Traveling To Belize During Covid: What You Need To Know

Belize is a small country in Central America, known for its natural wonders, including untouched coral reefs, dense jungles, and Mayan ruins. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Belize closed its borders and implemented several safety measures to protect its citizens and visitors. As of October 1, 2020, the Philip Goldson International Airport (PGIA) reopened to international travelers, but land borders with Guatemala and Mexico remained closed. All tourists were required to travel to destinations meeting the Belize Tourism Board's Gold Standard, which included all-inclusive hotels with strict COVID-19 protocols. Additionally, a negative COVID-19 PCR test result and the Belize Health App were mandatory for entry. While travel insurance is no longer mandatory, it is still recommended by the Tourist Board and can be purchased online.

Testing requirements

As of July 15, 2022, Belize dropped all COVID-19-related entry requirements. However, here is some information on the testing requirements prior to this date.

Before July 15, 2022, all visitors wishing to enter Belize were required to provide a negative COVID-19 test result. This included Belizean citizens, legal residents, and tourists, and the test had to be taken within a 72-hour window prior to their arrival in the country. If a traveller was unable to present a negative test result, they would have to take a rapid test given by the Belize Ministry of Health at the airport at their own expense. A positive test result would require the traveller to quarantine at a government-approved site for a period determined by the Ministry of Health, with all expenses incurred paid by the traveller.

From February 15, 2022, all visitors were required to apply for Belize Travel Health Insurance, which cost US$18 and provided coverage for up to US$50,000 in medical expenses related to COVID-19 treatment for a period of 21 days. The insurance also covered lodging expenses due to quarantine up to US$2,000 (maximum US$300 per day), emergency assistance services such as air evacuation, and emergency expenses related to pre-existing conditions. It also covered trip cancellations and expenses incurred by COVID-19 positive travellers who needed to extend their stay.

Effective March 1, 2022, fully vaccinated travellers were no longer required to present a negative test result but had to show proof of vaccination for entry into Belize. Unvaccinated travellers or those unable to show proof of vaccination were required to present a negative PCR test result taken within 72 hours of arrival or a negative Antigen Rapid test taken within 48 hours of arrival. If no test was presented, a COVID-19 test could be administered at the airport for a fee of US$50 per passenger. Children under five years of age were exempt from presenting a negative test result.

Upon arrival in Belize, travellers with proof of vaccination or a medical note confirming a recent COVID-19 recovery within the last three months could proceed to the 'fast track' lane for Immigration and Customs processing. Travellers with a negative COVID-19 test result could also proceed to the 'fast track' lane but were subject to random secondary testing. Those without a PCR or rapid test result had to proceed to the testing area and take a COVID rapid test at their own expense.

It is worth noting that some airlines, such as American Airlines, may require passengers to show a negative test result when checking in for their flight, even if the destination country does not require it. Therefore, it is essential to check with your airline for their specific requirements.

Additionally, Belize had implemented a "Gold Standard accommodation" requirement, where travellers were mandated to stay in accommodations that had passed a certain safety standard set by the Belize Tourism Board. Airport officials would ask for proof of reservation at one of these certified accommodations upon arrival, so travellers needed to ensure their hotel had this certification. It was recommended to carry printed copies of all relevant documents, including test results, reservations, and boarding passes, as electronic copies might not always be accepted.

Face masks

As of October 1, 2020, Belize has been open to tourists and foreign nationals, who can enter the country via commercial or private chartered flights through the Philip Goldson International Airport (BZE).

All businesses and tourist attractions are subject to capacity restrictions to ensure social distancing can be maintained. Visitors to Belize must wear face masks in these settings.

According to the Belize Tourism Board, all Gold Star Accommodations in Belize are required to meet a 9-point safety standard. This includes the use of face masks by employees. In San Ignacio, for example, masks were required inside hotels unless guests were actively eating or drinking. In Caye Caulker, hand sanitizing stations were set up around the island in public spaces, and servers in bars and restaurants generally wore masks.

While the official rules in Belize state that masks should be worn in public spaces, adherence to this rule is not always strict. In Caye Caulker, for instance, people tended not to wear masks outdoors, and there was some ambiguity regarding what counted as "outdoors" due to the open-air pavilion-style construction of many buildings.

Public transport

Availability of Public Transport:

Social Distancing and Face Masks:

Social distancing is maintained in queues for public transport, and it is mandatory to wear face masks at all times while using public transport. Face masks are also required in all public places across Belize.

Sanitization and Hand Hygiene:

To ensure the safety of passengers, sanitation measures are in place at bus terminals. Bus operators are required to instruct passengers to disembark and oversee the sanitization of the bus by personnel on-site. Additionally, passengers are mandated to wash and sanitize their hands at the conveniences provided at the terminals before boarding any bus.

Gold Standard Accommodations:

The Belize Tourism Board recommends tourists to use tourism transportation providers that have achieved "Gold Standard" certification. These certified entities have implemented enhanced health and safety measures, providing an extra layer of protection for travelers.

Travel Insurance:

It is highly recommended that travelers obtain the Belize Travel Health Insurance to cover any costs that may arise if they become sick during their vacation. This insurance can provide coverage in case of a positive COVID-19 test result and the subsequent quarantine requirements.

Travel Restrictions and Testing:

Belize has had various travel restrictions in place during the pandemic, including border closures and limited entry points. All travelers are required to provide a negative COVID-19 test result within 72 hours before their arrival in Belize. If a traveler does not have a negative test result, they will be required to take a rapid test upon arrival at their own expense. In case of a positive test result, the traveler will be quarantined at a site approved by the Government of Belize, and all expenses incurred must be paid by the traveler.

Food service

As of October 1, 2020, Belize has been open to tourists and foreign nationals, who can enter the country via commercial or private chartered flights through the Philip Goldson International Airport (BZE).

• Face masks are required for staff and patrons in all food service establishments, except when patrons are actively eating or drinking.
• Tables are wiped down between customers, and hand sanitizing stations are available.
• In some locations, such as Caye Caulker, there may be a curfew in place, resulting in restaurants and bars closing earlier than usual, typically around 10 pm.
• There are no vaccine certification requirements to enter restaurants, but social distancing and face masks are mandatory indoors unless eating or drinking.
• It is common for restaurants to offer takeaway or delivery services in addition to dine-in options.
• Some restaurants may require reservations in advance to manage capacity and ensure social distancing.
• Buffets may be unavailable due to COVID-19 concerns, and menus may be simplified or adapted to ensure efficient service and minimize contact.
• Contactless payment methods are often encouraged or required to reduce physical contact.

Attractions

Belize is brimming with natural beauty, fascinating ancient sites, and adventure activities. Here are some of the top attractions to visit during your trip:

• Ambergris Caye & Hol Chan Marine Reserve: Hol Chan Marine Reserve is one of the seven reserves within the Belize Barrier Reef system, offering excellent diving and snorkelling opportunities. Ambergris Caye is the largest of Belize's 400-plus cayes, known for its laid-back atmosphere and water sports.
• Lighthouse Reef Atoll and the Blue Hole: This atoll is the farthest from shore and is a paradise for nature lovers and divers. The Great Blue Hole, a giant marine sinkhole, is a popular site for scenic flyover tours and diving.
• Placencia Peninsula: Placencia is a charming seaside village located on an 18-mile peninsula, known for its beautiful beaches and seafood cuisine. It offers activities such as fishing, kayaking, and snorkelling in the Silk Cayes Marine Reserve.
• Turneffe Islands Atoll: Turneffe Islands Atoll is a diver's and angler's paradise, encompassing over 200 mangrove islands. It is known for its crystalline flats and diverse marine life, including eagle rays, nurse sharks, and turtles.
• Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary & Jaguar Preserve: This sanctuary is a haven for nature lovers, protecting a diverse array of wildlife such as jaguars, ocelots, monkeys, and snakes. It also offers extensive walking trails, including the Waterfall Trail and Ben's Bluff Trail, providing rewarding views of the basin.
• Lamanai Archaeological Reserve: Nestled in lush jungle on the banks of the New River, Lamanai is one of the largest and most famous archaeological sites in northern Belize. It features over 900 structures, a museum, and highlights such as the Mask Temple and the High Temple.
• Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve: This reserve offers a cool respite from the coastal humidity, with pine forests, rivers, waterfalls, and caves. The Rio Frio Cave, once a Mayan burial ground, is a popular attraction within the reserve.
• The Cayo District's Archaeological Sites: The Cayo District is home to several ancient attractions, including Xunantunich, El Pilar, and Cahal Pech. These sites offer a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the Maya civilisation.
• Altun Ha Archaeological Site: Altun Ha is one of Belize's most famous ruins, featuring 13 structures and two main plazas. The Temple of the Masonry Altars and the Temple of the Green Tomb are notable highlights, containing artefacts such as jade pendants and the famous Jade Head.
• Caracol Natural Monument Reservation: Located deep in the Chiquibul National Park, Caracol is one of the largest archaeological sites in Belize. Once a thriving Mayan city, it boasts impressive ruins and an abundance of wildlife, including cats, howler monkeys, and toucans.
• Belize Botanic Gardens: These gardens showcase Belize's floral biodiversity, featuring a wide variety of orchids and the Maya Medicine Trail, where visitors can learn about the medicinal properties of plants used by the ancient Maya.

Belize offers a wealth of attractions that showcase its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and ecological diversity. Remember to follow the necessary COVID-19 guidelines and restrictions during your visit to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Frequently asked questions