Belize's Water: A Guide To Action

Belize is a country with a wealth of water-based activities and natural resources. From its position bordering the Caribbean Sea, it offers jet skiing, kayaking, scuba diving, snorkelling, paddle boarding, sailing, and fishing. However, there are some concerns about the safety of the water in Belize, with tap water in some areas coming from untreated sources such as wells or rainwater tanks. In major cities, the tap water is treated and safe to drink, but many people choose not to due to safety concerns or the taste of the chlorine it's treated with.

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 choose not to drink it due to safety concerns or because they dislike the taste of the chlorine used to treat it.

Hotels and resorts in Belize will almost always provide guests with safe drinking water, either in the lobby or via water coolers. It is recommended to take advantage of this and keep your water bottle filled, especially if you plan to go outside the hotel.

Bottled water is easily bought in convenience stores and is a cheap staple item. It is recommended to stay hydrated at all times, and to always carry a shop-bought bottle or your own filled bottle when exploring.

Tap water in Belize's smaller towns and villages may come from untreated sources like wells or rainwater tanks, so it is advised to drink bottled water in these locations.

Tap water in towns and villages

In Belize's smaller towns and villages, tap water is sometimes sourced from untreated wells or rainwater tanks. While the tap water in these areas is not necessarily unsafe, it is recommended that you opt for bottled water as your primary drinking source. Hotels and resorts in Belize will almost always provide guests with safe drinking water, so be sure to take advantage of this and keep your water bottle filled. If you plan to venture outside of your accommodation, it is a good idea to buy bottled water from convenience stores or local shops to stay hydrated.

While tap water in Belize's major cities, such as Belize City, is treated and generally safe to drink, some visitors choose not to drink it due to safety concerns or the taste of chlorine used in the treatment process. If you are unsure about drinking tap water, it is always recommended to err on the side of caution and opt for bottled water or other accepted sources of water.

It is worth noting that the taste of water can vary between different areas due to various factors. The taste of water in Belize may not be to everyone's liking, and some people may prefer the taste of bottled water or water from alternative sources.

Overall, while tap water in Belize's towns and villages may not always be safe to drink, bottled water or water from alternative sources, such as hotels and resorts, can be relied on as a safe and accessible option.

Ocean safety

Belize is bordered by the Caribbean Sea and is known for its ecological diversity, crystal clear water, and white sandy sea floors. The country offers a wide range of ocean activities, from snorkelling and scuba diving to jet skiing and sailing.

• Drinking Water: While tap water in major cities like Belize City is treated and considered safe to drink, it is recommended to drink bottled water to avoid any potential health risks. Tap water can be used for brushing teeth, cooking, and rinsing food.
• Swimming and Watersports: The ocean in Hopkins is generally safe for swimming and watersports. The currents and undertows are usually weak, and big waves are uncommon. However, it is important to be cautious of underwater creatures such as stonefish, jellyfish, Portuguese Man-of-War, and stingrays.
• Scuba Diving: Belize is known for its spectacular scuba diving spots, including the Belize Blue Hole, Lighthouse Reef Atoll, South Water Caye, and Turneffe Atoll. Divers can explore diverse marine life and experience the grandeur of the second largest barrier reef in the world.
• Jet Skiing: Jet skiing is a popular activity in Belize, offering a thrilling way to explore the Cayes. It is recommended to follow basic guidelines or join guided tours, especially for beginners.
• Sailing: Belize's calm sailing conditions attract enthusiasts from around the world. Catamaran tours and overnight sailing trips along the cayes are popular options.
• Other Activities: Other ocean activities in Belize include kayaking, paddle boarding, and fishing.

Belize's diverse marine life and clear waters offer a unique and exciting experience for ocean enthusiasts. By following safety guidelines and staying informed about potential risks, visitors can fully enjoy the ocean while minimising potential hazards.

Bottled water availability

Bottled water is widely available in Belize and is recommended for travellers to the country. It can be bought cheaply from convenience stores and local shops. Hotels and resorts in Belize will almost always provide guests with safe drinking water, either in the lobby or in water coolers, so it is easy to keep your water bottle filled.

Tap water in major cities like Belize City is treated and should be safe to drink, but many visitors choose not to drink it due to safety concerns or because they dislike the taste of the chlorine it is treated with. Outside of cities and towns, water may come from untreated sources like wells or rainwater tanks, so bottled water is recommended.

If you are caught between stops without purified water, you can carry a Steripen to purify water yourself.

Water-related activities

Belize is bordered by the Caribbean Sea and has some of the world's most scenic beaches, ecological diversity, and crystal-clear water. It is surrounded by the beauty of rainforests and mangroves, and there is no shortage of water-related activities.

If you're looking for an adrenaline-pumping experience, try jet skiing or paddle boarding in the Caribbean waters. Belize is also home to white sandy sea floors and blue waters, making it an ideal spot for scuba diving. The Belize Blue Hole is a must-see for divers, with its mighty grandeur. The Caribbean waters also offer the chance to witness migrating sharks near Gladden Spit. Other scuba diving locations include the wreck of Miss Pamela, South Water Caye, and Turneffe Atoll.

For a more relaxed underwater experience, snorkelling is a great option. The warm Caribbean waters are home to diverse and scenic marine life, making it a snorkeller's paradise.

If you prefer to stay on the surface, kayaking is a wonderful way to explore the mangroves, uninhabited cayes, and coral gardens. Belize's calm sailing conditions and clear waters also make it an ideal destination for sailing enthusiasts. Catamaran tours are perfect for beginners, while overnight sailing trips along the cayes offer a more adventurous experience.

Fishing enthusiasts will also find Belize a rewarding destination, with its chain of freshwater rivers and estuaries that are home to a diverse range of marine life. The warm tropical climate ensures that fishing is enjoyable year-round.

With its abundance of water-related activities, Belize offers something for everyone, from the adventurous thrill-seeker to those seeking a more relaxed aquatic experience.

Frequently asked questions