Belize Mask Mandate: What You Need To Know

As of July 12, 2022, Belize has dropped all COVID-19 entry requirements, including proof of vaccination or a negative test. While in the country, face masks are no longer mandatory, and social distancing is no longer required. However, the Ministry of Health and Wellness reminds the public to continue to wear masks properly in public, maintain physical distancing, and wash and sanitize hands often.

Masks are no longer mandatory in Belize

As of July 12, 2022, Belize has dropped all entry requirements related to the COVID-19 pandemic. This means that proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test is no longer required for entry into the country at all official border points (land and sea). Additionally, temperature checks have been discontinued, and face masks are no longer mandatory. However, it is recommended to continue practicing good hand hygiene to protect yourself and others.

While masks are no longer a requirement, it is important to note that during a trip to Belize in 2022, a traveller observed that the official rules still recommended that masks be worn in public spaces by both visitors and locals. The traveller noted that this was not always strictly followed, especially in Caye Caulker. Most people in Belize wore cloth masks, while some visitors wore N95 masks or double masks. Service workers, especially in restaurants, consistently wore masks. Boxes of surgical masks were available for purchase at larger convenience stores in San Ignacio and Caye Caulker.

In terms of accommodation, Belize has a "Gold Standard" certification for resorts that have passed a certain safety standard set by the Belize Tourism Board. Staying at one of these resorts is required, and airport officials will ask for proof of your stay upon arrival. It is recommended to have a printed copy of your hotel reservation, as electronic documents may not be accepted.

When it comes to COVID-19 safety in restaurants, there were no vaccine certification requirements, but patrons were asked to wear masks indoors unless eating. Restaurant staff consistently wore masks and wiped down tables between customers. In Caye Caulker, there were hand sanitizing stations everywhere, including on the beach. A curfew was in effect, with restaurants and bars closing at 10 pm, except on New Year's Eve.

In conclusion, while masks are no longer mandatory in Belize, it is still recommended to follow good hygiene practices, such as hand washing, to protect yourself and others. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local guidelines and recommendations, as well as the practices of the local population, when travelling to Belize.

Face coverings are still required on public transport

As of July 12, 2022, Belize has dropped all entry requirements relating to the COVID-19 pandemic. This means that proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test is no longer required upon arrival or to enter the country at any official border point. Temperature checks have been dropped, and face masks are no longer mandatory, nor is social distancing. However, it is recommended to continue to wash hands and perform proper hand hygiene to protect yourself and others.

Despite these relaxed rules, it is important to note that, as of January 19, 2022, masks were still required on public transport in Belize. This was the case even when drinks were being served on American Airlines flights to the country. In addition, masks were required inside hotels and restaurants unless guests were actively eating or drinking. In Caye Caulker, hand sanitising stations were available, including on the beach, and servers at bars were mostly still wearing masks.

Masks are not required when moving on a motorcycle

Belize is a small Central American country with a population of approximately 400,000 people. It is bordered by Mexico, Guatemala, and the Caribbean Sea. The official language of Belize is English, but Garifuna dialects are also commonly spoken. The country is known for its Caribbean resorts, ancient Mayan pyramids, lush jungle landscapes, and pristine beaches.

Motorcycle riding is a popular activity in Belize, especially for those seeking adventure and exploration. The village of Hopkins, known for its friendly locals and vibrant Garifuna culture, is a popular place to rent motorcycles and embark on self-guided expeditions. Motorcycle rentals in Hopkins typically offer 250cc bikes, such as the Lifan 250, which are well-suited for navigating the diverse terrain of the region, including dirt roads, jungle trails, and beach rides.

When riding a motorcycle in Belize, it is important to consider the hot and humid climate. Lightweight gear is recommended, and wearing swimwear underneath can be practical for spontaneous swims. The roads in Belize can be a challenge, with potholes, unpaved shoulders, and limited lane markings. Off-road riding is easily accessible, and there are plenty of dirt trails, jungle paths, and beach rides to explore.

Belize has a lot to offer for motorcycle enthusiasts, from ancient Mayan ruins and breathtaking caves to cascading waterfalls and pristine Caribbean beaches. It is a country that is still largely undiscovered by motorcyclists, offering a unique and authentic experience. The distances between destinations are relatively short, making 250cc bikes sufficient for exploring the country.

Whether you choose to rent or buy a motorcycle, riding in Belize provides a combination of cultural shock and natural beauty. It is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture, interact with friendly locals, and discover hidden gems that are only accessible by motorcycle. So, if you're seeking adventure and stunning scenery, consider exploring Belize on two wheels and experiencing the country's wild and diverse landscapes.

Masks are recommended indoors when not eating or drinking

As of July 12, 2022, Belize has dropped all entry requirements relating to the COVID-19 pandemic. This means that proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test is no longer required upon arrival or to enter the country at any official border point. While in the country, temperature checks are no longer in place, and face masks are no longer mandatory. Social distancing is also no longer required.

However, it is recommended that you continue to practice good hand hygiene to protect yourself and others. Wash your hands regularly and use hand sanitiser when handwashing facilities are unavailable.

While masks are no longer mandatory, it is still recommended that you wear a mask indoors when not eating or drinking. This is especially important if you are unable to socially distance. Most people in Belize wear cloth masks, but some wear N95 masks or double mask. Masks are also no longer required when moving on a motorcycle, golf cart, or any other similar motor vehicle.

In addition, it is worth noting that accommodation in Belize is required to meet a certain safety standard set up by the Belize Tourism Board to combat COVID-19. You must stay at one of these "Gold Standard Accommodations", and airport officials will ask for proof of your stay when you arrive. Be sure to print out a copy of your hotel reservation, as showing it on your phone may not be sufficient.

Service workers in Belize are often masked

In Belize, service workers, especially restaurant staff, are often masked. In fact, they were among the most consistently masked people one traveller observed during their trip to Belize. This observation is unsurprising given the country's official rules regarding mask-wearing. According to the Belize Tourism Board, masks should be worn in public spaces by both visitors and locals. While this rule is not always strictly followed, service workers in Belize typically adhere to it, particularly those working in restaurants and bars.

Belize has implemented several measures to ensure the safety of both its citizens and tourists amid the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition to mask mandates, the country requires negative COVID-19 test results or proof of recovery for entry. The Belize Tourism Board also established a "Gold Standard accommodation" programme, requiring visitors to stay in resorts that have passed a certain safety standard. These accommodations must meet a 9-point safety standard, which includes measures such as hand sanitising stations and indoor mask-wearing for guests when not eating or drinking.

The consistent mask-wearing by service workers in Belize is likely a result of both the country's official guidelines and the efforts of individual businesses to protect their employees and customers. Service workers, especially those in the hospitality industry, are at an increased risk of exposure to COVID-19 due to frequent close contact with others. By wearing masks, these individuals can reduce the spread of the virus and help create a safer environment for all.

While the mask requirement in Belize is still in place as of the traveller's visit, it is important to note that the situation may have changed since then. It is always advisable to check for the latest updates on travel restrictions and requirements before planning a trip to any destination, including Belize.

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