Frequently Asked Questions About Belize

Short answer: Yes.

The longer answer is that most vendors accept Mastercard and Visa credit cards, but it is rare that vendors accept any other foreign credit cards (e.g., American Express, Discover, etc.). In addition, credit card terminals/machines are regularly 'Out of Service,' and only cash (either BZD or USD) can be accepted as payment during that time.

Yes. Belize uses the same electrical outlets as the US (110 volts, 60 Hz), so if you're coming from a country with different electrical standards, bring a travel adapter.

There are several options for getting around in Belize:

1. Car rental: Renting a car is a popular way to get around Belize, particularly if you want to explore different parts of the country at your own pace. However, road conditions in Belize can be variable, with some areas having unpaved or poorly maintained roads. It's also important to note that driving is on the right-hand side of the road in Belize, and some rental car companies may require an international driver's license.
2. Taxis: Taxis are readily available in major cities and towns in Belize, and fares are generally affordable. Be sure to negotiate the fare before getting in the taxi, as there are no meters in Belize.
3. Public transportation: Public buses are a common mode of transportation in Belize, particularly for longer distances. Buses can be crowded and uncomfortable, but they are an affordable option. In addition, some areas of Belize may have water taxis or ferries that provide transportation between islands or coastal communities.
4. Domestic flights: If you need to travel long distances quickly, domestic flights are available from Belize City to other parts of the country, such as San Pedro, Placencia, and Dangriga. We have two domestic carriers, Maya Island Air and Tropic Air, both of which provide online booking.
5. Private van transport: If you need to travel long distances but prefer not to travel using a domestic flight, Belize has many reputable private van transport operators to connect any two destinations in the country.
6. Bicycle or motorcycle rental: Bicycles and motorcycles are available for rent in some parts of Belize, particularly in tourist areas. This can be a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the countryside or smaller towns.

It's important to note that travel in Belize can take longer than expected due to road conditions, traffic, or weather. It's also recommended to use licensed and reputable transportation services and to avoid traveling alone at night.

Yes, there is a risk of hurricanes in Belize, particularly during the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June 1st to November 30th. Belize is located in the western Caribbean Sea and is vulnerable to tropical storms and hurricanes that form in the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. Although hurricanes are not common in Belize, they can occur.

If you are planning to visit Belize during hurricane season, it's important to stay informed about weather conditions and have a plan in case a storm or hurricane does occur. Be sure to monitor weather reports and follow the advice of local authorities, as well as secure travel insurance that covers natural disasters.

Visas are not required for entry for citizens of the United States and its territories, Canada, United Kingdom and its territories, the European Union, most Caribbean and Central American countries, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Uruguay, Colombia, Taiwan, Japan, and South Korea. For a complete and current listing of countries that enjoy visa-free travel to Belize, visit www.mfa.gov.bz.

The local currency is the Belize dollar (BZD or BZ). The Belize dollar is permanently pegged at a conversion rate of 2:1 to the US dollar (e.g., $1 USD = $2 BZD), and it does not fluctuate.

Cash currency in both BZD and USD is accepted everywhere in Belize, so there is no need to obtain cash currency in BZD prior to arrival. If you pay a Belizean vendor using USD cash currency, they will return any change in BZD.

There are ATMs in the country, but they are primarily located only in major cities and popular tourist towns/destinations. Only two of our three national banks in Belize have ATMs that regularly accept foreign Mastercard and Visa cards capable of ATM cash withdrawals (Atlantic Bank and Belize Bank, which will be indicated by signage on the ATM). Also, it is important to keep in mind that ATMs in Belize are regularly 'Out of Service,' and there is no guarantee that an ATM - if functional - will accept your specific card for a cash withdrawal. In addition, the daily limit for ATM cash withdrawals at Atlantic Bank and Belize Bank using a foreign card is generally capped at $1,000 BZD ($500 USD) per card.

As there is limited acceptance of the Belize dollar outside Belize, and most banks in foreign countries will not accept BZD currency for conversion back into that country's local currency, we recommend that you do not return to your host country with BZD currency having any expectations of converting it into local currency.

Belize introduced a new digital Arrival/Entry E-form for Travelers on December 1, 2024.  Many airlines still distribute paper customs and immigration forms during the flight to Belize.  Belize Customs and Immigration will still accept these paper form if you choose to fill them out.  Follow the steps below to use the new digital e-form.

Arrival into Belize:

1. Prior to arriving into Belize, go to the Belize Travel website to access the Traveler Declaration Form. You can complete this form early, there's no need to wait until you're travel day.
2. Solve the CAPTCHA phrase as directed and click Validate
3. Click Arriving to Belize
4. Follow the prompts to enter your information and complete the form.  There are questions asking about where you'll be staying.  If you're staying at Carib House in Placencia then select these answers:
   1. Intended District in Belize:  Select Stann Creek
   2. Intended Town/Village in Belize:  Select Placencia
   3. Intended Street/Hotel Name in Belize:  Enter Main Road, Carib House
5. Once you complete all sections of the form and submit, you'll reach a screen with a QR code.  Important Note:  Either take a screenshot of this page or print it.  You must present this QR code along with your passport to the customs officials upon arrival in Belize.

Arriving with Children:

If children are traveling without both parents, a notarized letter of parental consent from the non-traveling parent(s) is required. Additionally, birth certificates and proof of your relationship to the child may be requested.  Your airline will likely require you to present proof of this documentation prior to boarding your flight to Belize.

Departing Belize:

1. Go to the Belize Travel website to access the Traveler Declaration Form. You can complete this form early.  There's no need to wait until your travel day.
2. Solve the CAPTCHA phrase as directed and click Validate
3. Click Departing from Belize
4. Once you complete all sections of the form and submit, you'll reach a screen with a QR code. Important Note: Either take a screenshot of this page or print it. You must present this QR code along with your passport to the customs officials before entering the security checkpoint.

Connections to Maya or Tropic Air

If you are traveling to Placencia via a connecting Belize domestic flight on Maya Island Air or Tropic Air, you will proceed forward and follow the signs to ‘Transfers’ and check in at the desk corresponding to your airline. You will need to present your passport to the desk agents and re-check your luggage.  You'll then be directed to pass through security.

Belize is on GMT-6 or US Central Standard Time throughout the year, with no daylight saving time changes.

English is the official language and is widely spoken, but most Belizeans speak Kriol, an English-based language with strong African roots. Other languages spoken throughout Belize include Spanish, Mayan, Garifuna, and Mandarin.

Packing for your trip to Belize will depend on the time of year you are traveling, your itinerary, and the activities you plan to do. Here are some general recommendations:

1. Light, comfortable clothing: Belize is a warm and humid country, so pack lightweight, breathable clothing, such as cotton or linen. Shorts, t-shirts, sundresses, and swimsuits are ideal for the beach and water activities.
2. Sun protection: The sun in Belize can be strong, so bring plenty of sunscreen with a high SPF, sunglasses, and a hat or visor to protect your face from the sun.
3. Insect repellent: Mosquitoes and other insects can be common in Belize, particularly in the evening and near water. Bring insect repellent, and consider wearing long sleeves and light pants or leggings in the evening.
4. Water shoes: Some beaches and coral reefs in Belize have sharp rocks or coral, so it's recommended to pack water shoes or reef-safe sandals for water activities.
5. Light jacket or sweater: While Belize is generally warm, temperatures can drop at night or in air-conditioned spaces, so bring a light jacket or sweater.
6. Travel adapter: Belize uses the same electrical outlets as the US (110 volts, 60 Hz), so if you're coming from a country with different electrical standards, bring a travel adapter.
7. Waterproof bag: A waterproof bag or dry bag can be useful for keeping your electronics, passports, and other valuables dry while on the water.
8. Personal medication: If you require prescription medication or have any medical conditions, be sure to bring enough medication for the duration of your trip.

The best time to visit Belize is generally during the dry season, which runs from December to May. This is considered the peak tourist season, with warm temperatures, sunny skies, and lower humidity. The dry season is ideal for exploring the country's beaches, jungles, and other outdoor attractions, as well as for water sports such as snorkeling, diving, and fishing.

However, keep in mind that this is also the busiest time of year, so prices for accommodations and activities may be higher, and popular attractions may be more crowded. If you're looking to avoid the crowds and potentially save some money, late November to early December, as well as late May to early June, can also be good times to visit Belize.

The rainy season, which runs from June to November, can still be a good time to visit Belize, particularly for eco-tourism and birdwatching, as the lush vegetation and increased rainfall can create stunning landscapes and attract a variety of wildlife. However, it's important to note that this is also hurricane season, and there is a greater risk of storms and heavy rainfall during this time. If you do choose to visit during the rainy season, be sure to pack appropriate rain gear and keep an eye on weather reports.

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