Belize's Internet Infrastructure: Reliable Or Not?

Belize has good internet, with the internet speed in the country improving drastically over the past decade. Most of the country has good WiFi and 3G/4G signal, with some places offering even better connections. The internet in Belize is widely available and affordable, with monthly subscriptions and prepaid cards offered by DigiCell, BTL, and Smart. Tourists can easily stay connected in Belize, as WiFi is available in most hotels, restaurants, and other facilities.

Internet access in Belize has improved

Improved Speed and Infrastructure

Belize has seen significant improvements in internet speed over the past decade. Companies like BTL and Smart continuously work to enhance the country's quality of service. As a result, internet speeds in restaurants and bars have increased to 5-15 MBPS, while hotels and businesses can expect speeds of 30 MBPS or higher.

Belize has also upgraded its cellular phone network to 4G LTE, outpacing many other Central American countries. Additionally, fiber optic technology has been implemented in certain areas, such as Ambergris Caye, further boosting internet speeds.

Increased Accessibility and Affordability

Internet access in Belize is now widely available, in contrast to the past when it was limited to specific urban areas and was quite expensive. Today, internet services are offered by DigiCell, BTL, and Smart, providing residents with affordable options. Monthly subscriptions and prepaid cards are accessible at reasonable prices, making it convenient for individuals to stay connected across the country.

For retirees, DSL lines offer high-speed broadband internet, similar to traditional home telephone lines. Both DigiCell and Smart provide various service tiers, including unlimited internet plans starting at competitive rates.

Options for Tourists and Remote Areas

Belize also caters to the connectivity needs of tourists and visitors. Most tourist hotspots, including hotels, restaurants, and coffee shops, offer Wi-Fi access, making it convenient for travelers to stay connected during their stay.

For those venturing into more remote areas, satellite internet provides a reliable option. While it is relatively expensive, satellite internet ensures connectivity in rural parts of Belize and its islands, eliminating the need for a physical ground connection.

Online Services and Entertainment

The improved internet infrastructure in Belize supports various online services and entertainment options. Popular platforms such as Skype, WhatsApp, and Facebook are commonly used by residents and tourists alike. Streaming services like Netflix are also accessible, although some users report occasional inconsistencies.

Additionally, cable television in Belize offers a wide range of channels, including movie channels, for a reasonable monthly fee.

Future Prospects

Belize continues to make strides in enhancing its internet and mobile services, moving towards "First World status" in these areas. There are also plans to upgrade all services over the next few years, ensuring that internet access remains a strength for the country.

Internet in Belize is affordable

Internet access in Belize has improved significantly in recent years, and it is now widely available at affordable prices. This is a notable shift from the past when internet access was limited to specific urban areas and was expensive. Today, Belize offers retirees, residents, and travellers affordable internet options, including high-speed wireless internet and various subscription plans.

For residents, DigiCell, BTL, and Smart are the main internet service providers, offering a range of affordable options. Monthly subscriptions and prepaid cards are available, providing flexibility for users. Additionally, retirees often opt for DSL lines, which offer high-speed broadband internet similar to traditional home telephone lines. Both DigiCell and Smart provide several service tiers, with unlimited internet starting as low as 55 Belizean dollars (US $27.50) per month in select locations.

The national telephone company, Belize Telemedia Limited, also offers competitive rates, with high-speed broadband internet available from just 39 Belizean dollars (US $19.50) per month. Wireless internet options from DigiCell and Smart include prepaid bundles and monthly subscriptions suitable for various devices, such as cell phones, tablets, and personal computers. These providers also offer "combo" plans that bundle unlimited text messages, internet data usage, and voice call minutes.

Belize has multiple internet options, with speeds ranging from 3G to 4G LTE. While some areas in small towns or remote locations may have slower or less consistent connections, places like Ambergris Caye, Placencia, and Caye Caulker are known for their excellent wifi. The cost of wifi in Belize is generally affordable, with companies like SMART and BTL DIGI offering high-speed internet for less than $100 BZD per month.

Travellers to Belize can easily stay connected through their mobile devices, as most tourist hotspots, including hotels, restaurants, and coffee shops, offer wifi access. By utilising these wifi hotspots and free wireless access points throughout the country, travellers can avoid costly international roaming charges and still maintain internet connectivity during their stay in Belize.

Tourists can stay connected in Belize

All top resorts, restaurants, lodges, and hotels in Belize offer high-speed wireless internet for customers. Many of these establishments will provide WiFi passwords upon request. Additionally, internet cafes can be found in cities and larger towns, and many central parks around the country provide free internet access, although it may not be suitable for sending or receiving large files.

For tourists who wish to stay connected on the go, bringing a smartphone is recommended. Local carriers have established WiFi towers in tourist hotspots, and cell phone data can be purchased from various locations, including supermarkets, gas stations, and corner shops. However, international roaming service in Belize is not cheap, and it is more cost-effective to use WiFi for internet access.

For those staying in Belize for an extended period or seeking a more permanent connection, there are several options available. The two biggest internet service providers in Belize are SMART and BTL (Belize Telemedia Limited), offering DSL lines of high-speed internet for less than $100 BZD (Belize Dollar) per month. BTL also offers broadband internet via DSL cable, starting at $39 BZD per month. Wireless internet is available from both providers, with prepaid bundles and monthly subscriptions suitable for various devices. Additionally, satellite internet is an option for those residing in rural areas or offshore islands, although it is more expensive.

Cell phone coverage in Belize

Belize has a national telecommunications company, Belize Telemedia Limited, and several mobile phone companies providing "fairly good coverage". The country's telecommunications system is making progress towards being more developed, and the national phone company offers good coverage, including 4G in certain areas. However, there are still places without cell phone coverage, mostly in remote, small villages, protected areas, and uninhabited areas.

Using Your Own Mobile Phone in Belize

If you are visiting Belize and want to use your own mobile phone, you can activate international roaming on your device. However, international call prices can be very high. Before travelling to Belize, it is recommended that you get your phone unlocked by your service provider. Once in Belize, you can purchase a local SIM card or buy a local number for around BZ $45.

Mobile Phone Companies in Belize

There are two major mobile companies in Belize: Belize Telemedia Limited (BTL) and SMART. BTL uses GSM technology, while SMART uses CDMA.

Purchasing a Local SIM Card

If you want to purchase a local SIM card, you can do so at the airport or at any Digi branch office, which can be found in every major town. You can also buy a SIM card from a local phone shop or directly from the mobile phone companies.

Cell Phone Coverage in Different Areas of Belize

While Belize has good cell phone coverage in most parts of the country, there may be areas with limited or no coverage. For example, one person reported having no signal at Chaa Creek, while another mentioned that there was a signal just a 10-minute drive away on the road.

Using an Unlocked Phone

If you have an unlocked phone, you can purchase a local SIM card or buy a prepaid one from a local provider. This will allow you to make and receive calls and use data services while in Belize.

International Calling Plans

If you want to make international calls while in Belize, you can use your mobile phone with a local network. You can also make and receive international calls at any public or private BTL office. Additionally, some international calling plans offered by service providers in other countries may include Belize. For example, T-Mobile offers an international calling plan for $5/month, with low per-minute rates for calls and texts.

Internet speed in Belize

Internet Service Providers

SMART and BTL (Belize Telemedia Limited) are the two largest internet service providers in Belize, offering DSL and wireless internet services. Both companies provide monthly subscriptions and prepaid options for customers. BTL also offers fibre optic internet with speeds of up to 200 Mbps.

4G LTE and 5G

Belize Telemedia has upgraded its cellular network to 4G LTE, which is available throughout the country. This allows for faster mobile data speeds and improved connectivity for those using smartphones and other mobile devices.

In addition, 5G technology is also available in certain areas of Belize, providing even faster speeds and more reliable connections.

Satellite Internet

Satellite internet is another option, particularly for those in rural areas or the cayes (islands). This type of internet access does not require a physical ground connection and can provide reliable internet access to remote locations. However, it is more expensive, with prices starting at around US$120 per month for unlimited use.

Overall

While internet speeds in Belize may not be the fastest in the region, the country has made significant improvements in recent years. Most areas have good WiFi and 3G/4G signal, with some locations offering fibre optics for even faster speeds. The cost of internet access is relatively affordable, and free WiFi is available in many public places, making it convenient for both locals and tourists to stay connected.

Frequently asked questions