Important Information About Belize

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Belize is located south of the Yucatan Peninsula on the eastern coast of Central America facing the Caribbean Sea. Its dense rainforest borders Guatemala to the west while Mexico is to the north.

A member of the British Commonwealth, it’s the least populated of the countries in Central America.

Belize is famous for its reefs, in particular the Belize Barrier Reef and the Blue Hole. The country’s Caribbean waters are home to islets and islands called cayes, while its inland areas are dotted with Mayan archeological sites and ruins, many still unexcavated.

While it’s most famous for its natural attractions, Belizean cuisine is equally fascinating. Its flavours, ingredients and cooking techniques are drawn from the deep cultural heritage of  Spanish, African, Mayan, Garifuna and indigenous influences,

Direct flights from major Canadian and U.S. cities fly into Belize City. From there, it’s possible to arrange a transfer to your eco-lodge or beach resort by private or group shuttle.

 

Best Time To Visit

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As Belize sits at the equator, it has two main seasons – the dry season and the rainy season.

The rainy season takes place from June to November, however it’s also the most green season so is especially verdant. Many hotels and tour operators offer major discounts during this period.

From December to April is high season as the weather is sunny  with virtually no rain.

Major annual festivals in Belize are:

•  Garifuna Settlement Day (November 19)
• Easter and Holy Week
• Fiesta de Carnaval (February)
• Deer Dance Festival (August)
• St. George’s Caye Day (September 10)
• Independence Day ( September 21)
• Christmas and New Year’s

When planning a vacation in Belize, it’s also worth considering the sargassum seaweed season in the Caribbean, which generally falls between May and September.

Budget

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Belizean dollars and U.S. currency are accepted everywhere.

Dinner for two people at a mid-range restaurant is approximately $45 USD excluding drinks.

Accommodations:  Jungle lodges and simple seaside cottages feature natural surroundings as their main attraction.

Larger resorts offer a range of accommodation styles from simple, budget-friendly units to 5-star resorts with gourmet food.

Hotel cost per night for double occupancy is between $250 to $300 USD.

Suggested tipping percentage: 5 to 10%

Souvenirs:  Consider buying local crafts as they are well made  and offer good value. They also help support local communities.

Look for crafts made out of local teak or hand crocheted, hand sewn colourful items. If you are comfortable with bartering, vendors are open to it but keep in mind, poverty is extreme so be fair.

Travel Tips

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• Petty crime can be an issue, so travellers need to use common sense and watch their personal property especially in Belize City.
• Always use an accredited guide, their certification will be displayed in their vehicle.
• If using a golf cart rental,  take grocery bags or personal items with you when leaving the cart to enter a restaurant.
• Bring reef-friendly sunscreen.
• Use insect repellent with DEET and wear light-coloured, long pants and long sleeves to avoid mosquito-borne viruses such as dengue fever, zika and chikungunya.
• Follow the safety tips for Guatemala as many of the safety precautions also apply to Belize.

What To Pack

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•  At least two bathing suits
•  Beach sarong or cover-up
•  Comfortable walking shoes (water resistant), sandals and flip flops
• Hiking shorts and long, light-coloured pants
• Bug repellent (with DEET) and reef-friendly sunscreen
• Sunhat
• Casual dress and shirt with collar for restaurants
• Light wicking t-shirts that dry quickly
• Light sweater or jacket for cool evenings
• Refillable water bottle
• Snorkel gear (optional)
• Underwater camera (optional)
• Dry bag and travel towel

Note: It’s illegal to wear camouflage clothing in Belize.

Destination Details

• Capital City: Belmopan
• Currency: Belizean and USD
• Official Language(s): English (Spanish and creole patios are widely spoken)
• Plugs & Electrical Information: 120V Type A and B (Same as Canada and the US)