Belize Travel Guide: Essential Tips

Explore Belize: From the Ancient Ruins of Caracol to the Vibrant Belize Barrier Reef

National Flag of Belize

Top 15 Most Searched Questions About Belize

The capital is Belmopan, a planned city established in 1970 after Hurricane Hattie devastated Belize City.

Citizens of the EU, US, Canada, and many other countries don’t need a visa for stays up to 30 days. More in our Documents tab.

The Belize Dollar (BZD) is the official currency, but US dollars are widely accepted. More in our Currency tab.

Belize is generally safe, though petty crime can occur in Belize City. More in our Safety tab.

English is the official language, but Spanish, Creole, and indigenous languages like Garifuna are also spoken.

Belize is famous for the Belize Barrier Reef, Mayan ruins like Caracol, and the Great Blue Hole. More in our Top Attractions tab.

November to April is dry and ideal, with temperatures around 75-85°F. The rainy season (June-October) can bring hurricanes.

Belize can be affordable—budget travelers spend around $70-$120 per day. Local meals are $5-$10, but diving tours can be pricey.

Tap water is generally safe in tourist areas, but bottled water is recommended in remote regions.

Highlights include the Great Blue Hole, Caye Caulker, and the Mayan ruins of Xunantunich. More in our Top Attractions tab.

Tropical, with average temperatures of 80°F year-round. The dry season is November to April, while June to October is wetter.

Yes, the Garifuna Settlement Day in November celebrates Garifuna culture with music and dance. The Belize Carnival in September features parades.

Popular souvenirs include handmade Mayan jewelry, Belizean hot sauce, and local rum from markets in Belize City.

Buses cost $2-$5 USD per trip. Water taxis to the cayes are $10-$20. Car rentals are $50-$80 per day.

Try rice and beans with stew chicken, fry jacks, and tamales. Wash it down with a Belikin beer. More in our Local Cuisine tab.

About Belize

Belize, a small Central American country on the Caribbean coast, spans 8,867 square miles. Belmopan, the capital, was established in 1970 after Hurricane Hattie devastated Belize City, the largest city and economic hub. The population is around 410,000 (2023 estimate), a diverse mix of Mestizo, Creole, Maya, Garifuna, and others. English is the official language, but Spanish, Belizean Creole, and indigenous languages like Garifuna and Maya are widely spoken. Belize gained independence from Britain in 1981 and remains part of the Commonwealth. The country is renowned for the Belize Barrier Reef, the second-largest coral reef system in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site, as well as the Great Blue Hole, a massive marine sinkhole popular with divers. Tourism and agriculture, particularly citrus, bananas, and sugar, drive the economy, with marine products like lobster also significant. The tropical climate averages 80°F year-round, with a dry season from November to April—perfect for visiting—and a rainy season from June to October, which can bring hurricanes. Budget travelers can expect to spend $70-$120 per day, with local meals like rice and beans costing $5-$10 at roadside eateries. Public buses are affordable at $2-$5 per trip, while water taxis to the cayes cost $10-$20, and car rentals are $50-$80 per day. Cultural events like Garifuna Settlement Day in November celebrate the Garifuna heritage with drumming, dancing, and traditional foods. Belize’s history, from ancient Mayan civilizations to British colonization, is showcased in archaeological sites like Caracol, Xunantunich, and Lamanai. Natural attractions include the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, a jaguar preserve, and the pristine islands of Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker, ideal for snorkeling and diving. With its blend of cultural diversity, natural wonders, and adventure opportunities, Belize offers an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking both relaxation and exploration.

Visa & Passport for Belize: Entry Requirements for Travelers

  • Passport Requirements: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your entry date into Belize. If transiting through another country (e.g., the US), it must also meet that country’s requirements (often 6 months validity). Children require their own passports—they cannot travel on a parent’s passport.
  • Visa Requirements: Citizens of the EU (including Schengen countries), US, Canada, the UK, and many Commonwealth nations do not need a visa for stays up to 30 days for tourism. Schengen-area citizens (e.g., from Spain, France, Germany) can stay visa-free for 30 days, extendable up to 90 days with a fee ($25 USD per 30-day extension) at an Immigration Office. Citizens of countries like Mexico, Brazil, and Australia can also enter visa-free for 30 days under bilateral agreements. Other nationalities, such as those from China, India, and Russia, must apply for a visa through the official Belize government website. A single-entry tourist visa is typically valid for 30 days, while multiple-entry visas can be issued for 6 months or 1 year, depending on purpose and prior travel history.
  • Schengen-Specific Information: If traveling from a Schengen country and transiting through the US, your stay in Belize counts toward the 90 days within 180 days allowed by your ESTA (for the US). Check your visa status with US authorities to avoid issues upon return.
  • Other Requirements: A return or onward ticket is required, along with proof of accommodation (hotel booking or private address). You must show sufficient funds (approximately $75 USD per day). Declare cash or negotiable instruments exceeding $10,000 USD upon entry and departure. If traveling from a country with a yellow fever risk, a vaccination certificate is mandatory.

Driving in Belize: Traffic Rules & Tips for Tourists

  • Driver’s License: A valid international driving permit (IDP) or a national driver’s license from the EU, US, or Canada is accepted for up to 3 months. No additional permit is required.
  • Traffic Rules: Drive on the right side. Speed limits are typically 25 mph in towns and 55 mph on highways. Seatbelts are mandatory, and using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited without a hands-free device.
  • Road Conditions: Major highways like the Philip Goldson Highway are paved but narrow. Rural roads, especially in the south, can be unpaved and rough—4WD vehicles are recommended.
  • Car Rental: Available in Belize City and at the airport for $50-$80 per day. Book ahead during peak season (November-April).
  • Parking: Parking is free in most areas, but paid zones ($1-$2 per hour) apply in central Belize City.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 911 for emergencies, including police, ambulance, or fire services.

Currency in Belize: Using the Belize Dollar for Your Trip

  • Belize Dollar (BZD): The official currency, pegged to the US dollar at a 2:1 ratio. US dollars are widely accepted, especially in tourist areas.
  • Currency Exchange: Banks and ATMs in Belize City offer the best rates. Airport exchange booths charge higher fees.
  • Payment Methods: Credit cards are accepted at hotels and larger establishments, but cash is necessary for small vendors and rural areas.
  • Costs: A local meal costs $5-$10 USD, while a mid-range hotel in Belize City costs $80-$150 USD per night.

Legal Guide for Belize: Laws Travelers Need to Know

  • Local Laws: Drug possession, including marijuana, is illegal despite decriminalization for small amounts—tourists can still face fines or jail time.
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Respect indigenous and Garifuna traditions, especially during festivals. More in the Culture & Etiquette tab.
  • Photography Restrictions: Avoid photographing military sites or border areas without permission, especially near Guatemala.
  • Public Behavior: Public drunkenness can lead to fines. Dress modestly in non-tourist areas, especially in rural villages.
  • Customs Rules: You can bring up to 200 cigarettes and 1 liter of alcohol duty-free. Declare cash exceeding $10,000 USD.
  • Emergency Contact: Dial 911 for emergencies. For non-urgent matters, contact the Belize Police Department at 501-222-2022.

Travel Safety in Belize: Staying Safe During Your Trip

  • Crime: Belize is generally safe, but petty theft like pickpocketing can occur in Belize City, particularly in the southside. Avoid walking alone at night and keep valuables secure.
  • Road Safety: Be cautious on rural roads, especially during the rainy season when flooding can occur. Avoid driving at night due to poor road conditions.
  • Health Risks: Use insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes, which can carry diseases like dengue or Zika, especially during the rainy season (June-October).
  • Natural Hazards: Hurricanes can occur from June to November. Monitor local weather reports and be prepared for evacuation plans.
  • Scams: Be wary of overpriced tours or unofficial guides. Book through reputable companies and confirm prices upfront.
  • Medical Facilities: Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital in Belize City is the main public hospital. Travel insurance is recommended for private care, especially for diving-related incidents.
  • Emergency Contacts: Dial 911 for emergencies. The US Embassy in Belmopan can be reached at 501-822-4011.

Culture & Etiquette in Belize: What to Know

  • Greetings: A friendly “Good morning” or “Hello” is appreciated. Belizeans are laid-back but value politeness, especially in rural areas.
  • Dining Customs: Tipping 10-15% is standard in restaurants, though some include a service charge—check your bill.
  • Community Respect: Belizeans are warm and welcoming—be respectful, especially in indigenous communities, and ask permission before taking photos.
  • Festivals: Garifuna Settlement Day (November 19) features drumming, dancing, and traditional foods. The Belize Carnival in September includes colorful parades.
  • Language Tips: English is widely spoken, but you’ll hear Creole phrases like “Weh di go aan?” (What’s going on?) or “Yuh haffi try dis” (You have to try this).
  • Beach Etiquette: Don’t litter on beaches and respect local rules, like keeping music low on public beaches like Caye Caulker.

Local Cuisine in Belize: Must-Try Dishes and Drinks

  • Rice and Beans with Stew Chicken: A Belizean staple, often served with potato salad and a side of hot sauce.
  • Fry Jacks: Deep-fried dough, typically eaten for breakfast with eggs, beans, or cheese.
  • Tamales: Steamed corn dough filled with chicken or pork, wrapped in banana leaves—a Mayan tradition.
  • Belikin Beer: The national beer, a crisp lager perfect for the tropical climate.
  • Rum Punch: A refreshing mix of local rum, pineapple juice, and grenadine, often served at beach bars.
  • Where to Eat: In Belize City, the Celebrity Restaurant offers authentic Belizean dishes like rice and beans with ocean views. On Ambergris Caye, Elvi’s Kitchen serves traditional tamales in a cozy setting. Both are highlighted in our Top Attractions tab.

Top Attractions in Belize: Must-Visit Places

  • Great Blue Hole (Offshore): A world-famous marine sinkhole, ideal for diving and aerial tours. Search for a tour on Tiqets.
  • Belize Barrier Reef (Caribbean Coast): The second-largest coral reef system, perfect for snorkeling and diving. Search for activities on Tiqets.
  • Caracol (Cayo District): A sprawling Mayan archaeological site with towering pyramids. Search for tours on Tiqets.
  • Xunantunich (Cayo District): A Mayan ruin with the impressive El Castillo pyramid, offering panoramic views. Search for tours on Tiqets.
  • Caye Caulker (Northern Cayes): A laid-back island known for its beaches and snorkeling spots. Search for activities on Tiqets.
  • Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary (Stann Creek): A jaguar preserve with hiking trails and waterfalls. Search for tours on Tiqets.
  • Where to Eat: In Belize City, the Celebrity Restaurant offers authentic Belizean dishes like rice and beans with ocean views. On Ambergris Caye, Elvi’s Kitchen is a local favorite serving traditional tamales in a cozy, tropical setting.

Flights to Belize: Travel Options

Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport (BZE) in Belize City is the main entry point, with flights from cities like Miami, Houston, and Toronto. A taxi from the airport to central Belize City costs around $25-$35 USD and takes 20 minutes.

Create Your Packing List for Belize

Travel Tips for Belize

  • Connectivity: Local SIM cards from Digi or Smart cost $10 USD with 2 GB of data. Wi-Fi is available in hotels but spotty in remote areas.
  • Health Prep: No vaccinations are required, except for yellow fever if coming from a risk area. Pack mosquito repellent and sunscreen (SPF 50).
  • Weather Prep: Light clothing is ideal, but bring a rain jacket for the rainy season (June-October).
  • Water Safety: Stick to calm waters for swimming, like those at Caye Caulker. Avoid areas with strong currents, especially during the rainy season.
  • Hurricane Season: From June to November, monitor weather reports and be flexible with travel plans.