.1.2 Visas
• 6.2 By plane
• 6.5 By boat
• 7.1 By plane
• 7.3 By taxi
• 7.4 By water taxi
• 7.5.1 Highways
• 9.1 Zip-lining
• 9.2 Sport fishing
• 9.3 Scuba diving and snorkelling
• 9.4 Cave exploration
• 14 Stay safe
• 15 Stay healthy

Belize offers world-class attractions include exploring the lush jungles with exotic plants and animals, deep sea fishing, swimming, snorkelling and diving in the Caribbean Sea with its attractive reefs and visiting the Mayan ruins. While income levels are still very low and the infrastructure is very basic, Belizeans are very proud and friendly to visitors as the tourist industry grew greatly in the last decade. It is the only country in mainland Central America with English as its official language.

Regions [ edit ]

Cities [ edit ]

• 17.25 -88.7675 1 Belmopan - inland capital
• 17.498611 -88.188611 2 Belize City - Belize's largest city, on the Caribbean Sea
• 18.4 -88.4 3 Corozal Town
• 17.766667 -88.533333 4 Crooked Tree
• 16.966667 -88.216667 5 Dangriga - Large Garifuna town in the south, formerly known as Stann Creek Town
• 16.866667 -88.283333 6 Hopkins - Garifuna village
• 18.075 -88.558333 7 Orange Walk Town
• 16.1 -88.8 8 Punta Gorda - Beautiful, quiet port town in the South; home to a complex and diverse Amerindian market on the weekends
• 17.1588 -89.0696 9 San Ignacio - Known as Cayo to locals, Maya and Hispanic influence near the Guatemala border

Other destinations [ edit ]

• 18.013947 -87.931039 1 Ambergris Caye –- large barrier island in the north
• 17.7425 -88.025 2 Caye Caulker – smaller barrier island in the north
• 16.593889 -88.366667 3 Placencia Peninsula – long peninsula (almost an island) off Stann Creek
• 16.8983 -88.0619 4 Tobacco Caye – a tiny island popular with budget travellers

Maya ruins [ edit ]

• 17.75 -88.333333 5 Altun Ha
• 16.763928 -89.117592 6 Caracol
• 17.752567 -88.654469 7 Lamanai
• 16.281111 -88.965 8 Lubaantun
• 17.083889 -89.133889 9 Xunantunich

Understand [ edit ]

Belize, formerly British Honduras , is the only country in Central America without a coastline on the Pacific Ocean (only the Caribbean Sea to its east). With its British colonial history and a long Caribbean coast, it's culturally similar to many of Britain's former West Indian island colonies, with a majority creole or Afro-Caribbean population. But it also includes a large native Mayan population, especially in the north and northwest of the country. As a result, although English is the official language, Spanish is also often spoken. In the south east along the Caribbean coast live the Garifuna (Black Caribs), an Afro-Amerindian culture.

After long journeys starting in what is now the Netherlands in 1790, via Germany, Southern Russia, Canada, the United States, and Mexico, several thousand German-speaking Mennonite Christians arrived in Belize in 1958 after long and detailed discussions with the government regarding specific exemptions and privileges. They are easily recognizable by their speech (somewhat distinctive from modern standard German) and "quaint" dress.

History [ edit ]

Like the neighbouring parts of Guatemala and Mexico, this area was settled for thousands of years by the Maya people. They are still here, an important part of Belize's people and culture. While the Spanish Empire claimed the area in the 16th century, the Spanish made little progress in settling here. The British settled first on the coast and offshore islands for logging. In 1798 British Belizean forces defeated a Spanish attempt to drive them out in the Battle of St. George's Caye, an anniversary still celebrated as a holiday each 10 September.

The colony of British Honduras grew in the 19th century. At first Africans were brought in as slaves, but slavery was abolished here in 1838. Following the abolition of slavery, the British would bring indentured Indian labourers to the colony to supplement the labour pool, and their descendants remain a significant minority to this day. Many refugees from the 19th-century Caste War of Yucatán Peninsula escaped the conflict to settle in Belize, especially the northern section.

The government of Guatemala has long claimed to have inherited the 15th-century Spanish claim to Belize. Although the British were willing to grant independence to British Honduras as early as the mid-1960s, this ongoing dispute played a major role in delaying full Belizean independence until 1981, long after London granted independence to other former colonies in the region. Guatemala refused to recognize an independent Belize at all until 1991, and to this day lays claim to virtually all Belizean territory south of Belize City. The topic remains a sensitive one, particularly in the southern half of Belize.

Belize escaped the bloody civil conflicts of the 1980s that engulfed much of Central America, and refugees from the conflict in Guatemala arrived, mostly settling in the west. While Belize has not been immune to the rampant drug crime and grinding poverty of its neighbours, it is a comparatively safe destination in a conflict-prone part of the world. Belize shares particularly close diplomatic and economic ties with both the United Kingdom and the United States.

Tourism has become the mainstay of the economy as the old agricultural products — sugar, banana, and oranges — have lost ground. The country remains plagued by high unemployment, growing involvement in the South American drug trade, and increased urban crime. In 2006, commercial quantities of oil were discovered in the Spanish Lookout area.

Climate [ edit ]

Tropical, very hot and humid. The dry season typically lasts from February to May and then the rainy season typically lasts through to November. Hurricanes that bring coastal flooding, especially in the south, are prevalent from June to November.

Terrain [ edit ]

The flat coastal plain is swampy with low mountains in the south. The highest point is Victoria Peak at 1,160 m.

Visitor information [ edit ]

• Tavel Beluze website.

Talk [ edit ]

As a former British colony, the official language of Belize is standard British English, which makes Belize stand out from its Spanish-speaking neighbours.

Spanish , Garifuna (Carib) and the Maya languages/dialects of Kekchi, Mopan and Yucatec are spoken in various parts of the country. Spanish is widely used as the first language in northern and western parts of the country. So-called "kitchen Spanish," an amalgam of Spanish and English, is common on Ambergris Caye . Belizean Creole, which has a certain degree of mutual intelligibility with standard English, is widely spoken as well. Most Belizeans are proficient in English and at least one of these other languages.

Many Belizeans speak a mix of Creole and English among friends, and standard English to foreigners. The strong Caribbean accent may take some getting used to.

Get in [ edit ]

Entry requirements [ edit ].

All visitors are required to have sufficient funds, US$75 per day, and documents required for their next destination.

If entering by land from Mexico, you will be charged a fee of M$533 ( Mexican pesos ) (as of May 2018) by Mexican immigration unless you can show proof that you paid the immigration fee when you entered Mexico. Your FMM tourist card is not enough. If you crossed at a land border, you'll need the actual receipt from when you paid the fee. If you reached Mexico via a commercial flight, you've may have already paid the fee with your airfare, but the border guards here do not care. You might be able to convince them if you have a print-out of an itemized receipt from the airline showing that this specific fee was included.

Visa-free [ edit ]

Nationals who hold passports or refugee documents from all European Union member states, Andorra , Antigua and Barbuda , Argentina , Australia , the Bahamas , Barbados , Botswana , Brazil , Brunei , Canada , Chile , Colombia , Costa Rica , Dominica , El Salvador , Eswatini , Fiji , the Gambia , Ghana , Grenada , Guatemala , Guyana , Honduras , Hong Kong , Iceland , Israel , Jamaica , Japan , Kiribati , Lesotho , Malawi , Malaysia , Maldives , Marshall Islands , Mauritius , Mexico , Micronesia , Monaco , Namibia , New Zealand , Nicaragua , Norway , Palau , Panama , Papua New Guinea , Samoa , Saint Kitts and Nevis , Saint Lucia , Saint Vincent and the Grenadines , Seychelles , Sierra Leone , Singapore , Solomon Islands , South Africa , South Korea , Suriname , Switzerland , Taiwan , Tanzania , Tonga , Trinidad and Tobago , Tunisia , Turkey , Tuvalu , United Kingdom , Uganda , United States , Uruguay , Vanuatu , Vatican City , Venezuela , Zambia and Zimbabwe , in addition to passports issued to British Overseas Territories citizens, do not require a visa to visit Belize.

All foreign nationals with a valid US green card or visa for the US or Schengen Area are visa exempt for a maximum stay of 90 days.

Permanent residents and holders of multiple entry visas of the United States may obtain a visa on arrival for a fee of US$50.

Visas [ edit ]

All other travellers not falling into the above categories require a visa prior to travel, which can be obtained in a Belizean or British embassy.

Nationals of Afghanistan , Algeria , Bangladesh , Bolivia , China , Cuba , Eritrea , Haiti , India , Iran , Iraq , Kenya , North Korea , Lebanon , Libya , Myanmar , Nepal , Nigeria , Pakistan , Palestine , Sri Lanka , Somalia , Sudan , Syria and Thailand require clearance in addition to a visa.

Nationals of China (PRC) must pay a repatriation fee of BZ$3,000 on arrival. Nationals of Bangladesh , India , Pakistan and Sri Lanka must pay a repatriation fee of BZ$1,200 on arrival.

Cruise ship visitors do not need a passport to enter the country.

When leaving country by land, prepare to pay taxes (mandatory BZ$40 or US$20 border fee per person (as of 2022). Overstayers will receive a substantial fine.

By plane [ edit ]

For a cheaper fare, consider flying to Cancun or Mérida and take a bus to Belize city from there.

By car [ edit ]

From Mexico via Chetumal , or on a much rougher road from Guatemala via Melchor de Mencos . The Western Highway connects Melchor Mencos to Belize City via Belmopan , San Ignacio while the Philip Goldson Highway (Northern Highway) connects Belize City to Chetumal in Mexico via Corozal Town and Orange Walk .

By bus [ edit ]

The following companies operate buses from Flores , Guatemala , and from Chetumal , Mexico to Belize City:

• Fuentes Del Norte (FDN) , Mundo Maya @ Suite #26, Brown Sugar Market Place 90 Front St, Belize City ( 250 m east along Front St from the Swing Bridge & the Ocean Ferry Belize Terminal. ), ☏ +501 223-1200 . Tickets are sold through Mundo Maya Travel at the San Pedro Express Terminal in Belize City. Buses stop at the marketplace along Front Street where the San Pedro Express Terminal is at. ( updated Sep 2017 )
• S & L Travel & Tours , 91 N Front St, Belize City ( same building as Image Factory, next to Spoonaz Coffee ), ☏ +501 227-7593 . They arrange shuttle transportation to Tikal, Flores and Cancun from Belize City. ( updated Sep 2017 )
• Grupo ADO , Novelos Bus Terminal in Belize City . Once nightly departure to/from Cancun and Merida. ( updated Sep 2017 )
• BBOC . Frequent (hourly?) from Chetumal to Belize City and vice versa, with stops at Corozal, Orange Walk, and other towns along the way. Buses leave Chetumal from the "old ADO station" ( la terminal antigua de ADO ) on Salvador Novo street near Av. Insurgentes and Av. Belice. ( updated May 2018 )

The inbound buses can only make drop-off stops between the border crossing and Belize City while the outbound buses can only pick-up passengers going traveling to Mexico or Guatemala. There are additional Belizean bus companies and drivers' unions going north from Belize City to Chetumal that can pick-up and drop off passengers alongside the road with services to Orange Walk and Corozal Town. See "By bus" under get around in the below.

By boat [ edit ]

Several cruise lines call on Belize City. Unfortunately they usually stay only one day, which doesn't allow the opportunity to really see Belize. You can visit one of the Maya ruins, ride an airboat in the salt marshes just outside the city, shop, go to the museum, go to the zoo or take either a short cave rafting trip or go snorkelling, but that's about it. That means about 70% of the things most tourists would like aren't available, not mention the eco-tourism points of interest.

To Puerto Cortés , Honduras, the Gulf Cruza , a small, rickety speed boat (20 people) leaves Placencia each Friday at around 9:30AM (4 hr US$50), going first to Big Creek . It returns to Placencia on Monday. Tickets are sold in the tourist office next to the gas station. Stop by immigration first.

Small speedboats operate on a daily basis between Puerto Barrios in Guatemala to Punta Gorda , cost is around US$20 one way. On Tuesday and Fridays, boats operate from Livingston in Guatemala to Punta Gorda . The ride takes no more than one hour. It's BZ$50.

There's also a BZ$40 departure tax. Foreigners are required to pay departure taxes when leaving Belize via land, air, or water. These fees are only applicable to locals when flying.

Get around [ edit ]

Belize is a fairly small country, and transportation between most destinations is rarely long or tedious.

Tropic Air and Maya Island Air both have multiple flights daily to various towns around the country and to Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker. They fly out of both of Belize City's airports, but flights from Belize City Airport ( TZA  IATA ) are often significantly cheaper than those out of Phillip Goldson International ( BZE  IATA ). Domestic flights are generally pretty reasonable priced, and thus popular if your time is limited and budget is not. Flights are operated with planes ranging from 8 to 68 seats. Because of the limited capacity, booking in advance is advisable. For bookings from outside Belize, there is only one airviva internet agent , who can make bookings, take payment (credit/debit cards/PayPal) and then send e-tickets. Some hotels do also offer to make the flight reservation on your behalf.

Several competing bus lines operate on the main road in the north–south direction from Punta Gorda to Belmopan and Belize City . There are bus stations in the main towns, or simply stand on the side of the highway and wave at an approaching bus. Most buses have a conductor in addition to the driver, who stands by the door and will come to your seat to collect the fare at some point during the trip. Fares run anywhere from BZ$2–25 depending on distance travelled.

Express buses can save up to an hour and a half (depending on the distance of your trip); they do not stop for passengers waiting on the roadside, making only scheduled pick-ups and drop-offs in towns.

Most buses in Belize are retired US school buses (Bluebirds), that have been given a slight makeover, a luggage rack installed, and sometimes a new paint job. They generally aren't too crowded, but you may have to stand occasionally. Some are the older MCI (Motorcoach Industries) buses that once served as a Greyhound bus (or for some other commuter or intercity bus company) in the U.S. The MCI buses are typically used for some Express services or for international trips to Chetumal or chartered buses to Flores.

Children selling snacks and soft drinks often board the buses at stops, and this is an inexpensive way to have a snack if you've exhausted what you've brought along or just want to try some home-made travel foods.

See Belize Bus blog for updates, schedules and/or links to other sites regarding bus travel in Belize. The Belize Bus blog site is constantly updated. Since the break up of the Novelo's monopoly in 2006 the government of Belize has divided the country up with which company to go where from Belize City:

• The Northern Zone (Belize City - Orange Walk - Corozal - Chetumal) Not all buses continue to Chetumal from Orange Walk. Others may deviate east or west from the Philip Goldson Highway (Northern Highway) to other surrounding towns. They are: Albion's, Belize Bus Owners Cooperative (BBOC), Cabrera's, Chell's, Frazer, Joshua's, Morales, Tillett's, T-Line and Valencia. Northbound buses depart from Belize City about every half hour from 05:30 to 19:30. Jex and Sons Bus provides bus service between Belize City and Crooked Tree.
• The Western Zone (Belize City - Belmopan - San Ignacio - Benque Viejo Del Carmen) They are: BBOC, D and E, Guerra's Bus Service, Middleton's, Shaw Bus Service and Westline. Westbound buses depart from Belize City between 05:00 and 21:00. Some may continue west from San Ignacio to the Guatemalan border at Melchor del Mencos but they do not cross into Guatemala. Others may continue north or south from Belmopan, San Ignacio, etc. to reach other towns not on the Western Highway.
• Southern Zone (Belize City - Belmopan - Dangriga - Placencia - Punta Gorda) Buses to the Cayo and Stann Creek Districts to the south are: James Bus Line, G-Line Service, Ritchie's Bus Service and Usher Bus Line. Buses authorized to operate in the rural areas of the Southern Zone are Chen Bus Line, Yascal Bus Line, Smith Bus Line, Richie Bus Line, Martinez Bus Line, Williams Bus Line, Radiance Ritchie Bus Line, and Polanco Bus Line.

By taxi [ edit ]

Taxis are common and relatively cheap in Belize. Most taxis do not use meters, so be sure to negotiate the price beforehand.

By water taxi [ edit ]

For those wanting a truly Belizean experience, take the water taxis from city to city. The San Pedro Belize Express has the most daily runs and departs from the Brown Sugar Terminal in Belize City at 09:00, 11:00, 12:00, 13:00, 15:00, 16:00 and 17:30 to San Pedro and Caye Caulker.

Departure from San Pedro Town pier on Black Coral Street next to Wahoo's Bar and Grill and leaves at 07:00, 08:30, 10:00, 11:30, 12:30, 14:30, 16:30 to Caye Caulker and Belize City as well as a last boat to Caye Caulker only at 18:00.

There are boats departing from Caye Caulker to Belize City and San Pedro Town and they leave from the pier in front of the Basket Ball Court. Caye Caulker to Belize City: 07:30, 09:00, 10:30, 12:00, 13:00, 15:00, 17:00 and Caye Caulker to San Pedro: 07:00 (connection to Chetumal), 09:45, 11:45, 12:45, 13:45, 15:45, 16:45 and last boat 18:15.

Chetumal Runs are available from Caye Caulker at 07:00 and from San Pedro at 07:30.

Travelling from Chetumal to Belize, the boat leaves the Municipal Pier at 15:30 en route to San Pedro (90 min) and Caye Caulker (120 min).

Rates: Belize City to San Pedro or return: BZ$30 or US$15 (one way), BZ$55 or US$27.50 (round trip). Caye Caulker to San Pedro, Belize City to Caye Caulker: BZ$20 or US$10 (one way), BZ$35 or US$17.50 (round trip).

Compared to most Central American countries, driving in Belize is relatively safe. There is not much traffic, and the four major highways are all in good condition. Unfortunately, almost every road off the four major highways is unpaved so a 4-wheel drive vehicle is advisable. It is best not to drive late at night because there is almost no lighting, road signs are poor, and the last stretch is almost certain to be on an unpaved road (you risk breaking an axle on an unseen, but immense, pothole!) You won't need a map because there are few roads and it is hard to get lost.

Rental rates often include insurance so you usually don't need to buy insurance separately. If you plan on using a rental car to visit Tikal in Guatemala, you should plan ahead and you must rent from Crystal Auto Rental because no other company will let you take your car out of Belize. Belize insurance is not valid in Guatemala so check with your credit card or car insurance company to see if they'll cover you for a trip into Guatemala.

Highways [ edit ]

• The Northern Highway (aka Phillip Goldson Highway ) goes from Corozal on the Belize-Mexico border to Belize City via Orange Walk. This is the highway you'll use for the international airport, Altun Ha, and the Lamanai.
• Western Highway (aka George Price Highway ) stretches from Belize City, via Belmopan and the Cayo District, to the border with the Guatemalan state of Peten at Benque. Along the way are the Belize Zoo (mile 29), the Hummingbird Highway (mile 47), Belmopan, and San Ignacio (mile 68). Major sights along this route include the adventure itineraries in the Cayo District, Mayan ruins at Xunantunich and access to the road to Caracol, and, from the Guatemalan border, the ruins at TIkal. To get to the Western Highway from the airport, go north on the Northern Highway, make a left at Burrell Boom, and follow the road for 19 km to the Western Highway at Hattieville.
• Hummingbird Highway goes from Belmopan to Dangriga connecting the Western Highway to the Southern Highway. You'll use this highway to get from Cayo, Belize City or the North to the Southern part of Belize. An alternative, slightly shorter, Coastal Highway takes you from Belize City to the Southern Highway but is a mess that is best avoided!
• Southern Highway runs from Dangriga (the Hummingbird Highway) to Punta Gorda, with a section heading to the southern border with Guatemala. Along the way are the coastal towns of Hopkins and Placencia.

See [ edit ]

• The world heritage listed Belize Barrier Reef stretching along the whole coast of Belize.

Do [ edit ]

Zip-lining [ edit ].

Soar over Belize's rain forest by taking a zip-line tour. These tours usually begin with a short hike up to the first base where a tutorial is given on how to safely use your equipment.

• Prices range US$65-100 and tours are run by two companies, Jaguar Paw, and Back-A-Bush tours.

Sport fishing [ edit ]

Sport fishing in Belize is second to none. The bonefish is the premier fly fishing game fish in the world and it can be found in the grass shallows through Belize. It's pound for pound perhaps the strongest animal in salt water.

Scuba diving and snorkelling [ edit ]

The snorkelling and scuba diving is world-class and there are many exceptional dive sites to be found in Belize. One of the best ways to explore Belize waters is by chartering a yacht to make the most of your available dive time.

For those with a smaller budget, snorkelling and driving excursions can be found along the beaches of Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker. The most common excursions will take you to Hol Chan marine reserve and to Shark Ray Alley. These trips usually cost about US$35 and include snorkel gear. Be mindful of an additional BZ$10 charged to foreigners as a park tax. This money goes toward the upkeep, and protection of the reef. Diving excursions are also offered to the Blue Hole, but expect to pay a lot more for the privilege.

Cave exploration [ edit ]

The Cayo district is characterised by limestone hills underlain by a network of underground rivers, caves and sink holes. The caves are magnificent, with huge caverns and tight passages, underground waterfalls and dazzling arrays of mineral-encrusted stalactites and stalagmites. This underground world was sacred to the ancient Maya and many artefacts from decorated pots to human remains are still intact in the caves. It is dangerous (and illegal) to enter the caves without a licensed guide. Most guides are trained in the geology and mythology of the caves and in modern first aid and cave rescue techniques.

• Ian Anderson's Caves Branch Adventure Company and Jungle Lodge , Caves Branch ( Hummingbird Highway south from Belmopan ). Anderson organized the initial guiding training programs in the country, out of which grew the Belize Disaster And Rescue Response Team locally called BDARRT (now an independent NGO).  

The Sleeping Giant and Caves Branch are operated by the same owner. They operate up to 16 tours every day. The Actun Tunichil Muknal or ATM caves have the highest number of tourists visiting a tourist destination in Central America. Also known as the Cave of the Crystal Sepulchre, this river cave has pristine remnants of some Mayan human sacrifices. It is a surreal experience complete with beautiful cave formations an underground river and Mayan collectibles. No wonder the Mayans called it the Xibalba or the dark underworld.

Buy [ edit ]

The currency of Belize is the dollar (ISO code BZD ), divided into 100 cents.

The Belizean dollar — sometimes written as "BZ$" or just as a dollar sign: "$" — has been fixed to the US dollar (USD) at a 2:1 ratio since 1978 (i.e. BZ$2 = US$1).

Because of this consistent exchange rate, US dollars are widely accepted, but you should be careful to clarify which "dollars" you're talking about when negotiating prices. It's often better to assume Belize dollars because many merchants will jump on your uncertainty and attempt to double their price by saying, "No, in US dollars". Change can also be given in US dollars or a combination of US and Belizean dollar bills and coins. Belize dollars come in denominations of BZ$2, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100. Coins in Belize are issued in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25 and 50 cents and B$1. The 25-cents coin is often called a shilling.

• Three banks' ATMs in Belize accept Mastercard: the Belize Bank, Scotiabank, and Atlantic Bank.
• Atlantic Bank offers free cash withdrawals with Visa. Source: #Nomadic Backpacker

Eat [ edit ]

• The primary meal found virtually everywhere is red beans, clean rice, and chicken.
• Most chicken in the country is prepared and served on the bone.
• Rice and beans is a mixed dish with some spices and usually coconut milk added to make a sweet and hot staple of the Belizean diet. Beans and rice is white cooked rice with a side of stewed pinto beans.
• Citrus plantations are numerous, so fresh oranges and grapefruits are abundant. Pineapples, papayas, bananas and plantains are also grown and sold in roadside markets.
• A famous hot sauce in Belize is Marie Sharp's made from the very spicy local habanero pepper. It comes in a variety of flavours (mild, hot, extremely hot).
• That odd looking salsa on your table is really ceviche. Ceviche -also spelled as cebiche or seviche- is a citrus-marinated seafood dish. The Belizeans use fresh raw conch and vegetables.
• Papusas are maize pancakes with different toppings sold in stalls on the streets in San Pedro town. It is the cheapest option if you want to eat on a budget.

Eating in San Pedro can be expensive if you eat at the tourist restaurants; however if you find the local places, meals can be very inexpensive and very tasty.

Drink [ edit ]

Belikin is the national beer and comes in four varieties: Premium, Beer, Stout, and Lighthouse Lager. Guinness Stout is also available in Belize but it's also brewed by the Belikin Brewing Co. All are sold in returnable bottles, so make sure you are aware of the deposit if you are taking your beverages to go.

One Barrel Rum is the locally distilled molasses-tasting rum and Traveller's Liquors' distillery is on the Northern Highway about 6 miles from Belize City with a gift shop and hospitality bar. You can purchase rum in a variety of colours and sizes, up to a 70-gallon cask.

Both are widely available around the country. But if you also like wine there is cashew wine (which is very popular in Belize), ginger wine, sorrel wine and blackberry wine.

Learn [ edit ]

There are great opportunities for scuba diving off of Belize atolls. Check out reefci for some very interesting 1 week adventures that are both informative conservation education as well as great scuba diving. If you want to learn about Belize's history the Museum of Belize, House of Culture, and of course, travelling and discovering are recommended.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Belize City is the most dangerous area in Belize, although it's very easy to be safe there. Remain in the tourist zone that runs just north of the marina to the southern extension to the east of the main canal. There are plenty of khaki tourist police monitoring the area and, should you have a problem, feel free to approach them. Just exercise common sense and do not go wandering around alone after dark. Stay near tourist areas or other commercial zones. The south side of Belize City is beautiful as well as dangerous. Otherwise, Belize City is a great place to go if you want to eat, learn, or shop.

Other areas of Belize are generally safe, but like any other place in the world, one should always have some skepticism when dealing with strangers. Most are genuinely helpful, but it never hurts to be cautious.

By law, the government can deny LGBT travellers entry to to Belize. There are also no legal protections in place for victims of anti-gay discrimination.

Stay healthy [ edit ]

Belize is a relatively healthy country. Bottled water is a must in most areas. And, unless you eat only at ultra-touristic restaurants, travellers' diarrhea will probably strike at some point; be prepared with over-the-counter medication and prescription antibiotics.

The US Centers for Disease Control list all of Belize except Belize City as a malaria risk area, and recommends the antimalarial drug chloroquine. Dengue fever is also a risk in Belize. Other drugs may also be recommended in certain circumstances - consult a qualified professional specialist.

Insect/mosquito bites should be prevented with appropriate clothing, repellents and insecticides, and bed nets if sleeping in non-air-con/unscreened rooms.

The sun , as anywhere else in the tropics, is very intense. Wear a long-sleeve shirt, a hat, and sunglasses, and apply high-SPF sunscreen regularly. If you are spending significant time on boats or in water, such as fishing or snorkeling, take extra precautions: covered shoes (not sandals), swim shirt/rash guard, neck gaiter, and sun gloves.

Many places in Belize are very hot and humid, and dehydration is a risk. An expat suggests to drink as much water as you want, and then drink that much again.

The adult HIV/AIDS prevalence rate is 2.5% or one in every forty adults, this is notably higher than in most of Europe or Anglo-America and also quite a bit higher than in other parts of Central America like Nicaragua or Costa Rica.

Respect [ edit ]

Belizeans are some of the most socially relaxed people in the world, especially if you venture inland away from the tourist islands of Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker. The pace of life is generally slower in Belize, so it's good practice to begin any social interaction, even to ask a quick question, with eye contact and a genuinely pleasant greeting. Most rural Belizeans enjoy casual conversation and you could easily find yourself chatting for a few hours.

The Maya communities can be a little more reserved at times. As always, a little respect and politeness will carry you through.

Connect [ edit ]

Payphones are the most common public phones and accept pre-purchased phone cards.

Internet cafés can be found in larger tourist areas, but are infrequent in rural areas.

The government used to prohibit allow Skype and forced tourists to call out of the country using the government-owned phone company. The main telephone company, Belize Telemedia Limited, has removed blocks from all voice-over-internet-protocol services. Applications such as Skype and Vonage are now able to work within the country and may be a cheaper than landline or cellular connection.

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Enjoy Belize: Your Belize Travel and Reservation Guide

Belize is the smallest Central American country, but not small in beauty, natural resources, culture and history. Crystal clear beaches, ancient Mayan ruins, underground rivers, natural reserves and beautiful islands are some of the things you can enjoy in Belize.

Learn about Belize and plan your next Belize vacation with the assistance of our Belize Travel Guide! We have information about the main highlights, best recommended hotels, insider tips and the advice of our expert travel consultants just for you!

Enjoy Belize combines enthusiasm and passion with a team of skilled advisors ready to give you the guidance you deserve. We work together as a team to offer you the best Belize Travel Guide that will increase your familiarity about the main touristic destinations of Belize. Additionally, our personalized attention in putting together the perfect Belize Vacation goes hand in hand.  We will arrange your travel services including quality lodging, ground and air transfers, excursions and any other service you require while visiting Belize.

The best part? We work with local service providers to assure we all give back and make each visitor’s experience more gratifying. Supporting local economies and reducing the ecological footprint are among our main goals. Through conscious travel we impact Belize in a positive way and make each visit more meaningful to you and the local people involved in it.

Regardless if you are a solo travel, a family or would like to join a guided group – we have what you are looking for! Pick from one of our pre-arranged packages or create your own custom-made itinerary by filling out our vacation planner . Improve your Belize vacation and opt for traveling with one of our expert bilingual tour guides. Learn Belize facts each day, discover the local attractions and benefit from the insider tips your guide will be glad to share with you.

Undertake a new expedition and discover Belize! Try the fusion of flavors of this Caribbean country, explore the ancient ruins, dip into the caves, dive in the second largest coral reef of the world, hike in the jungle, relax at the beach and encounter Belize.

Enjoy Belize is a full-service travel specialist committed to put together a memorable experience for you. A great part of our dream goal is to create a positive impact at a local level. Caring for our travelers, for Belizean people and the environment is our day to day motivation to provide you with an exceptional service!

Contact our Belize Vacation experts today by visiting our Belize Trip Planner !

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Actun Tunichil Muknal Caving Tour

19 Fun Facts About Belize

• July 13, 2019
• by Belize Hub +

Thought you knew everything there is to know about Belize? Don’t bet on it. Even folks who have lived here for decades could learn a few things within the following 19 fun facts, like did you know that Belize is the only Central American country where English is the official language? Guess that makes 20!

1. Speed bumps along highways and roads control traffic throughout the nation, but of course the term “traffic” is relative here.

2. Belize cuisine includes Royal Rat as a main course. The rodent’s official name is the Gibnut and it’s supposed to taste like rabbit. Nobody asked Queen Elizabeth her opinion when she found it on her plate during a visit.

3. Order the Bamboo Chicken at any restaurant and you could violate a law since this chicken is actually a protected iguana and it’s illegal to eat this traditional dish.

4. If your goal is seeing every Maya ruin in Belize, plan a long stay; there are around 900 sites.

5. According to folklore, El Duende, a 3-foot evil dwarf with no thumbs, hangs out in Belize forests and stands ready to punish kids who harms animals.

6. If you are offered cashew apples, say no! The apple isn’t harmful, but the skin is toxic, so opt for another fruit if you want to stay healthy.

7. Belize owes the success of the world’s only Jaguar nature preserve to Alan Rabinowitz, an American scientist who has made preserving the Cockscomb Wildlife Sanctuary and Jaguar Preserve his life’s work.

8. Orchid Bay in Corozal is fast becoming the unofficial capital for ex-patriots. This planned community vision (http://orchidbaybelize.com/) includes affordable villas, condos and lands plus myriad amenities in close proximity to major attractions and commercial epicenters.

9. If you’ve had enough urban density, Belize can give you a breathing space since this country has the lowest population density in Central America. In 2010, there were only around 15 people per sq. km.

10. One of the loudest monkeys on the planet makes its home in Belize: Just a few Black Howler Monkeys have been known to put a nursery of screaming babies to shame.

11. The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the second largest barrier reef on the planet.

12. Thatch Caye (http://www.thatchcayebelize.com/), a privately owned island resort, offers guests opportunities to sleep over the ocean, rather than beside it, in beautifully appointed thatched huts elevated by hardwood stilts.

13. If you’re superstitious, stay dry on Good Friday. According to an old Belizean tale, if you swim on this day, you will turn into a fish.

14. Everyday cuisine of rice and beans doesn’t taste like other Central American combinations because they’re cooked together in coconut milk.

15. If you can’t live without fast food, Belize could present a hardship. You won’t find a single Burger King, KFC, Starbucks and McDonald’s within the nation’s borders.

16. The Belize equivalent of the Empire State Building is actually a Mayan temple. It’s the tallest building in the land.

17. Belize lays claim to an indigenous Big Foot called El Sisimito, but we don’t know how he gets around since his feet are backwards and he has no knees.

18. Leonardo DiCaprio is building a revolutionary concept off the Belize coastline: an eco-friendly, luxury resort that prohibits the use of plastic. It’s scheduled to open in 2018.

19. After a hurricane devastated Belize City in 1961, a decision was made to relocate the capital to Belmopan. With only 12,000 residents, this made the new the Belize capital the smallest in the world.

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12 Belize Real Estate Facts Everyone Should Know

• July 12, 2019

Orchid Bay's Buyer's Tour

• July 14, 2019

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Belize fun facts – 20 fascinating things you didn’t know about belize.

Last Updated on February 26, 2022 by Tia

This Belize Fun Facts article is filled with fascinating things you never knew about Belize!

These 20 facts, also make the 20+ reasons why you should really visit Belize, and fast!

Tia Does Travel contains affiliate links. If you decide to make a purchase through these links, I will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. For full information, take a look at our disclaimer here.

Table of Contents

Belize – Central America or the Caribbean?

Where is Belize?

With one foot in the Central American jungles and the other in the Caribbean Sea, little Belize packs a serious punch.

With its exotic islands, rich Caribbean culture, amazing local food, fresh seafood, and a plethora of activities.

My time there was magical and I fell in love with this country,! It feels much less Latin American and much more like a Caribbean paradise!

Belize on the map

The map of Central America Below should help with identifying the where!

It is only a 2-hour flight from Miami.

Tip: Belize can easily be combined with a vacation in the US.

Personally, I combined NYC, Miami, Belize, Honduras, and Costa Rica on a 1-month long trip. Alternatively, you can combine it with another Caribbean island Destination.

20 Belize Fun Facts

1. it is an english speaking country – belize fun facts.

Belize is the only country in Central America that has English as its official language instead of Spanish.

This is because Belize was a British Colony until 1964 when it was granted its independence.

The name then settled to Belize rather than the ”British Honduras” as it was previously known.

However, because the nation has such a diverse culture, more than 90% of the population can read, write and speak three languages: English, Spanish, and Creole.

2. You get a lot for your buck! – Belize Currency

The Currency of Belize is the Belize Dollar which holds to 2 Belize dollars = 1 US dollar. So you get quite a lot for your buck!

3. It is packed with Tropical Islands – Things to Do in Belize

Belize has a total of 450 islands called ”Cayes” – pronounced ”keys”.

In these little paradisaical islands, you can spend your day kayaking, sunbathing, and windsurfing.

You should also indulge in paddleboarding, swimming, or fishing.

Combine this with delicious Belizean food: little barbecue beach huts that cook freshly caught lobster and a variety of seafood right in front of your eyes and you’ve got THE perfect tropical vacation.

The most popular islands are the vibrant and energetic Ambergris Caye and the laid-back Caye Caulker that I personally fell in love with!

Tobacco Caye, Laughing Bird Caye, and St Georges Caye are just three of the many other islands Belize has to offer.

4. It’s a small country, with a hell of a punch!

A relatively small country- Belize only has 300,000 inhabitants. In fact, it has the Lowest Population Density In Central America.

This means fewer crowds and more incredible landscapes for all types of travelers!

5. Belize is the only Jaguar Reserve in the world.

Belize is the only country in the world with a sanctuary to preserve jaguars and pumas as well as other big cats reserves in the world.

This protected area is the  Cockscomb Wildlife Sanctuary and Jaguar Preserve .

6. The second-largest barrier reef in the world -Things to Do in Belize

The Belize Barrier Reef is the second largest Barrier Reef in the World – after Australia of course. Snorkeling and diving here are simply out of this world!

The marine life is rich and there are many diving and snorkeling sites to explore!

As a  UNESCO World Heritage Site , it is home to over 400 species of fish and an estimated 200 tiny islands – a pure paradise for scuba divers and snorkelers.

In Belize, you swim through translucent seas, a kaleidoscope of coral, fish, whale sharks, and turtles.

7. It is home of the ”Great Blue Hole” – A UNESCO Heritage Site.

Belize is home to the ”Great Blue Hole” – a true natural wonder and the biggest sinkhole in the world.

The Great Blue Hole is among the top 5 diving spots in the world and for good reason.

It is essentially a giant marine sinkhole off the coast of Belize, with a rounded shape and a depth of over 124m.

A diving opportunity for experienced divers only (Must have a minimum of 24 dives under your belt).

There, you can witness a dark cave with impressive stalactites as well as Caribbean Reef Sharks and sometimes bull and hammerhead sharks.

I am going straight back to Belize as soon as I have my 24 dives under my belt as this is an experience I refuse to miss out on!

Definitely of the top things to do in Belize if you are a diver!

Tip: You can also snorkel around the perimeter of the hole, so not having a diving diploma shouldn’t hold you back from this incredible wonder of nature!

8. Screaming Monkeys and Exotic Wildlife-  Belize Fun Facts

Belize is simply crawling with wildlife!

There are crocodiles, jaguars, parrots, and Black Howler Monkeys- who are the loudest monkey species in the world! When they scream, the whole jungle echoes!

The snakes are pretty awesome too!

9. There are no street lights in Belize

There are no street lights in Belize – yep you heard it!!

The whole country is unspoiled jungle and rainforest and speed control is regulated by road bumps instead of street lights.

10. Belize Has More Than 900 Mayan Ruins– Belize Fun Facts

Belize was previously the capital of the Ancient Maya Empire that stretched for over a thousand miles and is now known as Central America.

Here, you have the opportunity to explore over 900 different Maya Ruins and sacred sites.

Explore excavated tombs and intricate hieroglyphs and go down into natural caves to where the Maya kings performed rituals sacrifice

11. Hello Narcos! Gang violence and drug cartels

The largest city in Belize is Belize City – an area where poverty and violence are common occurrences. There is also a high rate of unemployment as well as a high rate of HIV/AIDS.

The Mexican and South American drug trade as well as gang violence is also evident in cities like Belize City.

I felt very safe in Belize, however, I do feel that I should be honest in both the pros and the cons of the country.

I would advise you to skip Belize City, and focus on the other incredible areas and islands this country has to offer – so that you can see Belize for the true wonder it really is!

12. A virtual paradise for Bird lovers

Rich in the unspoiled jungle, Belize is home to a plethora of wildlife sanctuaries, parks, and protected areas for all types of wildlife.

It is also home to a bird lover’s paradise and a great thing to add to your things to do in Belize list.

Over 500 bird species are waiting for you to observe, in the forest, lagoons, and along the river.

No matter where you are in Belize, just look up, and you’ll enjoy the sight of these exotic winged creatures.

13. The Activities are wild!

Adventurous and tropical, Belize is full of surprises!

For example, you can canoe or tube through dark undercover caves and river systems. It was eerie and absolutely brilliant!.

Alternatively, you can zip-line through the jungle, go horseback riding on an empty beach or hike the numerous national parks.

Belize is definitely ideal for active and adventurous travelers!

14. Easy going climate

Belize is a country with a subtropical climate. Basically, it is supposed to have its rainy season between the months of June and November.

I, however, spent 2 weeks there in July and didn’t see a drop of rain!

It was hot and sunny and utterly gorgeous- and the prices are cheaper for that time too 🙂

15. There is No Phone Signal For Cyprus – Belize Tourist Information

Belize fun facts: People from Cyprus will have NO phone signal in Belize.

This is because Belize is still relatively undiscovered by Cypriots – therefore they have no deals with phone companies to cater to Cypriot tourists.

In fact, I think I am the first Cypriot to EVER set foot in Belize!

I personally loved not having a signal – as all the calls we take nowadays whilst on holiday depend on WI-FI (which works great) and that meant that I had my battery last 10x more!

16. It’s a favorite with expats

Belize may be small in size, but it continues to attract a million visitors per year and is increasingly becoming a second home to ex-pats who are choosing to retire here and for those who are buying vacation homes.

17. Gibnut, A Rodent, Is eaten In Belize

Gibnut, is a type of rodent, and believe it or not, it is a favorite type of meat eaten in Belize.

It was even served to Queen Elizabeth, which gave it its nickname, “the royal rat.”

Honestly, I don’t know how I feel about that, because Gibnut is served in stews, and Lord knows I had a lot of stews in Belize!!

18. Belize’s National Animal Is A Horse-Rhinoceros Mix

The national animal of Belize is a biological mix of a horse and a rhinoceros!

This animal is known as a tapir.

It actually looks like a giant Guinea pig, weighing over 500 pounds, and can swim too!

19. Marijuana Is Legal In Belize

As of 2017, it is legal for adults to have up to 10 grams of marijuana in their possession. They are allowed to smoke it on their own premises, or somebody else’s private premises with the owner’s permission.

20. Belize Is Fantastic For Chocolate Lovers

You can actually enjoy a tour of the entire chocolate-making process at the Toledo Cacao Fest.

Interestingly, the ancient Mayans invented hot chocolate, and it was used in many of their rituals.

I really hope you have enjoyed this Belize Fun facts article!

Belize in a nutshell

All the Caribbean beauty with half the prices, rich culture, delicious food, and chilled-out vibes.

All the above make Belize an undiscovered gem and a real paradise you should all visit!

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Belize Fact Sheet

Useful Information on Belize

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BELIZE GEOGRAPHY

Belize has an area of approximately 9,000 square miles, bordered by Mexico to the north, Guatemala to the west and south, and the Caribbean Sea to the east.  Belize has the second longest barrier reef in the world (165 miles long). The land is flat at the coast and rises to 3,600 feet inland at the height of the Maya Mountains. Jungle and rainforest cover the central and southern regions with predominantly dry pine savannah, Caribbean pine forests, and extensive wetlands in the north and west.

BELIZE CLIMATE

Subtropical, with prevailing north-easterly trade winds from the sea. Temperatures range from 60 degrees Farenheit (16 Celsius) to 95 degrees Farenheit (32 Celsius). Belize is marked by a wet season from June to October and a dry season from November to May. Although the best time of year to travel to Belize is definitely through the "dry season", Mother Nature does still give us some rain during this timeframe. Northern Belize, which may receive as little as 50 inches of rainfall, is considerably drier than the far south, which can receive upwards of 180 inches of rainfall annually. This rainfall helps feed the lush jungles and sustain year-round growth.  

BELIZE POPULATION

Most of the major towns and villages of Belize lie on the coast or along major rivers. In recent times however, new settlements have formed, mostly in the Cayo District of Western Belize and the Toledo District in Southern Belize. The latest census in Belize shows a population of over 350,000 made up of Creole, Garifuna, Mestizo, Maya, Mennonites, and Europeans. Belize in general has a very young population with over 50% of the people under 18 years old.

BELIZE LANGUAGE

English is the official language and is widely spoken throughout the country. Other languages spoken: Creole, Spanish, Garifuna, Maya, and German.

BELIZE GOVERNMENT

Belize is a member of the British Commonwealth, with a stable democratic government established along the model of the British Parliamentary system. The country is divided into six districts, with each district electing members to the House of Representatives. Presently, the United Democratic Party forms the government with Honorable Dean Barrow as the Prime Minister, replacing incumbent Said Musa from the Peoples United Party (PUP). The PUP now sits as the official opposition.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS INTO BELIZE

Passports are required for entry into Belize.

United States and Canadian citizens, nationals of Caricom countries and of the European Community member nations (Belgium, Germany, France, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Denmark, Ireland, UK, Greece, Spain, Portugal, Austria, Finland, Sweden) do not require visas.

Visas are required for nationals of the following countries: Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Angola, Argentina, Bangladesh, Bolivia, Bosnia, Brazil, Central African Republic, Chad, China, Columbia, Cuba, El Salvador, Ethiopia, Haiti, Honduras, India, Japan, Korea (North and South), Libya, Monaco, Mongolia, Morocco, Nicaragua, Nigeria, Pakistan, Panama, Peru, Switzerland, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand, Ukraine, and Zaire.

Also, please note the Government of Belize requires your passport to be valid for more than three months after your arrival. For questions regarding entry requirements, or people from other nationalities, please contact our office (1-800-667-1630) or the nearest Belize Embassy. A list of Belize Embassies, worldwide, can be found by clicking  here  .  For up to date information on entry requirements into Belize, please also double check the  Belize Tourism Board's website

BELIZE CURRENCY

The Belize Dollar has a fixed rate of $2BZ = $1US. US currency and travelers checks in US currency are widely accepted. Credit cards can be used in most tourist facilities. ATMs are becoming more common in Belize but should not be part of your planned travel budget as they may be problematic to access during your trip.  However, the machines are now connected to North American systems and can be used in an emergency.

BELIZE ELECTRICITY

The current is the same as Canada and the US (110V AC) and the same plug is used.  No adapters are required.

BELIZE TAXES

Sales Tax -  Belize has General Sales Tax (GST) adding 12.5% on top of most goods and services within Belize.

Hotel Tax -  Hotel Tax is 9% on the cost of hotel stay in the country. It is fairly customary to see a 5-10% service charge as well.

Departure Tax

By Air  (Most of the Airlines now include these fees in their ticket price)

All passengers are required to pay an international departure tax of $39.25 US. Most of the airlines now include these fees in their ticket price - please review your airline fare breakdown for more information. This departure tax is broken down into the following components:

International Passengers - On Departure - via Phillip Goldson International Airport (PGIA)  Passenger Service Fee:$15.00  Airport Development Fee: $18.00  Hold Bags: $1.25  Security Fee $1.25  Conservation Fee: $3.75  Total Airport Departure Fees: $39.25 USD - normally included in your flight ticket already - please review your fare breakdown for more information.

Domestic Flights  User Fee: $2.50US at all airports

International Passengers  On Departure:  Northern Border, Western Border and Southern Border  Intransit Passengers only - Border Processing Fee - $15.00  Overnight Passengers - Border Processing Fee $15.00 + Conservation Fee $3.75;  Total Fee: $18.75 USD

Guatemalan and Mexican passengers:  Less than 24hrs. - NO FEE; more than 24hrs.: $3.75 USD

Mexicans staying more than 72hrs. $18.75 USD

For more information contact the Border Management Authority

International Passengers  On Arrival  From Punta Gorda, Dangriga or San Pedro  Belize Port Authority

On Departure via Punta Gorda, Dangriga or San Pedro  Conservation Fee $3.75 USD  Domestic Air Passenger (flying within Belize)  International Airport (PGIA) to Municipal Airports  Security Fee $0.75 USD 

Please check with local authorities for upto date information.

BELIZE TIME ZONE

Belize is located within the Central Time Zone and does not observe Daylight Savings Time.

BELIZE DRINKING WATER

Generally the water is drinkable right from the taps in most large towns, lodges, and hotels. Many Belizeans and travelers also choose to drink bottled water which is available in most shops. Safe drinking water is provided throughout your Island Expeditions' tour. In the field, we will filter rain water in our camps, and when necessary use Pristine water treatment to make water potable.  We use large 5 gallon jugs of water which can be decanted into your personal water bottle.

BELIZE TAXIS

Taxis are identifiable by their green license plates in Belize. They are non-metered and fares are standard. Taxis from the Belize International Airport are a standard rate and the rate is posted upon exiting the customs area. Be sure to negotiate the price before starting your journey.

BELIZE HEALTH

There are no endemic diseases. No inoculations are required for entry, however we do strongly recommend you consider a Havrix injection for Hepatitis A (or Twinrix for both Hep A & B), anti-malaria tablets (if traveling into the rainforest), and an up-to-date tetanus shot. Contact your doctor or travel clinic prior to traveling to Belize.

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From Currency to Culture – Learn Facts About Belize.

The currency of Belize is the Belize dollar (BZD). Belize currency exchange is extremely easy for American visitors as the Belize dollar is locked at $2 Belize = $1 USD. Most accommodations and tours are listed in US$ prices, and most restaurants, shops, etc. are listed in BZ$.

Nearly every place readily accepts USD currency. Most also should accept traveler’s checks as long as you write your passport number or driver’s license number on the back. Large bills (anything above a $20) are a little more difficult to cash. Shopkeepers generally ask you to spend a minimum amount.

ATMs are also available across the country, particularly in most tourist destinations – including Placenica, Punta Gorda, Belmopan, Dangriga, Belize City, San Pedro Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker, Orange Walk, San Ignacio and Corozal.

Where is Belize Located?

Belize is located in Central America and it is bordered to the north by Mexico, to the south and west by Guatemala and to the east by the Caribbean Sea. We are a diverse country with various cultures and languages. We also have the lowest population density in Central America with 35 people per square mile or 14 people per square kilometer.

What is the Geography of Belize?

Belize is known for its extreme biodiversity and distinctive ecosystems. On the coast, there is a swampy coastal plain with mangrove swamps. In the south and interior, there are hills and low mountains.

Most of Belize’s land is undeveloped and forested with hardwoods. It is a part of the Mesoamerican biodiversity hotspot and it has many jungles, wildlife reserves , a large variety of different species of flora and fauna and the largest cave system in Central America. Some species of Belize’s flora and fauna include the black orchid, the mahogany tree, the toucan and tapirs.

What is the History of Belize?

The first people to develop Belize were the Maya around 1500 B.C.E. As shown in archeological records , they established a number of settlements here. These include Caracol, Lamanai and Lubaantun.

The first European contact with Belize occurred in 1502 when Christopher Columbus reached the area’s coast. In 1638, the first European settlement was established by England and for 150 years, many more English settlements were set up.

In 1840, Belize became a “Colony of British Honduras” and in 1862, it became a British colony. For one hundred years after that, Belize was a representative government of England but in January 1964, full self-government with a ministerial system was granted. In 1973, the region’s name was changed from British Honduras to Belize and on September 21, 1981, full independence was achieved.

What Language is Spoken in Belize?

Come to Belize and you’ll hear familiar words of the English language. English is the official language of Belize, and it is the only English-language-speaking country in Central America. While the official Belize language is English, Belizeans speak the Kriol language and many are also Spanish-speaking.

When you hear us, you know you’re in a country unlike any other. Even our most up-tight citizens sound relaxed. We have a Caribbean lilt and our words seem a bit shorter. But don’t worry, you’ll understand everything and we may teach you a few phrases you don’t know.

Here, even our language is a diverse adventure. Spanish, African-based Garifuna, Maya-Kekchi, Mopan, Mandarin, German and Mayan languages are just a few of the dialects we speak throughout the country.

Here are a few different ways you’ll hear “good morning”

• “Gud Mawnin” – Kriol • “Buiti Binafi” – Garifuna • “Buenos dias” – Spanish

What are the Belize People Like?

From the moment you arrive in Belize – whether you are an adventure traveler, part of a family trip or in the country for a relaxing beach vacation – Belize people and culture make you feel as welcome and comfortable, like nowhere you’ve ever visited.

In Belize, our traditions and customs are varied and represent more than eight diverse cultures. For generations, the people of Belize have demonstrated a cultural commitment to preserve the country’s unique charms. This enduring promise to the land, the waters and you, our visitor, inspires all to achieve a genuine and intimate connection to a variety of extraordinary experiences.

We are truly a melting pot of colorful personalities, making our over 400,000 residents the country’s greatest resource for tourism. The Belizean people are made up of Maya, Mestizo, Kriol, Garifuna, East Indian, Mennonite, Arab and Chinese.

There also are a number of expatriates in Belize from Canada, Europe and the United States – and many of them retire here. A blending of cultures has resulted in one of the happiest and most peaceful countries in the region and a widespread reputation as one of the world’s friendliest tourist destination.

In Belize (formerly British Honduras), English remains the official language, but the most diverse language in Belize is Kriol (Belizean Creole). Other languages spoken include Garifuna, Mandarin, Spanish and Maya.

What is the Weather Like in Belize?

One of the nicest things about visiting Belize is the weather. With an average yearly temperature of 84° F (29°C), it’s always warm, yet comfortable. Costal sea breezes as well as our jungle and rainforests keep you cool even in the hottest summer months while winters can be cool but never very cold. In short, the climate is pretty much near perfect.

Even in winter (November-March) the temperature in Belize rarely falls below 60°F (16°C), while the summer (May-September) is around 86°F (30°C). Humidity is also fairly consistent at around 85 percent. Belize’s dry season is between February and May and has significantly lower rainfall than the rest of the year. When it does rain, it is usually in mild, short bursts.

June through December is our wet season, when parts of the country receive up to 150 inches of rain and the heavy, sometimes wild storms associated with the Caribbean occur, usually in the late afternoons. The most frequent rainfall usually happens in June or early July and is punctuated by a break in late July or August known as the “little dry.”

We also have a hurricane season, and while statistically, Belize does not attract many major direct hits, it does get its share of severe tropical weather with high winds and rain. However, we have a cooperative early warning network that we share with our neighbors. Our safety, evacuation and other procedures have proven to be effective, so no worries.

No matter what season you visit, there’s plenty to do and see down here.

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Travel Advisory November 13, 2023

Belize - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Exercise increased caution in Belize due to crime . Some areas have increased risk. Please read the entire Travel Advisory.

Country Summary : Violent crime – such as sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder – are common even during daylight hours and in tourist areas. A significant portion of violent crime is gang related. Due to high crime, travelers are advised to exercise caution while traveling to the south side of Belize City. Local police lack the resources and training to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents. Most crimes remain unresolved and unprosecuted. 

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Belize.

If you decide to travel to Belize: 

Read the Department of State’s COVID-19 page before planning any international travel.

• Be aware of your surroundings. 
• Avoid walking or driving at night. 
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt. 
• Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs. 
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry. 
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.  
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter . 
• Review the Country Security Report for Belize.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist . 
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

Belize City – Level 3: Reconsider Travel

U.S. citizens should avoid traveling to Belize City. Historically much of the violent crime in Belize occurs in the Southside of Belize City and is gang related. This area (south of Haulover Creek Canal and continuing south to Fabers Road) does not overlap the typical tourism areas. All visitors should maintain an elevated level of due diligence and reduce their exposure to crime-related risks by practicing good safety and security practices.     

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U.s. embassy belmopan.

4 Floral Park Road Belmopan, Belize Telephone: +(501) 822-4011 Emergency After-Hours telephone:+(501) 610-5030 Fax: +(501) 822-4012 Email:  [email protected]

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Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

You must have a U.S. passport valid for the length of your stay, proof of an onward or return ticket, and sufficient funds to cover the cost of the length of stay. If you enter Belize by land, you will be charged different fees depending on whether your stay is less than or more than 24 hours. Belize does not require specific immunizations for visitors; vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention can be found at  Belize vaccinations .

If you are visiting as a tourist, you do not require a visa. Visitors planning to stay more than 30 days must have their passport re-stamped by a local immigration office and pay an additional fee for every additional month they wish to stay, up to six months. For visits longer than six months, you may need to provide further documentation to the local immigration office explaining the reason for a longer stay, and you may need to pay additional fees. Visit the  Embassy of Belize to the United States website  for the most current visa information.  

Traveling with Minors: If you are traveling with children, you may be asked by immigration officials to show U.S. birth certificates for each child. When children are not traveling with both parents, immigration officials often request documentation to establish the children are traveling with the permission of both parents. Documentation may include notarized letters from the parent(s), custody decree, adoption papers, or death certificates in situations where one or both parents are deceased.

HIV/AIDS Restrictions: We are unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Belize. Please verify this information with the  Embassy of Belize  before you travel.

Information about  dual nationality  or the  prevention of international child abduction  can be found on our website. 

Safety and Security

Belize is rated high for crime and has one of the highest per capita murder rates in the world. Gang members and other criminals use violent means to resolve disputes. Visitors should exercise caution throughout Belize, particularly in the south side of Belize City and remote areas along Belize’s borders due to high crime.

Crime: Crime may occur anywhere in Belize, and criminals frequently target tourists, including those at resorts and on the roads and river ways. Crime, including sexual assault, armed robbery, and murder remains high and is distributed evenly throughout the country. Sexual harassment and/or assault of persons traveling alone or in small groups have been reported. 

Most crimes remain unresolved and unprosecuted. A lack of capacity, resources, and training impedes the ability of local police to effectively investigate crime and apprehend offenders.

Thefts of cash and credit cards happen frequently in some areas of Belize. It is believed several credit card fraud rings are currently active in Belize, particularly in San Pedro.

Scams occur in Belize, especially in resort areas. Tourists, in general, are particularly vulnerable to these crimes, resulting in visitors being pick-pocketed, robbed and/or extorted. See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information on scams.

Victims of Crime: Report crimes to the local police by dialing 911 and contact the U.S. Embassy at 822-4011. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. While the Embassy stands ready to assist the Belize authorities with any requests for technical assistance, the Embassy is not a law enforcement agency, cannot provide U.S. citizens with protection or investigate crimes against U.S. citizens, and has no jurisdiction to intervene in police or judicial processes. See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas . We can:

• help you find appropriate medical care
• assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• explain the local criminal justice process in general terms
• provide a list of local attorneys
• provide our information on  victim’s compensation programs in the U.S .
• provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical
• support in cases of destitution
• help you find accommodation and help arrange flights home
• replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the U.S. Embassy in Belize for assistance.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities may not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unavailable outside of major cities to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See the  Department of State’s International Religious Freedom Report .

LGBTI Travelers:  The Belizean government in September 2016 conceded the decriminalization of homosexuality, but is questioning a section of a July 2016 Supreme Court ruling that made “sexual orientation” a protected class. The Immigration Act prohibits “homosexual” persons from entering the country, but immigration authorities have not enforced that law. 

There continues to be significant hostile sentiment towards individuals who identify themselves as LGBTI. Tourist friendly areas, including San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, remain relatively open and welcoming to the LGBTI community. Outside of these areas, LGBTI persons, especially males, are reluctant to display affection in public (including holding hands) because incidents of verbal or physical assault have been reported. There have been some instances of violence reported against LGBTI individuals, and LGBTI groups have reported that the police at times refused to accept reports of crime from LGBTI persons.

See   our  LGBTI Travel Information   page and section 6 of the  Department of State's Human Rights report  for further details.

Persons with Mobility Issues : While in Belize, individuals with disabilities will find accessibility and accommodation very different from in the United States. The law does not expressly prohibit discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual, and mental disabilities in employment, education, air or other transportation, access to health care, or the provision of other state services. The law does not provide for accessibility to persons with disabilities. Most public and private buildings and transportation are not accessible.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  Women traveling alone or in small groups are targets for sexual assault, even in tourist areas. See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

Emergency services will be either unavailable or significantly delayed. Serious injuries or illnesses normally require evacuation to another country.

Medical care for minor ailments is generally available in urban areas. Advanced medical treatment is very limited in Belize City or Belmopan and is extremely limited or unavailable in rural and remote areas. Pharmacy services are generally acceptable in larger cities. Specialized prescription medications may be completely unavailable. If you bring your own prescription medications, you must carry a current doctor’s prescription for each medication. Please contact the Belize Customs Department at (501) 223-7092 or via e-mail at  [email protected]  for more information.

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare and Veteran’s Administration health benefits do not apply overseas.

Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on overseas insurance.

We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation.

Carry prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.

Zika Virus : The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) identifies Belize as a Zika risk area. The Zika virus is spread by the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito. These mosquitoes bite during the day and night. Zika can be passed from a pregnant woman to her fetus. Infection during pregnancy can cause certain birth defects.

Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations recommended  by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. For additional information, including travel advisories, visit the  CDC website . 

The following diseases are also prevalent in Belize:

• Leishmaniasis
• Diarrheal illness
• Dengue Fever

For further health information, go to:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Road conditions in Belize range from two-lane paved roads to dirt or gravel tracks. Roads often lack markings, reflectors, and shoulders, which can contribute to cars overturning. Even in urban areas, most streets lack lane markings and contribute to chaotic conditions. Bridges on the major highways are often only a single lane. The Manatee Road (Coastal Road), leading from the Western Highway east of Belmopan to Dangriga, is mostly unpaved, easily flooded after storms and without services.  Driving at night is strongly discouraged.

Roadside assistance can be difficult to summon as there are no public telephones along the road and emergency telephone numbers do not always function properly. While cell phone service is fairly reliable, reception in remote areas is spotty or non-existent.

Traffic Laws:  Drivers operate vehicles on the right side of the road. Valid U.S. or international driver’s permits are accepted in Belize only for a period of three months after initial entry.

If you are involved in a traffic accident, contact the local police and explain the emergency. If you or someone with you is critically injured, then go to the nearest hospital. If there are no injuries or risk of life, do not move the vehicles and wait for the police to arrive. If possible, take pictures before any vehicles are moved. Do not leave the scene if there are no injuries. If you hit someone on the road, stop and give assistance; contact the local police and report the accident.

Bicycles are numerous and constitute a regular part of traffic. Cyclists, like drivers, do not always obey basic traffic laws. They commonly fail to obey red lights or stop signs and often ride against traffic. Cyclists and pedestrians often do not have any reflectors or bright clothing and can be difficult to spot traveling along Belize’s poorly lit roads.

Please refer to our  Road Safety  page for more information.

Public Transportation:  Taxis are prevalent in cities but not as common in rural areas. Taxis are identified by green license plates. Most visitors will need to call a taxi service to summon a taxi. Buses are used to travel between cities and are not common for short commutes. Uber and Lyft are not available in Belize. Secondhand and/or salvage vehicles and buses are often used for public transportation and may not have security features such as seatbelts and airbags. We suggest that you visit the Belize Tourism Bureau website.

Aviation Safety Oversight:  As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Belize, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the Government of Belize’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Belize was cited in the State Department’s 2022 Annual Report to Congress on International Child Abduction for demonstrating a pattern of non-compliance with respect to international parental child abduction. Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in  Belize.  For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

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Is Belize Safe To Visit In 2024? Your Guide To Belize Travel Safety

Written By: The Planet D

Published On: May 3, 2024

Belize is gorgeous. We should know; we just returned from a two-week trip. The mainland is covered in a dense, tropical jungle, while offshore, it has the Belize Barrier Reef—an acclaimed spot to scuba dive and snorkel. As if that wasn’t enough, you’ve also got the history of Mayan ruins to experience at sites like Altun Ha. Basically, we totally understand why you want to visit. Belize is in a league of its own.

Unfortunately, you will need to take some extra safety precautions, though. Staying safe in Belize requires you to go beyond the usual “check general travel advice and book basic travel insurance.” The country has quite a few instances of crime, gang violence, and drugs, which can leak into tourist areas.

In this guide, we’ll prepare you for staying safe in Belize. We just returned from a visit to Cay Caulker, Ambergris Cay, and San Ignacio and felt really safe. If you take the right precautions you can enjoy this country worry-free like we did. So, don’t rule out scuba diving and sightseeing Mayan ruins just yet; here’s what you need to know.

Is Belize Safe? A Quick Summary

We know that not everybody has the luxury of time. If you’re in a rush, check out these main bullet points for a quick overview of safety in Belize.

•  Belize experiences a notably high crime rate for violent crime, including homicide, sexual assault, and armed robbery.
•  Belize has a lot of gang violence, which occasionally results in shootings in public places.
• The border areas, Caracol, and Belize City (particularly the inner-city region of Southside Belize City) all experience a high crime density.
• Belize has a lot of natural disasters like hurricanes, so visitors should take caution when traveling during hurricane season.
• Road standards in Belize are considered poor by international standards.
• There have been incidents with water activities resulting from poor safety procedures and measures.

Travel Advisories: Officially Speaking, Is Belize Safe?

Officially speaking, Belize is possible to visit and not barred as a “red list country” or “do not travel” area by the USA , Canada or the UK. Instead, it’s widely advised to take increased caution if you visit Belize.

The  US Travel Advisories for Belize  suggest that you exercise increased caution throughout the country, escalating its concerns specifically for Belize City. It advises that you “reconsider travel”, marking the city as a Level 3 zone despite the rest of Belize securing a milder Level 2 warning.

The US advisory acknowledges that gang violence in Belize City tends to occur below the Haulover Creek River and rarely crosses into tourist areas. However, as a whole, it advises that risks are high, especially given the historical crime in the city.

The advisory emphasizes that violent crimes like sexual assault and armed robbery can – and do – occur in daylight, even in public areas. It’s wise to take extreme safety precautions when traveling throughout Belize.

The Canada Travel Advisories for Belize are quite similar to the US advisories. Belize in general has an Exercise a high degree of caution warning due to high levels of violent crime throughout the country. There is also a warning to Avoid non-essential travel to Southside Belize City, south of the Haulover Creek River, due to gang and drug-related violence, including murders and shootings.

Tourists should not even venture to this part of Belize city. Gang warfare is really prevalent here, and it is easy to be caught in the crossfire.

The  UK travel advisories for Belize  echo an almost identical sentiment. They advise that Belize has “one of the highest murder rates in the world” and hint at inadequate policing, saying that “police capacity is limited and many crimes remain unsolved.” Like the US and Canada advisory, they particularly emphasize the dangerous nature of travel around Belize City, especially the Southside.

The UK advisory also warns of muggings across Belize, including San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Placencia, and San Ignacio. It highlights the increasing risk of sexual assault and rape, too, warning against solo travel and venturing down quiet streets.

Violent Crime in Belize

As you now know, Belize has a pretty nasty mix of crime scattered throughout the country, particularly in Belize City, which is prone to gang-related violence. It has an overall  crime index of 53.15 , notably higher than the US at 49.34 and the UK at 47.61. Most concerning is the fact that this crime rating has increased over the past three years. Crime in Belize is common, and unfortunately, it seems like it’s going to stay.

The most common crimes in Belize are:

• Dealing of drugs
• Theft from property, which includes hotels and tourist accommodation
• Sexual assault
• Murder and grievous bodily harm
• Verbal or physical abuse
• Muggings and armed robbery

Moreover, there are concerns over policing, too:

• Corruption and bribery
• Lack of inefficiency of police response

We’ll discuss police effectiveness in a second, but many crimes go unsolved. Corruption may be involved in your police interactions, although you can still call 911 for assistance from local authorities in an emergency.

Belize City experiences a disproportionate amount of gang-related violence and crime, so visitors should exercise a high degree of caution. While gang members typically operate out of tourist areas, affected areas are close enough to the city center that unsuspecting tourists may wander into trouble, or conflict may spill over.

The rest of Belize still requires you to exercise caution, with high levels of robbery and opportunistic crime, some of which are violent.

Police in Belize

Onto the police in Belize, as promised. Well, you already know that the general consensus with the Belizean police is that they’re often underfunded and lack the capacity to actually punish or react to many criminal cases.

Local authorities and outlets are overrun. Your best method of protection from petty crime is excellent travel insurance.

On a slightly different note, you should make sure that you are sticking to the right side of local laws, like holding an IDP if you rent a car and avoiding any illegal drugs.

Natural Disasters in Belize

Belize has a bad rep when it comes to natural disaster risk. The country has a coastline that opens onto the Caribbean Sea, so you should exercise caution during hurricane season, between June and November, particularly from August to October.

These months are fraught with hurricanes and severe storms. As a knock-on effect, Belize often experiences flooding and sea level rises. There is the threat of tsunamis, but there has never been one in recent history, just some warnings a few years back.

We recommend trying not to travel during these months or at least subscribe to weather warning alerts. On average, the country experiences seven hurricanes a year, so it pays to avoid the season entirely.

How To Stay Safe in Belize in Case of Natural Disaster

If you decide to visit Belize during this high-risk period, we’d suggest visiting pre-armed with a list of ways to stay safe in case of natural disasters. Here are a few tips you can use to keep safe in the face of disasters like flooding and hurricanes:

1. Have an Evacuation and Shelter In Place Plan

It’s wise to have a plan to evacuate (this could be travel insurance to get compensation if you have to book an early flight home or a “go-bag” to evacuate to a different region in Belize). You should also have a shelter plan, checking ahead of time with your accommodation to see what support they offer.

2. Know The Area

Do some basic research on the area you’re staying in beforehand. You should know where the closest police stations, hospitals, and practical places like the highest ground (in case of flash floods) are. Knowing this layout will help you in case of emergency when every minute matters.

3. Subscribe to Alerts

Subscribe to alerts from the US Embassy in Belize , local media, and disaster-related alerts from companies like the  National Hurricane Center Atmospheric and Oceanic Administration .

Weather in Belize

Of course, the best way to understand the risk of seasonal natural disasters is to understand the weather in Belize. Knowing the country’s weather breakdown by season can really help lower the risks of travel.

Overall, you should know that Belize has a subtropical climate, mostly split into a dry and rainy season. The rainy season lasts from June until November, coinciding with its hurricane-prone season. The dry season runs from February until May. Temperatures sit between 70 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit all year round.

We’ll take a closer look, though.

Spring: March to May

March to May in Belize is mostly dry, with temperatures between 75 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. May is the warmest choice, while late March to early April is the busiest time with all the spring break crowds.

Summer: June to September

This is Belize’s official wet season. Despite temperatures sitting at their highest between 80 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit, coastal areas may notice a drop with all the winds. This is when Belize has its highest risks of hurricanes and floods. We’d recommend giving it a swerve.

Fall: October to November

Fall is still a little iffy, with frequent rain despite the drop in the risk of hurricanes. Temperatures hover at around 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit, but you should still expect a slight chill in the blustery coastal regions. Only a few tourists bother visiting at this time of year, as the rain can cause flooding and, in general, doesn’t make for a pleasant stay.

Winter: December to February

Winter marks the beginning of the dry season—hooray! December is always a slow start, with the rain dragging its feet a little before disappearing. However, January and February are notoriously dry and are the months when tourism picks up again.

Temperatures are mild, between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, but the slightly cool, drier weather is ideal for sightseeing. A win is a win, right?

5 Tips For Staying Safe in Belize

As mentioned, travel insurance alone won’t cut it when visiting Belize. A great way to stay safe is to tick all the basics (travel insurance  will  be more helpful than ringing 911 if a camera gets swiped). However, as a general rule, you must build on the basics with more specialized strategies to stay safe in Belize.

1. A Spare Wallet is Your Best Friend

When visiting Belize, carrying a spare wallet with old (or lesser-used) cards and loose cash is a great idea. This is mostly for if you are traveling in the larger cities. Mugging can get everyone. There’s no guarantee you won’t fall foul of this unlucky crime, so why not be prepared?

You should  never  resist a mugger. So, instead, offer an alternative that doesn’t really impact you.

2. Don’t Scrimp on Transportation

There are so many countries where you can cut costs by taking public transport. Belize isn’t one of them. Skip low-cost transportation and always choose the more secure options. We opted for private transfers which were safer and faster. This is non-negotiable in Belize, especially when it comes to things like night buses.

3. Leave Your Luxury Fashion Sense At Home

Flashy jewelry and even particularly eye-catching outfits might look amazing, but we’d advise leaving them at home. You want to avoid drawing attention to yourself with anything designer or expensive-looking. Instead, dress down and make your goal to blend, not catch eyes.

4. If In Doubt, Skip Belize City

Belize City is by far the riskiest place in the country. If you are unsure whether you feel confident taking active safety measures, just skip it. There are easier places to stay safe in Belize, like Caye Caulker. It’s easy enough to cut it out of your itinerary.

5. Do Your Season Research

Finally, do your season research. As you learned in the section above, Belize’s climate changes on a monthly basis despite its overall dry versus wet season. It’s best to avoid the peak hurricane risk months.

You should also keep in mind that rainier and off-season months attract fewer tourists. This means fewer crowds and more isolated tourist areas, which can actually put you at more risk of opportunistic crime. It’s a bit of a catch-22 when heavy crowds tempt pickpocketing. Still, in general, peak months are better to avoid being isolated for more violent crimes.

Belize Emergency Numbers

• Police (Countrywide): 90/911
• Fire and ambulance (Belize City only) : 90
• Police (Belpoman): 822-2222

Is Belize Safe for Families?

We’d say that areas like Caye Caulker and Ambergris Cay are safe for families with travel-savvy parents. If you are an experienced traveler and are spending the money to stay in extra-secure, beautifully-located accommodations with reputable tours and transfers, Belize is safe for families. Just keep in mind that it may be a better holiday to take with older children who you can explain basic safety precautions to.

For families without that pre-existing travel experience, we recommend choosing a different place to visit. Save Belize for a little later after you’ve had a few practice runs.

• Take accommodation seriously when traveling as a family, and refrain from scrimping on security or location. 
• Choose your destination in Belize carefully, selecting traditionally “safe” areas like Caye Caulker.

Is Belize Safe for Solo Travelers?

Belize is a bit of a challenge for those visiting solo, but equally very rewarding. If you’ve had plenty of solo travel experience, you’ll find it manageable, and there’s a great hostel scene for making new friends. Experienced solo travelers are often even more conscious of safety precautions than those in a group, so Belize can actually be better suited to solo travel in that sense.

Still, as a general rule, Belize is best experienced in a group to limit the risk of muggings and more sinister crimes like sexual assault. You can book things like group tours and guided day trips to help you stay safe while traveling to Belize alone. If visiting solo, avoid non-essential travel at night, take care in rural areas, and don’t indulge in excessive alcohol consumption.

• Take group tours where possible and avoid walking alone at night.
• Choose well-located hotels or hostels.

Is Belize Safe to Take Public Transportation?

Public transportation is relatively safe in Belize, but be prepared for an intense experience. So-called chicken buses are brightly painted public buses operating in suburban and urban areas. They are typically packed but a cheap way to get around. Be a little mindful of pickpocketing, altercations, and bag snatching, but otherwise, this method of public transportation is safe.

At night, throw all that out the window. You should avoid public transportation at night at all costs, as it creates a much higher risk for violent crime. Get a registered taxi instead, or avoid unnecessary night travel.

The safest way to get around Belize is by registered taxis, which you can recognize from green license plates. Uber doesn’t exist here, so green license plates will undoubtedly become your next best friend. You definitely want a registered taxi driver, as it offers an extra security layer. It is a good idea to check out the Government Of Canada’s recommendation on public transport.

You can also rent a car and drive around Belize in private vehicles relatively easily. However, you should exercise a high degree of caution at night, ideally avoiding all nonessential travel after dark. You should also be prepared for regular police checkpoints, where you must display a form of ID and your International Driving Permit. Be mindful of only ever using official border crossings and be aware of the risk of armed robberies at places like traffic lights in urban areas or opportunistic crime on remote roads.

Are Medical Facilities Safe in Belize?

Medical facilities in Belize are mixed. There are two types of facilities: public and private hospitals. Private hospitals are generally a better option as they’re better funded, so they have better medical supplies and more to invest in adequately trained professionals. However, access to either can be seriously limited, especially if you’re staying in rural areas.

We’d suggest checking where your nearest hospitals are before visiting. Ensure you are up-to-date with all your vaccinations and routine health checks before departure. And make sure you have good travel insurance if it becomes a better idea to fly home. This is particularly the case if the hospital doesn’t have a specific, niche type of medication or treatment available on immediate demand. Belize’s best hospitals are great for minor injuries, but if you have a more serious problem, it may be advisable to seek treatment elsewhere.

Is Belize Safe? Top FAQs

We’ll leave that question up to you—do you feel confident using all the information above to plan a safe trip? Belize receives  nearly a million visitors  each year, the vast majority of whom travel the country with no issues. It is all about choosing destinations where  you  feel comfortable taking responsibility for your safety, and we all know some countries make this more challenging than others. Belize is challenging but not impossible. We love it.

Here are a few common FAQs to help clear the question of “should you, shouldn’t you” up.

Is Mexico or Belize safer?

Mexico and Belize are roughly on a par. Mexico has some Level 4 areas (marked as “do not travel”) but has a clearer area for safe tourism in Cancun and along the Mayan Riviera coastline. Belize has only one Level 3 area (“marked as reconsider travel”) but less clearly marked areas for safe tourism. It depends on where you plan to travel.

Is Belize or Costa Rica safer?

Costa Rica is marginally safer, as it is only marked as Level 2 by the US Travel Advisory. In contrast, Belize City is marked as a Level 3. However, both Belize and Costa Rica are flagged for violent crimes, including sexual assault. It’s best to approach both countries with increased caution.

When not to go to Belize?

August and October are the worst times to go to Belize. These are the months when you can experience the most storms and hurricanes, which can be dangerous. It is smack in the middle of hurricane season.

What is the safest part of Belize?

Caye Caulker and San Pedro are the darlings of Belize, two areas known for being comparatively “safe” across the country.

So, Is Belize Safe To Travel In?

No, Belize isn’t a traditionally safe place to visit. However, there are levels to the risks you take; are you planning a trip to Southside Belize City or Caye Caulker? Are you visiting on a tour? Or are you going solo? How much travel experience do you have? What are the current updates, and what time of year are you going?

For those willing to take water-tight safety precautions, Belize vastly rewards your extra efforts. There’s no denying the country is beautiful. We have a  perfect one-week itinerary  here if you’d like some inspiration.

Stay safe and enjoy. The best safety precaution is knowledge, and we hope you have a fantastic time.

More Belize Resources For Planning Your Trip

Discover San Ignacio, Belize- Your Ultimate Guide To Adventure

20 Best Things to Do in Caye Caulker Belize

The Perfect One Week in Belize Itinerary: Jungle And Island Adventures

• 26 of the Best Things to Do in Belize
• The Great Blue Hole In Belize: How To See This Natural Wonder

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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