Plan Ahead

We've put together a list of things you need to know before your visit.

CELL PHONE SERVICE PROVIDER: Be sure to notify your carrier of travel plans; roaming fees can be costly.

COUNTRY SIZE: The country of Belize is 8,867 sq. mi. including 689 sq. mi. of offshore cayes.

CLIMATE:

The climate is subtropical with prevailing winds from the Caribbean Sea. The annual temperature averages 27°C / 80°F.

CLOTHING:

Light cotton clothing is recommended along with a light jacket or long sleeved shirt for cool evenings. For jungle locations and trekking, pack long sleeved shirts, long pants and hiking boots. Binoculars, insect repellent, sunscreen and hats are essential for tropical travel.

CURRENCY: The Belize Dollar has a fixed exchange rate to the US Dollar (BZD$2 = USD$1). Currencies such as Pounds and Euros can be exchanged at most banks. ATM machines are available in major towns and cities. Credit cards such Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted. Be sure to notify your bank or credit card provider of travel plans before travel.

DEPARTURE FEES:

Airport Departure fees are usually included in the airline ticket. If it is not included in the ticket price, passengers may pay a departure fee of USD$55.50 per person. Belizean residents pay a fee of BZD$35.00. Additionally, a security fee of USD$0.75 is charged for domestic security screening. Fees via the borders with Mexico and Guatemala are USD$20.00.

GOVERNMENT:

Since 1981, Belize has been an independent country with a democratically elected parliament. It is a member of the British Commonwealth.

HEALTH SERVICES:

There are three major hospitals in Belize City (one public and two private). Several private doctors are also available. The district towns and larger villages also have hospitals and clinics. It is recommended that travelers have international medical insurance.

LANGUAGE: The official language of Belize is English. Because of its diverse mix of cultures, Spanish, Maya (Mopan, Ketchi & Yucatec), Garifuna, Creole, German (Mennonites) and Mandarin are frequently spoken.

PASSPORT & VISAS: All visitors require a valid passport with proof of return ticket. Visitors from the United States, United Kingdom and most Caribbean nations do not require visas for stays less than 30 days. A notarized permission letter from parent(s) not traveling with their child/ children is required and will be requested at your departure airport or border, if arriving by land. Contact the Belize Embassy in Washington DC, Belize High Commission in London or the Belize Consulate in Canada for more information.

POPULATION:

The population of Belize is approximately 468,100 comprised of diverse ethnicities including Creole, Garifuna, Mestizo, Spanish, Maya, English, Mennonite, Lebanese, Chinese and East Indian.

SAFETY:

Basic safety tips should be followed wherever you go in the world. Ask your hotel manager or local guide for specific advice on local areas.

TAXES:

Lodging Tax is 9%. The General Sales Tax (GST) is 12.5% on other goods and services.

TESTING:

Belize occupies time zone GMT-6 or US Central Standard Time. Daylight Saving Time is not observed.

TIME ZONE:

Belize occupies time zone GMT-6 or US Central Standard Time. Daylight Saving Time is not observed.

TIPPING:

10 – 20% is the standard gratuity for most restaurants and tour guides. Establishments may add a service charge.

VACCINES: No vaccinations are required for entry.

WATER:

Tap water in Belize is treated and fit to drink, however bottled water is also readily available.