Belize Travel Basics: Everything You Need To Know Before You Go

Belize is a small Central American country with a diverse natural beauty, from the turquoise and coral hues of the barrier reef to the lush rainforests with ancient Maya temples. It is a popular tourist destination, offering jungle lodges, impressive Maya sites, scuba diving, and a laid-back atmosphere.

When travelling to Belize, it is important to note that while most people don't need a visa, a passport valid for at least 6 months is required. The official currency is the Belizean dollar, but US dollars are widely accepted. English is the dominant language, but Spanish, Garifuna, Mayan, and Creole are also spoken.

Belize has a range of attractions, from exploring the ancient Mayan ruins and diving the barrier reef to visiting the Belize Zoo and wandering through the streets of Belize City. The country's largest island, Ambergris Caye, is a popular destination for its beachfront and vibrant nightlife.

When planning a trip to Belize, it is recommended to spend at least a week, splitting your time between Northern, Central, and Southern Belize. It is also important to be aware of safety concerns, including petty crimes and violent crimes, especially in certain areas of Belize City.

Safety and security

While Belize is considered a safe place for tourists, it is important to stay vigilant and take some precautions. Here are some tips to ensure your safety and security during your trip to Belize:

• Be cautious in Belize City, especially in the Southside area south of Haulover Creek. This area has a high rate of gang-related violence and crimes such as assault, robbery, and theft. It is recommended to avoid walking alone at night and to follow the advice of local authorities.
• Be aware of your surroundings and avoid isolated areas, especially at night. Stick to well-lit and populated places as much as possible.
• Keep your valuables out of sight and avoid wearing expensive jewellery or carrying large amounts of cash. Use ATMs located inside banks or businesses, and consider using a money belt to hide your cash.
• Use only licensed and registered taxis with green license plates. Ask your hotel or the local tourism office for trusted taxi companies and drivers.
• Be cautious when visiting remote forested areas, especially near the border with Guatemala. While there have been no reported incidents involving tourists, armed criminals are known to operate in these areas.
• Avoid political demonstrations and large gatherings. Monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.
• Be careful when swimming or snorkelling alone, as there have been injuries and fatalities due to severe weather conditions and inadequate safety precautions. Use registered and licensed operators for water activities.
• Drive with caution, especially during the rainy season. The roads may have potholes, unpaved shoulders, and few lane markings. Be prepared for hazardous driving conditions and follow local driving laws.
• Be aware of the risk of natural disasters such as hurricanes and earthquakes. Monitor local weather updates and follow any advice from the National Emergency Management Organisation.
• Purchase travel insurance before your trip to protect yourself in case of injury, illness, theft, or trip cancellations.
• Be mindful of cultural differences and local laws. For example, public drinking is illegal in Belize.
• Follow general safety guidelines such as using registered tour guides, only staying in established accommodations, and reporting any incidents of crime to the police.

While violent crime is a concern in Belize, it is important to note that tourists are not usually the targets of such crimes. However, petty crime, including theft and pickpocketing, is common, especially in tourist areas. Always stay alert and aware of your surroundings to minimise the risk of becoming a victim of crime.

Languages and currency

Belize is a melting pot of cultures and languages. English is the official language, but you'll also hear Spanish, Garifuna, Mayan, Creole, German dialects, and Mandarin. Over half the population is multilingual.

Belize is the only Central American country with English as the official language. English is the primary language of public education, government, and most media outlets. However, Belizean Creole (or Kriol) is also widely spoken and understood. It is the native tongue of approximately 80% of the population and is considered the lingua franca of the nation.

Belize's currency is the Belize dollar (BZD), but US dollars are widely accepted throughout the country at a rate of two BZD to one USD. Most accommodations and tours are listed in USD, while restaurants, shops, etc., are usually listed in BZD. ATMs are available across the country, particularly in tourist destinations.

Food and culture

Belize's culinary scene is a melting pot of cultures, reflecting the country's rich history and diverse population. Here's what you need to know about the food and culture of Belize:

Mestizo, Maya, and Spanish Influences

Belize's food scene is heavily influenced by its Mestizo, Maya, and Spanish heritage. Corn is a staple, taking centre stage in various dishes such as tortillas, tamales, bollos, and tamalitos. Spicy peppers, black beans, squash, plantains, and fresh fruit are also commonly used ingredients. Traditional Mestizo dishes like Relleno negro, escabeche, tacos, panades, and garnaches are beloved by people from all cultural backgrounds in Belize.

Creole and Caribbean Flavours

Belize, with its Caribbean coastline, has strong Creole and Caribbean influences. A typical breakfast includes Johnny cakes or fry jacks, and rice and beans is a staple, often accompanied by meat or seafood options like chicken, fish, conch, or iguana. Creole cuisine also offers unique delicacies such as cow foot soup and conch soup. For dessert, you might indulge in fudge, tableta, potato pound, lemon pie, or milk cake.

Chinese, Lebanese, and Indian Delicacies

Belize's Chinese community has adapted their cuisine to the local tropical ingredients, creating a unique Belizean twist on Chinese food. The Lebanese community is known for their hospitality and delicious dishes like kibbeh and hummus, characterised by the use of herbs and spices such as mint, thyme, saffron, and turmeric. East Indians, or Indo-Belizeans, make up about 3% of the population, and their influence can be tasted in dishes like cohune cabbage, dhal roti, and turmeric-based curries.

Seafood Specialties

Belize's strongest suit is its seafood. Fresh fish, lobster, shrimp, and conch are widely available, especially in coastal areas. Ceviche, a cold dish of seafood "cooked" in lime juice, is a must-try. If you're feeling adventurous, try the Mayan delicacy of fried paca, a small jungle rodent.

Drinks and Dining Customs

Belizeans typically eat three meals a day, similar to North Americans. Meals are quite informal, and semi-formal restaurants are rare. The national beer of Belize is Belikin, and it comes in several varieties, including lager, premium, and stout. Rum is also a popular liquor, with several local distilleries producing fine rums like Prestige and 1 Barrel.

In conclusion, Belize's food and culture are deeply intertwined, offering a unique blend of flavours and influences that will tantalise your taste buds and provide a true culinary adventure.

Getting around

The best ways to get around Belize are by plane, taxi (including water taxis), shuttle, and rental car.

Plane

Belize has two domestic airlines: Tropic Air and Maya Island Air. Flying is a memorable way to get around Belize, reducing travel time and offering incredible views of the jungle canopy, sweeping savannahs, and coastline. Flying is not particularly expensive, with frequent flights from the international airport.

Taxi

Taxis are affordable and easy to flag down in Belize City and Ambergris Caye's main city, San Pedro. Taxi fares typically range from BZ$10 to BZ$15 (approximately $5 to $7.50). Golf carts are used as taxis on some islands.

Shuttle

Shuttle services are a great way to get around, offering a range of mainland routes. Shuttle vans are clean, well-maintained, and often have Wi-Fi. A shuttle from the airport to San Ignacio, for example, can be as low as US$35 per person.

Rental Car

Renting a car enables you to visit harder-to-reach destinations and make road trip stops along the way. Most car rentals take place at the airport, with several global brands and local favorites like Crystal Auto Rental. Consider renting a 4WD vehicle, as some roads can be rustic and challenging in rainy weather. Driving in Belize, you may encounter potholes, random rainstorms, and Mennonite horse carts.

Bus

Local bus services are a good-value way to get to most major towns and villages, with a familiar feel for anyone nostalgic for 1950s American vehicles. The buses are retired Bluebird school buses painted in Caribbean colors. They run on a flexible schedule and are very affordable, though they can be jam-packed and slow.

Water Taxi

Water taxis are the best way to access Belize's numerous cayes. In Belize City, water taxis go to Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker, and St. George's Caye. Dangriga has chartered boats to Tobacco Caye, Glover's Reef, and other Southern Cayes. Water taxis are also available in Placencia and Dangriga to access Tobacco Caye and Glovers Reef. Tickets can be purchased in advance or onsite, and there is a small discount for buying round-trip tickets.

Entry and exit requirements

To enter Belize, you will need a valid passport with at least 30 days of validity remaining. Most nationalities do not need a visa for stays of up to 30 days, but some do, so it is important to check before travelling. If you wish to stay longer than 30 days, you must apply for a visa from the immigration authorities.

There is no entry fee for Belize, but there is an exit fee, also known as a departure tax, which is usually included in airfare. Tourists travelling by cruise are charged a $7 entry fee. Visitors exiting Belize at the Mexican or Guatemalan border must pay $15 for a 24-hour visit, and fees increase if the visit exceeds one day.

U.S. dollars are widely accepted in Belize, but it is recommended to carry small bills, as it can be difficult to get change for larger denominations.

When leaving Belize, all tourists and non-Belizean citizens travelling by plane must pay an exit fee of $39.25.

Frequently asked questions