Belize's Covid-19 Status: Travel And Safety Updates

As of April 16, 2023, Belize had updated its COVID-19 guidelines, removing all public health measures at points of entry. Tourists can move about freely but are encouraged to stay at Gold Standard-certified accommodations and use certified tour operators, transportation providers, restaurants, and tourism sites. If visitors develop COVID-like symptoms, they must notify their hotel, which will activate its COVID Response Plan. A minimum 7-day quarantine is required for those who test positive. While Belize's health infrastructure is not as advanced as that of the US, Canada, or Europe, the country has received COVID-19 vaccine donations from the US and other governments.

Quarantine rules for tourists

As of October 1, 2020, Belize has implemented specific entry requirements for tourists in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Here are the quarantine rules for tourists travelling to Belize:

Before Arrival

Tourists must download the Belize Health App and take a PCR COVID test within 72 hours of their flight. If a negative test result is presented, tourists can proceed with their travel plans. However, if a test is not available, it can be taken upon arrival in Belize at the traveller's expense (US$50).

At the Airport

Tourists who arrive with a negative test result or receive a negative result at the airport can proceed to their Gold Standard accommodation. They are required to wear a green wristband for the duration of their trip and must adhere to their submitted itinerary, using only approved transportation with a trained driver.

Quarantine Period

Regardless of their test results, tourists must quarantine for ten days upon arrival. During this time, they should remain in their accommodation. After the ten-day quarantine, tourists can end their quarantine without official clearance and resume their regular activities.

Positive Test Result

If a tourist tests positive upon arrival, they are required to quarantine for a minimum of 14 days at their own expense in an approved hotel. This extended quarantine ensures that they do not pose a risk to others and helps to manage the spread of the virus.

These measures are subject to change as the situation evolves, and it is recommended to check for the latest updates before travelling to Belize.

COVID-19 vaccines in Belize

Belize has received COVID-19 vaccines from several sources, including donations from the US government and support from organisations such as UNICEF and the World Bank. The US donated 232,950 Pfizer doses in August 2021, followed by an additional 117,000 Pfizer vaccines in August 2024. The US government has also provided other support, with contributions totalling over US$2.8 million since 2020. This support has helped establish cutting-edge technology to identify COVID-19 variants, protect frontline workers, and facilitate a national vaccination campaign.

UNICEF has also played a crucial role in Belize's COVID-19 response. In April 2021, Belize received 33,600 doses of the coronavirus vaccine, which was the largest number of doses the country had received up to that date. UNICEF staff have been active in educating the public and raising awareness of the benefits of vaccination. They have also been working to strengthen the cold chain system in Belize, which is crucial for maintaining the viability of the COVID-19 vaccine.

The World Bank has approved financing of US$6.2 million for the Belize COVID-19 Response Project, which includes the acquisition and deployment of COVID-19 vaccines. The project focuses on accelerating vaccination efforts, improving vaccine deployment to remote areas and indigenous populations, and addressing vaccine hesitancy.

Belize's Minister of Health and Wellness, Hon. Michel Chebat, has emphasised the importance of reaching vulnerable and high-risk groups, including frontline health care and social workers, as well as those aged 60 and above. With tourism being one of Belize's largest industries, those working in this sector have also been included in the priority groups for vaccination.

Health and safety measures for tourists

The official advice for tourists travelling to Belize is to exercise a high degree of caution due to the threat of violent crime. Tourists are advised to be vigilant and take precautions to ensure their safety. Here are some essential health and safety measures for tourists travelling to Belize:

• COVID-19 Precautions: Before travelling to Belize, it is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series. While Belize has received COVID-19 vaccine donations from other countries, it is important to check the latest entry/exit requirements related to COVID-19 vaccinations.
• Health Precautions: Consult a healthcare professional before travelling to Belize to ensure that you have the necessary vaccinations and medication. Some prescription medications may not be available in Belize, so bring enough of your medication and keep it in its original container.
• Food and Water Precautions: Be cautious when consuming food and water in Belize. Only drink boiled or bottled water, and avoid raw or undercooked food. Wash your hands frequently and practise good food hygiene to reduce the risk of travellers' diarrhoea and other waterborne and foodborne diseases.
• Insect-borne Diseases: Insect-borne diseases such as Zika, chikungunya, malaria, and dengue are prevalent in Belize. Protect yourself by using insect repellent, wearing light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing, and ensuring your accommodation is insect-proof. If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, consult your doctor before travelling due to the risk of Zika.
• Crime and Safety: Violent crime, including sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder, is common in Belize, even in tourist areas. Avoid walking or driving at night, and be vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs. Do not display signs of wealth, such as expensive jewellery. Avoid travelling alone, especially after dark, and use reputable tour companies.
• Transportation: Road conditions and road safety are poor in Belize. If driving, familiarise yourself with your route, keep your vehicle locked, and avoid travelling after dark. Public transportation, such as buses and taxis, may be unreliable and unsafe. Water taxis are commonly used but ensure they have proper safety equipment and life jackets.
• Natural Disasters: Belize experiences hurricanes, severe storms, landslides, flooding, and earthquakes. Monitor weather reports and local media for updates, and follow the advice of local authorities. Keep your travel documents secure and easily accessible.
• Legal Considerations: Be aware of local laws and customs in Belize. Drug offences, for example, carry severe penalties, including long prison sentences. It is also illegal to carry pre-Columbian artefacts without a permit and to photograph official buildings.
• LGBTQIA+ Travellers: Same-sex relationships have been decriminalised in Belize, but LGBTQIA+ travellers may still face discrimination and violence in some regions. Avoid public displays of affection and be cautious in areas with social or political tensions.
• Insurance and Evacuation: Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical evacuation and hospital stays. Medical facilities in Belize may have limited resources and equipment, and you may need to be evacuated to the US for treatment in an emergency.

Travel advisories for Belize

COVID-19

The US has donated COVID-19 vaccines to Belize. It is recommended that travellers complete a vaccine series and any additional recommended doses before travelling.

Crime

Exercise increased caution in Belize due to crime. Violent crime, such as sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder, is common, even during daylight hours and in tourist areas. A significant portion of violent crime is gang-related. The local police lack the resources and training to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents, and most crimes remain unresolved and unprosecuted.

If you decide to travel to Belize, be aware of your surroundings, avoid travelling after dark, and do not physically resist any robbery attempts. Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs and do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewellery.

Belize City

US citizens should avoid travelling to Belize City, particularly the Southside, where much of the country's violent crime occurs and is gang-related. All visitors should maintain an elevated level of due diligence and reduce their exposure to crime-related risks.

Territorial Disputes

Belize faces unresolved territorial disputes with Guatemala regarding the land border and Honduras regarding the Sapodilla Cays.

Transport

Road conditions and road safety are poor throughout the country. Accidents are common due to reckless driving, a lack of respect for traffic laws, and the presence of many bicycles in urban areas. Service stations are scarce and often closed for holidays. If driving in Belize, familiarise yourself with your route, avoid travelling after dark, and keep your windows and doors locked at all times.

Public buses are unreliable and lack maintenance and safety equipment. Taxis are not considered safe, but if you must use one, never board at taxi stands or flag taxis on the street. Instead, note the driver's name and plate number and negotiate the fare before getting in.

Health

Good health care is very limited in Belize. Medical facilities are under-equipped and may lack medical supplies and adequately trained professionals. Private hospitals, mostly located in Belize City, may be better equipped and provide better health care. Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

COVID-19 testing in Belize

COVID-19 testing is available in Belize at the airport for US$50. All visitors to Belize, including children, must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test result within 72 hours of arrival. Belize Medical Associates also have three testing sites available to perform the COVID-19 rapid swab test, with varying opening hours. In addition, they offer the PCR Sars Cov 2 test, via the RT PCR Analyzer.

The Belize Health App must be downloaded by all travellers to Belize, and the necessary information must be filled out no more than 72 hours prior to arrival. A unique QR code will be provided, which must be presented to health authorities at the airport.

CELA Belize requires all students to test for COVID-19 within two calendar days of departing for Belize. If they test positive, they must report the result to CELA Belize and follow CDC guidance for staying at home.

Frequently asked questions