trip to belize meaning

16 things to know before traveling to Belize

Jan 5, 2024 • 7 min read

Travel to Belize with ease using these tips © Joe Tabacca / Shutterstock

It may be the second-smallest country in Central America but Belize delivers across the board .

Eco-adventures by the score, cultural heritage as diverse as the landscape, Maya temples that tower over modern human-made structures, hundreds of islands with talcum-white sands, the world’s second-largest barrier reef – you get the idea.

On the mainland, overgrown rainforests reveal hiking trails to double waterfalls. Complex cave systems run underground, while winding rivers are best enjoyed by inner tube. Then there’s the food: aromatic, franchise-free bites can be found on every other street corner, as is the inviting Belizean spirit.

But where to start? Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Belize before you even set off.

1. You’ll need at least seven days in Belize

Belize can feel like both the Caribbean and Central America all at once – and you can experience it all in a single vacation, as it’s easy to cross the entire country in a one-day road trip . Still, it’s better to do things the Belizean way: unhurried.

Aim to spend at least a week here. Split your itinerary between Northern, Central and Southern Belize , and plan to stay at least three nights in each area. This will allow you enough time to enjoy your accommodation, visit the top-rated sights and recover in between.

2. You probably won’t need a visa

A select few countries do, however. Verify whether you need an entry visa to Belize on the Immigration Department’s website . But note that all visitors — even visa-free entrants — will need to apply for an extension to stay in the country for more than 30 days, depending on your citizenship.

3. Drive during the day

With rental cars costing as little as US$50 per day, it’s a doddle navigating the five major highways of Belize.

However, they’re dimly lit and the single-lane roads are often lined with “sleeping policemen,” a colloquial nickname for speed bumps. They’re often unpainted too, so it’s best to stick to driving in the daylight hours.

4. Watch out for wildlife on the roads

Green signs are directional, while yellow signs warn that wildlife could be crossing. Look out for tapir on the John Smith Airport Link Rd and coatimundis on the scenic Hummingbird Highway.

5. Try the street food

Scooped from deep pots of fragrant stews, coconut milk-infused rice and beans are often served with caramelized fried plantain. A quasi-religious meal, everything is homemade and some may take offense if you don’t attempt to finish your plate.

Street food is relatively cheap here . Don't miss the gravy-filled meat pies that fog clear-plastic containers balancing on the bicycle handlebars of mobile vendors, or the “johnny cakes,” coconut-based baked biscuits sliced and stuffed for long journeys.

Other staples include masa (a dough of ground corn) that is transformed into deep-fried favorites like panades (crispy crescents of beans, cheese, or hashed fish) and salbutes (open-faced rounds piled with shredded chicken and cabbage).

Late-night grub is often meat-heavy street tacos, pupusas (a cornmeal cake stuffed with beans, cheese and fried pork), burritos, or a not-so-humble hotdog with bacon and caramelized onions. Any griddle on wheels will fill your stomach for BZ$10.

6. It’s OK to drink tap water in Belize but filtered water is the norm

While it’s OK to drink tap water in Belize, filtered water is the norm. It usually comes in small bottles or from a five-gallon water dispenser.

Since Belize’s single-use plastic ban took effect in April 2019 (albeit excluding disposable water bottles), carrying a reusable water bottle is applauded. Hotels and resorts will often have large dispensers available near the front desk and most restaurants will refill your bottle for free.

7. Time feels more like a suggestion in Belize

Belize offers a very slow, laid-back pace of life. That goes for everything from government offices (including immigration) to public transportation. Be flexible with your plans and be patient, even on the mainland.

Public transportation overland and on water is less than a third of the cost of domestic airlines such as  Maya Island Air and Tropic Air  but, unsurprisingly, it will take you much longer to go the scenic route. Both the water taxis and bus routes are unlikely to leave on time, so account for 15 minutes of wiggle room.

To avoid stopping for every roadside hitchhiker along the way when using the bus system , always choose the “Express” option if your final destination is advertised on the windshield.

8. Be polite if you want to impress the locals

Locals will greet one another and reciprocity is expected. Bidding a general “good morning” as you enter a room goes a long way, and a simple nod of acknowledgment is returned with a smile. Belizeans like to chat, so expect to make small talk while waiting in a queue.

9. Petty crime is your main safety concern in Belize

Like any destination, it’s best not to make yourself a target for crimes of opportunity. Avoid isolated areas, don’t be flashy with money or jewelry, and don’t take public transport alone at night.

Taxis are pricier but safer and easily recognizable with green license plates. Hotels will also usually have their own list of trusted drivers.

In tourist zones, some vendors may be persistent, but a polite “no, thank you” should do the trick. Crime in Belize is largely drug- or gang-related, more notably in select pockets of Belize City.

Unless actively seeking them out, the average traveler naturally bypasses infamous hotspots entirely by sticking to designated tourism zones. Beyond signage, Tourism Police are omnipresent on foot, bicycle and ground patrols, but there’s still no better indicator of safety than your own gut.

10. Don’t forget to tip

Tourism has helped to instill a tipping culture in Belize, but it’s not an outright requirement. Some restaurants auto-charge up to a 20% sit-down service charge, so double-check receipts before (unnecessarily) adding more.

A gratuity is expected in cash for servers, appreciated for tours and goes a long way for housekeeping, but it’s totally discretionary based on the service you experience. You can skip tipping elsewhere but taxis sometimes round up a fare as Belize has no fixed tariffs.

If you’ve received great service, you can match the 12.5% General Sales Tax on the receipt. For an exceptional tour, a 20% tip is recommended.

11. Pack some US dollars

You won’t need to carry loads of cash, as there are plenty of point-of-sale machines and ATMs in the more popular destinations.

US dollars are accepted across the country at a rate of two-to-one, though try to carry US$10 and US$20 notes as they are easier to make change. You’ll likely get smaller bills in Belize dollars back.

12. Don’t fear the rainy season

Belize’s rainy season (June to November) coincides with the Atlantic hurricane season. This means cheaper hotel rates, lower room occupancy, and better deals.

Major attractions – like Maya sites, archaeological reserves, hiking trails and waterfalls – will all stay open during this period unless nature decides otherwise. All in all, it can be a good time to visit.

Flooding risks tend to subside within 48 hours and the high winds are more of a risk to your driving than the downpours. Some hotels and restaurants will close during their slowest months, such as October, so check ahead.

13. Buy travel insurance

This is always recommended but especially so if you decide to visit during the rainy season. Buy travel insurance to protect your trip should a hurricane cut it short.

14. Belize has decriminalized weed, but that does not mean it’s legal

In November 2017, Belize amended its Misuse of Drugs Act to decriminalize marijuana use on private property for adults in possession of up to 10g.

However, be warned: selling, growing, or smoking weed on public property remains a federal offense. Despite the impression given by some, it’s best not to buy or sell marijuana.

15. The LGBTIQ+ community is generally accepted

Although homosexuality wasn’t formally legalized in Belize until 2016, it was the first former British colony in the Caribbean to overturn its anti-sodomy laws. Still, public displays of affection between same-sex couples may solicit stares here. The main tourism zones, such as Ambergris Caye , are the most gay friendly.

16. Solo women travelers are welcomed

No stranger to solo travelers or backpackers on a budget, Belize is also fairly safe for women traveling alone. Harassment will often come in the form of cat-calling, but nuisances tend to back off once if you stand your ground or ignore them outright. “No” is largely respected here, but sometimes you may have to say it loudly.

This article was first published July 2023 and updated January 2024

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Belize Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 15, 2024

Belize is one of Central America’s biggest tourist destinations and one of my favorite countries in the region. Backpacking around Belize was an amazing experience. It’s a small, easy-to-navigate country so you don’t need a lot of time to visit.

Yet there is a ton to see and do here as well.

The diving here is world-class. Belize’s barrier reef (the second largest reef in the world) draws in scuba and snorkeling enthusiasts from around the world. Explore Mayan ruins or relax on picturesque beaches. Trek through the jungles of the interior and bask in a vibrant, diverse culture.

And those with an interest in archaeology will find the Mayan sites of Altun Ha, Lamanai, and Caracol fascinating — I certainly did!

I loved visiting Belize. It may not be the cheapest destination in Central America but it’s still quite affordable and is one of the easiest and more relaxing places to travel in the region.

This travel guide to Belize will help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in this idyllic destination.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Belize

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in belize.

1. Visit Altun Ha

Anyone even remotely interested in Mayan culture should make it a point to check out Altun Ha. This former Mayan trading center is located 19 miles (31 kilometers) outside of Belize City and attracts visitors not only for its ruins but for the wildlife in the region and the jungle ecosystem. The main attraction of the site is the Temple of the Masonry Altars, set in the Grand Plaza, dating back to the 7th century. The Temple is 54 feet (16 meters) tall and a climb to the top rewards you with a panoramic view of the pyramids and plaza below. You can purchase a licensed guide for 20 BZD outside the museum at the entrance. A half-day tour costs around 100 BZD and includes transportation, the entrance fee, a guide, and drinks. Admission is 10 BZD.

2. Explore the Cayes

There are hundreds of small islands off the coast of Belize, but the two most visited are Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker . Ambergris is 35 miles (56 kilometers) east of Belize City and is the largest and the most expensive as it’s popular with families on resort-style holidays. You’ll want to spend some time exploring San Pedro Town, the major town on the island. Caye Caulker, on the other hand, is popular with backpackers. Both islands have incredible activities and you’ll have a hard time choosing which snorkel or diving trip, kayaking tour, swimming with sharks, or manatee-watching tour you want to do. Don’t miss the beautiful nature reserve on Caye Caulker, home to 170 species of birds as well as turtles, iguanas, snakes, and crocodiles. If you’re there in the summer, be sure to check out Lobsterfest for local music, beach parties, and all the incredible lobster dishes you can possibly eat.

3. See the Belize Zoo

One of the most popular attractions in Belize City is its zoo. With the tagline “the best little zoo in the world,” this 29-acre site is home to over 120 species of animals, all of which are native to the country. The zoo was started in 1983 and aligns with local wildlife conservation efforts to care for rescued, orphaned, or donated animals. Check in advance for special education days that include World Croc Day, National Tapir Day, and more. They also have guided tours by appointment and even accommodations on the premises. Their dorms start at around 80 BZD per person and camping starts at around 18 BZD. Admission to Belize Zoo is 30 BZD. Be sure to wear long pants, comfy footwear, and insect repellent, as the zoo is literally in the jungle.

4. Visit Xunantunich

Xunantunich is one of Belize’s most impressive and easily accessible Maya sites, known for its spectacular scenic location in the middle of the jungle. Archeologists date this site around 600 BCE (though the exact date is unknown). Xunantunich means “Maiden of the Rock,” which stems from its spooky legend of a dark, ghostly Mayan woman who was sighted climbing up and down the pyramid before disappearing. Getting here is an adventure — you take a hand-cranked cable ferry across the Mopan River, near the village of San Jose Succotz (don’t forget to tip the operator 2 BZD). The main El Castillo pyramid is 131 feet (40 meters) high, with ornate carvings on both the eastern and western sides. It’s a strenuous climb that’s well worth your efforts. Once you reach the top, you’re treated to stunning panoramic views of the landscape, including the Macal and Moral rivers. Expect to see lots of birds and butterflies, as well as incredible views from the temples and plazas. Admission is 10 BZD.

5. Wander the Hol Chan Marine Reserve

Coming to Belize and not diving or snorkeling would be like visiting Paris and not seeing the Eiffel Tower or going to New York City and not wandering around Central Park. Hol Chan is the most well-known marine reserve in the country, made up of Ambergris Caye marine areas (including Belize’s Great Barrier Reef), coastal seagrass beds, as well as the Boca Chica and Cangrejo Shoals mangrove islands. The diving and snorkeling within the park are fantastic, with beautiful caves, coral, and plenty of tropical fish. Head to nearby Shark Ray Alley for the chance to get up close and personal with nurse sharks, sea turtles, and southern stingrays. Activity prices start at 180 BZD for half-day tours.

Other Things to See and Do in Belize

1. see the wildlife.

Much of Central America is a wildlife observer’s paradise, and Belize is no exception. Birdwatchers will enjoy Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary with its world-class spotting opportunities, while those interested in big cats can flock to the country’s most famous protected area, Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can find jaguars. Another must-do is to check out Monkey Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, a 1070-acre protected natural area teeming with wildlife, from hundreds of bird species to pumas, tapirs, and more. Finally, the Green Iguana Project allows visitors to get an up-close-and-personal look at the endangered Green Iguana species..

2. Visit Bacab Adventure & Eco Park

Only 20 minutes outside Belize City, and with over 500 acres of lush jungle, here you’ll find hiking trails, waterways, wildlife (such as howler monkeys), a giant swimming pool with a waterfall. It’s part theme park and part nature reserve, and makes for an excellent getaway from Belize City. There are plenty of activities, from horseback safari, kayak tours, jungle biking, nature walks, swimming, bird watching, ruins tours, and more. It’s a fun place to visit with kids.

3. See Caracol

Caracol is a large Mayan site located in the Chiquibul Forest Reserve in the Cayo District. This was once one of the most powerful cities of the Mayan era. Unlike Altun Ha, the ruins in Caracol are less restored and are located in a jungle setting, which adds to the ancient feeling of the site (which made them my favorite because I felt like Indiana Jones). The site is full of reservoirs, walls, and tombs, with the best attraction being the main temple (called the Canaã or Sky Place), a 143-foot (44-meter) tall building that offers incredible views and surprising acoustics. Admission is 15 BZD.

4. Explore Actun Tunichil Muknal

One of the most exhilarating, if not spooky, things to do in the country is the Actun Tunichil Muknal cave tour. The cave is home to the remains of victims of Mayan sacrifices and, after a brief hike and trek through the jungle, you’ll come face to face with their skeletons. The site was discovered in 1989 and has been popular with tourists ever since. It was one of my favorite activities in the country. Because it is so popular, tours have become a lot more restrictive on where you can walk and when you can go. Expect to pay around 225-250 BZD for an organized tour. Bring water shoes, a bathing suit, and clothes that you don’t mind getting wet.

5. Dive the Barrier Reef

This is the second-longest barrier reef in the world, stretching over 186 miles (300 kilometers) as part of a reef system that extends all the way up to the Yucatan Peninsula. The vibrant coral and magnificent marine life make up the country’s most popular tourist attraction. Divers and snorkelers can enjoy the reef within one of the many islands in the marine park or take a boat tour further out. In 1996, the reef was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Great Blue Hole is the most common reason people visit the barrier reef. This incredibly striking underwater sinkhole is known for its crystalline waters, coral, fish, and stalactite-filled caves, stretching hundreds of feet below. Other must-do activities include snorkeling at the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, swimming with whale sharks at the Gladden Spit and Silk Cayes, and exploring Half Moon Caye.

6. See St. John’s Cathedral

Located in downtown Belize City, St. John’s Cathedral is the oldest Anglican Church in South America (and the oldest standing structure in the country). Built from red bricks that were brought aboard English sailing ships in the 1800s, this is an awesome piece of history to check out. The original church became a cathedral in 1891, and the neighboring cemetery was actually built during the colonial era using slave labor.

7. Visit Orange Walk

The Orange Walk area of Belize has a diverse range of locals, from Creoles to Mennonites. Often dubbed “Sugar City” because of its abundance of sugar cane, the town of Orange Walk is an ideal location for exploring the Altun Ha and Lamanai and a variety of nature parks and is often used as a stop on the way to Mexico . However, honestly, there’s not much in town, and I wouldn’t suggest spending more than a few days here before moving on; it’s more of a layover stop than anything.

8. Explore Placencia

Placencia is the ideal location for divers, snorkelers, and those who wish to explore the Mayan ruins in the south of the country. It’s also an increasingly popular destination for tourists and expats. The town still has a laid-back Caribbean vibe and life here centers around the narrow main street where you will find most bars and restaurants. Located at the end of Placencia’s bustling boardwalk, Placencia Beach is brimming with shops and eateries. I loved my stay here and ended up staying an extra week.

  For information on specific cities in Belize, check out these city guides:

• Caye Caulker Travel Guide
• Orange Walk Travel Guide
• Placencia Travel Guide
• San Ignacio Travel Guide

Belize Travel Costs

Accommodation – A bed in a hostel dorm room averages 25-50 BZD per night. Private rooms in hostels range between 70-100 BZD per night. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels have self-catering facilities. Free breakfast is rare.

Prices for budget hotels start at around 140 BZD per night while a 3-star hotel will go from about 200 BZD per night. Your best value though will be renting a room or an apartment from a local over websites like Airbnb. A room in a shared house on Airbnb averages 40 BZD per night and an entire home averages around 200 BZD per night.

Food – Belizean cuisine leans heavily on beans, rice, cheese, and tortillas. Rice and beans are a common lunch choice, and you can always find tamales, panades (fried meat pies), onion soup, chicken stew, and garnaches (beans, cheese, and onion in a fried tortilla) pretty much everywhere you go. Other popular dishes include ceviche, fry jack (deep-fried dough pieces), conch fritters, and johnny cakes. On the islands, expect a lot of seafood, including lobster, shrimp, red snapper, sea bass, and halibut.

Expect to pay around 13 BZD for a quick meal at a restaurant serving traditional cuisine. A meal at a restaurant with table service and drinks costs between 50-100 BZD. For fast food (think McDonald’s), expect to pay around 15 BZD for a combo meal.

A beer is 4-5 BZD, and local alcoholic drinks like rum and coke cost around 5 BZD. It’s 8 BZD for a latte/cappuccino. Water is 1.50 BZD.

If you’re on a budget, snack on fruit here—it’s cheap, abundant, fresh, and delicious! On that note, street food is generally very cheap, as well. For less than 5 BZD, you can snack on tostadas, empanadas, and other filling local staples.

Groceries for a week cost about 80 BZD. This gets you basic staples like, rice, beans, vegetables, and some chicken or fish. Most accommodations won’t include a kitchen so be sure to find accommodation that does if you plan on cooking. Expect about 30% higher prices on the popular tourist Cayes.

Backpacking Belize Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Belize, my suggested budget is around 80 BZD per day. On this budget, you’ll be staying in a hostel dorm, cooking most of your meals, eating street food, using local buses to get around, and doing the occasional cheap activities.

On a mid-range budget of 180 BZD, you’ll get a budget hotel/private hostel room/Airbnb, be able to dine out on all your meals, drink more, do more intercity travel, take the occasional taxi, and enjoy any tours you want within reason.

On a luxury budget of 325 BZD or more, well the sky is the limit and there’s nothing you really can’t do. This amount of money will get you anything you want and, any number higher than that, is just going to get you more! That said, you wouldn’t be reading a budget travel blog if you were a luxury traveler!

Belize Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Belize can be a very expensive country and costs here can add up super quickly if you aren’t careful. It’s one of the more expensive countries in the region (though the islands are more expensive than the interior towns). To help you save money, here are a few budget tips for Belize:

• Travel off-peak – The most expensive time to visit is between October and April. By traveling in the off-season, you can significantly reduce prices for accommodation and flights.
• Hitchhike – It’s a common custom among the locals to simply hitchhike everywhere they need to go. You see old ladies, children, and families on the side of the road looking for a ride. It’s just what they do. My friends and I met great people thumbing it across the country without spending any money at all.
• Use public transportation – Aside from hitchhiking, the most cost-effective way to get around Belize is by using public transportation. The country’s bus system covers all major highways and cities. See the How to Get Around section for more information.
• Combine excursions – Many tour operators offer trips that combine popular excursions. These are a good way to save on transfers to each tourist destination as well as possibly get dropped off at your next destination.
• Embrace happy hour – Most bars have a happy hour in the late afternoon and offer cheap drinks. Ask your hotel/hostel staff for suggestions on where to go for the latest deals.
• Bring your own food – Because many day trips and excursions charge extra for lunch, bring your own food and save money. There’s tons of grocery stores that sell things to make sandwiches with.
• Eat local – Rather than dining in restaurants in touristy areas, seek out neighborhood joints for more affordable prices. Better yet, fuel up on street food from vendors. This is almost always the cheapest option.
• Stay with a local – If you plan ahead, you can usually find really nice Couchsurfing hosts all throughout the country. This way, you not only have a place to stay, but you’ll have a local host that can share insider tips and advice. There aren’t a ton of hosts here however so send your requests early.
• Pack a water bottle – The tap water can be hit or miss here so bring a reusable water bottle with a filter. Not only will you save money but you’ll reduce your single-use plastic usage as well. My preferred bottle is LifeStraw since it has a built-in filter to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Belize

There aren’t a ton of hostels in Belize so make sure you book early to secure your spot. Here are my suggested places to stay in Belize:

• Sophie’s Guest Rooms (Caye Caulker)
• Sea Dreams Hotel (Caye Caulker)
• D’s Hostel (San Ignacio)
• The Old House Hostel (San Ignacio)
• Marissa Guest House (San Ignacio)
• The Royal Rat (Placencia)
• Alux House (Placencia)
• Casa Ricky’s (Orange Walk)

How to Get Around Belize

Public transportation – A lot of the destinations within Belize are pretty walkable once you get there. There really isn’t any public transportation as the towns and villages are too small (and easily walkable). Some of the larger cities, like Belize City, have small bus networks.

The best way to get around the smaller places is to rent a bike. They cost around 25 BZD per day in many places and are a great way to explore.

Bus – Buses are the cheapest travel option to travel across the country, with fares costing between 5-25 BZD (depending on the distance traveled). For example, a bus from Belize City to Orange Walk takes 1.5 hours and costs 10 BZD. A five-hour bus to Placencia from Belize City costs about 20 BZD.

Most of the buses are old school buses that take locals and visitors between cities and all around the country. There’s no real nationwide company and schedules change frequently. Your best bet is to ask someone at your accommodation for the updated bus schedule or just show up at the bus terminal and go from there.

You can also refer to belizebus.wordpress.com. It’s not a professional website, but it’s updated frequently and it is dependable.

Flying – There are two domestic airlines in Belize: Maya Island Air and Tropic Air. These small planes take you between Caye Caulker, Placencia, Corozal, and Ambergris Caye. Flights aren’t cheap though. Belize City to Caye Caulker is 200-300 BZD round-trip, while Belize City to Placencia is about 250-550 BZD, depending on the season. You should only fly here if you’re really pressed for time.

Car Rental – If you want a lot of flexibility to get around Belize, a car rental is a great idea. Rentals are around 90-150 BZD per day. Drivers usually need to be 25 and have an IDP (International Driving Permit). Drivers under 25 might be able to rent a car though there may be extra fees.

To find the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

Ferry – You can take ferries and water taxis to the islands (cayes) from Belize City with either San Pedro Belize Express or Ocean Ferry Belize (about a 1.5-hour journey). Belize City to Caye Caulker starts from 42 BZD one-way, while Belize City to San Pedro (Ambergris Caye) starts from 62 BZD one-way. Between San Pedro and Caye Caulker, it’s from 42 BZD one-way.

A ferry also runs between Corozal, Sarteneja, and San Pedro. Another route runs between Placencia and Independence, while frequent water taxis run between Dangriga and the Central Cayes. You don’t need to book your ferry or water taxi in advance. Just show up at the ferry terminal and you’ll be good to go.

When to Go to Belize

The best time to visit Belize is from the end of November to mid-April. This is the country’s dry season and, although it’s peak season, Belize never really gets too crowded. It’s warm and tropical with clear skies, and you’ll have no trouble visiting the country’s best attractions.

The water is also clearest during this time for diving, and temperatures average around 80°F (27°C) each day.

From the end of April to May, humidity intensifies and temperatures increase to an average of 87°F (31°C) each day.

The rainy season is the low season and it lasts from September to October. Many businesses are shut down during this time so keep that in mind as you plan.

For the cheapest prices, consider visiting in June or July. This is when hotel prices tend to be at their lowest. November and May are good months to visit for those who want to avoid crowds as much as possible. Otherwise, you can’t beat the dry season for its sunny skies and pleasant temperatures.

How to Stay Safe in Belize

Belize is a safe place to backpack and travel. Violent crime against travelers is very rare. It’s one of the safest countries in the region.

Petty theft (including bag snatching) is one of the most common types of crime in Belize so always keep your valuables secure and out of reach just to be safe. It’s a good idea to store major valuables and large amounts of cash in a hotel safe or other secure location when you’re out exploring for the day. And, be extra-vigilant when visiting ATMs or banks.

I would avoid Belize City as much as possible. If you have to spend a night there, avoid wandering too far from the main tourist part of town. While the country as a whole is safe, Belize City is not, especially at night. I would be extra vigilant here.

Keep an eye out for common scams against tourists , such as fake ATMs, taxis that don’t use a meter, and questionable tour operators. They are rare, but they can happen.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). For specific tips, visit one of the many solo female travel blogs out there. They’ll be able to provide more detailed advice.

If you experience an emergency, dial 911 for assistance. Keep in mind that Belize City has the two best major hospitals in the country should you need medical attention.

For more in-depth coverage of how to stay safe in Belize, check out this post we wrote that answers some frequently asked questions and concerns.

Always trust your gut instinct and be sure to make copies of your passport and important documents.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Belize Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Belize Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Belize and continue planning your trip:

Is Belize Safe to Visit?

Is Central America Safe to Visit?

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The Official Belize Travel Guide

The ultimate guide to belize, why belize, this comprehensive belize travel guide features the best things to see and do in belize. belize is quickly becoming one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. while it has a reputation for its sandy beaches and the looming barrier reef, there's a lot more to belize than just waterfront property. you'll find jungle, caves, ruins, and a thriving population eager to share their lives and their experiences with you. if you're considering taking a trip to belize, we're here to provide you with all the information you need to make your vacation magical in this official belize travel guide., ambergris caye, popular activities.

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How to Spend Two Weeks in Belize: An Itinerary for First-time Visitors

Two weeks in Belize will give you the perfect amount of time to see all of the best bits of the country. From the ancient Mayan ruins at the ATM Caves and Xunantunich, to the blonde-sand beaches of Placencia and Caye Caulker, my comprehensive guide is going to tell you exactly how to spend 14 days in Belize.

Belize is the 48th smallest country in the world — around the size of Israel, or Maryland in the U.S. — so is easily explored in a short amount of time. This country is a treasure trove for both history buffs and nature lovers alike. Belize is home to hundreds of ancient ruins, including around 33 Mayan archaeological sites in various states of excavation and disrepair. The country is also full of tons of wildlife, including pumas, jaguars, monkeys, and birds — and an impressive 50 percent of Belize is protected by national parks and environmental laws.

The country has a distinctly undiscovered feel about it, making it a great off-the-beaten-path destination. It’s not the cheapest place to travel in Central America, it doesn’t have the edgy feel of Guatemala, or the eco-tourism scene of Costa Rica, but it does have a fantastic culture and a vibrant food scene. 

Due to its history as British Honduras, English is the official language of Belize, spoken by 62.9% of the population, but the vast majority of people are multilingual, with Spanish, Creole, Maya, German and Garifuna all having a place in Belizean language. It’s this mix of culture that gives the country such an interesting dialect, as well as an open-minded and welcoming atmosphere.

Public Transport in Belize: Yes or No?

There’s not much public transport in Belize, other than the infamous chicken buses — old American school buses that run from one town to the next, stopping at every house along the way (or at least that’s what it feels like).

They are definitely an experience and in many ways, an important part of the culture in Belize, as locals rely on them for their day to day transport (cars are a luxury). But chicken buses in Belize are crammed full of people, have zero legroom, and are not fun with luggage. If you haven’t read about my nightmare trip from San Ignacio to Placencia yet, then now might be a good time to do so.

Taxis or private drivers can be hired but are usually expensive, especially for multi-hour journeys. It’s for these reasons that I actually recommend hiring a car. If you did read the article I linked to in the previous paragraph, you already know why I’m suggesting this. Let’s just say I learned my lesson from my first visit to Belize, so decided to rent a car for my second.

What to Know About Money in Belize

The Belize dollar, or BZD, is the official currency of Belize. The official exchange rate is permanently set at 2 Belize dollars to 1 U.S. dollar, which makes currency conversion calculations particularly simple.

Honestly, though? I personally wouldn’t bother with exchanging money, as U.S. dollars are accepted everywhere in the country. Meanwhile, the Belize dollar can only be exchanged within Belize and at border towns in Mexico and Guatemala, so you run the risk of (cough) leaving the country with Belizean dollars you can neither exchange nor spend.

(I’m not saying that’s the reason why I planned a return trip to Belize, but I’m also not not saying it.)

Cash is still king in Belize , although Visa is accepted at most large businesses (only a very limited number of businesses accept MasterCard and American Express). ATMs can be unreliable and expensive and official exchanges seem to be non-existent, so local vendors on the street are often the only available means to change money.

And so, my advice is to take enough USD to get you through your trip, but obviously split it up into different bags or pockets for added safety.

How to Spend Two Weeks in Belize

My two-week itinerary is going to take you to all of the best spots in Belize.

We’re going to start with an optional night in Belize City , then spend 3 or 4 nights in my beloved San Ignacio , exploring ancient ruins and underground caves.

A drive down the scenic Hummingbird Highway comes next, before staying overnight in an incredible lodge in the rainforest.

The next day, a lunch stop in Hopkins is followed by a visit to Cockscomb Basin Forest Reserve : world-famous for its jaguar population.

Next up: spend 2 nights in Placencia , getting to know the south of Belize, before heading back up to Belize City to catch a ferry to Caye Caulker . 

And then, I’m going to recommend spending a whopping six nights in Caye Caulker . It may seem a long time but trust me, you still won’t want to leave!

With epic snorkeling, delicious food and laid back locals, Caye Caulker is paradise on earth. Locals say they never get sick because there is never bad weather. And if you’ve read Never Ending Footsteps for any amount of time, you’ll know that’s exactly what I need! (I catch food poisoning on practically every trip I take.)

Fill your time on Caye Caulker walking stray dogs, flying over the Great Blue Hole, visiting neighbouring Ambergris Caye and living the local motto of Go Slow . Return to Belize City to make sure you get back in time for your flight home the next day and explore the colonial charm of the former capital city.

Day One: Arrive in Belize City

If you’re arriving by air, the Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport is only about 20 minutes from Belize City. If you’re coming overland, you’ll arrive at the dusty Belize City bus station. No matter your form of transport, if you’re arriving late, spend the night in Belize City and enjoy the dilapidated buildings and colonial charm.

But if your flight or bus arrives in the day, head straight to San Ignacio, just a two-hour drive away by car. 

On your way, make a stop at the Belize Zoo and Tropical Education Center. I know, normally I am not at all a fan of zoos, but this one is different. Belize Zoo, in fact, only houses animals from Belize, usually rescued from road accidents or the illegal pet trade. The enclosures are a generous size and comparable to a natural habitat, and there are witty signs all over the place that give you a first taste of the wonderful Belizean humor.

You could also visit the nearby Monkey Bay Wildlife Sanctuary for a chance to spot some wild animals. 

Where to stay in Belize City

Villa Boscardi has everything you need for an overnight stop, it’s located outside of the hustle and bustle of central Belize City on a quiet, leafy, and safe street. Everything in Belize City center is fortified with barbed wire, so it’s nice to stay just outside the main area. The rooms are spacious and clean with lots of beautiful touches, and there’s a great pool and communal cooking area. The free breakfast is also pretty special and offers a great introduction to the food in Belize!

Day Two: Ruin it Up in San Ignacio!

Now, if you’ve read my site for any amount of time, you’ll know that I’m not much of a fan of ruins. I was surprised, then, when I made my way to San Ignacio and was so impressed with its nearby Mayan ruins.

(Maybe I am, just, actually a fan of ruins?)

The first port of call for the day is taking a ferry over to the Xunantunich ruins , just twenty minutes from San Ignacio. This Mayan ceremonial center was inhabited between AD 700 to 1000, and is seriously impressive for such a rarely-visited spot. Climb to the top of the 133-foot tall El Castillo, the second tallest temple in all of Belize, and spot the intricate sun god masks that decorate the walls. While I was sat up there, I could hear howler monkeys growling in the distance, which only added to the other-worldly vibes.

If you have time in the afternoon, I recommend either heading to Cahal Pech in San Ignacio, or taking a two-hour (4×4) drive to the remote ancient Mayan city of Caracol. Abandoned in 900 CE, it’s thought that Caracol once spread over 200 square kilometers and only around 1% of the ruins have been excavated[!].

In the evening, head to the Guava Limb for dinner. The seating area may look as though it’s being reclaimed by the Belizean jungle, but the food takes its inspiration from every corner of the world. They have a farm-to-table ethos, using fresh ingredients to create authentic and international cuisine (the Thai noodles are amazing ). Yeah, there’s a reason why it’s ranked as the number one restaurant in San Ignacio.

Where to stay in San Ignacio

One of our favorite spots to stay in Belize is Pine Ridge Lodge . Just outside of San Ignacio, Pine Ridge is an off-grid lodge located right on the river. Step out from one of the beautifully decorated cabins to sit by the river or go for a walk on a lovely trail leading to waterfalls. Neil, the owner, is more than happy to help you out with local recommendations and his two dogs will keep you company on the trails!

Day Three: Visit the ATM Caves From San Ignacio

Start your day with an American style or Belizean breakfast at Pop’s Restaurant. The traditional Belizean breakfast consists of fry jacks, eggs, beans, and chicken and is something you have to try at least once in your two weeks in Belize — it’s seriously good.

And then it’s time to do what is, in my opinion, the absolute best activity in Belize.

It’s time to take a trip to Actun Tunichil Muknal.

The cave is ranked one of the top ten caves in the world by National Geographic, and it’s time for you to find out why.

On your trip to the ATM cave, you’ll hike through tropical jungle, cross through rivers, and squeeze under rocks, before finally coming to the ancient sacrificial remains of the Mayan, located deep within the caves.

The ATM cave is protected so you have to take a tour in order to visit, with a guide who is licensed by the Department of Ecology. There’s only a couple of dozen of these in the country, so spaces are limited. Unfortunately, photography is not allowed to protect the artifacts, so I can’t even show you what it looks like. You’ll just have to trust me that it’s incredible.

It’s an Indiana Jones-style adventure, but you do get hard hats and torches — which is slightly safer than the terrifying candlelit experience of Semuc Champney in Guatemala!

You can book your tour when you arrive in San Ignacio, but I recommend booking online and in advance before you arrive, to make sure you get a spot.

That evening, visit the iconic Marie Sharp’s Tourist Center in San Ignacio for a culinary class on Belizean cuisine. You are absolutely guaranteed to encounter Marie Sharp’s hot sauces while visiting Belize (I bought them as souvenirs for friends while I was there!), and here, you’ll learn how to cook with it, rustling up classic local dishes, like — you know it! — rice and beans and chicken stew.

Day Four: Take a Day Trip From San Ignacio to Guatemala and the Ancient Ruins of Tikal

Taking a day trip to Tikal from San Ignacio is easy to do, particularly if you have your own transport. Tikal is located just two hours away from San Ignacio, deep within the Maya Biosphere Reserve. It was once one of the most prosperous cities of the Mayan Classic Period, and the largest ancient civilization in Mesoamerica. You can find tours in San Ignacio offering trips to Tikal, or like us, just navigate the border yourself and drive to the ancient city.

Tikal covers an area of 575 square kilometres and dates back to 1000 BC, but it wasn’t a thriving city until much later, around 600 AD. Tikal is thought to have had around 100,000 residents at its height, including a school and even a hospital.

Although it was an advanced city, sacrifice was still thought of as an honor, and the population mysteriously disappeared completely by 900 AD. Climb the pyramids, explore the vast jungle, and watch out for wildlife like howler monkeys and toucans. 

Tikal really is worth the effort, and Guatemala is another wonderful country to visit, but if you want to stay in Belize there are plenty of other things to do. Some fantastic things to do in and around San Ignacio include the Green Iguana Conservation Project, the Belize Botanic Gardens and the Rio Frio cave and pools.

Day Five: Visit Blue Hole National Park and Stay in a Rainforest Retreat

On day five take to the beautiful Hummingbird Highway and head south through Belize’s dense interior. Stop off at the Lamanai chocolate company to take a tour and learn the Mayan art of chocolate making. Then visit St. Herman’s Cave: you can either take the mile hike into the caves or go caving and cave tubing with a local guide. 

Also located within St. Herman’s Blue Hole National Park is the Inland Blue Hole, where you can take a refreshing dip in the small lake and spot wildlife in the surrounding jungle. Or if you’re feeling brave, rappel down a waterfall at the nearby Dreaming Giant waterfalls.

Where to Stay in the Jungle in Belize

Spend the evening at the Sleeping Giant Rainforest Lodge , just on the edge of the national park. Air Conditioned rooms are a welcome retreat after a day spent in the jungle, with home-cooked meals being an added bonus. The Sleeping Giant Rainforest Lodge is in the perfect location to enjoy the outdoors, with panoramic views of the landscape, you can easily explore the surrounding creek, rivers and forests. Plus, the use of kayaks is free of charge!

Day Six: Take a Lunch Stop in Hopkins and Go Hiking in Cockscomb Basin Forest Reserve

Head further south and onto the small beach town of Hopkins, known as the cultural center of the Garifuna population and a must on any Belize itinerary. The music and dances of the Garifuna are a special thing to witness. In 2001, UNESCO declared the Garifuna culture a “Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity”. Hopkins has been called the friendliest place in the country, and many visitors choose to come here to experience the true local culture, instead of including Belize City in their Belize Itinerary. 

Next head to the Cockscomb Basin Forest Reserve for a beautiful hike in nature. Created as a sanctuary for endangered jaguars, the 400km² reserve is thought to be the most important jaguar preserve in the world⁠⁠⁠. Opt for the Tiger Fern Trail, a three-hour round trip taking in waterfalls, a plane wreck[!] and a 360° viewpoint over the Cockscomb Basin.

It’s then just an hour’s drive along the highway and the scenic ocean road to Placencia, your next overnight stop on your two weeks in Belize.

Where to Stay in Placencia

Stay at the Driftwood Gardens Guesthouse . A studio apartment with a large double bed, kitchenette, aircon, coffee machine and Wi-Fi makes for a very comfortable stay. The guesthouse is in the perfect spot for exploring Placencia by foot and is close to bars, restaurants, and the supermarket. The secluded pool is a nice addition on hot days when the beach can get busy and owners Phil and Megan are super friendly hosts that are always available for local tips.

Day Seven: Explore the Peninsula of Placencia

Placencia is a 16-mile-long peninsula in southern Belize best known for its incredible marine life. Spot manatees and saltwater crocodiles in the tidal lagoon or head offshore to the bountiful dive sites on the second largest barrier reef on earth. The Belize Barrier Reef is second in size to the Great Barrier Reef of Australia , and is the largest of its kind in the northern and western hemispheres. The reef extends for more than 180 miles along the Caribbean coast of Belize and can be visited from many places, but Placencia is one of the quietest.

Placencia is also a great place to go diving with whale sharks in Belize. Visit Gladden Split between April to June for a chance to swim alongside these gentle giants. Other top dive spots include Silk Caye, Laughing Bird, Glover’s Caye, Pompion Caye, and South Water Caye. Diving operators in Belize can be a lower quality than some are used to, so be careful who you book with. One of the best dive shops in Placencia is Splash Dive Center. They are limited to six people per dive instructor, have good equipment, and prioritize safety. 

If diving’s not your thing, you can also go snorkeling at beautiful spots like Moho Caye. Other things to do include the Monkey River tour, boat and catamaran trips, or simply relaxing on the beach all day long! By night, visit the live music and bars along the affectionately named ‘Tipsy Strip’, eat fresh seafood from one of the many local restaurants, and enjoy late night strolls along the beach.

Day Eight: Travel Day! Make Your Way to Paradise

Choose to stay in Placencia another night or head to the next beach destination on your epic 14 days in Belize: Caye Caulker. Make the three-hour drive from Placencia to Belize City then catch a water taxi to Caye Caulker. There are two water taxi companies that operate between Belize City and Caye Caulker, San Pedro Belize Express and Ocean Ferry. San Pedro Belize Express has more daily runs and a more comfortable, larger ferry terminal in Belize City, so you’ll likely opt for them.

Return your car here, you won’t be needing it as you’ll be living that sweet, sweet Caribbean island life from here on out. The ferry journey takes around 45 minutes, or you can fly in around 8 minutes from Belize International Airport with Tropic Air or Maya Island Air. Flying to Caye Caulker is a bit more expensive, but you will get great views over the cayes and the trip can even be combined with a flight over the Blue Hole.  

Where to stay in Caye Caulker 

Stay at the Jaguar Morning Star for a relaxing spot on a quiet street in Caye Caulker, just a few minutes’ walk to the beach and the center. The place has a real island vibe with hammocks, free to use bicycles, and communal garden seating, you can even pick your own coconuts! Each room is spacious, clean and comfortable and comes fully equipped with all of the modern creature comforts. 

Day Nine: Go Snorkeling or Diving on the Belize Barrier Reef

Of course, the main reason to visit a small island in the Caribbean is the sealife. Kick your first day on the island off with an amazing snorkeling trip to the Belize Barrier Reef , a definite must-do on your Belize itinerary.

The boats will take you to Hol Chan Marine reserve and Shark Ray Alley. You can expect to see loggerhead turtles, southern stingrays and nurse sharks in abundance. Some trips will also take you to the shallow grassy feeding grounds where the world’s largest population of West Indian manatees live. 

Make sure to pick a sustainable tour (like the one above from Salt Life Eco Tours), that doesn’t encourage feeding or touching the wildlife. It’s also best to use a biodegradable sunscreen or rash vest to avoid damaging the sea life. You will have the chance to see pristine corals that have been protected for over 30 years at the Hol Chan marine reserve, and snorkel over a sunken shipwreck.

Tickets for the tours do sell out, so if you’re visiting during high season, make sure to book early to avoid disappointment. You can check availability for Salt Life Eco Tours below:

Day 10: Hit Up the Great Blue Hole

Now, if you’re anything like me, the first thing that pops in your mind when you think about Belize is an image of the Great Blue Hole from above. A scene that looks a little bit like that one ^ up there.

When I first visited Belize, however, I was a stingy backpacker who refused to splurge on a single big-ticket item. And so, the Great Blue Hole was quickly crossed off my list — and I skipped the ATM caves, too! I knew I would need to rectify all of those financial mistakes on my return trip, as there are some experiences in life that are simply worth the splurge.

Today, then, it’s time to set sail for the one and only Great Blue Hole.

The Great Blue Hole is found within the Belize Barrier Reef, which is the second longest reef in the world. It’s officially an UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most drooled-over dive sites you’ll come across; it’s even visible from space!

Basically, it’s a large underwater sinkhole spanning 300 meters (984 ft.) across and 125 meters (410 ft.) deep. Scientists believe it was formed over 10,000 years ago, when the roof of a limestone cave collapsed, opening up a world of tunnels, stalactites, and, um, terror.

When it comes to exploring the Great Blue Hole, you’ve got two main options: whether to go by sea or by air.

The first option involves taking a trip out to the sinkhole and then opting to snorkel ($120) or dive ($300) into its deep sapphire waters.

Now, I’m going to be honest with you here: the Blue Hole is, well, a hole. And because of that, you’re not going to see an awful lot while you’re beneath the surface. Coral can’t grow in these dark waters, and fish tend to steer clear, too. You can’t dive to the bottom of the Blue Hole, as it’s far too deep.

But what you  will  encounter is a dive site that meets the definition of unique. You’ll get to see the remains of a limestone cave: stalactites and stalagmites, then dozens upon dozens of sharks. It’s truly one of the coolest experiences you can have as a diver.

However, this is absolutely  not  a dive for beginners. You’ll need your PADI Advanced Open Water qualification, as you’ll be taken down to depths of 40 meters, and your surroundings will be dark and dangerous. The Blue Hole has seen some of the highest numbers of fatalities of any dive site, and there’s believed to be as many as 200 bodies resting at the bottom of it.

In other words, if you’re feeling nervous or unconfident about the dive, I’d recommend snorkeling instead.

And snorkeling is definitely worth doing! I swam my way along the edge of the hole, checking out the corals and calcium deposits, and the more varied marine life. You won’t see the stalactites and stalagmites, but you’ll see tons of fish, instead!

Another option is to take a flight over the Great Blue Hole from Caye Caulker, which is the best way to experience its true magnitude, as well as getting to see the other atolls and coral reef formations from above. And, well, it actually looks like the Great Blue Hole from above; from the water, it mostly looks like… water.

For flights over the Blue Hole try Tsunami Adventures : a scenic flight with them costs $225 per person.

Day 11: Explore Caye Caulker on Foot

For a true Belizean institution visit my favourite spot on the island: Errolyn’s House Of Fryjacks. Although it doesn’t look like much from the outside, with just a few seats, it’s one of the most popular spots for breakfast on the island.

If you haven’t had fry jacks during your two weeks in Belize, you must try them here!

Today’s a great day to rest, relax, and explore the island. Visit Caye Caulker Animal Shelter to take some stray pups out for a walk or just to say hi; they love visitors stopping by. 

For a coffee, stop visit Ice and Beans Cafe for the best flat whites on the island, then saunter down to the Lazy Lizard Bar and Grill next to the Split.

You could spend all day here sipping cocktails, lounging around, and eating fresh seafood. Make sure to try lobster, if it’s in season, as it’s one of the most affordable places to buy fresh lobster and is a bit of a local delicacy. Another great spot to eat at in the evenings is the Wish Willy Bar & Grill; tasty barbeque food in a friendly and relaxed setting.

Day 12: Day Trip to Ambergris Caye!

Ambergris Caye is one of the most developed islands off of the coast of Belize. Just 11 miles north of Caye Caulker, Ambergris Caye is actually the largest island of Belize.

Take a short 45-minute ferry ride from Caye Caulker to Ambergris Caye to explore the boutiques, splash resorts and pristine beaches of the island. You can also visit the Marco Gonzales Archaeological Reserve on a day trip, or explore the (far from) Secret Beach, one of the most popular beaches on the island. Enjoy some beach bowling at TOAST Seaside Boozery and Grill, tour the San Pedro Lagoon & Crocodile Sanctuary, or explore the island by golf cart. 

Day 13: Relax on Your Last Day in Paradise

You will definitely want a day off after all of that sightseeing. After all, the island’s motto is to “go slow”. Caye Caulker is the perfect place to relax and get away from it all.

There’s so much great food on the island to try, like the dishes at Meldy’s, a makeshift restaurant on the front porch of Meldy’s home. She used to have a prime spot on the beach but when demand for her famous fried chicken increased, she moved the operation back to her house. If you can find her place through the maze of back alleys, and make it past her friendly dogs, she’ll take you into her kitchen to pick your meal from her finest assortment of fresh ingredients. 

Last time we visited, we requested the fried chicken a day in advance, remembering how good it was from many years before. The next day, she got all of the ingredients fresh in and made the best meal of our entire trip! This sums up not only Caye Caulker but Belize in general. It’s the people that make this country so special. Of course there are breathtaking natural wonders, impressive archaeological ruins and an amazing diversity of cuisines, but the welcoming culture is what makes Belize an unmissable destination. 

As your two weeks in Belize comes to an end, today is your last chance to sample some fry jacks, sip on coconut rum and laze around in a hammock all day without a care in the world!

Day 14: Head Back to Belize City 

On your last day in Belize take the ferry back to Belize City early-ish. If you have a late flight, or one last night in Belize, spend the day exploring the crumbling facades of the old town. Bright colorful buildings line great avenues giving a dilapidated kind-of-charm to this old English colonial city. 

Belize City was the capital of British Honduras and the center of the British Empire’s power in Belize. Revolution during the 1900’s, as well as natural disasters like hurricanes, left the city in a state of disrepair and the government was moved to the new capital of Belmopan in 1970. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s lawlessness prevailed due to poverty, overpopulation and civil unrest. Belize became independent on September 21, 1981. But it was only when cruise ships started to arrive in the early 2000’s and tourism provided a stable income, that Belize City regained a focus for its economy.

It’s still a little ‘rough around the edges’, popular spots to visit are Albert and Queen Street, named after the Victorian monarchs when the city served as a crown colony. You can also see the city’s past in places like the Baron Bliss Lighthouse, the Marine Terminal and Museum and the former Government House (now the Belize City House of Culture). Some good spots to eat at are the Midtown Restaurant, Celebrity and Smokeez Seaside Restaurant out on Seashore Drive.

And That’s How to Spend 14 Days in Belize!

Spend a full two weeks in Belize without rushing around, dedicate some time to really relax and enjoy the Belizean culture. If you have a little more time, you could head north to Lamanai, Altun Ha and Orange Walk. There you can also visit the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary with its protected wetlands. But remember life’s not a race, so “Go Slow”!

Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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Great post! Concise yet full of information with a friendly enthusiastic tone that got me excited for adventure 🤣

Ahhh, thanks so much, Bill! I hope you have a fantastic time in Belize!

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8 Things You Need to Know Before Traveling to Belize

See recent posts by Lara Grant

A unique mix of Central American culture and Caribbean shores, Belize offers a ton for travelers aside from the opportunity to make those well-known puns. The small country (roughly the size of Massachusetts) has had an increasing number of travelers each year, both in terms of overnight vacationers and cruisers, and it's easy to see why. Boasting peaceful islands, lush rainforests, archaeological wonders, and stunning wildlife both on land and in the water, there's an unbelizeable (sorry) array of things to do. But before you start packing your sunblock and e-reader, here are eight important things to know about the alluring country -- beyond the obvious, like steering clear of tap water.

1. Snorkeling and diving are some of the best in the world.

Perhaps this is the main reason Belize is on your bucket list, but if you don’t know, the country’s snorkeling and scuba diving is some of the best in the world. It’s home to the second longest barrier reef in the world (after the one in Australia), meaning coral and sea life are abundant and varied. The Great Blue Hole is a huge circular sinkhole off the coast that measures 984 feet (300 meters) across and 354 feet (108 meters) deep. It’s primarily for experienced divers, but novices can book a helicopter tour for a stunning aerial view. Also popular are snorkeling trips to Hol Chan Marine Reserve, where nurse sharks, stingrays, tropical fish, hawksbill turtles, and sponges are all on display.

2. English is the official language.

Though Belize is bordered by Mexico and Guatemala, travelers may be surprised to learn that English is the country’s official language. This is because of its history under British rule — it was previously named British Honduras — until it gained independence in 1981. Spanish is still widely spoken, as is Belizean Creole (Kriol), but visitors who only speak English will find it extremely easy to converse and get around the country.

3. Staying on a caye can be expensive.

Visitors to Belize are typically choosing one of two options: Staying in the rainforest for a lush, jungle experience or on a caye (pronounced key) — a small, low-elevation island on the surface of a coral reef — for a beach getaway. Both are worthwhile and excellent for experiencing the amazing landscape of Belize, but the latter will be a bit harder on your wallet. This isn’t exactly surprising, as most islands are expensive since just about everything has to be imported, but foreigners expecting widespread cheap eats will be disappointed. Ambergris Caye is the slightly pricier island compared to the nearby Caye Caulker, which is popular with backpackers and has affordable hostels. Before you book your hotel, check out our list of eight fabulous hotels in Belize .

4. Cash is king.

Conveniently for U.S. citizens, the Belize dollar is fixed to the U.S. dollar at $2 to $1, and both are accepted throughout Belize. While many restaurants, tour companies, and shops accept credit cards, there’s often a hefty tax to do so. ATMs are in every major city and island, so it’s not difficult to find one to withdraw Belize money. Also be sure to clarify if the price quoted is in Belize or U.S. dollars.

5. Belize City has a shockingly high crime rate.

The “Go Slow” motto of Caye Caulker is a good indicator of the laid-back vibe and Caribbean-like spirit that pervades Belize. For anyone that goes to Belize expecting prompt service and to-the-tee schedules, this is your warning that its island time is alive and well. Many restaurants are seat yourself and followed by flagging someone down for a menu. Plus, turnaround time from when you order to when the food arrives is undoubtedly going to be longer than your neighborhood eatery. Have a snorkeling tour planned? Don’t be surprised if your group departs 20 minutes after the scheduled time. Just remember that you’re on vacation and there to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. (It took me a few days to slow my New York strut.)

7. It matters which tour group you choose.

There are plenty of tour groups to choose from when booking a snorkeling, Mayan ruin, cave tubing, or zip-lining outing. While it may seem like they offer the same packages and prices just under a different name, there are differences that should be researched before shelling out money. For instance, while the numerous snorkeling tour companies were priced pretty evenly with the same inclusions in Caye Caulker, the staff, boats, and atmosphere varied greatly. Young travelers looking for a fun and party-infused vibe will likely be drawn to Raggamuffin Tours, while Carlos Tours is best for mature couples who don’t particularly want to end their day with rum shots. Head to TripAdvisor to research options and be sure to talk to locals and other travelers once you’re in Belize. Generally, you can book day trips a day or two beforehand, so there’s little need to rush.

8. Mayan ruins are abundant.

Speaking of excursions, travelers interested in archaeology or history will almost surely enjoy trips to the several Mayan ruins across the country. Belize was once home to at least one million Mayas, and their stunning architecture with hidden tombs and offerings remain today. Altun Ha, Caracol, Lamanai, and Xunantunich are the most popular, though the best option will depend on how much time visitors have available and whether they want to tack on cave tubing or zip-lining.

Some of Our Favorite Hotels in Belize:

Matachica resort.

Matachica Resort/Oyster

Arguably the swankiest resort on Ambergris Caye, the four-pearl Matachica Resort & Spa excels at combining Belizean charm with modern opulence. Its 27 individual thatched-roof casitas are painted in eye-popping hues and feature romantic elements like canopied beds and two-person hammocks. All-inclusive rates are available, and top-notch amenities include a stunning mosaic tile pool, a beautifully maintained beach, and an excellent on-site bar and restaurant, but the lackluster spa and tiny fitness center fall flat.

Pricing for Matachica Resort

Radisson Fort George Hotel and Marina

Radisson Fort George Hotel and Marina/Oyster

Radisson Fort George Hotel and Marina is a three-pearl hotel situated next to the Fort George Marina and its dive shop. The Belize City cruise dock is a four-minute walk away. While there are a number of features here, the style is very much that of an outdated chain hotel. The 102 rooms come with free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs, and many have balconies and plush Sleep Number beds.

Pricing for Radisson Fort George Hotel and Marina

Ray Caye Island Resort

Ray Caye Island Resort/Oyster

An hour east of Placencia, three-and-a-half-pearl Hatchet Caye Resort is a lovely, unpretentious private island that’s a fine place for an escape-from-it-all vacation. A series of small, beautiful beaches, a full-service dive shop, and a waterfront restaurant are its biggest selling points.

Pricing for Ray Caye Island Resort

What to Bring to Belize: Mama Kuleana Sunscreen

Mama Kuleana Reef Safe Sunscreen

Belize has some of the most diverse tropical sea-life on Earth. Keep our oceans clean and radiant by considering reef safe sunscreen options such as Mama Kuleana’s –your body and the world will thank you.

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All products are independently selected by our writers and editors. If you buy something through our links, Oyster may earn an affiliate commission.

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Belize Travel Guide: Planning Your Trip

Nestled along the coast of the Caribbean Sea in Central America, Belize is a tropical paradise that has much to offer travelers. From pristine beaches and lush rainforests to ancient Mayan ruins and some of the best scuba diving sites in the world, there is plenty to see and do in this magnificent country. Whether you're looking for an active, adventurous escape or a relaxing vacation in the sun, Belize can accommodate your wishes, while managing to deliver more than a few surprises along the way too.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit: The weather in Belize is warm and tropical all year long, but some months are better than others for travelers. For instance, April and May are a good time to go, as the crowds are small and the summer rains have yet to arrive. Avoid the peak season of January if you can help it, as the crowds can be quite large.
• Language: Because Belize was a British colony for more than a century, it is the only country in Central America where English is the official language   . Visitors will also hear variations of Spanish and Creole in parts of the country as well.
• Currency: The official currency used in Belize is the Belize dollar. It features a fixed exchange rate of 2 Belize dollars to $1 USD   , and both currencies are accepted in most places.
• Getting Around: While most cities and towns are quite walkable, taxis and buses are a cheap, reliable way to travel throughout Belize. Numerous bus routes run throughout the country, and hopping on and off these buses is an affordable way to explore the region. Travelers looking for extra flexibility may consider renting a bike or a car, depending on their needs.
• Travel Tip: Belize may be located along the coast in Central America, but it operates more like a Caribbean island in terms of time and schedule. In other words, you'll be on "island time" throughout your stay, so don't expect anyone to be in a big hurry or to show up precisely at the appointed time. Your best bet is to embrace this approach and go with the flow.

Things to Do

Belize is widely considered to be one of the best scuba diving destinations in the world, attracting divers and snorkelers from around the globe. Back on land, hikers will find plenty to love, too, particularly if they enjoy spotting colorful birds and wildlife on a remote jungle trail. The ancient Mayan ruins found throughout the country are a big draw also, allowing visitors to explore some of the best-preserved archeological sites located in all of Central America.

• Dive the Great Blue Hole: There are plenty of coral reefs and even shipwrecks to visit while scuba diving in Belize , but the famous Great Blue Hole is, without a doubt, the biggest underwater attraction. This submerged sinkhole is more than 1,000 feet across and 400 feet deep  , making it a top bucket-list destination for divers the world over.
• Wander through the Mayan Site of Xunantunich: Perhaps Belize's most well-preserved Mayan site, Xunantunich is one of the best tourist attractions in the entire country. Dating back to the seventh century, the place offers visitors a chance to hike past ancient temples and plazas that were once home to thousands of people.
• Spot wildlife: With more than 575 bird species to spot, not to mention an array of monkeys, iguanas, crocodiles, and other creatures as well, Belize is a favorite destination for those who love wildlife encounters. Of course, the best of those experiences is tracking jaguars in the jungle, where the elusive big cat can still be found in abundance.

Discover more of our recommendations of the top things to see and do while visiting Belize , plus Belize's best beaches , and the top places in Belize that you shouldn't miss.

What to Eat and Drink

As befitting its location as a crossroads of the world, Belize looks to its surroundings when it comes to its culinary traditions. As a result, travelers will typically find plenty of fresh seafood on offer, often cooked with a mix of Caribbean spices and paired with vegetables from Africa and fruits from Central America. Lobster and conch are typical delicacies, while classic regional dishes such as beans and rice and ceviche are very popular too. Everything tends to be fresh, flavorful, and maybe even a little spicy, so don't be afraid to indulge.

The local tropical fruit makes for delicious and refreshing drinks as well, with plenty of cafes and juice shacks offering up a wide array of flavors. Those same juices can be used in the creation of some colorful cocktails as well, although the Caribbean staple of local rum remains a favorite when it comes to alcoholic beverages. The locals also love Belikin beer , which is brewed locally and can be found just about everywhere.

If you're looking for an especially good meal, head over to the Maya Beach Hotel Bistro or Chef Rob's Gourmet Cafe . Both places deliver fresh, tasty dishes that you'll be thinking about long after you've gone home.

Want more tips on what to eat and drink? Check out recommendations for must-try foods in Belize .

Where to Stay

Options on where to stay abound in Belize, where visitors will find everything from sprawling and luxurious resorts to humble but comfortable hostels. There are even homestay options for those looking to experience a more unique and culturally immersive experience, and Airbnb offers many options too. Most of the larger resorts are found along the Caribbean Coast, providing quick and easy access to the beach and water. Wander further inland, however, and you'll discover many fun and distinctive eco-lodges tucked away in the jungle. In short, no matter what type of accommodations you're looking for, chances are you'll find something to meet your needs in Belize.

Find out which hotels in Belize made our list as the best in the country, as well as our picks for the top eco-lodges too.

Getting There

The simplest way to get to Belize is by flying there. Several major airlines—including four from the U.S. alone—fly direct to the country via Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport (BZE) located in Belize City. Visitors can also reach Belize by bus from Mexico and Guatemala if they are traveling from one of those two countries as well.

Culture and Customs

Belize is a conservative culture, so travelers are encouraged to dress conservatively. Casual dress is accepted almost everywhere in the country, although visitors should avoid wearing revealing clothing when visiting local churches.

Tipping is not customary among the residents of Belize, but visitors are often expected to include a tip. Generally speaking, a 10 percent gratuity on taxi rides and meals is seen as an adequate tip for excellent service.

Money Saving Tips

• Use public transportation. Buses and taxis are cheap, plentiful, and easy to use throughout all of Belize. Travelers can save some cash by ditching the rental car and sticking to public transit instead.
• Visit during the offseason. Travelers can save a significant amount of money on airfare, accommodations, and tours if they visit during the low season, which is typically April and May. Expect savings of up to 50 percent.
• Eat street food. If you want to save some cash, skip the touristy restaurants and enjoy some tasty street food instead. The options are plentiful, delicious, and cheap!
• Fly to Cancun: Flights into Belize can be pricey. To save some cash, hop a flight to Cancun , Mexico instead, then take the bus across the border. The ride is very affordable, and it is easy to travel between the two countries.

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Belize travel guide — the fullest belize travel blog for a great budget trip for first-timers.

Belize is a not too large country with about 290 km (180 mi) long and 110 km (68 mi) wide but it owns many interesting destinations with dense forests, many wildlife reserves, beautiful islands scattered in the Caribbean, especially famous for the second largest coral reef in the world called The Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System – a diving paradise. Therefore, this is a top destination for those who love ecotourism and adventure tourism. Not only that, Belize also attracts visitors because this is also one of the great centres of the Maya civilization. There are many ancient Maya architectural works that will satisfy your passion for discovering about the legendary Maya Empire. So, what to do and how to plan a budget perfect trip to Belize for the first-time? Let’s check out our Belize travel blog (Belize blog) with the fullest Belize travel guide (Belize guide, Belize tourist guide) from how to get, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit and top things to do to find out the answer!

Belize is one of the smallest countries worth visiting in the world with an area of ​​22,966 km² and a population of about 405,000 people, formerly British Honduras (which is the colony of the United Kingdom). This explains why although it is located in Central America, the official language of this country is English. It can be said that Belize is the perfect departure point for the journey to explore Central America.

Traveling to Belize, you will discover mysterious tropical forests with many rare plants and animals, poetic waterfalls and beautiful coral reefs with more than 100 different types of corals and about 500 species of tropical fish, many beautiful beaches, rich and diverse fauna and flora. It is also one of the great centers of the most mysterious, ancient Maya civilization with its stone temples, ancient tombs have been excavated with intricate hieroglyphs.

Belize travel guide: Overview of Belize

Known as a sea and island paradise in the Caribbean, Belize has always been voted one of the most attractive destinations in the world. Belize is a country located in Central America bordering Mexico, Guatemala and the Gulf of Honduras. The Spanish invaded in the 16th century but did not conquer it completely. Subsequently, Great Britain gained control of the region and in 1862, it officially became a colony of British Honduras. In 1981, Belize gained independence.

The Mayans were the first ancient people to live here from 1500 BC and flourished until the 10th century and declined thereafter. This is one of the most flourishing ethnic groups in ancient times, having lived in Central and South America, leaving many ruins with temples, special step pyramids still exist and keep intact until now. From the 16th century the island was a colony of Spain and was occupied by Britain in the 17th century until 1981 when Belize become an independent nation, showing strong cultural impacts on the people living here.

Tourism is also one of the industries that bring great benefits to Belize thanks to special types of services such as exploring tropical forests, swimming, diving, snorkeling and watching coral, kayaking and fishing. In addition, discovering, admiring and learning about Maya history through the remaining wonders of the ancient Maya civilization which were voted one of the 10 most great wonders in the world also is great activities.

Belize is the only English-speaking country in Central America, so traveling here is easier than to many other American countries. In the center there are large and modern streets, the suburbs have romantic villages and wild natural landscapes along with many daily flights connecting many countries around the world with Belize, bringing visitors to many famous attractions such as the Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye. You can drive from one end of the country to the other in just two hours.

Belize travel guide: When to visit?

The best time to visit Belize is during the dry season, from late November to mid-April. At this time, warm temperatures and clear blue skies are perfect for outdoor tourist activities. However, due to this is the peak tourist season, so if you travel to Belize at this time, you will experience crowding, room rates, prices of services are higher. You should consider to coming here from mid-June to mid-November, because this is the time of storms and strong winds.

Belize travel guide: Transportation

Most flights to Belize land at Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport (BZE) in Belize City. To getting around Belize, you can travel by domestic plane, motorbike, bus, water taxi, boat, car or even kayak. The bus system in Belize operating relatively well, both cheap and reliable, and this is a great way to immerse yourself in Belize culture. Taxi is also a cheap mean and negotiable.

Although car rental is expensive in Belize from $56 – $82, it doesn’t seem too high to look at when you consider alternatives, especially if there are three or four people are traveling with you to share the cost.

Bicycles are available to rent in many major tourist places for around 20 BZD (~$10) per day. You usually don’t have to deposit. A used bicycle can be purchased from one of these rental companies for long-term use if you plan to stay in Belize for a long time.

Belize travel guide: What to do and where to go?

Belize city.

The city of the same name Belize is located on a peninsula jutting into the Caribbean Sea and is a transit point for trips to other parts of the country of Belize. Visitors are often attracted to the caves in the Cayo district, the Maya archaeological sites along the Macal and Belize rivers, the special Swing Bridge located in downtown Belize City or the oldest cathedrals in Central America.

The Great Blue Hole

The world-famous Great Blue Hole is located off the coast of Belize, it is considered as the the most recognizable icon of Belize. Since 1996, this huge blue hole has been recognized and protected by UNESCO as a world heritage site. The depth of Blue Hole reaches 120 m while its diameter is more than 300 m. The Great Blue Hole is like a sinkhole of a submarine, looking from above you will see a beautiful deep blue water surrounded by shallow turquoise waters.

According to scientists, there was a large limestone cave that existed in this place during The Ice Ages (2.4 million years ago). At that time, the water level in the Atlantic was much lower. Over time, the cave flooded and its arch collapsed and this is also the reason why the Great Blue Hole appeared. Scuba diving lovers will be amazed at the diverse and rich marine life and flora at the Great Blue Hole, including coral reef sharks, other giant fish and many unique colorful fish.

Moreover, you can sit in a helicopter to admire the view from above or scuba dive to the bottom to explore. If take a helicopter, you can reach the Turneffe Atoll island cluster after flying boredly. If you want to diving here, you must have a permit, go in the dry months from April to June.

Explore the Hol Chan Marine Reserve

This is one of 7 protected reserves belong to the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System recognized by UNESCO, the best place for you to experience snorkelling. From San Pedro, you can take a boat ride to the reserve, relax in the warm water and snorkel to see the colorful world on the ocean floor. Southern rays, sea turtles and many other fish are hidden behind beautiful coral reefs.

Coming to the famous Shark Ray Alley in the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, you will have the opportunity to swim with sharks and stingrays. Sharks are 4 to 5 feet long, are bottom-tier predators and are usually harmless to humans, as long as you don’t intrude on them.

Caye Caulker: Hol Chan Marine Reserve Small-Group Tour

Before it became the popular tourist destination as we see today, the area was just a fishing ground for local fishermen. Now, if you take a boat out here, just hearing the sounds of paddle, sharks and rays will flock to be fed. Note that if you want to snorkeling or swimming with sharks here, you must be registered with a licensed travel agent.

Address: 2 Barrier Reef Dr, San Pedro, Belize Area: 18 km² Hours: 9AM–5PM Established: 1987

Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave

This cave is often referred to as the ATM cave, where people believe that this is the road leading down to the underworld. ATM has a narrow space that creates a solitary and mysterious look. If you are the type of person who likes to explore, this will be the first choice when traveling to Belize. The Mayans used to reside here in the past. The Mayans believed that the sun and moon were both born from this cave. However, please note that you will not allow to bring your camcorder or camera when entering here.

• San Ignacio: Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave Full-Day Tour

Address: Cayo, Belize Hours: 8AM–5PM

Explore the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve

The Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve is located in the heart of the Cayo district, established in 1944 with an area of 430 km² to preserve the pine forests of Belize. Adventure lovers will find a wide variety of activities to experience here. For example, explore the Rio Frio cave – where the entrance is nearly 20 meters high with a clear river flowing through the center. Following the path along the river, you can see the unique rock slides and rocky walls, then stop at the sand at the other end for a picnic lunch.

Address: Cayo District, Belize

Jaguar spotting at the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary

Belize has the largest number of jaguars in the world, so the government has created an area of ​​up to 250,000 acres for them to be inhabited and protected, the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary in the district of Stann Creek, Belize. It also includes 128,000 acres of rainforest on the Maya mountain range.

You can join a guided tour in the evening to see these jaguars and many other wildlife. If you come during the day, you can watch bright red macaws, hornbills (national bird and symbol), vultures and hawks. Take note, bring insect repellent and a spirit of being willing to explore, through the jungle without fear.

Address: Mile 12 Southern Hwy, Dangriga, Belize

Bird watching on Half Moon Caye Island

You can combine a tour to the Great Blue Hole with a stop at Half Moon Caye Island – located at the southwestern corner of Lighthouse Reef Atoll. This World Heritage site is a beloved place by bird lovers. Here there are rare lesser coucal birds and many other beautiful little birds nesting in the bushes. You can hear their chirping and chirping as you approach them.

Come to this place from December to March each year is the season of the lesser coucal bird (Centropus bengalensis), very crowded. This place is also known for its crystal clear blue waters, making the dream of snorkelling of sea lovers come true.

Explore the Black Hole Drop

If Caracol is the mother of all Maya ruins, then the Black Hole Drop in the west leads the list of caves in Belize. This is a cave located at the edge of Actun Loch Tunich, a large sinkhole in the Maya Mountains. The diving experience to the bottom of the sinkhole is not for the faint of heart, but if you are adventurous lover, professional guides will take you down using the rope system. You will have a feeling of extreme excitement when surfing through the lush green forest canopy. Some Belize tours will offer a cheap outdoor lunch, which you can book in advance to experience.

“Chill” on Caye Caulker Island

Caye Caulker is one of the most charming islands in Belize. You can come here to stay for a few days in budget hotels, enjoy local cuisine at a very cheap cost and enjoy shopping for a few days.

On the island there is Split – which was created as a result of Hurricane Hattie in 1961, splitting Caye Caulker island into two-part. Today, Split is a small beach, a great place for you to immerse yourself in the warm water, enjoy delicious seafood dishes and snorkel to the ocean floor. Or more simply, you can rest on the benches, drink a beverage and watch the beautiful scenery at sunset.

Caye Caulker: 7-Stop Snorkeling in the Belize Barrier Reef

Mayan culture

Belize country is home to many groups of people with different backgrounds such as native Maya, Spanish immigrants from centuries ago, the British, ethnic minorities like Creole, East Indian, Garifuna, Maya, Mestizo … You have just experienced many different cultural forms, but also can try local specialties and other types of activities.

Mayan culture is one of the oldest cultures here. If you are interested in learning about diverse cultures around the world, you should definitely come to Belize once. Belize is one of the largest centers of Mayan culture with many archaeological sites are scattered throughout the country. Among them the most impressive Mayan ruins are found in the Chiquibul Forest Reserve in western Belize.

Mayan ruins

The ancient Mayan architecture still exists intact today and is one of the physical cultural heritages of mankind recognized by UNESCO. Coming to Belize, you will also have the opportunity to visit, learn about the mysterious culture of this tribe and get closer to the cultural features of this tribe before they disappear. Don’t miss the famous Maya Archaeological sites with stunning temples, spectacular step pyramids like in Lamanai, Xunantunich, Cerros, Lamanai, Altun Ha or Caracol.

To the west of Belize is the district of Cayo, where the Mayan remains of Pre-Columbian era are left. You can walk to visit Xunantunich and Caracol – The 2 tallest Mayan ruins structures in the country.

Xunantunich is located near the border of Guatemala, with a step pyramid of El Castillo more than 38 meters high, located on a mountain slope overlooking the Mopan River. This place was once the ritual center of the ancient Mayans and remains of temples and plazas still remain. If you climb to the top of the pyramid, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding jungle.

Caracol is located at the foot of Maya mountains in the Chiquibul Forest Reserve was discovered in 1937 by loggers. At its peak, it had an area of ​​more than 112 square kilometers and had about 120,000 inhabitants, more than the current population of Belize City. Caracol does not have any water source, people live on rainwater and cultivation.

Ambergris Caye

Ambergris Caye is one of the most beautiful islands that you should visit when traveling to Belize. It is not only famous for its attractive beaches, but also for its beautiful coral reefs, limestone caves and tropical forests. In particular, Ambergris Caye also has a traditional fishing village for visitors to have the opportunity to explore the customs and traditional culture of the local people. In addition to Ambergris Caye, you can also visit other islands like South Water Caye or Tobacco Caye.

Ambergris Caye is the largest island in Belize, where you can sunbathe, relax on the beach, fishing, boating or joining a foodtour to discover local cuisine.

Coming to the central town of San Pedro, you can sit on golf carts, cross each narrow street to admire the view. There are also many beautiful coastal resorts here, suitable for those who want an impressive vacation.

Mesoamerican Barrier Reef

With a length of up to 965km, Mesoamerican Barrier Reef is the second largest coral reef in the world, after Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. Here, you can enjoy relaxing moments by the warm white sand beach, immerse yourself in the cool water or snorkeling to admire the beauty of the coral reefs.

Scuba diving to watch the coral

The waters in Belize have coral reefs up to 290 km long with many different types of corals, creating an extremely large, diverse and lively population. Coming to Belize, you will learn how to dive in shallow sea waters to see coral, or if you already have a diving certificate, you can also dive by yourself to deeper sea areas to admire the underwater landscape.

Belize has a lot of wildlife, so visiting wildlife sanctuaries or nature reserves is a better choice. Belize Zoo, which is known as the “miniature zoo of the world” is the perfect destination. Unlike other zoos, it only rescues animals native to Belize.

If you don’t have enough time to get to the sanctuaries on the edge of the country, you can head to the Belize Zoo. Located along the George Prince Mile 25 Highway, this 29-acre zoo is home to and protects many native animals. The zoo began operations in 1983, becoming a home for animals and used as a backdrop in rainforest documentaries.

The Belize Zoo Wildlife Adventure & City Tour

From Belize City: Altun Ha and Belize Zoo Adventure

Here without iron bars, you will see animals roaming freely in the barns, close to their natural habitat. Currently there are about 175 animal species representing 45 species that live in the zoo. The Belize Zoo also operating as a rehabilitation center for injured and rescued animals.

Address: Mile 29 Western Hwy, La Democracia, Belize Area: 12 ha Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 9AM–4PM

Crooked Tree Village

Belize is home to more than 500 species of birds and you don’t have to go deep into the forest to see them. Crooked Tree Village is one of the ideal destinations for you to immerse yourself in nature and watch the birds fly.

Explore the tropical forests of Belize

Belize owns tropical forests with many rare animals preserved to this day. When visiting the allowed tropical forests, visitors will have the opportunity to admire the strange animals only available in Belize such as the keel-billed toucan (Ramphastos sulfuratus), Tapirs, jaguars … Especially Belize is also country owns the first American jaguar santuary in the world, helping this animal to limit the current extinction threat.

Belize travel guide: What to eat?

Belize cuisine is a blend of diverse cuisines of all ethnic groups living in the country. Even a dish originating thousands of years ago still exists as Tamales cake using cornflour. Don’t miss out Cochinita pibil (slow-roasted pork dish), pork is marinated in strongly acidic citrus juice, adding annatto seed which imparts a vivid burnt orange color, and roasting the meat while it is wrapped in banana leaf or seeking familiarity with British-influenced bread, beer and cheese.

Enjoy chocolate in the Mayan way

Belize is known as the cradle of chocolates, proofs show that the Mayan Indians love to drink chocolate every day. The Toledo district in southern Belize is the hub for most chocolate production today. You can combine a trip to Lubaantun relic exploration with learning about the role chocolate plays in Mayan culture. Or visit a cocoa farm to witness firsthand the process of making chocolate.

Belize travel blog: Where to stay?

Below we recommend more best cheap, budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to..

• Macaw Bank Jungle Lodge , a top rated lodge with room rates from $120/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Colinda Cabanas , a top rated hotel with room rates from $78/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Maya Beach Hotel , a top rated hotel with room rates from $161/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Lodge Hidden Valley Inn & Reserve , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $201/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Grand Caribe Belize Resort and Condominiums , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $304/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Belize travel blog: Before you go

• However, recently Belize has often emerged that the problems of looting, theft, murder and robbery are very dangerous and is one of the reasons why tourists are concerned when coming here. Currently, the government has implemented strict security measures to completely limit this situation, but this still causes a great haunt for tourists before traveling in this country.
• When planning a trip to Belize, it is important to take care of your personal possessions carefully, not going to remote areas without security measures. Do not go with strangers as well as get acquainted with people who have not clear background in this place. These precautions will help to ensure that possible dangers are avoided not only in Belize but also in other tourist destinations.
• Known as one of the most famous destinations in the world for its romantic sea scenery, Belize tourism will bring you great experiences for your upcoming vacation. You can choose to book tours or self-traveling to have the opportunity to experience all the great services in this country as well as its splendid islands. Happy travelling!

Belize blog: Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Belize you can refer to

• From Belize City: Zip Lining and Cave Tubing Adventure
• Belize: Belize City to/from Placencia/Hopkins Transfer
• Belize City: 5-Hour Cave Kayaking Tour
• San Ignacio: Cave Tubing with Lunch & Optional Zipline
• San Ignacio: Caracol Maya Ruins & Waterfall Tour with Lunch

Are you looking for more top things to do in Belize: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here.

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The Perfect Belize Itinerary: 7 Unforgettable Days of Jungle & Islands

Last Updated: December 26, 2023 //  by  Ashley Smith Leave a Comment

When I first drew up my Belize itinerary, I had no idea it would end up being one of the most exciting and memorable trips ever. I mean it, I was tearing up on my last day knowing I had to leave this incredible country. (Not only because I had just acquired the sunburn to end all sunburns.) That’s how amazing, beautiful, fun, delicious, welcoming, and surprising this place is.

For that reason, I’m so happy to share with you this perfect 7-day Belize itinerary so you can have just as an unforgettable time as I did.

Table of Contents

Belize Packing List

How long to spend in Belize

How long you should spend in Belize all comes down to how long you can spend in Belize.  Having never been there before, I didn’t want to commit too long in case I didn’t like it. But I wanted to give it enough time to experience both the jungle and the island side of things.

That being said, you could certainly spend a month here and never have a boring moment – there’s that much to do here. But, one week is still a great amount of time in which to explore the ancient Mayan sites, get up to some adventures in the jungle, and chill out on the Caribbean beaches. In my opinion, 7 days makes the perfect Belize itinerary for first time visitors.

Don’t miss: What to Pack for Belize (And What I Can’t Belize I Brought!)

Best time to visit Belize

Similarly, the best time to visit Belize is whenever you can visit Belize. However, there are definitely more preferable times around which to plan your Belize itinerary. For instance:

December – May

December – May is Belize’s dry season and definitely the best time to visit. You’ll have clear, sunny days and very little chance of vacation-ruining rains. It will also be plenty warm enough during this time despite this being the “winter” months.  

However, this is also the most popular / busiest time to visit Belize. Tourist season in Belize peaks at Easter! So, it will be a bit more “crowded” than other times, prices may be higher, and hotels and tours may have limited availability. But, this is Belize, not the Amalfi Coast in July , so you should be just fine (as long as you plan accordingly).

June – December

June – December is Belize’s wet season when you’ll most likely encounter some rains. However, this isn’t set in stone (‘cause weather be weather), and June, July, and even August can still be great months to travel.

I personally visited in June. It was HOT (bordering on too hot actually) and, despite being the “wet season,” was actually super dry. So, you can plan for the most “ideal” situations, but again, weather be weather.

Popular Belize events

There are also a handful of popular annual events in Belize you may be interested in planning your Belize itinerary around. Check out:

Lobster Fest – Belize’s Lobster Fest is an annual celebration that takes place in July in Caye Caulker, Ambergris Caye, and Placencia.

Chocolate Festival of Belize – Belize’s chocolate festival takes place in late May in Punta Gorda (the “chocolate capital of Belize” apparently).

International Music and Food Festival – Belize’s International Music and Food Festival is held in Ambergris Caye in late July, mon.

7-day Belize itinerary at a glance

Now I’ll get into the nitty gritty of my perfect Belize itinerary. This 7-day itinerary actually starts on Day 0 (arrival day, we don’t count that). It includes 3.5 days in the jungle and 3.5 days on the islands. *chef’s kiss*

Day 0: Arrive in Belize; transfer to your jungle eco-lodge

Day 1, jungle: Jungle adventures in the Cayo District

Day 2, jungle: Day trip to Tikal National Park in Guatemala

Day 3, jungle: San Ignacio and ATM Cave tour

Day 4, jungle/islands: Wake up in the jungle, transfer to Caye Caulker

Day 5, islands: “Go Slow” in Caye Caulker (or not)

Day 6, islands: Unforgettable snorkeling in the Belize Barrier Reef

Day 7, islands: Soak up that island life before departing

Belize itinerary, day 0: Arrive + transfer to San Ignacio

The start of your perfect Belize itinerary begins with arriving in Belize (obviously). You can fly to Belize with Alaska Air, American Airlines, Delta, Southwest, Sun Country Airlines, and United. You can even get direct (nonstop) flights to Belize from:

• Seattle, Los Angeles (Alaska)
• Dallas , Miami (American Airlines)
• Atlanta (Delta)
• Fort Lauderdale, Houston (Southwest Airlines)
• Duluth and Minneapolis, MN (Sun Country Airlines – If you know what Sun Country Airlines is then I guess you’re reading this in Minnesota.)
• Chicago, Denver, Houston (United Airlines)

You’ll want to fly into Belize City (airport code BZE), the former capital of Belize (but not really an especially worthwhile city to visit). From Belize City, you’ll start your Belize itinerary in the western part of the state – in the Cayo District near the town of San Ignacio. But first you’ll need to get there.

How to get to San Ignacio from Belize City

There are a few different ways to get from Belize City to San Ignacio and they all vary wildly . Choose wisely. Maybe do as I say and not as I do.

Public bus from Belize City to San Ignacio

Personally, I opted for the public bus . The trip takes between 2-3 hours and costs around $4 total, but the ride is anything but smooth, literally and figuratively. The bus is dirty and crowded (you might actually have to stand the whole time). It makes frequent stops and the whole thing is just chaotic.

Because it’s really just an old American school bus, there are no seatbelts, luggage racks, or air conditioning. There’s not even a website or ticket system. Just open windows letting in all the road dirt and exhaust fumes and a topless woman breastfeeding in the seat next to you while her infant stares directly into your eyes.

You’ll need to take a cab from the airport to “the bus station” and this is where my assistance leaves you because what comes next is totally random. Ask around for the bus to San Ignacio, ask how to pay, ask where you should be picked up, and prepare for it all to seem just totally made up on the spot.

Once on the bus, know now that I’ve been told you need a PhD in order to drive in Belize – a degree in pothole diversion. So, hold on to your butts! BUT ! The public bus is cheap and the ride will certainly be one you never forget.  

Belize City to San Ignacio by rental car

You can certainly rent your own car to get from Belize City to San Ignacio. But, do you have a PhD? I’m told this is mandatory. (And from what I’ve witnessed personally, oh hell yeah it is.) The ride is going to be rough and will take about 2 hours. Check out the best local Belize car rental deals here and godspeed.

Private shuttles from Belize City to San Ignacio

Otherwise, you can take a private shuttle to San Ignacio from Belize City. This will also take about 2 hours (no stops to pick up coconut salesman, go figure) but will cost just slightly more than $4. Some charge per person and others offer big discounts the bigger your group is.  

There are lots of times to choose from and you’ll get the ride all to yourself, all the way from BZE to San Ignacio. Check out the best Belize shuttles here :

• Private shuttle: Belize airport to San Ignacio town
• Private transfer from Belize airport to San Ignacio
• Shared shuttle: Belize International Airport to San Ignacio

Hotel pickup in Belize City

Another option I highly recommend is to just have your lodging arrange a pickup at the airport for you. Yes, this is going to be the costliest option, but it’s also the most stress-free!

For this Belize itinerary I’m going to recommend you stay at the Black Rock Lodge (more on that in a minute). They offer private airport shuttle service all the way from the airport to their front door. (Because of their remote location, you would still have to get picked up in San Ignacio because you need a special vehicle to get to their property.)

If you’re staying at Black Rock, book your airport pickup with them and call it a day! Otherwise, check to see if your jungle lodging offers the same service.

Also check out: 17 Things that Shocked Me in Belize

Where to stay in the Belize jungle

There are a handful of fantastic jungle lodges to choose from in Belize, but I HIGHLY recommend checking out the Black Rock Lodge . This place is one of my all-time favorite lodging choices and that’s still an understatement.

BRL is a completely self-sufficient eco-lodge deep in the rainforest. It’s bursting with awesome jungle adventures, resident wildlife, an amazing staff, and so much more. The food and drinks here are so good and everything is produced on site, ethically, and sustainably.

Seriously stop me or I will rave about this place for dayzzzz . Instead, I wrote an entire post about how awesome this place is – read my Black Rock Lodge review here . You can read more reviews and book your stay here . You can also watch this quick video I made about them here:

Other accommodation options

However, if Black Rock Lodge should be all booked up by the time you go to reserve, other popular and nearby jungle accommodation options include:

• Ka’ana Resort & Spa – beautiful location, lots of activities and spa treatments, amazing food
• Mahogany Hall Luxury Boutique Resort – spacious suites, botanical setting, highly-rated staff
• Table Rock Lodge – excellent reviews, very jungle-y, on-site restaurant and bar
• See all San Ignacio-adjacent lodging here. ( Expedia and Hotels.com usually have good deals too.)

Settle in to your jungle accommodations

Once you’ve made it to Black Rock Lodge, you’ll be greeted with a welcome drink and a quick tour of the property. Spend more time exploring on your own while you wait for dinner, or go ahead and put on your bathing suit and head down to the river. (If you can make it over the rapids without falling off your tube you get a free drink!)

You can work in a light hike, a mountain bike, a more in-depth tour of the property, go for a swim in the pool, or let the resident bird nerd show you all the toucans and other colorful creatures that live nearby.

Soon you’ll enjoy an incredible candlelit dinner among new friends. Then, fall asleep in your hammock under the millions of stars above you (and the Jurassic sounds of howler monkeys across the river that will seep into your darkest nightmares). This Belize itinerary truly is unforgettable.

Belize Itinerary, day 1: Welcome to the jungle!

Today is your first full day of the Belize itinerary. Do you know where you are? You’re in the jungle, baby! There are seriously so many options as to how you can spend today.

Partake in some jungle adventures

Personally, I did the following during my time in Belize’s jungles:

Mountain Summit hike in the morning – This trail takes a couple of hours and winds through the jungle up and up to the top of the mountain for excellent views of the rainforest. So much wildlife and beautiful plants and flowers along the way. Also, so much sweat.

Lunch at the lodge – Black Rock Lodge serves three amazing meals a day in the most blissful dining setting. Don’t miss a single meal there, seriously.

Mountain biking – BRL offers mountain bike rental free of charge to their guests. We rode down the road that leads out of the property, past burning wildfires and teak forests and beyond. (And then walked my ass back up because… exhaustion.)

Swim in the river before dinner – All that sweaty fun today led me straight down to the river for a cool swim in nature. Then, another drool-worthy jungle dinner. (There’s also a great pool for those a little fish-phobic.)

Guided night hike through the jungle – A couple we met the night before recommended this to us and it will forever be one of the coolest things I’ve done while traveling. A trained jungle guide takes you along the trails after dark and shows you all the unbelievable things that happen at night.

He points out otherwise unseen nocturnal creatures of all kinds and seriously so much more. It was AMAZING. Important note: you don’t have to hold a tarantula if you don’t want to.

More jungle adventures

Besides the awesome jungle activities we did on the first day of our Belize itinerary, there are many more options for how to spend your day at Black Rock Lodge. You can also choose from:

Canoeing and kayaking – Head out along the Macal River with a trained naturalist guide. Or head to the beach area to do some stand-up paddleboarding. Or just head to bar, no judgment.

River tubing – Do absolutely no work whatsoever and just float down the river. Free rum punch if you can make it over the Black Rock waterfall without falling off! Tubes are totally complementary.

More hiking – Besides the Mountain Summit, there are many more hiking trails that start at the lodge for all different hiking levels. Even a wildlife hike! (Pick up a trail map at the tour desk.)

Spelunking – Take your hiking desire into one of Belize’s awesome cave systems. Search for Mayan artifacts and cool cave formations.

Yoga – This is a wellness lodge of sorts, after all. Borrow one of their yoga mats for free if you didn’t bring one. (I definitely did not include one in my Belize packing list .)

Birding – Follow your nose out to the bird tower for panoramic views with their bird guide! (That’s a toucan joke.) Belize is actually one of the biggest birding destinations in the world.

Visit Mayan sites – You can also head off-site to tour some of the most popular Mayan sites in the area like Cahal Pech, Caracol , Yaxhá, and Xunantunich .

San Ignacio – Don’t forget you can always head into San Ignacio for market day or just to check out the town.

Most popular Belize jungle excursions

If you’re looking for something a little different (and perhaps more organized and/or guided), check out these most popular Belize jungle excursions around San Ignacio:

• Xunantunich & Cave Tubing Combo Tour – Full-day history and adventure tour, small groups, lunch included. (Or check out this unique tour that combines a visit to Xunantunich and horseback riding .
• Cave Tubing & Jungle Ziplining Combo Tour – Full-day guided adventure through the caves and over the jungles, lunch included
• See all San Ignacio jungle adventure options here on Viator and here on Get Your Guide .

Belize Itinerary, day 2: Day trip to Tikal

Yes, one of the most popular things to do in Belize is actually leave it for Guatemala. Do with this information what you will, but it’s totally worth it.

Tikal National Park in nearby Guatemala is one of the largest and most important ancient Maya sites you can visit. It’s just a quick drive over the border from San Ignacio and is so cool .

I won’t spill all the details here, because I wrote a whole post on taking a day trip to Tikal – what you need to know, how to get there, what to see, some important dos and don’ts, etc. Check out my full guide to a Tikal day trip here .

And if you already know you want to do this, take a look at some of the Tikal day tour options here:

• Belize to Tikal Day Trip with Local Lunch from San Ignacio – Full day tour, comfortable transportation, your own local guide, includes lunch.
• Private Belize to Tikal Day Tour with Lunch + Guide – Includes a private guide, air conditioned transport, lunch
• Check out all the Tikal day trip options on Viator and Get your Guide to find one that best suits your needs!

You’ll return from your Tikal day trip totally exhausted so take it easy for the rest of the night. Enjoy the amazing dinner at Black Rock Lodge and get some sleep for another epic adventure tomorrow!

Belize Itinerary, day 3: ATM Cave tour

Another epic day in Belize dawns and this will be another you won’t soon forget. Today, book yourself on one of the once-in-a-lifetime ATM Cave tours.

The ATM Cave in Belize (Actun Tunichil Muknal) is another ancient Maya site, but this one is inside a surreal cave system. You’ll swim and tunnel through these ancient caves to get to a skeleton that sparkles. But the path to get there is straight out of an Indiana Jones flick.

If you’ve done any kind of research on what to do in Belize, I’m positive that the ATM Cave tour has dominated those lists. And it is not overrated at all – it totally deserves those top spots!

However… the ATM Cave is not for everyone. It’s an epic adventure, yes, but a challenging one in many ways. Check out my full guide to touring the ATM Cave in Belize here to get all the exciting details and heart-stopping realities.

And if you already know you want to do this, take a look at some of the ATM Cave tour options here:

• ATM Cave Tour and Picnic – Ton of rave reviews, full day, lunch + rum punch included! (This is closest to the one I did – rum punch and all!)
• ATM Cave Tour from San Ignacio – Full day tour, all fees included, packed lunch/snacks/water included
• ATM Cave with Local Lunch from San Ignacio – Full day, lunch and water included, tons of 5-star reviews!
• See all ATM Cave tour options here in case something else fits your style better.

Again, after your full day tour of the ATM Cave, you’re going to be totally pooped. (It’s a physically-taxing adventure to say the least!) Take it easy, enjoy dinner, pass the hell out.

Lemme help you plan! Also read: What to Pack for Your ATM Cave Tour

Belize Itinerary, day 4: Jungle > Islands

After your night of much-needed rest, enjoy one last Black Rock breakfast and prepare to move over to the islands. If you want, squeeze in some last minute birding or hiking, or any of the other awesome activities on-site. Now, make your back towards Belize City and over the water to the island of Caye Caulker.

How to get to Caye Caulker

To get to Caye Caulker you’ll need to take the water taxi from Belize City. The trip takes about 45 minutes and costs just $20 per person.

If you utilize the private shuttle service at Black Rock Lodge, they will happily drop you off right at the water taxi port in Belize City. Otherwise, take your chosen transportation method back to the Belize City and get a (car) taxi to the water taxi dock.

Once on Caye Caulker, you’ll need to either walk or organize a pickup at the port to get to your chosen accommodation. FYI – Caye Caulker is a car-less island. It’s either bicycle, feet, or golf cart from here on out. (The island is just 5 total square miles so it’s not like you’ll have far to go.)

There will most likely also be golf-cart drivers hanging out at the dock in case you need a ride. (This is what we did – just hailed a golf cart once we arrived.)

Where to stay on Caye Caulker

There are lots of totally pleasant places to stay on Caye Caulker, but for my Belize itinerary I trusted my island time to Colinda Cabanas .

We had our own adorable beach cabana for our stay with lots of great amenities, everything we needed actually. The staff was so welcoming and helpful. It was so peaceful and private; I would not hesitate to stay here again! (Seriously, book your room at Colinda Cabanas now !)

Besides Colinda Cabanas, some other popular Caye Caulker hotels include:

• Blue Zen – A favorite of my readers, free bikes, swimming pool, sun terrace and grill, and much more.
• Sea Dreams Hotel – Free WiFi, bar and rooftop terrace on site, free bikes and kayaks
• Weezie’s Ocean Front Hotel and Garden Cottages – Choose from cottages, guest rooms, oceanfront suites, and more. Kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkel gear for free!

After your all checked in on Caye Caulker, take a stroll around the main part of the island. Grab some street food, do a little souvenir shopping, then post up at one of the super chill bars along the beach.

Watch the sunset and continue resting up from the past few days of your Belize itinerary. You’re on Caye Caulker now where the motto is “Go Slow” so you better get used to it.

Belize Itinerary, day 5: Go slow in Caye Caulker

This is very hard for me to write, but Day 5 of your Belize itinerary is all about embracing Caye Caulker’s motto and “Go Slow.” I personally am not a go-slow kinda traveler, but it was incredibly easy to adjust here.

This is your day to just chill out in the sun and do nothing (if you don’t want to). If you’re more like me and you still want to do something, check out this list of 23 Exciting Things to Do in Caye Caulker .

For instance, you can spend your day fishing, kite surfing, sailing, swimming, diving, exploring by bike, taking a scenic flight over the Blue Hole, yoga, kayak, meet some seahorses, and much more. And then spend your evening with a sunset sail. See the full list for all the details!

Belize Itinerary, day 6: Snorkeling + the Split

Okay, now that you’re all rested up and ready to get back at it, it’s time to spend Day 6 of your Belize itinerary in the water. Belize is located along the Hol Chan Marine Reserve – the world’s second most incredible barrier reef. (Their words, not mine. But also mine.)

Snorkeling in Belize

For real though, the snorkeling here is unreal. You’ll swim with sea turtles and a million tropical fish, nurse sharks and rays, eels, manatees, and more. You’ll get to explore a sunken ship and learn all about the stunning wildlife in this area from the most accommodating local guides.

Snorkeling in Belize was absolutely one of the highlights of my trip and I took my tour with Caveman Snorkeling Tours. And yes, I wrote an entire post on it because I had such a great time! Also check out: My Day Snorkeling in Belize with Caveman Snorkeling Tours .

I highly recommend Caveman Snorkeling Tours, but if you need other options, also check out these tours that all include small groups, lunch and refreshments, expert guides, snorkeling equipment, and GoPro footage of your underwater adventure:

• Hol Chan Marine Reserve Small-Group Tour from Caye Caulker
• 7-Stop Snorkeling in the Belize Barrier Reef from Caye Caulker
• Or this 3-stop snorkeling tour for just the highlights (includes snacks but not lunch)
• Check out all Belize snorkeling tours here on Viator and here on Get Your Guide .

Hang out at the Split

After your day of snorkeling, chances are you’ll be super wiped out again (but exceptionally tan). So, for the rest of your day in Caye Caulker, head over to the Split.

The Split is literally a split in the island formed by a hurricane… but now it’s the most popular hangout spot on the island. Grab a bucket of Belikin at the Lazy Lizard and just relax in the turquoise waters or play some corn hole – whatever you have the energy left for.

Belize Itinerary, day 7: Leaving the island life behind

Depending on when your flight home is, you may or may not get to enjoy a little more of that island life before you head out. Grab some last-day fry jacks at Errolyn’s, go for another leisurely stroll, or hang out (literally, so many hammocks) on your nearest over-water pier.

Afterwards, you’ll need to take the water taxi back to Belize City, and then a regular ol’ auto taxi to the airport where you’ll leave the island life behind. It will be a sad day, to say the least.

Belize is an incredible, unforgettable, and, dare I say it, unBelizeable place to visit. The people are so warm and welcoming, the scenery is stunning, and the adventures are epic. Regardless of how you fill your Belize itinerary, consider yourself lucky to be able to experience this Central American wonderland!

More info to supplement your Belize itinerary

• Heading to Belize?  Find  great places to stay here on Booking.com (my fave booking site). But Hotels.com and Expedia usually have similar deals too!
• Need a car?  Check out the  best rental car deals in Belize here.
• Don’t forget to  pick up this guidebook  for all your Belize sightseeing. (It includes a day trip to Tikal too!)
• Want more Belize content? Check out all my Belize posts here.

Have questions about visiting Belize? Ask away in the comments below or reach out on Instagram ! Have fun in Belize!

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About Ashley Smith

Ashley is a historian and Oktoberfest expert & tour guide. She has traveled to 33 countries and specializes in quick trips throughout Europe and the Americas that prioritize hiking adventures, museums of all kinds, cultural experiences, and jam-packed itineraries. She hails from Memphis, TN and currently lives in Boston with her husband and two feline sidekicks.

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Trip to Belize: 7-10 Day Itinerary | Detailed Travel Itinerary for Belize - IL

Belize is remarkable in that you can see the whole country in a single trip—the region is about the size of New Jersey, with one country road-like highway system connecting all the major towns. There is also a wonderful regional jet system that can get you from place to place even faster—if you can stomach a four- to 12-person plane!

On your first trip, I definitely recommend checking out Ambergris Caye , Caye Caulker, and Placencia , with a trip out to Cayo if you have a few extra days. Check out Corozal as well, if you have the time, but this is better for a second trip as it is a place expats tend to choose after more time in—and a greater understanding of—Belize.

Note: If you are considering Corozal, I would add this in after you return to Belize Airport (BZE) from Ambergris Caye. You can drive up there or take a shuttle, which takes about two hours, and then drive to Cayo after that (two more hours), and continue on with the itinerary. I highly recommend you do Corozal with an agent (like Macarena Rose) who can show you the many hard-to-find but great expat communities about seven miles from the town center. I don't recommend navigating this by yourself for your first trip as you may miss a lot—Corozal tends to look very gritty and disappointing for a first-time visitor until you know where to go.

Days 1-4: Ambergris Caye (With a Day Trip to Caye Caulker)

You will fly into Philip Goldson International Airport (BZE), the one and only international airport, where you can take the water taxi (San Pedro Express or Ocean Ferry) or the puddle jumper (Tropic Air or Maya Island Air) to San Pedro, Ambergris Caye. You can book either of these modes online, as they both have easy-to-navigate websites. I recommend you spend at least four nights in Ambergris Caye. If you have limited time, I recommend that you splurge on the fastest transportation between places (puddle jumper, not driving) to save about a day's travel—well worth it.

On one of your days in Ambergris, you can take the same ferry over to Caye Caulker —only a 20-minute boat ride—where you can spend a whole day (this should be enough time to see if it appeals to you). You can spend time at the Lazy Lizard/the Split, and I recommend taking the free little boat over to Northside Beach Club (previously Koko King) on the north side of the Split, as this is becoming a popular place for expats as well. There is a lot being built on North Caye, and you can walk around on a sandy path and see what’s around—Blu Zen is a very popular spot for brand-new, gorgeous condos. Have dinner at Hibisca, and watch the sunset on the leeward side at Iguana Reef Inn.

Back on Ambergris, I suggest you stay right in town where you have access to everything on foot and where you can meet a lot of expats. SunBreeze Hotel, Ramon's, The Palapa House, Blue Tang Inn, and Caye Casa are all nice accommodation options within walking distance of everything in town. Go to Palapa Bar, Sandbar, Sandy Toes, Nauti Crab, and Ugly Duck right by there (lots of expats), and make time to visit north and south of town, a short bike or golf cart ride away. You can even stay at Seven Seas Resort, run by the old owners of the popular bar Crazy Canucks, who now own the attached restaurant Nauti Crab—this is expat heaven, with a bit of a party atmosphere if you are up for it. I recommend you do the half-day snorkel at Hol Chan Marine Reserve, and rent a golf cart for a day to see Secret Beach, as this area is exploding in popularity with many expats moving there.

Check out the vast number of different condo complex options north of the bridge, such as Mara Laguna and Tres Cocos, and walk by “millionaire’s row”—a gorgeous stretch of beach homes starting by Crocs Sunset Sports Bar, which is across the street from the beach, and going all the way north as far as you can go. Also, don’t miss yoga over the water north of the bridge at Ak’bol. Marbucks is a great place for breakfast, Truck Stop is a non-stop food truck party, Coco Locos is a great place to meet expats, and there are a number of other popular bars and hangouts in the more low-key, north-of-the-bridge area. You can have a romantic dinner on the roof at Rain, and north of the bridge is also the way to Secret Beach.

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Extend the Trip: Cayo

(Add a trip to Cayo if you have time for a 10-day itinerary. Cayo would fall on days 4-6, followed by 3-4 nights in Placencia.)

If you think Cayo /San Ignacio is for you, it is more challenging, but well worth the effort to check it out. After Ambergris, you can ferry back to Belize City and take a two-hour shuttle to Cayo. You can then shuttle from Cayo to Placencia. This would be instead of the direct puddle jumper flights, but shuttles are easy to book online. The most well-known shuttles are William Shuttle Service, Belize Shuttle Service, Roam Belize, and Discounted Belize Shuttle Service.

In Cayo, unless you want a romantic jungle resort stay, you can find great, low-cost options like Midas near the town center. Ka’ana is another luxury resort close to town, and I highly recommend San Ignacio Resort Hotel as well. If you are adventurous, make sure you do the ATM cave tour, go cave tubing, and see the Xunantunich Mayan Ruins.

Days 4-7: Placencia (With a Trip to Maya Beach)

If you know Cayo is not for you, you can take the puddle jumper to Placencia from San Pedro. This trip takes about two hours as it has a stop at the municipal airport, and is usually around $160 per person each way. (Note that you can also rent a car from Belize City. I highly recommend this if you are a seasoned driver outside the U.S. as you’ll have greater flexibility.) You will land right outside the village of Placencia if you take the puddle jumper, and I recommend you stay in the village at first. Belizean Nirvana is very nice, Brisa Oceano is highly recommended, or The Ellysian is even more high-end. You can also opt for Ranguana Lodge for a more rustic but budget-friendly place. On one of the days there, rent a golf cart and drive up to Maya Beach. It is going to take you some time but it is a 16-mile peninsula and worth seeing all of it.

Development is happening all over the peninsula, slowly. The only area I would point out is the drive through Seine Bight as you go from Placencia to Maya Beach. This is not a tourist area—this is a Garifuna village and can be a bit hard on the eyes. Although this is a section of the peninsula where you will see signs of poverty, the villagers are very welcoming and are used to tourists. (It is a popular place to stop, so don't hesitate to stop anywhere.)

Maya Beach is north of the peninsula and is very popular with expats. Whereas Placencia village is a mix of locals, tourists, and expats, and is the heart of the peninsula, Maya Beach is smaller and more low-key. There you’ll find mostly expat homes and guesthouses with a few restaurants—you definitely need to check it out.

If you have extra time, I also recommend a stop, or at least a drive through, the Hopkins and Sittee River area—the shuttle driver can add this stop to the journey as it is on the way down to Placencia. Many expats choose Hopkins, but most tourists need a bit of experience in Belize before choosing this for a first itinerary—it is a more rustic and much smaller village than even Placencia.

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How to Travel To Belize

Last Updated: May 5, 2021

wikiHow is a “wiki,” similar to Wikipedia, which means that many of our articles are co-written by multiple authors. To create this article, volunteer authors worked to edit and improve it over time. This article has been viewed 18,098 times.

Belize is a Central American country that borders the Caribbean Sea, Guatemala and Mexico. Belize is a British Commonwealth country, and you will find English spoken throughout the country. Spanish is commonly spoken near the borders, along with a Creole formed from a mix of colonial languages. The country is known for its coral reef, adventure sports, Mayan ruins and beautiful jungles. Tourists usually travel to Belize City for water sports and beach time between December and April, when they can also avoid hurricane season. Find out how to travel to Belize.

Belize Travel Advice

• Get your vaccinations at least 6 weeks in advance of your trip for maximum effect. See a travel medicine provider in your area.

• If you do not decide to take malaria medication, it is a good idea to use insect repellent to avoid being bitten by disease-carrying mosquitoes. You can also avoid being bitten by wearing long sleeved shirts and long pants and sleeping underneath a mosquito net.
• Belize is generally more expensive than most tourists realize, because it is far more expensive than neighboring Mexico and Honduras. Its relationship with Britain and America makes it an extremely popular tourist destination.

Planning your Trip

• Visit the coral reef. If you want to scuba dive, snorkel or hang out on the beach, you should choose destinations on the Caribbean. You can visit different Cays around the coast to gain access to different types of sea life.
• Visit the Mayan ruins. Belize is filled with Mayan ruins dating from AD 250 to 1000. You will need to stay in the interior of the country and do some hiking to find the best places. This can be difficult during the rainy season because of poor road conditions, so you may want to travel during the high, dry season.
• Go birding or wildlife watching. The interior of the country also has excellent birding, with 570 species of birds. Their large jungles contain iguanas, crocodiles and countless other forms of life. You will also need to take extra precautions in the wet season.
• Do adventure sports. Wind surfing, hiking, swimming, kayaking and many other outdoor pursuits can help you plan for an active vacation on the coast or further inland.

Expert Q&A

• Beware of the hurricane season. This usually lasts from June through November, and it corresponds with the low-season for travel. Any travel during this season can be delayed or canceled due to severe weather patterns. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/travel-and-living-abroad/travel-advice-by-country/north-central-america/belize
• http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/belize.htm
• http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1055.html
• http://www.travelbelize.org/

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50 things you need to know before traveling to Belize

Despite not being one of the most trendy destinations in the world, Belize is an excellent destination for those looking for adventure, warm seawater, and off-the-beaten-track destinations. This article will explore everything you need to know before traveling to Belize, including the best attractions, costs, safety, and food.

Despite being small, Belize is a memorable destination with many significant peculiarities to consider when planning your trip. This list of 50 Belize travel tips will help make your trip an unforgettable experience taking advantage of the best the country offers.

Page Contents

Belize and its people

#1 Located on the Caribbean coast of Central America, Belize borders Mexico to the north and Guatemala to the west and south.

#2 Despite being on the mainland of Central America, Belize is often considered a Caribbean country due to its culture and history. It is the only country in Central America whose official language is English and the only one that is part of CARICOM (Community of Caribbean Countries).

The People of Belize

#3 With only around 400,000 people, Belize is the smallest and least densely populated country in Central America. On the other hand, it is one of the countries with the highest population growth rate in America.

#4 Despite being small, Belize’s population is very diverse. Most are mestizo (52%), but there are substantial communities of Kriols (26%), Mayas (11%), and Garifunas (6%). There are also relatively small Indian and Chinese communities, but they are evident as they own many small businesses, such as electronics, grocery, and convenience stores.

#5 Despite this diversity, the most surprising community in Belize is the Mennonites, who represent almost 4% of the population. Mennonites are Christians, Protestant Baptists who believe in the words of Menno Simons, a Dutch priest who believed in the necessity for radical reform of the Catholic Church.

Belize Mennonites came mainly from Russia (and some from Pennsylvania ) and spoke Plautdietsch. Their distinctive clothing and Eastern European appearance make them extremely easy to spot. If you visit San Ignacio, you may see some in the city or nearby.

History of Belize

#6 With independence only in 1981, Belize is one of the newest countries in the Americas. It was also the only country in Central America colonized by the United Kingdom, hence the official language being English. While part of the United Kingdom, Belize was known as British Honduras.

#7 Guatemala does not recognize the independence of Belize since it believes that part (or all) of its territory should be part of Guatemala.

Although this issue has not yet been resolved, there is no armed conflict between the countries, and the borders are open. We crossed the border, and it was quick and straightforward.

Language and contact

#8 Given that Belize was a British colony, it’s not surprising that the official language is English. However, almost everyone also speaks Spanish, so contact with the locals is easy for most people.

Interestingly, some immigrants from Latin America, namely some street vendors, do not speak English. But given that his native language is Spanish, the dialogue is not difficult either.

# 9 Despite being facilitated by the languages, contact with the locals is a bit odd. We found Belize to be a country of almost extremes. We caught the friendliest and most attentive people, but it was also one of the countries where we felt least comfortable with some interactions.

On the street, people would interact with us boisterously, ask questions that were not very common, and it was difficult to understand why or what they wanted. We didn’t feel threatened; it was just weird and uncomfortable.

Is it safe to travel in Belize?

#10 Like other countries in the region, Belize has a relatively bad reputation due to some crime, especially in Belize City. In other places, during the day, it seemed calm, while at night, it is inadvisable to walk through the streets.

In practice, we felt quite comfortable everywhere during the day, but the vibe changed with a much heavier atmosphere during the night. Everything was much more relaxed on the islands, especially on Caye Caulker.

In Belize, you also see a lot of poverty, with many people drunk or high on the streets. In addition to being heartbreaking, it gives a greater sense of danger. Despite this, we didn’t have any problems.

We advise you to be aware of pickpocketers and not to carry a lot of money or visible valuables, especially in places with many people. Basically, don’t show off your money.

Belize weather

#11 The climate in Belize is humid tropical, i.e., it is generally hot, and humidity is high, especially in the summer. Coastal areas tend to be warmer than mountains inland.

The average temperature in Belize is 27ºC (80ºF), with minor variations throughout the year. The rainy season runs from May to November, with the hurricane season occurring from June to November, with a peak in September and October.

When to travel to Belize

12 In general, the weather in Belize is warm and sunny, with only a little rain in the summer. Thus, the biggest issue will be avoiding the hurricane season. In addition to regularly destroying the country (or part of it), they eliminate any travel plans.

Therefore, we advise against visiting Belize in September and October, as your trip may be spoiled, canceled, or worse. In the other months of the rainy season, the risk continues to exist but is smaller.

#13 For this reason, the high season in Belize runs from December to March when the weather is best. What’s more, it’s when it’s coldest in Europe, the US, and Canada , which makes Belize the ideal place to escape the cold and snow.

The high season is also when prices are higher, so if you want to try the shoulder season, it’s probably best to travel in April, May, and November. The risk is higher in November as hurricanes and heavy rains are still possible.

What to wear in Belize?

#14 As the weather is hot all year round, take comfortable, cool, light clothing. Belize is a very relaxed country, and you won’t have any problems with the dress code.

Despite being a very Catholic country, we didn’t think people were too conservative, so you shouldn’t have any concerns in that regard either.

If you are considering going to the mountains, wear warm clothing as it is noticeably cooler. Also take comfortable shoes, because if you’re like us, you’ll walk many kilometers during your trips.

Tourism in Belize

Tourism and travelers.

#15 Tourism is the primary sector of Belize’s economy. Before COVID, Belize received around 1.5-2M visitors annually, corresponding to over USD 500M in revenues, reaching approximately 25% of its Gross National Product.

After Covid, these numbers are naturally much lower, but it is expected that they will return to normal after 2022, thus helping the recovery of its economy. Belize is an impoverished country, and tourism is essential, as seen from the numbers above.

In addition to tourism, sugar and bananas are Belize’s two most produced and exported goods.

#16 Due to the language, most visitors to Belize are from the US, accounting for about 2/3 of all visitors. However, most of these travelers stay in resorts, so it is natural that if you travel as a backpacker, you will also see a lot of Europeans. Or at least that was our experience – we met many more Europeans than North Americans.

Anyway, tourism in Belize is oriented toward North Americans in terms of tours, resorts, food, and even the currency used, as we will see below.

#17 Belize’s famous Barrier Reef is the country’s only UNESCO heritage site. With about 300km from north to south, it is known for its transparent water and aquatic life, making it extremely popular for diving and snorkeling.

The Belize Barrier Reef is part of the Mesoamerican Reef system that runs from Cancun to Honduras. With 900km, it is considered the second largest in the world after the Australian.

What to visit in Belize?

#18 The most popular destinations in Belize are Caye Caulker (37%) and Caye Ambergris (31%), and San Ignacio (19%). Altogether 87% of people who visit Belize visit at least one of these three places, as they are undoubtedly the most famous destinations in the country.

Belize City, the country’s largest city and transport hub, only comes in fourth with 18% as it is unattractive to tourists.

#19 Belize’s Great Barrier Reef is arguably its main attraction and the most significant reason people travel to Belize. This is easily accessible from both Caye Caulker and Caye Ambergris.

#20 The most popular spot on the barrier reef is the famous Blue Hole. With a deep blue color, an almost perfectly circular shape, around 305 meters in diameter, and over 100 meters deep, the Blue Hole is unique, and it’s so perfect that it almost looks artificial.

If we add to this water with excellent visibility and an incredible diversity of marine life, it is easy to understand why it is so well-known and popular among divers.

#21 However, many other activities and tours can be done on both islands, as the barrier reef is genuinely incredible.

It is possible to dive into the natural marine reserves where you can see an immensity of fish, rays, and sharks. Or, if you don’t know how to dive, you can go on snorkel tours to see sharks, turtles, manatees, and rays.

Fishing tours are equally popular as the waters are very rich in fish. Or, if you want more physical activities, renting kayaks and SUP boards and navigating along the coast and the barrier reef is possible.

#22 Many travelers are faced with the question of whether to go to Caye Caulker or Caye Ambergris. In reality, it is perfectly possible to visit both, as they are relatively close and there are several daily ferries between the islands.

In summary, Caye Caulker is smaller and has fewer resorts and more hostels and guest houses. It is more visited by backpackers and therefore has a more relaxed and youthful atmosphere.

Caye Ambergris is much larger, has many more people (both locals and tourists), and has a greater variety of accommodations; it is mainly known for its many resorts – especially the most luxurious ones.

#23 In Caye Ambergris, you will need to rent a golf cart as the distances are long, but otherwise, it is an enjoyable activity. In Caye Caulker, you can walk everywhere, but you can rent bicycles or a golf cart if you want.

In this article, we compare the two islands, reviewing what is best in each and what type of traveler each island is best suited for. We prefer Caye Caulker, but it depends greatly on the kind of tourist you are and your tastes.

#24 Since neither Caye Caulker nor Caye Ambergris have breathtaking beaches. The water is fabulous, but there is practically no sand. The best beaches in Belize are probably in Placencia. Anyway, even in Placencia, don’t expect them to be at the level of Tulum, Playa del Carmen, or Cancun in Mexico.

Also close to Placencia is the Cockscomb Basin Nature Reserve, where you can see (if you’re lucky) Jaguars. They say it’s a fabulous place, but we didn’t have the opportunity to visit.

#25 San Ignacio is Belize’s premier inland destination and the starting point for tons of activities in Belize’s jungles, rivers, and caves.

The city is small and not particularly beautiful, but it has everything you need for a few days. The big attractions are away, sometimes a few hours away.

#26 The main activity in San Ignacio is the ATM cave. This cave was an ancient site of Mayan ceremonies. Even today, it is possible to find Mayan remains and artifacts, namely bowls and pans used in rituals and sacrifices.

But the highlight of the cave is undoubtedly the original human remains that are still there. Inside the cave, we can see bones, skulls, and even almost complete human skeletons precisely as they were initially there. They were not moved even to be analyzed and studied.

It is an amazing and unique place. It’s also an expensive tour but well worth the effort and price. See all the information in this article.

#27 San Ignacio also serves as a base to visit the Mayan ruins in Belize (or even Tikal in Guatemala). The best-known are El Caracol and Xunantunich.

The ruins of Xunantunich are very easy to visit, and it is possible to go there by public transport (and then a short hike). They are beautiful ruins and are in excellent condition. In low/medium season, it is possible to be there almost alone, which makes the visit very pleasant.

#28 El Caracol is the largest Mayan city in Belize. In fact, it is the largest city that has ever existed in Belize, as even today, no city approaches its maximum size.

El Caracol is deep in the jungle, right on the border with Guatemala. It’s a strenuous visit and very complicated to do without a tour. That, and that’s didn’t have the opportunity to visit it. Still, if you have the time and availability, it will undoubtedly be a highlight of any trip, as both the location and the surroundings are extraordinary.

Eating and Drinking in Belize

#29 Like everything else in the country, Belizean cuisine is a melting pot of influences. Regarding food, the most apparent influences are Mexican, British, and Caribbean.

You will find very different dishes in different regions or restaurants, but also dishes or variations of dishes that are very popular in Mexico , the Caribbean, and the rest of Central America.

#30 Food in Belize is quite expensive compared to neighboring countries, so if you want to save money, we advise you to use and abuse street food. Or try eating some easy hotel room meals .

In Belize, street food is very Mexican-influenced , so it’s delicious. You will find many dishes (Tortillas, Tamales, Papusas) from Mexico and Central America in Belize at very reasonable prices.

#31 The typical breakfast in Belize has substance but is delicious. It usually consists of eggs (fried or scrambled) served with beans, cheese, and sometimes bacon or sausage. It also comes with some bread, corn or wheat tortillas, johnny cakes, or fried jacks.

#32 Fry jacks and johnny cakes are delicious kinds of bread typical from Belize. They can accompany main meals, be served with fillings, or as breakfast.

Despite the name, Johnny Cakes are not cakes or pancakes. It is a kind of small bread made with yeast dough lightly cooked until golden. The dough takes corn flour, coconut milk, sugar, salt, and butter. They are delicious, with eggs, cheese, and beans for breakfast or a light lunch.

Fry jacks are a type of fried, very light bread. For breakfast, they are often filled with the same ingredients as Johnny cakes, but the tastes are entirely different. The fact that they are fried makes them a little greasy, but they are delicious and something to try in Belize.

#33 One of the things not to be missed when visiting either island is fresh fish and seafood.

In Caye Caulker, it is even possible to eat grilled lobster on the beach/street for only 15 USD. It is a delicious, fresh, and unforgettable meal, both for the location and the food.

Is it necessary to tip in Belize?

#34 As we mentioned earlier, Belize is heavily visited and influenced by the US, so it is not surprising that there is a tipping culture.

In restaurants, it is customary to tip at least 10% of the service if it is good. Sometimes it is already included in the bill (as a service), but often not.

Sometimes there’s an envelope in the hotel room or a sign saying that tips are welcome, and in more luxurious hotels, it is also expected to tip the staff. Finally, as in practically everyone in the world, the tour guides expect a tip at the end of the tour.

Money and Cost of Traveling in Belize

#35 The official currency of Belize is the Belizean Dollar (BZD), and the exchange rate is 1 USD to one BZD. It’s a fixed exchange rate, so it doesn’t change but confirm before going because there may be some unusual event, and they change the exchange rate.

#36 Since the exchange rate is fixed, and given the massive influx of Americans into Belize, the USD is used regularly. It is even natural to receive USD as a change if the seller doesn’t have BZD.

Unlike other countries where using the foreign currency is costly for travelers, it doesn’t make any difference here, as nothing is lost in the exchange. So if you have USD, take them, and you can use them anywhere.

In fact, sometimes, some prices are even in USD, especially for tourism-related services, such as tours. This is a little confusing, so we always confirmed whether they were selling in BZD or USD.

#37 We suggest that you always carry cash (BZD or USD), as many stores do not accept cards or charge an extra fee for using the card.

Fortunately, it is not difficult to find ATMs in most tourist places. Also, if you withdraw at Atlantic Bank (2022), you don’t pay any ATM fees.

Note that you may still have to pay other fees to your banks, like conversion fees, use of foreign currency, and all the additional creative fees that banks come up with.

How much does it cost to travel in Belize?

#38 This is one of the most complex answers, as it depends on the type of tourist you are, the activities you are looking for, how you travel, and the destination country.

That said, let’s share with you our overheads, knowing that we are backpackers and that we had a relatively quick trip and some activities, including the visit to the ATM caves and a tour of the Belize Barrier Reef.

#39 So, traveling as a backpacker couple, we spend 1042 Euros in 8 days, an average of 130 Euros, and 65 Euros per person per day. We include all our expenses except travel insurance (as it is annual) for trips in and out of the country.

In general, we consider it a relatively expensive country to travel to, especially compared to its neighbors, Guatemala and Mexico .

#40 Although globally expensive, saving on some items, particularly food, is possible if you cook a few times and make one street food meal a day. Street food is affordable in Belize, and on the other hand, restaurants are costly.

Accommodation is much more expensive than in Guatemala and Mexico, but it is possible to find affordable accommodation, even on the islands, especially if we’re not too fussy and stay in hostels (always private rooms) or cheap guest houses.

#41 What really destroys budgets in Belize are the pure tourist activities such as trips to the island and between islands, shuttles, and tours and entrance tickets.

A trip to the ATM cave can cost more than 100 Euros per person. A full-day snorkeling tour is similarly priced, while a scuba tour will naturally cost a lot more.

How to travel in Belize?

#42 On this trip to Belize, we used a mix of shuttles, ferries, and local buses. Although we usually prefer using buses, the reality is that some trips are too difficult to do that way. Especially if you go to Mexico and Guatemala. It is possible, but it is much more time-consuming and complicated.

We advise you to ask for prices in various places before buying because, in our experience, they vary a little. In general, we do not find border shuttles particularly expensive as they involve some logistics and facilitate border crossing.

Thus, for a tourist, it turns out to be very convenient, not least because they are not too expensive, especially compared to Mexico.

#43 Local buses, sometimes called chicken buses, are an excellent alternative to save some money on short distances or between popular cities. For example, going from San Ignacio to Belize City on a chicken bus is very easy.

These buses are usually old US school buses, painted in bright colors and sometimes with loud music. We used these buses a few times, without any problem. We also asked several people and were always told that it was OK.

But, of course, it is very different from taking a shuttle or private transport.

#44 We didn’t drive in Belize, so we can’t directly advise on that or on renting a car.

However, we can mention that, as in all of Latin America, the locals are not particularly good drivers and are a little impatient. It’s not particularly worrying. If you have experience driving in Africa, Asia, or Latin America, you shouldn’t have any significant problems.

#45 On the other hand, the main roads are in much better condition than we expected. It’s not that they’re outstanding, but they don’t have a lot of holes, and they’re easy to drive.

The problem is that there are practically no expressways, there’s some traffic in Belize City, and they have many speed bumps to force you to reduce speed. In addition, some roads are still under construction, which makes the journey longer than expected.

Other things I need to know before traveling to Belize

Do i need an adapter for belize.

#46 Electricity inputs in Belize are type A, B, or G with voltage 110/120V and frequency 60Hz. Type A and B are US, Japanese, and Chinese power sockets, while Type G are UK sockets. Therefore, if you come from Continental Europe or any other place outside those, you will need an adapter.

If you need an adapter, we recommend this universal adapter.

How is the internet in Belize?

#47 We advise you to buy a prepaid data SIM card as soon as you arrive in Belize. They are quite cheap, easy to pick up at almost any store, and have good cover. Only in remote areas should you have more problems with the connection.

We bought it from DIGI, and it worked perfectly.

Accommodations usually have WIFI in rooms and public areas, but we always advise you to confirm before booking. Finally, we advise against relying exclusively on public WIFI as they often do not work.

Do I need a visa to enter Belize?

#48 The Portuguese do not need an entry visa for trips of less than 30 days; however, a passport valid for more than six months after the end of the trip is required.

As mentioned above, we entered and left Belize by land, and in both cases, the border crossings were easy and even quick.

#49 Although there is no visa or payment to enter Belize, there is an exit fee of 20 USD for road departures and 55.5 USD for departures by plane. You can see more information here.

Belize travel guide

#50 The Belize travel guide we recommend is Lonely Planet Belize 8.

Alternatively, if you’re considering traveling around Belize, Guatemala and Yucatan, we highly recommend this guide covering all three regions.

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Glover's Reef Atoll, Belize

Belize promises lavish tropical getaways and exciting forest adventures, and the following answers to frequent travel questions can help you enjoy the country’s charms and natural beauty.

With overwater bungalows on private beaches, white-sand islands reminiscent of the best in Southeast Asia, yet closer to the US for a quick romantic getaway, family adventure, or senior trip, it is hard not to put Belize at the top of one’s travel wishlist. Its accessibility and attraction are yours to embrace, with our travel insight helping you every step of the way.

Discover the best times to visit Belize, recommendations of what to do on vacation, and more information to make your next trip an unforgettable experience.

When is the best time to visit Belize?

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The best time to visit Belize is from December to May. The rainy season ends in November and it’s warm from December to May. The pleasant temperatures and clearer skies are best for Belize beach vacations, sightseeing, and other experiences.

You can set off in the jungle with your family to visit Mayan ruins on a clear day, follow jaguar prints without worrying about the rain, or explore the remote cayes with your partner when sunsets are at their best. Belize during the dry season offers excellent weather for all adventures.

The rainy season, from June to November, brings wet weather to tropical areas. Though most prefer the dry season, rainy-season activities like scuba diving and museum tours are possible for travelers visiting during this quieter time of the year.

Learn more: Best Time to Visit Belize

Expert Tips for Discerning Travelers

Plan to spend between seven and 10 days exploring Belize. This timeframe is more than enough to see highlights like the tropical beaches of Placencia or Mayan ruins in the Cayo District. You can also spend a day or two at leisure, appreciating the coastal beauty around your luxurious floating bungalow.

Travelers with more time can spend up to two weeks in Belize, with plenty to see and do, or multiple days free to experience Belize on a whim. You can relish the romance of the Ambergris Caye when cruising around the island or search the forests and archeological sites around San Ignacio as a family, while still finding time to experience the highlights and relax between tours.

Learn more: 7 Day Belize Itineraries

Belize boasts coral islands, tropical rainforests, cultural cities, and coastal resort towns. Below, we share our top recommendations when choosing where to visit:

• Ambergris Caye
• Belize Barrier Reef
• San Ignacio
• Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary

Above all else, these places reveal the unparalleled tropical beauty of the country. The cayes present the clearest waters you can find in the world, the marine reserves protect fascinating sea life which you can view, and the wildlife sanctuaries provide endless adventure in prolific rainforests. You can learn more about these places and what to expect with our best places to visit in Belize .

Belize’s Caribbean coastlines and Central American jungles offer exciting opportunities for adventure travel and beach getaways, and the following are our recommendations of the top things to do:

• Explore the sea life on scuba diving or snorkeling excursions of the barrier reef, coral gardens, marine reserves, and islands
• Hike or trek through the rainforests, conservation areas, and wildlife sanctuaries in search of endemic animals and tropical birds
• Tour historical archeological sites and mysterious Mayan ruins
• Experience the natural beauty on cave tours and while kayaking through the massive caverns
• Spend days relishing the sunshine at lavish overwater bungalows overlooking private beaches

As you consider your Belize vacation, our insight into the top things to do in Belize can help you learn more about activities for your trip. Whether submerging the crystal-clear waters to see what lies beneath or searching forests for ocelots, we share the best experiences and how to enjoy them.

Belize is a brilliant destination around the corner from the United States, famous for its jungle, cultural monuments, and as home to the second-largest barrier reef in the world. With shorelines that rival the best in Southeast Asia, rainforests that look like they belong in the greater Amazon, and vibrant neighborhoods nearby ancient Mayan complexes, you can experience a tropical or cultural vacation without traveling far.

Learn more: Top Reasons to Visit Belize on Vacation

The Caribbean seas surrounding Belize boast stunning islands, or cayes, with sparkling turquoise waters. The most popular to visit include:

• Caye Caulker
• Tobacco Caye
• Glover's Reef Atoll
• St. George's Caye
• Half Moon Caye

With resort towns overlooking the Caribbean Sea and islands just beyond the shore, Belize has breathtaking beaches that offer tropical variety for travelers on beach vacations. You could enjoy sunsets from seaside balconies, cruise from island to island in style, or relax on a private beach with no one else in sight using this list to discover which shores to visit:

• Placencia Beach, Placencia
• Pelican Beach, South Water Caye
• Tranquility Bay Beach, Ambergris Caye
• Half Moon Caye Beach, Half Moon Caye
• Glover's Reef Atoll Beach, Glover's Reef Atoll
• Koko King Beach, Caye Caulker

One may not think of Belize as the best destination for hiking, but between its jungles, forests, and coastal terrain there are exceptional hiking experiences to be had. You can traverse Mayan mountains to mysterious ruins, explore flourishing forests left untouched by the outside world, or search for caves along the cliffs on the following best hiking routes:

• Maya Mountains Hikes
• Victoria Peak Climb
• Crystal Cave Hike
• Cockscomb Basin Nature Walks
• Tiger Fern Trail

There is some excellent wildlife viewing in Belize and many travelers hope to spot black jaguars. From wildlife sanctuaries to marine reserves, the following list highlights places to see the endemic animals, reptiles, sea creatures, and birds, as well as what to look out for:

• Hol Chan Marine Reserve • Nurse sharks and Southern stingrays
• Cockscomb Basin • Jaguars
• Laughing Bird Caye • Herons and dolphins
• Swallow Caye • Manatees

Airplanes, buses, private shuttles, car rentals, taxis, water taxis, yachts, and other sea vessels are several transportation options.

Belize is a fantastic destination for luxury experiences, so private transfers are popular options for most trips by land. Yachts and catamarans are excellent for traveling by sea, allowing you to access neighboring islands and remote beaches across Belize’s Caribbean coastline and the Belize Barrier Reef.

Though more affordable, public transportation is far less efficient, so we advise using private transport.

Belize is a tropical paradise for families with young and older children, inviting all ages to appreciate the laidback beach lifestyle and wonderful outdoor experiences.

On Belize family vacations , you can snorkel around the cayes to discover the fish swimming beneath the glassy waves or cruise to the Belize Barrier Reef for an eye-opening underwater experience.

You could also hike to waterfalls in the jungles with your teenage children or enjoy the cultural towns with adult children who would appreciate exploring the Mayan ruins.

Belize is one of the best tropical countries to visit for senior citizens as high-end budgets allow for exceptional beach getaways and the country is around the corner from the US.

You do not have to worry about long flights or action-packed itineraries, and can instead enjoy the simple pleasures of spending your vacation lounging on sun-kissed shorelines. With floating bungalows on private beaches and exceptional accommodation options for your trip, you can lap up the laidback life in style without a worry in the world.

Our Belize tours for seniors offer ideas for your vacation, providing options for relaxing near the Caribbean seas or adventure experiences for active seniors eager to explore the lush rainforests.

Belize is a destination for honeymoons, weddings, and couples, rivaling the best beach spots in the world. Instead of splurging on flights across the globe, you can pour your heart and soul into living lavishly on Caribbean shores just beyond the borders of North America.

The seaside accommodations share unparalleled access to private Belize beaches where romance abounds, and active trips allow adventurous couples to appreciate the endless greenery and unique animals that live in the rainforests.

Belize honeymoon packages can show you the charms of the jewel overlooking the Caribbean Sea, with spas, gourmet dinners, sunset cruises, and intimate hikes adding to the luxury of tours throughout Belize.

Belizean cuisine blends Caribbean influence with Central American flavor to create an array of tempting dishes. Below, we highlight some of the most popular foods and drinks to keep an eye out for when visiting gourmet seaside hotspots and family-run restaurants:

• Caribbean rice and beans
• Chimole , Mayan stew
• Salbutes , stuffed tortillas
• Tamales , stuffed corn dough steamed in banana leaf
• Ceviche, fresh seafood par-cooked in citrus juices
• Cochinita Pibil , Mayan slow-roasted pork

Belize is a safe place to visit on vacation.

While crime worries exist across Central America and major tourist destinations worldwide, most petty crime in Belize is avoidable when traveling with your guides and staying at your safe accommodations. The luxurious nature of Belizean getaways means you can enjoy the comfort of your lavish home away from home without worrying too much about petty crime.

That said, exercise caution if traveling alone or when exploring the country at your leisure, as your guides will not be there to keep watch over you while you enjoy the tropical paradise.

The official language of Belize is English.

While many locals speak creole patois , English is the most widely spoken language and you should have little trouble communicating during your trip. When planning with a travel specialist, you can rest assured that you will be under the supervision of English-speaking tour guides and staying at English-speaking accommodations.

There are several airports in Belize, though Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport (BZE) is the best for international arrivals and departures. Below, we list a few more options should you consider domestic travel in and around Belize.

• Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport (BZE), Belize City
• Sir Barry Bowen Municipal Airport (TZA), Belize City
• Caye Caulker Airport (CUK), Caye Caulker
• San Pedro Airport (SPR), Ambergris Caye

The official currency of Belize is the Belize dollar ($).

We recommend carrying the Belize dollar with you when you travel as it is the most widely accepted currency in the country. That said, you can also bring the US dollar as it is commonly used in Belize. Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are also accepted in certain establishments.

You can start exploring options for your vacation in our Belize vacations and tours and, when ready, plan with the help of a Zicasso travel specialist. Whether you want to swim in the crystal-clear Caribbean waters of your private overwater bungalow with your partner or explore the Belizean rainforests as a family, you can find ideas from these sample itineraries.

A Zicasso travel specialist can help you plan every step of your adventure in Belize, from accommodations to experiences. To start working with a destination expert today, complete a trip request and our Traveler Care team will be in touch with you.

Our Traveler Care team will match you with one of our Belize travel specialists who will help organize your getaway and be available for the duration of your trip, giving you peace of mind when traveling to Belize.

Learn more: How to Plan Your Zicasso Trip in 4 Easy Steps • How to Plan Your Zicasso Trip Budget in 3 Easy Steps

Scuba diver exploring the coral reef in Belize

You can find customizable sample itineraries in our Belize vacations and tours and explore the options right for your travels. From romantic beach retreats to Mayan adventures through the forests, there are ideas for all travelers planning a trip to Belize.

For more inspiration on what to do in Belize and how to experience the best of the breathtaking country, visit our Belize travel guide .

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Why You Should Go to Belize Now

By Horatio Clare

The film Casablanca is what first got me traveling, searching the world for Rick’s Café. That near-mythical place where idealists, romantics, and wanderers wash up, drifting in and dropping out, a sense of it glimpsed in Palermo , Antananarivo, Brazzaville. You know a Rick’s Café when you walk into one.

But why would Rick choose Belize , an Adam’s apple of a country on the neck of the Central American isthmus? Because south of Mexico, north of Guatemala , the former colony of British Honduras is an outpost of low taxes, high idiosyncrasy, tremendous skies, and torpid stability, still sufficiently uncrowded that visitors and settlers feel they have happened on somewhere everyone else has overlooked.

Wild Orchid Caye.

The peninsula of Placencia—“pleasant place,” the Spanish called it—is a straggle of beaches, mangroves, and lagoons caught between the coastal plain of Belize and a Caribbean sea as blue as a Dutch policeman’s shirt. Just over the horizon, the second-largest living coral reef in the world holds the swells at bay. The shallows seem too warm and sleepy to bother raising a wave.

Some locals were once—or still claim to be— pirates and fishermen, so they’re not surprised by anyone and turn no one away. Walk along the beach with an eye out for shipwrecked contraband and treasure, and people will smile at you. They refer to successful beachcombing as “winning the Sea Lotto.” Pretty soon, newcomers become as quietly eccentric as everybody else.

I love the colors, sea-bright and faded at once, and the houses on stilts, the painted wood, the outside stairs, and the trees rocking their heads in the breeze, as though everything seems a good idea to them, however mad. And I love the kookiness. Someone has made a gigantic fake snake out of foam and wire and laid it out on the road. Someone else has just tried smoking a scorpion’s tail. Apparently it worked.

“We all lose our shoes constantly,” said a strikingly handsome woman I met on the road to town. “We do Beach Olympics in summer and winter. You cover yourself in baby oil and glitter and go dogsledding on palm branches. No, you don’t need a dog.” To Placencians, shoes were made to be kicked off, for better beach action and better dancing. They like to cut the rug in Tipsy Tuna . A big, wide painted-wood place, it reminded me of an African dance bar: jazzy and jolly, with floorboards still vibrating from last night. Rachel McAdams and Björk could tell you all about it, but then Placencia is one of those happy spots where the world famous put on their normal selves and relax. Suffice to say, I now have one thing in common with Naomi Watts. We both fell for a dog named Goldie, a beautiful blond beast who lives on Coral Caye, just offshore, and who is utterly sweet-natured.

Coral Caye.

An eagle ray.

The simple deceptions of geography here are beguiling. A recent arrival saw a cay, one of the small mangrove islands, seemingly on fire, burning orange in the sea. But it was the rising of the full moon, a monthly eruption. Walk down the only road to the end, to the pier, and you think, Well, that was very pretty. You stare out at the cays in the lambent sea and wonder if that is it. It is not. Behind the frontages, to the east, is the real main street, just two people wide, a pedestrian path called the Sidewalk (which residents claim is the world’s narrowest main street), originally made of conch shells for a barefoot bishop who walked from home to church. Here wooden houses and people from different backgrounds find refuge under the palms—mestizo and Garifuna (descendants of slaves who escaped from the Caribbean islands and are also known as “the drummers”), Creole and Mayan. They lived a life of fishing and small trading untroubled by modernity for longer than the rest of us, and are not vastly changed by it now, at least on the surface.

The town newspaper, The Placencia Breeze , gives an impression of current concerns, advertising the chocolate festival (May), a birding festival (October), and the big one, the lobster festival in June. A boat called As You Wish has lost its registration certificate—call if you find it. The Rotary Club, “responding to a desperate plea from the youth,” has donated lights for the soccer field. Someone is selling a 500-acre island for $8 million. It might seem that all of Placencia’s life lies between the Breeze ’s innocent lines, but you feel its true story swims behind the gentle eyes of Merl Westby, whose family has lived here for generations.

Luba Laruga restaurant.

Chicken, rice, and plantain at Tugusina Garifuna Shack.

Merl could easily be a buccaneer’s grandmother, with her heavy gold earrings and delighted laugh. As the old and wise do, she lives in different eras simultaneously. “I was just telling my daughter—it was so simple back then. Most people had their own chickens. My dad would catch fish every day. But times will change, that’s reality. Seafood is expensive now.” Her arms are covered in cooking scars that she displays proudly, like bracelets. “I had six kids. I’m a single mother and I raised them myself, so I had to work.” Her café is west of the pier (you can’t miss it—walk to the end, or follow a pelican), under a scarlet frangipani.

As we talk, a series of immaculately pressed schoolchildren wander past, all wishing her a good evening. “My grandchildren,” she says, smiling. Her speciality is conch steak, and, she adds with a significant look, “People like my lemon-meringue pie.” A food critic from New York , dazzled by her cooking, begged Merl to change the name of her place from Merl’s Sweets and Treats, on the grounds that you cannot tell it is a restaurant. Merl is holding out.

Nearby Kerr barber shop, on the main street, displays 150 different haircuts on the walls, but they only do one, beginning with clippers and ending with meticulous razor work. There I watched a tiny world go by; two Rastafarians exchanged greetings—one lit up while the other gravely took up a broom and swept the street, stoop, and inside of the barber’s in an act of random public service. Eventually, the road peters out into the pier and the sea, where boys wade up to their waists, casting lines into the lazy surf. At a stall near the beach, surrounded by fierce posters of the Ten Commandments, a craftsman has worked his way through a huge stack of conch shells, grinding them into small sculptures and jewelry. In a yard next to him is a tent, actually a church run by his wife.

In this way the community and the fish that sustain them endure, intermingled now with migratory birds, hippies made good; with the young and international who work three jobs—crewing yachts, selling apartments, tending bars, and partying in their downtime on catamarans awash with sushi and strawberry mojitos. Inland, the Maya Mountains jumble under towering clouds, giants dreaming on their backs. Along the shore, small places to stay range from simple $50-a-night cabins to several hundred-thousand-dollar villas with plunge pools and sea views, still under construction and being snapped up sight unseen. Guests at the Itz’ana , a new hotel with a beautiful rattan- and plant-decorated restaurant and a bar slinging sweet corn coladas and mango habanero margaritas around its sublime pool, will be able to rent some of them.

Sofia's Beach House, Turtle Inn.

A bedroom at Coral Caye.

People find Placencia by word of mouth. “After he made Apocalypse Now , Francis Ford Coppola was looking to buy a place in the Philippines —somewhere to write films—but then he read that Belize had just become independent. He came down and loved it,” says Martin Krediet, who manages Coppola’s Turtle Inn . It opened in 2000 as the very definition of an easeful hotel of thatched villas, including Sofia’s Beach House , and now has a new island offshoot, Coral Caye .

Jessica Puckett

María Casbas

CNT Editors

In his straw fedora and immaculate shirt, Krediet might have slipped out of the pages of a John le Carré novel; you would never guess he’s a former marine from the Netherlands . He bought his own house on the beach from the English novelist Patrick McGrath. “I only meant to stay a little, but I’ll never sell,” he says. “I’m happy to dip back into Miami and the chaos, but I’d rather not live in it. There are secrets here too. A helicopter pilot flew me down into a vertical pit in the mountains where there were Mayan bones and pots just lying around.”

Cockscomb Basin Forest Reserve.

“There are no addresses,” Shay Todd, a writer for the Breeze who walked around town with me, says. “If I get a package, the postman tags me on Facebook. People have started to name their own streets. My friend Dana has called hers Dana Drive. Another friend named one Easy Street. It has an intersection with Hard Way.” Todd, a Canadian who arrived years ago to write a novel, now rents a wooden apartment on stilts on the Sidewalk. Her address is “The house on the Sidewalk beside the white arch with the pink flowers.” She recommends eating at Omar’s, a gently dilapidated hangout painted in pink-and-green candy stripes on the right at the top of the main street as you come into town, which Omar took over from his parents. “We’re successful because we get the best fish, and we really know how to cook it,” he says with a grin. I have the grouper fillet cooked in a light coconut sauce. I could eat it, joyfully, every day.

Food is central to local culture. “In Creole they say, Empti sak nuh stan up . It means ‘Feed me!’ ” Todd says. “If someone likes you, they bring you a cake.” If you like your admirer, accept an invitation to drink bittas : This herbal, root-based spirit tastes of aniseed and caffeine, and is reputed to impart potency. Surprisingly, there is a growing wine scene. Recent openings include the Little Wine Bar, which does great cheese platters in as tiny a space as the name suggests. It opens at three. Later, the Wine House and Pyramid House Wine Etc. dole out tastings by the glass as the sun slips down. Best of all is Tutti Frutti, a gelateria run by Tiziana and Lorenzo Testa. Tiziana is Venetian. She found Placencia 16 years ago and fell for it.

“We loved the Creole culture and the melting pot of people,” she says. “They have fantastic taste buds. We go to Europe once a year to get flavors. Pistachio from Sicily , violets from Toulouse, almonds from Puglia .” Her gelato is as good as anything in Italy, and her café functions as a central gossip spot. “Did you hear about the guy who drove his van onto the airstrip because someone forgot to close the barriers and careered into the plane that was taking off, and it crashed into the sea? Well, no one was hurt!”

Hopkins Village.

But really, the main attraction here is to escape the rest of the planet’s reality and ease yourself into a culture still based on an old rhythm of life. The new Coral Caye, a private island that can only be rented through Turtle Inn, offers a distilled version. A 20-minute boat ride takes you to this scrap of sand and palms, 50 paces wide by 150 long, and its two cabins and sand-floor lobby with a magnificent carved wooden daybed. There’s nothing to do but snorkel, snooze in a hammock, scratch Goldie’s ears, talk to her about the list of Hollywood stars, which includes Paul Bettany and Jennifer Connelly, who want to take her home, and wonder what the chef will come up with next. But for the occasional lipsmack of the sea, the night silence is absolute. With the shutters open, you lie in starlight and a soft breeze.

As the night deepens, stars, sea, and the light spill of Honduras far to the south conspire to set the searcher, the visitor, dreaming. The Caye, the peninsula, and the sea frame one of those precious, pleasant places, where deeper histories feel palpable and still mysterious. Who is not at home here? The arrival stories of the ancestors of Placencia’s residents would make all manner of tales. Riches, poverty, piratical avarice, life as a beach. It is all here, unsleeping beside the sea.

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The Belize Tourism Board Loves Breaking Bad

On this past Sunday’s Breaking Bad , Saul suggested to Walt that he take out Hank the same way he took out Mike: By sending him on a “trip to Belize.” Oh, he was using that as a euphemism for murder, but the Belize Tourism Bureau was not about to let an opportunity go to waste. It started with some jokey tweets , but now the tourism board has extended a full-on, adorable invitation to the whole cast.

They sent it to the Times , and it reads:

Dear Cast of Breaking Bad, Despite what Saul meant when he suggested that Walt send Hank “on a trip to Belize,” we were flattered to be included on your program last Sunday. Many of us are big fans of the show and can’t wait to see what happens over the last six episodes. While we hope that some of our favorite characters don’t get “sent on a trip to Belize” in the show, we do hope you will take us upon the following offer — we’d like to send all of you on an ACTUAL trip to our country after the season is over. We figure you will all need a little time to relax after a riveting season and, if you ask us, there’s no better place to relax than Belize. It’s really the least we can do for the entertainment you have provided us with over the last six years. So allow us an opportunity to entertain you — we have the Blue Hole for Walt, purple fish for Marie, geology for Hank, great music and friendly people for Jesse, delicious breakfast cuisine for Walt Jr., several nice locations to swim for Skylar, colorful clothing for Saul, and the list goes on. We look forward to hearing back from you. Best of luck with the remainder of this season.

The fact that baby Holly is not included in this letter is probably a clue!

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Exploring Belize Solo Travel: A Solo Traveler’s Paradise

Hey there, fellow adventurers! Get ready to embark on the ultimate solo travel experience in Belize. Trust me, this tropical paradise has everything – from stunning beaches to ancient ruins and vibrant culture.

In this article, I’ll share my top tips for making the most of your solo journey in Belize. So get ready to dive into crystal-clear waters, explore lush jungles, and connect with locals who will make you feel at home.

Let’s discover the freedom that awaits us in beautiful Belize!

Page Contents

Key Takeaways

• Exercise caution, especially in Belize City
• Join guided tours to explore attractions and meet other travelers
• Consider buses for long-distance travel to save money
• Interact with fellow tourists and exchange itineraries

Destinations in Belize for Solo Travelers

Regarding solo travel in Belize, several destinations offer unique experiences.

Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye are perfect for those looking to explore the Cayes and the stunning Belize Barrier Reef, with opportunities for snorkeling and diving.

On the other hand, San Ignacio is an excellent choice for those who want to get off the beaten path and immerse themselves in Mayan ruins and jungle adventures.

Caye Caulker

If you’re planning a solo trip to Belize, you should visit Caye Caulker for its chilled-out island life and opportunities for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Caye Caulker is a small and quirky island that offers a laid-back atmosphere perfect for solo travelers seeking relaxation and adventure. The island is known for its vibrant street art, tranquil beaches, and lively nightlife.

One of the must-do activities in Caye Caulker is snorkeling or diving at the famous Blue Hole, an underwater sinkhole that attracts divers from all over the world.

To get around the island, take a water taxi or rent a bike to explore at your own pace.

Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels to cozy guesthouses with ocean views. Caye Caulker truly embodies the freedom and spirit of solo travel in Belize.

With its relaxed vibe, stunning underwater beauty, and opportunities for socializing with fellow travelers, Caye Caulker is an ideal destination for those embarking on their solo journey through Belize.

Ambergris Caye

To fully immerse yourself in the vibrant island life of Ambergris Caye, you can explore its pristine beaches, indulge in snorkeling and scuba diving adventures, and savor the diverse culinary offerings.

In San Pedro, the main town on Ambergris Caye, you can wander through charming streets lined with colorful Caribbean-style buildings.

The clear, turquoise waters beckon you to dive in and discover the stunning coral reefs teeming with marine life. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, there are plenty of dive sites to explore, including the famous Blue Hole and Hol Chan Marine Reserve.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to a delicious seafood feast at one of the many beachfront restaurants.

Ambergris Caye truly offers a paradise-like experience for solo travelers seeking relaxation and adventure.

San Ignacio

Explore the ancient Mayan ruins and immerse yourself in the rich history of San Ignacio, a vibrant town nestled in the heart of Belize’s lush rainforest.

As a solo traveler, San Ignacio offers an incredible experience filled with adventure, culture, and stunning natural beauty.

The town is known for its proximity to the impressive Mayan ruins of Tikal in nearby Guatemala. You can take guided tours to explore these ancient archaeological sites and learn about the fascinating Mayan civilization.

In addition to visiting the ruins, San Ignacio offers outdoor activities such as cave tubing, hiking through the rainforest, and exploring crystal-clear rivers.

The town has a charming atmosphere with colorful buildings, bustling markets, and friendly Belizean locals who are always eager to share their culture and traditions with visitors.

Whether you’re seeking adventure or looking to immerse yourself in history and nature, San Ignacio is a must-visit destination for any solo traveler exploring Central America.

Explore the Cayes and the Reef

The Cayes and the Belize Barrier Reef offer solo travelers a chance to experience outstanding diving, chilled-out island life, and adventurous activities.

As a solo traveler in Belize, I was captivated by the beauty of the Cayes and the vibrant marine life that awaited beneath the surface of the crystal-clear waters.

Here are three reasons why exploring the Cayes and diving at the Belize Barrier Reef is a must for any solo traveler:

• Dive into an underwater paradise: The Belize Barrier Reef is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and boasts some of the best diving spots in the world. From colorful coral formations to swimming alongside sea turtles and tropical fish, every dive is an unforgettable experience.
• Embrace island life: Whether you visit Caye Caulker or Ambergris Caye, both offer a laid-back atmosphere where you can relax on pristine beaches, sip on coconut water, and enjoy fresh seafood while watching stunning sunsets.
• Indulge in adventure: In addition to snorkeling and diving, there are plenty of adventurous activities to keep you entertained. Explore ancient Maya ruins like Xunantunich or go cave tubing through underground rivers for an adrenaline rush like no other.

Get Off the Beaten Path

If you seek a unique and authentic experience in Belize, venture off the beaten path to discover hidden gems and lesser-known destinations.

Belize is a great place for solo travelers who want to explore untouched beauty and meet people.

As a solo traveler, it’s essential to stay safe and travel smart. Trust your instincts, secure your belongings, and be aware of your surroundings at all times.

Going off the beaten path in Belize, you’ll find stunning beaches that are less crowded and perfect for relaxation. Explore remote islands like Tobacco Caye or visit lesser-known coastal towns like Hopkins.

Safety and Solo Travel in Belize

Belize is generally a safe country for solo female travelers, but it’s essential to exercise caution, especially in Belize City.

Here are some tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable solo adventure in Belize:

• Stay in well-traveled areas: Opt for accommodations and activities that are popular among tourists. This not only provides a safer environment but also increases the chances of meeting other like-minded travelers.
• Use reliable transportation services: Stick to reputable taxi companies or buses. Avoid hitchhiking or accepting rides from strangers to minimize the risk of potential dangers.
• Stay aware of your surroundings: Always be mindful, especially when walking alone or exploring unfamiliar areas. Trust your instincts and avoid isolated places, particularly during nighttime.

Connecting with Locals and Fellow Travelers

Connecting with locals and fellow travelers in Belize can enhance your travel experience and provide valuable insights into the culture and hidden gems of the country. As a solo traveler, it’s essential to take steps to connect with others while still maintaining your safety.

One way to do this is by staying in hostels, where you can meet other like-minded travelers and potentially find travel companions for day trips or longer adventures.

Another way is to participate in community activities or events, such as local festivals or volunteer opportunities. Additionally, learning basic phrases in the local language can help you communicate with locals and make meaningful connections.

It’s also a good idea to share your itinerary with someone back home and keep in touch regularly.

Lastly, stay alert and aware of your surroundings at all times, blend in with the local culture as much as possible, and always have backup copies of essential documents such as your passport and travel insurance.

Practical Tips for Solo Travel in Belize

When traveling alone in Belize, it’s crucial to stay informed about safety precautions and use reliable transportation services.

Here are some practical tips for solo travel in Belize:

• Plan your arrival: Arriving at the Belize International Airport is the most common way to visit Belize. From there, you can take a taxi or arrange a shuttle service to your accommodation.
• Stay connected: Purchase a local SIM card or consider getting an international data plan to stay connected with family and friends back home.
• Make friends: Solo travel doesn’t mean you have to be alone all the time. Engage with fellow travelers and locals by joining group tours, staying in social hostels, or attending events and activities where you can meet like-minded individuals.

Best Time to Visit Belize

To make the most of your trip, consider visiting Belize during the winter for the high season or during the summer for fewer crowds and cheaper hotels.

As a solo traveler, I found that Belize offers something for everyone. From exploring ancient Mayan ruins to diving and snorkeling in the stunning Belize Barrier Reef, there is no shortage of adventure here.

Traveling alone in Belize is perfectly safe, and you can easily get around by bus to experience the best of what this country has to offer.

Whether you want to relax on the chilled-out islands of Caye Caulker or Ambergris Caye or immerse yourself in the diverse cultures throughout Belize, there are endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.

Solo Female Travel in Belize

If you’re a female traveler venturing to Belize alone, it’s essential to know that street harassment can be significant, especially on the islands and beaches. However, don’t let this discourage you from experiencing the beauty and adventure of this amazing country.

As a woman traveling alone, I have found ways to navigate Belize safely and enjoyably.

Here are some tips for solo female travel in Belize:

• Stay in well-populated areas: Choose accommodations in popular tourist spots with plenty of people.
• Dress modestly: While it’s tempting to wear swimwear all day on the beach, consider covering up when walking around town to avoid unwanted attention.
• Trust your instincts: If a situation feels uncomfortable or unsafe, remove yourself immediately.

Budget-Friendly Solo Travel

If you’re looking to explore Belize on a budget, there are plenty of affordable options for solo travelers like you. As a solo explorer, I’ve found that Belize offers a range of budget-friendly accommodations, from hostels to resorts.

You can also enjoy delicious and affordable local street food while exploring this beautiful country. To maximize your budget, consider joining solo tours or cruises catering to individuals traveling alone.

These tours allow you to meet other like-minded travelers and have a social experience while maintaining your independence. Use common sense and lock up your valuables in hostels or shared accommodations.

With careful planning and a sense of adventure, you can have a unique budget-friendly solo travel experience in Belize as a digital nomad or simply as someone seeking freedom and exploration.

Cultural Immersion and Activities

When exploring Belize, immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture by partaking in activities such as trying traditional cuisine, learning about the diverse ethnic groups, and engaging with friendly Belizeans.

Here are three ways to fully embrace cultural immersion during your solo retreat in Belize:

• Visit Mayan ruins: Explore ancient archaeological sites like Xunantunich and Altun Ha to learn about the rich history of the Maya civilization. Marvel at towering pyramids and intricate carvings while imagining life in these ancient cities.
• Dive into the barrier reef: Discover the underwater wonders of the Belize Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Snorkel or dive among colorful coral reefs teeming with marine life. Don’t miss Tobacco Caye, a small island paradise known for its pristine beaches and vibrant marine reserve.
• Relax in a hammock: Take time to unwind and soak up the laid-back vibes of Belize by lounging in a hammock on one of its many beautiful beaches. Listen to the sound of waves crashing against the shore while immersing yourself in the natural beauty surrounding you.

Is Belize Safe for Solo Travelers?

Despite its reputation for street harassment, Belize is generally considered a safe destination for solo travelers.

As someone who loves traveling alone, I can confidently say that Belize is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cultures in Central America.

From the stunning Belize coast to ancient Maya ruins, this place has something for every adventurous soul. And don’t forget to take a trip to Guatemala with Maya Island Air!

While street harassment can be an issue, it’s essential to stay focused and use common sense while exploring. Engaging with English-speaking locals will give you valuable insights into the best places to visit.

Meet Fellow Travelers and Locals

Engaging with fellow tourists and exchanging itineraries can be a great way to meet fellow travelers and locals in Belize. When traveling alone, it’s essential to connect with others who share the same sense of adventure.

Here are three reasons why meeting fellow travelers and locals is a must when going solo in Belize:

• Discover Fun Things to Do: Fellow travelers can recommend hidden gems, off-the-beaten-path destinations, and exciting activities that you might not find on your own. Locals can provide insider tips and insights about the best beaches, cultural events, and local cuisine.
• Make Lifelong Connections: Meeting new people from different backgrounds enriches your travel experience. You can form friendships long after your trip ends, creating a global network of like-minded individuals with a passion for exploration.
• Gain Local Insights: Interacting with locals allows you to immerse yourself in the unique culture of Belize. They can offer valuable advice on where to go, what to see, and how to navigate the country safely.

Use Common Sense and Travel Insurance

To ensure your safety and protect yourself from unexpected incidents, it’s important to use common sense and have travel insurance when exploring Belize.

Solo travel in Belize can be an incredible adventure, but it’s essential to take precautions. Use your instincts and be aware of your surroundings at all times.

Choose reputable accommodations and transportation options, and avoid isolated areas, especially at night.

Additionally, having travel insurance is crucial in case of emergencies or unforeseen circumstances. It provides peace of mind knowing that you are financially protected if anything goes wrong during your trip.

Whether it’s a medical emergency or lost luggage, travel insurance can save you from unnecessary stress and expenses.

Solo travel in Belize is an adventure that will leave you breathless.

From the stunning beauty of the Belize Barrier Reef to the thrill of exploring ancient ruins, this country offers endless opportunities for exploration.

While safety is always a priority, with common sense and travel insurance, you can navigate through Belize with ease.

So pack your bags, immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, and let your solo journey in Belize unfold like a captivating story waiting to be told.

FAQs | Exploring Belize

Why is belize a solo traveler’s paradise.

Belize is a popular destination for solo travelers because it offers a safe and friendly environment, various activities and attractions, and a chance to meet other like-minded travelers.

What are some tips for solo travel in Belize?

Here are some tips for solo travel in Belize: 1. Research and plan your trip in advance. 2. Choose accommodations that cater to solo travelers. 3. Stay in well-populated and tourist-friendly areas. 4. Be aware of your surroundings and take necessary safety precautions. 5. Don’t be afraid to start conversations and make new friends.

Are there any specific tours for solo travelers in Belize?

Yes, there are tour operators in Belize that offer dedicated tours for solo travelers. These tours provide an excellent opportunity to explore the country’s highlights while meeting other solo travelers.

What are some popular destinations for solo travel in Belize?

Some popular destinations for solo travel in Belize include Caye Caulker, Ambergris Caye, San Ignacio, and Placencia. These places offer a mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences.

Is Belize safe for solo female travelers?

Belize is generally considered safe for solo female travelers. However, it’s always essential to take precautions, such as avoiding walking alone at night and staying aware of your surroundings.

When is the best time to visit Belize for solo travel?

The best time to visit Belize for solo travel is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. This period offers pleasant weather and fewer tourists.

Do I need travel insurance for solo travel in Belize?

While travel insurance is not mandatory for solo travel in Belize, it is highly recommended. Travel insurance covers medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen circumstances.

How can I stay safe while traveling alone in Belize?

To stay safe while traveling alone in Belize, it’s essential to: 1. Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in unfamiliar areas. 2. Avoid displaying valuable belongings in public. 3. Use reliable transportation options. 4. Share your travel plans with someone trustworthy. 5. Follow local laws and customs.

How can I meet people while traveling solo in Belize?

To meet people while traveling solo in Belize, you can: 1. Stay in social accommodation options, such as hostels or guesthouses. 2. Participate in group activities or tours. 3. Join online travel communities or forums to connect with other travelers. 4. Visit popular social gathering spots, such as bars or restaurants.

What are some things to do in Belize for solo travelers?

Some things to do in Belize for solo travelers include: 1. Snorkeling or diving in the Belize Barrier Reef. 2. Exploring ancient Mayan ruins, such as Altun Ha or Xunantunich. 3. Relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Caye Caulker or Ambergris Caye. 4. Going on a wildlife spotting tour in the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary. 5. Taking a river tubing adventure in the jungle.

• https://www.adventurouskate.com/solo-female-travel-belize-safe/
• https://www.wonederlust.com/belize
• https://www.travelawaits.com/2687224/i-spent-three-months-in-belize-solo-heres-how-it-went/

A passionate solo traveler, embarking on thrilling adventures to explore the world's historical ruins. Fascinated by the intricate tales woven into ancient stones, she delves deep into the history of each site, unearthing the emotional stories that resonate through time. With every journey, Hayden strives to connect with the human experience of the past and share its profound significance with fellow explorers. Join her on a captivating expedition to unlock the secrets of bygone eras.

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Incredible Belize

When we first discovered belize over 30 years ago, few people knew this tiny country even existed, can we send you a free pdf guide to belize.

• Where did you hear about us? Magazine Newspaper Other Website Social Media Trade Show Travel Agent Web Search Word of Mouth

Belize - No Ordinary Destination

Within reach - a still unspoiled wild destination, brimming with life and diversity. Chock-a-block full of national parks, marine reserves and wildlife sanctuaries, Belize had embraced green initiatives and habitat protection efforts long before Eco became a buzz word.

And It’s Our Playground

The 165 mile Belize Barrier Reef System, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the longest barrier reef in the Western hemisphere. It enfolds seven marine protected areas and three coral atolls under its umbrella. Hundreds of tiny cayes (“keys”, as Belizeans call their islands) and miles of beaches and hidden coves offer world-class snorkeling diving and fishing.

And it’s all within reach. Within a matter of hours you can travel Inland to the largest remaining tracts of undisturbed rainforest in all of Central America are a treasure-house of tropical biodiversity. Our experience is enriched by the Mayan people who have lived in this land for thousands of years.

Let's Stay In Touch!

Sign up for the latest travel news on belize, plus exclusive trip deals., cross cultures easily.

The only English speaking nation in Central America, Belize nestles between Mexico and Guatemala, and its 350,000 residents are a super friendly and dynamic blend of Creole, Garifuna, Mestizo, Maya, Mennonites, and Europeans.

Exotic music, ethnically diverse food, colorful influences, and a cool vibe don’t get lost in translation, but a shared common language fast-tracks deeper exchange, making every interaction richer.

Time travel is possible

Belize was once the heart of the Mayan civilization. The region is thought to have been one of the most densely populated and culturally dynamic societies in the world of 250 AD. We can trace this ancient civilization through Belize’s more than 600 archaeological sites - living museums of a disappeared civilization.

Experience a new frontier of Mayan archaeology in the caves of Belize. Archaeologists venturing into elaborate cave systems are discovering stunning cathedral-like underground ceremonial centers which are helping to unravel the meaning behind sacred rituals and sacrifices. These sites are remarkably preserved and are like living museums with hand painted pottery, stone tools and carved alters that are thousands of years old.

BELIZE FACT SHEET

Belize geography.

Belize has an area of approximately 9,000 square miles, bordered by Mexico to the north, Guatemala to the west and south, and the Caribbean Sea to the east.  Belize has the second longest barrier reef in the world (165 miles long). The land is flat at the coast and rises to 3,600 feet inland at the height of the Maya Mountains. Jungle and rainforest cover the central and southern regions with predominantly dry pine savannah, Caribbean pine forests, and extensive wetlands in the north and west.

BELIZE CLIMATE

Subtropical, with prevailing north-easterly trade winds from the sea. Temperatures range from 60 degrees Farenheit (16 Celsius) to 95 degrees Farenheit (32 Celsius). Belize is marked by a wet season from June to October and a dry season from November to May. Although the best time of year to travel to Belize is definitely through the "dry season", Mother Nature does still give us some rain during this timeframe. Northern Belize, which may receive as little as 50 inches of rainfall, is considerably drier than the far south, which can receive upwards of 180 inches of rainfall annually. This rainfall helps feed the lush jungles and sustain year-round growth.  

BELIZE POPULATION

Most of the major towns and villages of Belize lie on the coast or along major rivers. In recent times however, new settlements have formed, mostly in the Cayo District of Western Belize and the Toledo District in Southern Belize. The latest census in Belize shows a population of over 350,000 made up of Creole, Garifuna, Mestizo, Maya, Mennonites, and Europeans. Belize in general has a very young population with over 50% of the people under 18 years old.

BELIZE LANGUAGE

English is the official language and is widely spoken throughout the country. Other languages spoken: Creole, Spanish, Garifuna, Maya, and German.

BELIZE GOVERNMENT

Belize is a member of the British Commonwealth, with a stable democratic government established along the model of the British Parliamentary system. The country is divided into six districts, with each district electing members to the House of Representatives. Presently, the People's United Party (PUP)  forms the government with Honorable Johnny Briceno as the Prime Minister, replacing incumbent Dean Barrow from the United Democratic Party (UDP) in 2020 elections. The UDP now sits as the official opposition.

BELIZE CURRENCY

The Belize Dollar has a fixed rate of $2BZ = $1US. US currency and travelers checks in US currency are widely accepted. Credit cards can be used in most tourist facilities. ATMs are becoming more common in Belize but should not be part of your planned travel budget as they may be problematic to access during your trip.  However, the machines are now connected to North American systems and can be used in an emergency.

BELIZE ELECTRICITY

The current is the same as Canada and the US (110V AC) and the same plug is used.  No adapters are required.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS INTO BELIZE

Valid Passports are required for entry into Belize.

United States and Canadian citizens, nationals of Caricom countries and of the European Community member nations (Belgium, Germany, France, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Denmark, Ireland, UK, Greece, Spain, Portugal, Austria, Finland, Sweden) do not require visas.

Visas are required for nationals of the following countries: Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Angola, Argentina, Bangladesh, Bolivia, Bosnia, Brazil, Central African Republic, Chad, China, Columbia, Cuba, El Salvador, Ethiopia, Haiti, Honduras, India, Japan, Korea (North and South), Libya, Monaco, Mongolia, Morocco, Nicaragua, Nigeria, Pakistan, Panama, Peru, Switzerland, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand, Ukraine, and Zaire.

Also, please note the Government of Belize does require your passport to be valid for more than three months after your arrival. For questions regarding entry requirements, or people from other nationalities, please contact our office (1-800-667-1630) or the nearest Belize Embassy. For up to date information on entry requirements into Belize, please also double check the  Belize Tourism Board's website .

BELIZE TAXES

Belize does have a General Sales Tax (GST) which currently adds 12.5% on top of most goods and services within Belize.

Belize has a Hotel Tax, which is 9% on top of the cost of most hotel nights in the country. It is fairly customary to see a 5-10% service charge as well.

Departure Tax

By Air  (Most of the Airlines now include these fees in their ticket price)

All passengers are required to pay an international departure tax of $39.25 US. Most of the airlines now include these fees in their ticket price - please review your airline fare breakdown for more information. This departure tax is broken down into the following components:

International Passengers - On Departure - via Phillip Goldson International Airport (PGIA)  Passenger Service Fee:$15.00  Airport Development Fee: $18.00  Hold Bags: $1.25  Security Fee $1.25  Conservation Fee: $3.75  Total Airport Departure Fees: $39.25 USD - normally included in your flight ticket already - please review your fare breakdown for more information.

Domestic Flights  User Fee: $2.50US at all airports

International Passengers  On Departure:  Northern Border, Western Border and Southern Border  Intransit Passengers only - Border Processing Fee - $15.00  Overnight Passengers - Border Processing Fee $15.00 + Conservation Fee $3.75;  Total Fee: $18.75 USD

Guatemalan and Mexican passengers:  Less than 24hrs. - NO FEE; more than 24hrs.: $3.75 USD

Mexicans staying more than 72hrs. $18.75 USD

For more information contact the Border Management Authority

International Passengers  On Arrival  From Punta Gorda, Dangriga or San Pedro  Belize Port Authority

On Departure via Punta Gorda, Dangriga or San Pedro  Conservation Fee $3.75 USD  Domestic Air Passenger (flying within Belize)  International Airport (PGIA) to Municipal Airports  Security Fee $0.75 USD 

Please check with local authorities for upto date information.

BELIZE TIME ZONE

Belize is located within the Central Time Zone and does not observe Daylight Savings Time.

BELIZE DRINKING WATER

Generally the water is drinkable right from the taps in most large towns, lodges, and hotels. Many Belizeans and travelers also choose to drink bottled water which is available in most shops. Safe drinking water is provided throughout your Island Expeditions' tour. In the field, we use Pristine water treatment to make water potable or use large 5 gallon jugs of purified water which can be decanted into your personal water bottle.

BELIZE TAXIS

Taxis are identifiable by their green license plates in Belize. They are non-metered and fares are standard. Taxis from the Belize International Airport are a standard rate and the rate is posted upon exiting the customs area. Be sure to negotiate the price before starting your journey.

BELIZE HEALTH

There are no endemic diseases. No inoculations are required for entry, however we do strongly recommend you consider a Havrix injection for Hepatitis A (or Twinrix for both Hep A & B), anti-malaria tablets (if traveling into the rainforest), and an up-to-date tetanus shot. Contact your doctor or travel clinic prior to traveling to Belize.

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‘Breaking Bad’ Discussion: Send Him On A Trip To Belize

Yesterday afternoon, hours before the second of the final eight episodes of Breaking Bad aired, Dean Norris tweeted the following: “Hey Twitter folk, I’ll tread however the f*ck I want tonite. F*ck you.” He was not kidding. Hank was not f*cking around last night as Vince Gilligan and company wasted no time turning the tension up a few notches following last week’s  confrontation between Hank and Walt in the garage.

So let’s get right to it, shall we? Here are a few notes I made during last night’s Breaking Bad about characters, scenes, etc. I found interesting for one reason or another.

– I want to start off this discussion with something I feel the need to get immediately off my chest, and that is this: for a show of such extraordinary cinematic quality, the sound engineering of last night’s episode left a lot to be desired. There were multiple scenes — the Hank/Skyler scene in the diner and the Walt/Skyler scene on the bathroom floor, for instance — where I could flat-out not understand what characters were saying when they were speaking in hushed tones. Like, I rewound my DVR multiple times and pumped my sound way up and I still couldn’t make out what was being said at times, and I could tell from Twitter that I wasn’t the only one experiencing this same issue. It was incredibly frustrating. So there — just needed to vent that.

So, back to the episode…

– Curious about Hank’s handling of the whole situation last night, I asked an attorney friend of mine about how his actions might hamper any effort to prosecute Walt. He wrote…

Hank is investigating Walt outside his official role with the DEA, and hasn’t reported his convo with Walt, and Walt knows about the warrant-less GPS. And he showed up with Marie at the house. All sorts of legal/law enforcement ethical sh*t going on there, which a decent defense attorney would eat up like pizza. Hank would get killed on the witness stand.

So there’s that.

– At this point I’ve watched every Breaking Bad episode at least twice and I don’t recall any scenes ever getting to me the way the Skyler/Hank and the Skyler/Marie scenes got to me last night. And when I say “got to me” I mean had me on the verge of tears. Yes, obviously, the show has made me feel things over the course of its run, but I don’t think anything the show has done has touched me in that place , so to speak. I’m not sure I’ve ever felt so emotionally worked up as I did after those two scenes — especially at the part where Skyler is trying to calm the baby by reassuring her that everything is fine when it most certainly is not. (“It’s okay, everything’s okay.”) If there had been a camera on me while I watched these scenes I’m pretty sure it would have shown me sitting on the edge of my sofa with my hand over my open mouth with a little more moisture in my eyes than normal. Both scenes were acted flawlessly and, of course, so well-written and directed.

– Gotta love marie taking her penchant for thievery to the next level last night by blatantly trying to steal a baby.

– I almost hate to admit this, but I don’t think I’ve ever liked Skyler as much as I did last night. I mean, she effectively crossed over fully and joined Team Walt last night, didn’t she? She sat down with Hank not knowing what to expect and there was a moment of recognition where it became clear to her that he had nothing more than hunches and suspicions and she refused to give him the goods that he needed. And then later, when talking with Walt in the bathroom, she said this: “You can’t give yourself up without giving up the money. That’s the way this works, Walt. So maybe our best move here is to stay quiet.” Skyler is all in, you guys.

– Conversely, I don’t think I’ve ever been more annoyed with Jesse as I was last night. I’ve tried to put myself in his shoes and empathize with everything he’s been through, but I can’t help but think that he’s acting like a little bitch right now. How’s that for irony?

– The yellow remote control car has to be foreshadowing something, right? I mean, it has to come into play in some way later down the line. It just has to.

– The overhead shot of Huell “channeling Scrooge McDuck” was so great. Also, was that done using a green screen? Something about Huell’s frame on the pile of cash looked a little odd to me, which perhaps made it all the more hilarious.

– I’m not sure what Saul pays Huell and Kuby, but I doubt that it’s nearly enough. And couldn’t Walt have tipped them for their honest efforts by tossing them each a stack? Geez.

– “Have you given any thought to sending him on a trip to Belize?” — Saul Goodman, ladies and gentlemen.

– I’m sure the Belize Tourism Board is thrilled over last night’s shoutout. And no, the internet is totally not going to meme the hell out of this…

– Jokes aside re: Belize, Walt’s utter refusal to even consider offing Hank shows that there is at least one line left that he will not cross. Hank, he reminds Saul, is family, so such a thing is out of the question. For now, anyway.

– I have to give it up to Walt for wanting it so bad that he actually dug a hole in the desert deep and wide enough to hide multiple barrels full of cash. Not sure I would ever want it that bad.

– Where the hell was Walter Jr. when all of this sh*t was going down last night? I’m so dying to see how he reacts to the revelation that his dad is Heisenberg.

– So Lydia’s meth was being cooked in an old city bus buried in the desert? No wonder the Czechs hate it so much.

– Also, nice shoes, Lydia. I like how the blood red is hidden on the bottom. These must be her killin’ shoes…

– HOLY CRAP TODD IS STRAIGHT ICE! But hey, he’s also a gentlemen who knows how to treat a lady! He’ll deftly and gently guide said lady around dead bodies and spent shell casings and all. What a guy.

– Last night marked the return of the show’s resident hapless buttplug , Gomie. As he spirals further into incompetence, it appears as though he can’t even pick out his own clothes anymore.

– Last week I noted how glad I was that Gilligan and the writers didn’t end the episode on Hank’s garage door closing, that they actually showed us the Hank/Walt confrontation. That said, I was disappointed that last night’s episode ended without getting at least a little taste of Hank’s interrogation of Jesse. Perhaps I’ve become spoiled?

– I’m calling it: that lottery ticket is going to get lost and all of that money is just going to be buried in the desert, forever.

– Finally, the whole “scenes from the next episode of Breaking Bad can be seen during Low Winter Sun ” f*cking stinks and needs to stop. I will never, ever watch that show now. It will not be done, ever, on principle. Also, it’s pretty dumb to not run a post- Breaking Bad discussion show immediately after Breaking Bad , but of course this is another ploy to try to make Low Winter Sun happen. Screw you, AMC.

Your own thoughts are welcome in the comments below. Have an A-1 day!

(GIFs via Chet Manley , stills via Daily Breaking Bad )

History Fangirl

The Ultimate History Travel Blog Since 2015

Planning a Trip to Belize: 11 Steps to the Perfect Belize Getaway

Last Updated on: 27th February 2023, 12:19 am

Planning a trip to Belize? The country is a popular vacation destination for anyone looking to get away and enjoy some relaxing time on some of the world’s most beautiful beaches.

Here’s a checklist of everything you need to think about as you plan your trip, whether you’re going to be enjoying time on the mainland or on some of Belize’s gorgeous islands.

Read next:   The Ultimate Belize Packing List

My Favorite Travel Booking Sites for 2023

These are my favorite companies that I use on my own travels.

Protect Your Trip via Safety Wing

Find the best city tours, day tours, bus tours, & skip-the-line tickets on GetYourGuide and Viato r .

Find the best deals on hotels & vacation rentals on Booking.com .

For English-speaking private airport transfers, book through Welcome Pickups.

For road trips and independent travel, rent a car through Discover Cars .

Find information and cruise reviews on Cruise Critic.

For packing and travel essentials order via Amazon .

Book an affordable family or romantic photography session on your trip through Flytographer (Use the code HISTORYFANGIRL for 10% off your first photoshoot).

For travel guidebooks to have with you during your trip, I always pick one or two from Rick Steves and Lonely Planet.

Check to See if You Need a Visa

You will need a passport to enter Belize that is valid for at least six months after your stay.  Belize offers visa-free travel for up to thirty days to citizens from many countries:

• EU Citizens
• Citizens from Caribbean Community Member States (CARICOM) with the exception of Haiti
• US Citizens and passport holders from the territories
• Citizens of Costa Rica, Chile, Guatemala, Iceland, Mexico, Norway, South Africa, Tunisia, Switzerland, & Uruguay
• UK Citizens and Citizens from the Commonwealth, with the exception of Bangladesh, Cameroon, Chad, India, Nauru, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Mozambique, and West African Countries

To check up-to-date visa-free travel information and information on how to apply for a travel visa if you need one, you can visit the website for the Belize High Commission.

Many people make Belize their first trip abroad from the US. If you don’t have a passport yet, start by researching how to get a passport and using this online tool to take your passport photo.  

Make sure you follow the regulations for taking passport photos so that your photo is accepted or go and get some taken professionally.

Book Your Tickets

Getting off the plane in Belize City, I started beaming as soon as the tropical air hit my face. We selected Belize as our getaway because of the cheap flight deals available from the USA, which is one reason that the country is so popular with American and Canadian tourists.

Belize has many airports, but all flights from the US land at Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport in Belize City.

From there, you can get flights on Maya Air or Tropic Air to many small airports across the country, including San Pedro and Caye Caulker. Otherwise, you can fly into Belize City and use ground transportation and water taxis to get to your first destination.

To find the cheapest flights, use Skyscanner and Google Flights to check the various options.

If you’re planning on flying into a regional airport, price flights to that airport and what flights cost if you fly into Belize City and book the regional flight separately.

You may find the prices to be different if booked separately, but they will sometimes be lower and sometimes be higher.

Plan Your Belize Itinerary

Belize has many popular vacation destinations, so you’ll want to decide which ones you will be visiting.

Add in the transportation time and costs to determine if a destination is worth adding to your trip.

I personally prefer going to one or two destinations per week of travel so that I get enough time to settle in and relax.

There’s no perfect Belize itinerary, but here are some of the most popular places to visit:

Ambergris Caye

Probably the place in Belize most synonymous with a luxury vacation, Ambergris Caye is popular with vacationers and honeymooners looking to enjoy the best of everything.

Most visitors stay in San Pedro and use this as a base to explore the island. While it is possible to do Ambergris Caye on a budget, most people coming here aren’t backpackers or budget travelers.

Popular things to do on Ambergris Caye include visiting the Secret Beach and Scuba Diving or Snorkeling at Hol Chan .

Caye Caulker

Caye Caulker is popular with backpackers and young tourists, and it has more of a party atmosphere than Ambergris Caye.

While here, you can relax at the Split, enjoy the street food, or even rent kayaks and explore further out.

Make sure to check out snorkeling at  Hol Chan and Shark Ray Alley .

For those who want a taste of Caribbean life while also having access to Belize’s jungles, Placencia offers the perfect combination of both.

Popular activities here include diving the White Hole, snorkeling at the Silk Cayes, and hiking through the nearby jungle.

Read next:  10 Spectacular Belize Beaches for Your Caribbean Getaway

Corazol might be one of the least touristed spots in Belize, but that means you can have Mayan ruins all to yourself.

Make sure to visit Cerros, the country’s only Mayan ruin that’s right on the coast. You can also visit Belize’s largest fishing villiage, Sarteneja, which was originally founded by the Mayans before the Spanish invasion.

Cayo District

Many travelers wanting to explore Belize’s Mayan ruins will use San Ignacio as a base to explore the Cayo District.

This is also a great way to see inland Belize, including visits to the local markets, tubing or canoeing on the river, and you can even visit an Iguana sanctuary.

Plan Your Activities

Many travelers in Belize come wanting to do specific activities, like scuba dive in the Blue Hole or snorkel at Hol Chan . There are also amazing Mayan ruins and options for day trips out to uninhabited islands.

I use GetYourGuide to book my day tours and activities while on the road. I had an absolutely abysmal tour in Dresden , and I had to rely on GetYourGuide’s customer service since the local company refused to help and were actively rude.

I love the certainty that I have an extra layer of customer service to go to in case of problems on the ground.

Check for Belize tour reviews and prices here.

Budget Your Trip

Once you decide how long your trip will be, where you want to go, and what activities you want to do,  you can start to put together a trip budget. The largest pieces of your budget will be transportation and accommodations, so decide how much you want to spend on lodging per night.

While on your trip, track your daily expenditures to help you stay within your budget.

The best way to save money in Belize is to cook some meals and make some of your drinks at home if you have the option. Restaurant prices in touristy locations can be pricey.

Book Your Accommodations

Once you determine your travel budget, it’s time to book your accommodations.

I use Booking.com to make travel arrangements since most properties have an option to cancel a booking ahead of time if you decide to make other arrangements.

They also offer a wide variety of accommodation types, from luxury to hostels and everything in between.

Once you’ve found the accommodations you want, make sure to book  in advance since rooms in Belize tend to sell out during the high travel season.

Research Any Health Information and Vaccinations You May Need

Belize is a very safe destination to travel to, but there are a few pieces of information travelers need to stay healthy.

Is the Water Safe to Drink?

Note that you shouldn’t drink tap water in Belize. Bottled water only. If drinks are being made from water, like coffee or tea, that should be made from bottled water as well.

Is there a Risk of Zika in Belize?

Belize, like many countries, has a risk of Zika. For most people, Zika poses no threat. However, you can read about Zika facts and prevention here . This is especially important if you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.

What Vaccines Do I Need for Belize?

The CDC recommends that you be up to date on routine vaccinations and Hepatitis A shots before heading to Belize. They also recommend being vaccinated against Typhoid if you are doing extensive travel in rural areas.

Anyone going to Belize for a little “coed” fun should be vaccinated against Hepatitis B. Rabies vaccines are recommended for anyone camping or who will be spending time around wild animals.

Belize requires anyone coming from a country with a risk of yellow fever to be vaccinated against yellow fever to protect local Belizeans. Note that there is no risk of getting yellow fever in Belize. You can check if your country is on this list here .

Pregnant women might need to take anti-malaria medication. You will need to check with your doctor.

Check the up-to-date CDC recommendations for Belize vaccinations and health updates  here .

Learn a Few Common Spanish Words and Phrases

As part of its legacy of being a British colony, the official language of Belize is English. In many of the most touristed spots in Belize, you won’t run into many situations where you need Spanish.

However, only about 60% of the population speaks English, and over 50% are native Spanish speakers. Bilingualism is common, but it never hurts to have a few Spanish phrases handy.

Hello   =  Hola

Good Morning  =  Buenos días

Good Evening = Buena noches

Goodbye  =  Adiós

Please  =  Por favor

Thank You  =  Gracias

Excuse Me  =  Perdóneme

Okay or Good  =  Bueno

Yes  =  Sí

No  = No

I Don’t Understand  =  No entiendo

Do You Speak English?  =  ¿Habla usted Inglés?

I don’t speak Spanish = Yo no hablo español

Pack Your Bags

I have an entire post on  what to pack for Belize , but if you don’t read it, make sure to have these five things with you before you leave for your trip:

Lonely Planet Belize   which is available as a paper copy or in a Kindle edition.

Mosquito Repellant   is the single most important thing you’ll want on you as soon as dusk hits. Have enough to at least get through the first night. However, if you’re traveling with a checked bag, bring enough for your trip since it’s way more expensive in Belize.

After Bite for mosquito bites   even being extremely careful, you may end up with some bites if you have to go somewhere at dusk.

Full Sized Travel Towel  This is the best travel towel in the world . It’s pretty enough for the beach, large enough that you forget it’s a microfibre towel, and quick-drying, which is crucial in super humid Belize.

A GoPro   for underwater and action photography. Why go all the way to Belize and not be able to capture some of the most exciting parts of your trip?

Read next:  What to Wear & What to Pack for Belize

Prepare For Your Arrival

It’s important to know exactly how you’ll get from your arrival point in Belize to your accommodations. For those headed straight to Ambergris Caye or Caye Caulker, I have guides for how to get from Belize City to Caye Caulker and to Ambergris Caye . These include costs and how much the taxis should be.

If you’re going to be headed elsewhere, then work with your accommodations to find out the best route from the airport to your hotel or hostel. Things to ask:

• Best transportation route
• Hours of operations (some options like water taxis may not be available in the evenings)
• Acceptable payment methods (USD, local currency, Visa, Mastercard…)
• Do you need to book ahead or can you arrange once you’re on the ground

Your accommodations should have this information readily available, but make sure you know ahead of time since you will probably not have a sim card right away.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!

During your trip, what would happen if you got in a boating accident, had your camera stolen, or got sick and had to be rushed to the hospital? For anyone who knows that these scenarios would cause serious financial and logistical hardship, travel insurance is the best answer.

Even though it’s not fun, I always buy a  Travel Insurance Policy  because things happen on the road.  I pay for  World Nomads,  and I happily recommend them. It’s especially important to get travel insurance if you’re going to be doing any snorkeling or scuba diving while in Belize. And the policies are pretty affordable. You can check policy prices for your trip dates here.

Pro Tip: I have been a paying customer of  World Nomads  for travel insurance for two years, and I happily recommend them.  It’s especially important to get travel insurance if you’re going to be doing any water sports, like scuba diving, sailing, or snorkeling, or if you’re going to do anything in the jungle or visit any ancient ruins.  Check policy prices for your trip dates here.

More Resources to Help with Planning a Trip to Belize

Headed to Belize? Start with my  complete Belize packing list  so you can arrive on vacation completely prepared.

If you’re still trying to decide where to go in Belize, check out my post on the  most Instagrammable places in Belize  and the best beaches in Belize.

If you know you’ll be headed to Ambergris Caye at some point on your trip, here’s my post on  how to get there , the  best things to do in San Pedro , and  how to get to Secret Beach.  

If you’ll be headed to Caye Caulker, check out my guide on  how to get there from BZE and Belize City.

Finally, here’s my guide to  snorkeling at Hol Chan and Shark Ray Alley . Even if you plan to go snorkeling in a different part of the country, this guide goes over what generally to expect and what to bring with you.

Are you planning a trip to Belize or have you already returned from your trip? Leave Your Best Travel Tips and Questions below!

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Belize Wants to Prove to Bryan Cranston and the Breaking Bad Cast That Going There Is Not a Death Sentence

By Julie Miller

The country of Belize will not just sit back and watch as Walter White— Breaking Bad ’s central meth-cooking character, played by Bryan Cranston—and his lawyer, Saul Goodman, use their country as some metaphor for death. On the last episode, Saul, the deliciously sleazy lawyer played by Bob Odenkirk, suggests that Walt send an encroaching D.E.A. officer “on a trip to Belize,” reminding him of a former co-worker whom Walt also “sent to Belize” by killing him.

Sniffing out the opportunity for press, the Belize Tourism Board has offered a four-day, three-night vacation to Breaking Bad creator Vince Gilligan, Bryan Cranston, and several other of the drama’s stars, reports* The New York Times . In an invitation obtained by the Times*, the board writes: “Dear Cast of Breaking Bad , Despite what Saul meant when he suggested that Walt send Hank 'on a trip to Belize,' we were flattered to be included on the program last Sunday.” The board then proceeds to invite the cast to explore the country during a paid vacation that includes airfare, lodging, and meals.

At the time of this post, the Breaking Bad team has not commented on the invitation—most likely because they are considering which other exotic locales they can possibly visit for free with the right death metaphor in the series’ remaining episodes.

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Hollywood correspondent, hollywood daily.

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