Belize Travel: Planning, Packing, And Preparation

Belize is a breathtakingly beautiful country with many opportunities for exploration and adventure. However, it is important to plan carefully before travelling to this exotic destination. Here is a list of things to consider and prepare when planning a trip to Belize.

Check for travel advisories and alerts

Travel Advisories and Alerts for Belize

The US State Department and the Government of Canada advise travellers to Belize to exercise a high degree of caution due to high levels of violent crime throughout the country. The US State Department has issued a Level 2 Travel Advisory for Belize, urging travellers to exercise increased caution. Similarly, the Government of Canada recommends exercising a high degree of caution, with regional advisories in place.

As of June 2024, the Belize government declared a state of emergency in several locations, including Southside Belize City, Northside Victoria Street, and Roaring Creek Village, due to high crime levels. Travellers in these areas should carry valid IDs, stay informed through local media, and follow official instructions.

Southside Belize City

Southside Belize City, located south of the Haulover Creek River, is particularly notorious for gang and drug-related violence, including murders and shootings. The US State Department and the Government of Canada advise against non-essential travel to this area. Tourists are not usually targeted, but it is crucial to remain vigilant as you could inadvertently find yourself in a dangerous situation.

Crime and Safety

Belize has one of the highest per capita murder rates globally, and violent crime is prevalent throughout the country, including in tourist areas. Sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder commonly occur, even during daylight hours. Gang-related violence is a significant concern, with gang members often using weapons to resolve disputes.

To reduce the risk of becoming a victim of crime:

• Remain aware of your surroundings at all times.
• Avoid travelling after dark.
• Keep your cellphone charged.
• Do not resist if threatened; hand over cash and valuables without hesitation.
• Avoid displaying signs of wealth, such as expensive jewellery or watches.
• Keep your belongings secure at all times, especially your passport and travel documents.
• Avoid carrying large sums of cash.
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you or recent acquaintances.
• Refrain from accepting rides or similar invitations.

Scams and Petty Crime

Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, are common in Belize, and tourists are often targeted, even at resorts. Criminals frequently operate in groups and target individuals travelling alone. Credit card and ATM fraud is also prevalent, especially in San Pedro. When using ATMs, choose well-lit public areas or those inside banks or businesses, and always cover the keypad when entering your PIN.

Health

Belize has a high HIV/AIDS infection rate, and cases of Zika virus have been reported. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before travelling. Insect-borne diseases, including dengue, chikungunya, and malaria, are also present in Belize. Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof, and use insect repellent to minimise your risk of infection.

Waterborne, foodborne, and other infectious diseases are common. Drink boiled or bottled water, and avoid raw or undercooked food. Keep your vaccinations up to date, and consult a healthcare professional if you experience any symptoms such as fever, diarrhoea, muscle pain, or rash.

Natural Disasters

Belize experiences natural disasters and severe weather conditions, including hurricanes and severe storms during the hurricane season from June to November. Keep yourself informed about the latest weather forecasts and follow the instructions of local authorities.

Ensure you have the right travel documents

To ensure you have the right travel documents for your trip to Belize, you must hold a passport valid beyond your planned date of departure. Your passport should be valid for a minimum of 30 days if you are not travelling in transit to a third country that requires six months' validity and are returning to your country of origin immediately after visiting Belize. In addition to a valid passport, you must have proof of your intended departure from Belize, such as a return or onward ticket, and proof of sufficient funds to maintain yourself while you are there. The recommended minimum is US$60 per day. If you are a US citizen, you do not need a visa for tourist visits of up to 30 days. However, visitors planning to stay longer than 30 days must have their passport re-stamped by a local immigration office and pay an additional fee for every additional month they wish to stay, up to six months. For visits longer than six months, you may need to provide further documentation to the local immigration office explaining the reason for your extended stay, and you may need to pay additional fees. If you are travelling with children, you may be asked by immigration officials to show birth certificates for each child. When children are not travelling with both parents, immigration officials often request documentation to establish that the children have permission from both parents to travel. This documentation may include notarized letters from the parent(s), custody or adoption papers, and death certificates if one or both parents are deceased. It is recommended that you make two copies of all your travel documents in case of emergency, leaving one copy with a trusted friend or relative.

Prepare for entry and customs requirements

To enter Belize, you must have a passport that is valid for at least 30 days after your arrival. If you are a U.S. citizen, you do not need a visa for stays of up to 30 days. For longer stays, you will need to obtain a visa. All tourists and non-Belizean citizens are required to pay an exit fee of approximately US$40, which may be included in your airline ticket. Check with your airline before your trip to confirm.

When entering Belize, you must provide proof of your intent to depart the country, such as an onward or return ticket. You must also show that you have sufficient funds to cover the costs of your stay. The recommended amount is a minimum of US$60 per day.

If you are travelling with children, you may be asked to show birth certificates for each child. If the children are not travelling with both parents, you will likely need to provide written, notarized permission for travel signed by both parents, or other relevant documentation.

For those flying to Belize, the airline will issue a Passenger Arrival form, on which you must declare whether you are bringing any plants, fruits, vegetables, meats, live animals, arms, or ammunition into the country. You must also declare any currency that exceeds $10,000 Belizean dollars (BZD) or the equivalent in another currency.

There are no specific vaccination requirements for visitors to Belize, but it is recommended that you are up to date with all routine vaccinations. Anti-malaria tablets are advised for extended stays in the jungle, and the rabies vaccine is recommended for those planning to spend a lot of time outdoors.

Be aware of safety and security concerns

Belize is a beautiful country with a coral-fringed Caribbean coastline, verdant jungle interiors, and a cocktail of colorful cultures. However, it is important to be aware of safety and security concerns when travelling to Belize. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

Crime and Violence:

Belize has a high crime rate, including violent crimes such as sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder, which occur even during daylight hours and in tourist areas. The country has one of the highest per capita murder rates in the world, and a significant portion of violent crime is gang-related. The south side of Belize City, in particular, is known for its high crime rate and gang activity. It is recommended to exercise caution when travelling to this area and avoid walking or driving at night. It is also advised to avoid displaying signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewellery, and to be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.

Scams and Theft:

Tourists are often targeted for scams, pickpocketing, and robbery, especially in resort and tourist areas. It is important to be vigilant and aware of your surroundings at all times. Keep valuables out of sight and use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business.

Natural Disasters:

Belize is prone to hurricanes and other natural disasters. The hurricane season runs from June to November, with peaks around August and September. It is recommended to avoid travelling to Belize during this time if possible. Stay informed about local weather alerts and follow the advice of local authorities and your embassy in the event of a hurricane warning.

Driving and Transportation:

Driving conditions in Belize can be hazardous, especially during the rainy season, due to potholes, unpaved roads, and poor vehicle maintenance standards. Road traffic accidents are common, and local driving standards are poor. It is recommended to use only licensed and registered taxis, which can be identified by their green license plates. Public transportation, such as buses, may be overcrowded and lack basic safety features like seatbelts. Cycling is a safe alternative to public transport, but be aware of the risks posed by other vehicles, including bicycles, which may not have working lights.

Health and Medical Care:

It is important to have adequate travel insurance and to carry any necessary medications in their original packaging, along with a doctor's prescription. The quality of medical care in Belize varies, and serious injuries or illnesses may require evacuation to another country. Mosquitoes are prevalent, so take precautions to protect yourself from mosquito-borne illnesses like malaria and Zika virus.

LGBT+ Safety:

While same-sex activity between consenting adults is legal in Belize, there is still significant hostile sentiment towards LGBT+ individuals. Tourist-friendly areas, such as San Pedro and Ambergris Caye, are relatively open and welcoming to the LGBT+ community. However, outside of these areas, LGBT+ individuals, especially males, may face verbal or physical assault. There have been reports of violence against LGBT+ individuals, and police have sometimes refused to accept reports of crimes from LGBT+ persons.

Plan for health and medical needs

Before travelling to Belize, it is important to be aware of the health and medical considerations. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Vaccinations: Ensure that you are up to date on all routine vaccinations, including COVID-19 vaccines. Some recommended vaccinations for Belize include typhoid, hepatitis A, polio, yellow fever, chikungunya, rabies, hepatitis B, influenza, pneumonia, meningitis, chickenpox, shingles, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis), and MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella). Check with a healthcare provider to determine if any additional vaccinations are needed.
• Insect-borne Diseases: Insect-borne diseases such as Zika, dengue, chikungunya, and malaria are present in Belize. Protect yourself by using insect repellent, wearing long, loose, light-coloured clothing, and ensuring your accommodation is insect-proof.
• Waterborne and Foodborne Diseases: Waterborne and foodborne diseases are common in Belize. Drink boiled or bottled water, and avoid raw and undercooked food. Prioritize food safety by opting for fully cooked dishes and choosing eateries with good hygiene practices.
• Healthcare Facilities: Medical facilities in Belize City are basic, and medical services in rural areas are very limited or non-existent. Be prepared to pay in cash for medical treatment, and consider purchasing medical evacuation insurance in case of serious illness or injury.
• Prescription Medications: Bring all the medications you need for your trip, including over-the-counter medications. Carry them in their original packaging, along with a doctor's prescription. Check with Belize Customs for any specific requirements.
• Health Insurance: Review your health insurance plan to understand what medical services are covered during your trip. Consider purchasing additional travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• First Aid: Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before your trip. Bring a basic first aid kit and any other relevant medical supplies.
• COVID-19 Considerations: Check for any COVID-19-related entry requirements or recommendations, such as vaccination cards or negative test results. Follow local guidelines and take appropriate precautions during your visit.
• Natural Disasters: Belize experiences natural disasters such as hurricanes and severe weather. Monitor local weather reports and be prepared to evacuate if needed. Keep your travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
• Personal Safety: Crime rates, including violent crimes, are high in Belize, and tourists are often targeted. Stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Avoid walking or driving at night, and consider travelling in groups.

Frequently asked questions