Omari Gates
Whether or not tap water in Belize is drinkable is a common concern for visitors to the country. While the tap water in Belize City and other urban areas is treated and safe to drink, many people choose not to drink it due to safety concerns or the taste of chlorine. In rural areas, the water supply may come from untreated sources like wells or rainwater tanks, so it is recommended to drink bottled water. Hotels and resorts typically provide guests with safe drinking water, and it is generally safe to use tap water for brushing teeth, cooking, and rinsing food. It is always a good idea to ask staff at your accommodation about the local water conditions and take necessary precautions to stay healthy during your travels.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Potability | About 70% of the country has safe, potable water, including popular tourist destinations like Ambergris Caye, Placencia, Belize City, etc. |
| Tap Water in Major Cities | Tap water in major cities like Belize City is treated and safe to drink. However, many visitors choose not to drink it due to safety concerns or the taste of chlorine. |
| Tap Water in Towns and Villages | In smaller towns and villages, the water supply may come from untreated sources like wells or rainwater tanks, which are not recommended for drinking. |
| Hotels and Resorts | Hotels and resorts in Belize typically provide guests with safe drinking water, either in the lobby or through water coolers. |
| Bottled Water | Bottled water is easily available in convenience stores and is a cheap option for those who prefer it. |
| Food Safety | The availability of potable water means there are fewer cases of food-borne illnesses in Belize. Washing vegetables, cleaning dishes, and cooking with safe water reduces the risk of cross-contamination. |
What You'll Learn
Tap water in major cities
If you're staying in an urban area in Belize, such as Belize City, the tap water will have been treated and is generally considered safe to drink. However, many visitors opt for bottled water due to safety concerns or the taste of the chlorine used to treat the water.
Around 70% of Belize has safe, potable water, including popular tourist destinations such as Ambergris Caye, Placencia, Cayo, Corozal Town, and Belize City. In these areas, the tap water is generally safe for drinking, brushing teeth, cooking, and rinsing food.
However, it is always a good idea to check with hotel staff or locals for the most up-to-date information, as water quality can vary depending on the specific location and the time of year.
In rural areas outside of major cities, the water supply may come from untreated sources like wells or rainwater tanks, so it is recommended to stick to bottled water or water provided by hotels and resorts, which is usually safe for drinking.
It is worth noting that, while tap water in major cities is treated, some people still prefer to drink bottled water due to taste preferences or health concerns. Hotels and resorts often provide guests with safe drinking water, and bottled water is readily available in convenience stores.
Overall, when it comes to tap water in major cities in Belize, it is generally treated and considered safe to drink, but it is always a good idea to stay informed and take necessary precautions, especially if you have a sensitive stomach or health concerns.
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Tap water in towns and villages
The safety of tap water in Belize depends on the location. Around 70% of the country has safe, potable water, including popular tourist destinations such as Ambergris Caye, Placencia, Cayo, Corozal Town, and Belize City. However, in more remote villages, the water supply may be untreated and come from sources such as wells or rainwater tanks, which are not recommended for drinking.
In Hopkins, a small town in Belize, the tap water is treated and considered safe to drink. However, due to concerns about safety and the taste of chlorine used for treatment, many visitors opt for bottled water. Hotels and resorts in Belize typically provide guests with safe drinking water, either in the lobby or through water coolers.
It is recommended to ask staff at your accommodation about the local water supply. In general, tap water in Belize is safe for brushing teeth, cooking, and rinsing food. It can also be used for making coffee and ice cubes.
If you decide to stick with bottled water, it is easily accessible and affordable, ensuring you stay hydrated during your stay in Belize.
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Hotels and resorts providing drinking water
While tap water in Belize is generally safe to drink in major cities like Belize City and San Ignacio, it is recommended to check with hotel staff or resort staff to be sure. Many hotels and resorts in Belize provide guests with safe drinking water, either in the lobby or via water coolers, so it is best to take advantage of these and fill up your water bottle before heading out.
If you are staying in a more rural area, it is recommended to take extra precautions as the water supply may come from untreated sources such as wells or rainwater collection tanks. In these cases, bottled water is the safest option. Bottled water is readily available and affordable in Belize, so it is easy to purchase if needed.
Thatch Caye Resort
A private island resort located off the coast of Dangriga, Thatch Caye offers a romantic getaway for couples or a bonding experience for friends. With a limited capacity of 30 guests, the resort provides a private island experience with overwater bungalows and casitas.
Cayo Espanto Island Resort
This luxury private island resort, located 3 miles from Ambergris Caye, is a celebrity hotspot known for its pampered relaxation and privacy. Along with overwater bungalows for couples, the resort also offers overwater villas for families.
Tobacco Caye Paradise
Located on one of Belize's tiniest islands, Tobacco Caye Paradise offers rustic over-the-water bungalows painted in bright Caribbean colours. With a small population and only a handful of guesthouses, this resort provides a tranquil and intimate experience.
Coco Plum Island Resort
An adults-only, all-inclusive resort located off the coast of Dangriga, Coco Plum Island Resort is ideal for couples and friends. It features a beachfront restaurant and bar, cabanas, and a large overwater villa with stunning views of the Caribbean Sea.
St. George's Caye Resort
Just a 30-minute boat ride from Belize City, St. George's Caye Resort offers a semi-private island escape with no roads, no cars, and no crowds. They provide overwater cabanas with private porches and individual hammocks, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the Caribbean Sea views.
These resorts not only offer drinking water but also provide unique experiences, from eco-friendly sustainability practices to historic locations and world-class service. Whether you're seeking relaxation, privacy, or adventure, these resorts have you covered and will ensure you stay hydrated during your stay.
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Water used for other purposes
- Water Resources Management: The Water and Sewerage Authority (WASA) is primarily responsible for maintaining and developing waterworks in Belize. However, one of the main challenges the country faces is the lack of coordinated policies and institutions in this sector. The management of groundwater data, supply, and irrigation and drainage data is inadequate.
- Industrial Processes: Industrial processes account for the largest demand for water in Belize, with about 73% of freshwater resources being used by this sector. This high demand from industry puts pressure on the quality and quantity of freshwater resources.
- Groundwater Usage: Groundwater is a vital source of drinking water, especially in rural areas, where almost 95% of the freshwater supply comes from groundwater. However, the existing data on groundwater availability is limited, and it is not well regulated.
- Water Quality: While water quality in urban areas is generally good and constantly monitored by WASA, rural areas, such as the districts of Toledo, Stann Creek, and Cayo, face issues with water quality. Only about 30% of systems in these areas have full water purification in place.
- Flood Risk: Belize is prone to flooding due to its location in the path of tropical storms and hurricanes. Approximately 62% of populated settlements are in areas with a high risk of flooding, and many of these are within flood plains. Effective flood control management policies and infrastructure are crucial to mitigate this risk.
- Agricultural Sector: The agricultural sector is one of the major users of water in Belize, alongside the industrial and domestic/residential sectors. Improper agricultural activities can lead to the loss of surface soils and chemical pollution of water resources.
- Sanitation: Access to improved sanitation facilities is important for public health. In 2015, 90.5% of the population had access to improved sanitation, with higher access in urban areas (93.5%) compared to rural areas (88.2%).
- Water-Related Diseases: Consuming water with high levels of nitrates can pose health risks. Some communities in Belize with high nitrate levels in their water supply may be at risk of developing health issues, especially babies, pregnant women, and livestock.
- Tourism and Economic Impact: The quality of water also has implications for tourism, a significant contributor to Belize's economy. The Belize Barrier Reef, a major tourist attraction, relies on the health of coastal and marine ecosystems, which can be affected by changes in freshwater inflows and pollution.
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Bottled water
While tap water in Belize is treated and safe to drink in major cities like Belize City, many people choose not to drink it due to safety concerns or the taste of chlorine used to treat the water. As such, it is recommended that you always carry bottled water with you, which is easily available in convenience stores and is relatively cheap. Hotels and resorts in Belize often provide guests with safe drinking water, either in the lobby or through water coolers, so be sure to take advantage of this and keep your water bottle filled.
If you are staying in smaller towns or villages, the water supply may come from untreated sources like wells or rainwater tanks, so it is best to avoid drinking tap water in these areas. In such cases, bottled water should be your primary option for drinking. If you are ever in doubt about the safety of the water, it is always better to be cautious and stick to bottled water.
Additionally, if you have a sensitive stomach or health issues, it is generally advisable to stick to bottled water to avoid any potential risks. While ice cubes are usually considered safe, it is always a good idea to ask your host or check with hotel staff to be sure.
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Frequently asked questions
It depends. Tap water in major cities like Belize City is treated and safe to drink. However, many people choose not to drink it due to safety concerns or the taste of chlorine. In towns and villages, the water may come from untreated sources, so it's recommended to drink bottled water. It's always a good idea to ask staff at your accommodation about water safety.
Hotels and resorts usually provide guests with safe drinking water, so take advantage of this and fill up your water bottle. Bottled water is also easily available in convenience stores and is generally affordable. If you're concerned about the taste of chlorine, consider purchasing purified water by the gallon or refilling your bottle with water from a trusted source.
While the tap water in most parts of Belize is potable, it's recommended to use bottled or purified water for drinking, especially in rural areas or on some small cayes and coastal regions. Avoid street food that has been left at room temperature, as food-borne illnesses can occur. Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before consumption, and avoid raw or uncooked foods if you're unsure about water quality.
Unlike most other Central American countries, the majority of Belize's villages and towns have potable water systems. This means that the water is treated, usually with chlorine, to kill harmful pathogens and bacteria. As a result, there are fewer cases of food-borne illnesses in Belize compared to neighbouring countries.
In addition to Belize City, tap water is reported to be drinkable in San Ignacio, Placencia, Mango Creek, Big Creek, Independence, Seine Bight Villages, and Ambergris Caye. However, it's always advisable to check with local sources or hotel staff for the most up-to-date information.
