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Belize Travel Guide

Last Updated: January 16, 2024

Brightly colored buildings along the beach, lined tropical palm trees in Belize

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.

Xunantunich Mayan ruins in the lush forests of 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

People sitting at a beach bar with a huge neon sign that says 'Truck Stop' and a bright mural that says 'Greetings from San Pedro, Belize'

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 250 NZD per night, but your best value will be renting a room or an apartment from a local over websites like Airbnb. A shared room on Airbnb averages 40 BZD per night and an entire home averages around 150 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 10 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 13 BZD for a combo meal.

A beer is 4-5 BZD, and local alcoholic drinks like rum and coke cost around 5 BZD. s 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!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day if you’re on a really tight budget). I just want to give you a general idea of how to plan your budget for Belize. Prices are in BZD.

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)
  • D’s Hostel (San Ignacio)
  • The Old House Hostel (San Ignacio)
  • The Royal Rat

How to Get Around Belize

Golf carts under palm trees on the beach in 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 20 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 75-100 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 40 BZD one-way, while Belize City to San Pedro (Ambergris Caye) starts from 60 BZD one-way. Between San Pedro and Caye Caulker, it’s from 40 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 Belize Safe to Visit?

Is Central America Safe to Visit?

Is Central America Safe to Visit?

Get my best stuff sent straight to you, pin it on pinterest.

  • Where To Stay
  • Transportation
  • Booking Resources
  • Related Blogs

Never Ending Footsteps

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

Ruins at Cahal Pech

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?

how to travel to belize

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

Lauren 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

The Beach in Placencia

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

how to travel to belize

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!

how to travel to belize

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

Tikal in the sunshine

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

how to travel to belize

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

how to travel to belize

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

how to travel to belize

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

how to travel to belize

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

how to travel to belize

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

how to travel to belize

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!

how to travel to belize

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”!

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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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Belize Adventure

Easy-to-use travel guide for Belize

Know Before You Go

Do you need help planning your trip to Belize?

Well, you’ve come to the right place. I’ve worked in tourism for more than 15 years and have shared expert travel advice here for over 10 years. I use my local knowledge to make this website: Belize Adventure , a resource-rich Belize blog filled with the best travel tips .

There are so many things you need to know before you travel to Belize, from entry guidelines to health and safety concerns, to what to bring/ pack or buy on vacation. The information listed below serves as a 10-step travel guide for Belize that offers information on when to visit , where to stay , the best places to go , and top-rated tourist attractions .

1. Best time to visit Belize and top places to go

San Pedro beachfront near Estels Dine by the Sea

Belize is small but it has a lot to offer. Here are the top beach & jungle destinations in Belize  www.belizeadventure.ca/destinations

Should you visit Belize during the dry season or wet season?  www.belizeadventure.ca/when-is-the-best-time-to-visit-belize

Belize festivals and events by month  www.belizeadventure.ca/festivals

2. Things to do in Belize: Top tourist attractions & activities

El Castillo is the tallest temple at Xunantunich

The 10 best things to do in Belize  www.belizeadventure.ca/things-to-do-in-belize

TOP 35 Belize Experiences  www.belizeadventure.ca/activities

Belize itinerary for one-week  www.belizeadventure.ca/one-week-in-belize or two weeks  www.belizeadventure.ca/two-weeks-in-belize

3. Establish your travel budget: low, mid-range, or luxury

Turtle Inn beach hotel by Francis Ford Coppola

Do you want to visit cool spots but want to travel around Belize as cheaply as possible?  www.belizeadventure.ca/belize-on-the-cheap

Or are you splurging and want to experience the best of Belize? Below you can find my curated lists of top Belize hotels and resorts:

  • Top Luxury Hotels in Belize
  • The Best Jungle Resorts & Eco Lodges in Belize
  • Top 5 All-inclusive Resorts in Belize
  • 10 Best Beach Resorts in Belize
  • Top 5 Adult-Only Belize Resorts
  • Best Dive R e sorts in Belize
  • The Best Family Resorts in Belize
  • Top 5 Over-Water Bungalows & Villas in Belize
  • The Best Cheap Hotels in Belize
  • Top Treehouse Hotels in Belize
  • Belize Gold Standard Hotels and Resorts

If you found this information useful , keep this blog going through support via Paypal.com/donate-to-belize-adventure . Or find the “Buy me a beer” button on the sidebar to donate $10 or more. Thanks!

4. Book hotels by top destinations in Belize

Jungle resort in belize

I’ve spent the past 10 years meticulously curating lists on top places to stay in Belize: www.belizeadventure.ca/hotels/

  • Click on the links to see where to stay in  Ambergris Caye ,  Caye Caulker ,  San Ignacio, Cayo ,  Placencia , and  Hopkins .

Belize Luxury Villas at Chaa Creek Jungle Resort

1. The Lodge at Chaa Creek

Chaa Creek is the oldest jungle resort in Belize and has won many international awards for its eco-friendly status. They are eco-tourism pioneers and were “green” before it was trendy. This eco lodge is perfect for  nature lovers  since it’s located in a 400-acre private nature reserve 1/2 hour away from  San Ignacio, Cayo , which is the hub for eco-adventures in Western Belize.

www.chaacreek.com

Hamanasi Adventure and Dive Resort in Hopkins Belize

2. Hamanasi Adventure & Dive Resort

Located in  Hopkins, Stann Creek , the award-winning Hamanasi Resort is the perfect base for eco-friendly travelers seeking an adventure outpost with rustic-chic elegance. This resort specializes in scuba diving (they have a PADI 5-star dive facility) and its prime location in Belize’s southeastern coast makes jungle day trips to Maya temples and caves easy. However, the main highlight of Hopkins is the unique  Garifuna culture  of Belize.

www.hamanasi.com

pelican reef resort in san pedro ambergris caye, belize

3. Pelican Reef Villas Resort

Pelican Reef has several modern and well-equipped beachfront condos in southern  Ambergris Caye . It is located 15 minutes away from Downtown San Pedro and offers the perfect setting for families and groups of friends. Guests enjoy having the option of cooking their own meals or eating at the onsite restaurant & bar. After a day of fun activities in San Pedro, you can lounge by their pool or soak up the sun on the beach. They also have a dock that can be used for snorkeling or fishing.

www.pelicanreefvillas.com

Aerial view of Glover's Reef Basecamp

4. Island Expeditions

Island Expeditions has been offering Belize adventure packages for small groups since 1987. It all started when three Canadian friends explored remote Cayes in Belize and had such an incredible experience that they decided to share it with others. Their signature experience allows visitors to stay on Glover’s Reef Atoll , which is 36 miles off the coast of Dangriga at the edge of the southern Belize Barrier Reef.

www.islandexpeditions.com

5. What to eat and tipping guide

Hudut Garifuna Food

Things you MUST eat in Belize www.belizeadventure.ca/belizean-food-to-try

A simple guide to Belize’s tipping culture  www.belizeadventure.ca/travel-tips/tipping

6. Basic facts about Belize and how to get there & around

The hand-cranked ferry used to get to Xunantunich

Get to know basic facts about Belize www.belizeadventure.ca/belize

People can get to Belize by air, land, and sea  www.belizeadventure.ca/travel-tips/getting-to

Here’s a guide to getting around in Belize  www.belizeadventure.ca/travel-tips/getting-around

If you found this information useful , keep this blog going through support via Paypal.com/donate-to-belize-adventure . Or find the “Buy me a beer” button on the sidebar to donate $10 or more. Thanks!

7. Travel documents and requirements for entry to Belize

entry requirements for belize

Most people don’t need visas to enter Belize. All that is needed is a passport that is valid for at least  30 days.  www.belizeadventure.ca/travel-tips/entry-requirements

There is no entry fee for Belize, however, there is an exit fee a.k.a. departure tax.  www.belizeadventure.ca/travel-tips/departure-tax

8. Health and safety concerns in Belize

Belize is open for travel during COVID-19

Here are travel safety warnings and information  www.belizeadventure.ca/is-belize-safe

Use this guide to Belize’s healthcare system  www.belizeadventure.ca/healthcare

As of July 2022, Belize lifted all of its COVID-19 public health measures for entry www.belizeadventure.ca/travel-tips/covid-19-coronavirus

9. Belize Packing list

Onsite birding at Hamanasi Resort in Hopkins, Southern Belize

Tips on what to pack for Belize, including what not to bring  www.belizeadventure.ca/travel-tips/packing-list

10. How to save money on your trip to Belize

Belizean Money. BZ Dollars from $2 to $100

A few ways how you can save money on a Belize vacation  www.belizeadventure.ca/save-money-on-a-belize-vacation

The top 10 places to visit in Belize are  Ambergris Caye ,  Caye Caulker ,  San Ignacio ,  Placencia ,  Hopkins , Belize City , Cayo , Offshore Atolls , Tobacco Caye , and Corozal .

1. Explore Belize’s Barrier Reef by diving the  Great Blue Hole  and  Half Moon Caye Wall or snorkeling at the  Hol Chan Marine Reserve  and South Water Caye Marine Reserve 2. Learn about Belize’s ancient Maya by visiting top Maya sites  such as Xunantunich, Caracol or Lamanai, and  top Maya caves  such as Actun Tunichil Muknal and  Caves Branch  for cave tubing. 3. Visit Belize’s many islands (known as Cayes). Popular Cayes include Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker and less-visited Cayes include  Tobacco Caye  and  Glover’s Reef . 4. Visit National Parks and Protected Areas such as  Mountain Pine Ridge  in Cayo and the  Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary  in Crooked Tree. 5. Go wildlife spotting by visiting the  Belize Zoo  or the  Baboon Sanctuary . Alternatively, go hiking at the  Cockscomb Basin  or  Monkey River .

Tap water in Belize is not safe to drink. However, most hotels, resorts and some vacation rentals provide “purified” water to guests so bring a reusable water bottle. If drinking water isn’t included in your stay, it can be bought at supermarkets in 500 ml, 1 litre, 1.5 litres, 1 gallon, & 5 gallons bottles.

Belize was closed to international travel from March 24 to October 1, 2020, due to COVID. Since then, Belize has reopened with minimum tourism protocols .

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Cornerstone Foundation in San Ignacio

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BELIZE WELCOMES YOU

Life is what you make of it, and Belize offers you every opportunity to make it spectacular. From ziplining through the jungle to relaxing on the beach, pounding on a Garifuna drum to scuba diving in the Caribbean Sea, we hope you’ll enjoy every moment here in Belize as much as we enjoy having you. Learn more about how to truly experience our country on your next Belize vacation.

DON’T JUST TRAVEL TO BELIZE, EXPERIENCE BELIZE.

Birding in Belize

archaeology

Archaeology in Belize

YOUR CURATED GUIDE TO BELIZE

  • CATEGORIES:
  • Archaeology
  • Backpacking
  • Beaches and Coast

how to travel to belize

Experience the Charm of the Cayo District

As the largest district in Belize, the Cayo District is brimming with captivating adventures, attractions, and eateries. A destination adored…

A Journey through Toledo- Belize's Southern Escape

A Journey Through Toledo: Belize’s Southern Escape

No longer a hidden gem, Toledo is a tranquil escape for those who want to trade bustling towns and cities…

how to travel to belize

Night at the Plaza: The Winter Solstice in Belize

Experience the winter solstice in Belize for a deep connection to the ancient Maya history. The winter solstice occurs when…

how to travel to belize

Experience the Bliss of Pleasure Boating in Belize

Voyage the glistening hues of blue waters as you pleasure boat in Belize, where serene beauty and exotic marine life…

how to travel to belize

Belizean Treasures for Last-Minute Gift Ideas

The holiday season is in full swing, and you may find yourself in the slum of procrastination with last-minute shopping….

GETTING HERE

With daily flights from many cities across North America, travel to Belize is easier than you would imagine

san salvador

1 hours Tropic Air

6 hours, 20 minutes WestJet

2 hours, 5 minutes American Airlines

2 hours United Airlines

4 hours, 46 minutes WestJet

4 hours, 15 minutes Air Canada

5 hours, 30 minutes United Airlines

5 hours Southwest Airlines

los angeles

4 hours, 40 minutes United Airlines

5 hours Alaska Air

5 hours American Airlines

minneapolis

4 hours, 20 minutes Sun Country

4 hours, 45 minutes Delta

2 hours, 50 minutes American Airlines

4 hours, 15 minutes United Airlines

3 hours, 11 minutes Delta

3 hours, 24 minutes American Airlines

6 hours, 25 minutes United Airlines

1 hours, 45 minutes Tropic Air

55 minutes Tropic Air

panama city

2 hours, 20 minutes Copa

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2 hours, 20 minutes Southwest Airlines

7 hours Alaska Air

4 hours, 45 minutes JetBlue

4 hours, 30 minutes Southwest Airlines

GETTING AROUND

Traveling to Belize is only the beginning of a great experience. Once you arrive, you have the opportunity to discover our beautiful beaches, lush jungles, multiple islands and more. Whether you’re exploring the Bladen Nature Reserve trails or exploring Mayan ruins in the Cayo District, we have local airlines, helicopters, rental cars, buses, boats and even horses available to get you on your way and off the beaten path.

WORLD HERITAGE SITES IN BELIZE

The Belize Barrier Reef sits just miles off the coast of Belize and is part of the larger Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, second in size only to the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. Home to hundreds of species of coral and fish, it is a hot spot for divers, snorkelers and biologists from all over the world.

FOLLOW ALONG ON THE ADVENTURE

Studies show connecting with nature is good for the body and mind. We feel relaxed and refreshed just taking in…

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Home » Central America » Belize » Itinerary

EPIC BELIZE Itinerary! (2024)

If Belize were a person, it would be Indiana Jones. The 8867 square miles, half Caribbean getaway, half jungle mystery possitively exudes a sense of adventure and wonder. It’s no wonder you’re excited and looking forward to planning a trip to Belize!

One of the less talked about Central American getaway destinations, for anyone looking to experience the uniqueness of Central America or looking for an almost year-round perfect climate, this is it!

From party hot-spots to snorkeler’s paradise reefs and sacred caves, Belize has it all. It even has pyramids!

If you’re planning a trip in Belize then this this is the itinerary for you!

how to travel to belize

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Best Time to Visit Belize

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The best time to visit Belize is also the most inconvenient, because it’s when everyone wants to go! This is usually during the country’s dry season, which lasts from November to April.

During this time you can expect the best from Belize’s tropical climate and coastal sea breezes. In fact, temperatures rarely dip below 20 °C/68 °F!

when to visit Belize

So, if you’re wondering when to visit Belize, the answer is entirely dependent on what you want. Some prefer the busy, dry season while others prefer the quieter, wet season as it gives them an opportunity to explore in peace.

Whether you’re looking to take a short trip to Belize as you pass through South and Central America, spending the weekend in Belize or just looking to vacation in Belize, you’ll need to take note of the best months to do so and plan according to your individual travel desires!

One of the key parts of choosing where to stay for any trip is choosing an area that suits what you’re looking for. If you’re backpacking Belize to go scuba diving staying on the coastline is a no-brainer. However, not all areas are super affordable.

For that reason, if you’re planning on spending time somewhere, it’s always great to choose someplace central and fairly inexpensive. So, whether you’re wondering where to stay in Belize for 5 days or 20, staying central is key! For this reason, we recommend Belize City .

Two of the best places to visit in Belize are the emerald jungle-based San Ignacio, and the turquoise water surrounded island of Caye Caulker! The problem can be, with such great options, which to choose?

where to stay in Belize

Luckily, by staying in Belize City you not only get great options on accommodation but both destinations are within fairly easy reach! This is a great option for the best place to stay in Belize.

Belize City is the biggest city in the country! As a result, it is home to a variety of hostels , hotels, casinos as well as the Museum of Belize, located inside a former prison! It’s also a great place to get to know the real people of Belize and spend time getting to know the culture and history whilst admiring the architecture! We have listed a few of the best hostels in Belize below to help you get started.

Best Hostel in Belize – Red Hut Inn

belize itinerary

Located in a safe and convenient area just outside the city (around 8 miles from the airport) the beach isn’t far away enough for you to not smell the sea breeze. With decent sized, clean rooms, options of A/C and friendly staff, this is a great find for anyone exploring on a budget!

Best Airbnb in Belize: A brand new apartment that keeps you central

A brand new apartment that keeps you central, Belize

With a recently renovated interior and brand new gadgets, this Belize vacation rental is up at a fair price. It’s on a pretty sleepy street, so don’t worry about been kept up all night. That been said, it’s only a short walk from the city centre, so you won’t be spending half your trip stuck on the bus!

Best Budget Hotel in Belize – DB Tower Vacation Rental

belize itinerary

4 miles away from Belize harbor and 7 miles from Philip S. W. Goldson International, this is the perfect place for anyone looking for hotel quality without going broke! It offers free WiFi, a hot tub, and a barbecue atop a fantastic rooftop terrace. It’s the perfect place to decompress and enjoy the stunning views this steal offers.

Best Luxury Hotel in Belize – Radisson Fort George Hotel & Marina

belize itinerary

For those looking for a more luxurious stay, the Radisson Fort George Hotel & Marina is the perfect spot. With chain hotels, you’re almost always guaranteed quality and this is no exception. With sea views, a gym and spa center and more than a few pools, this is a great way to experience Belize in style!

There is so much to do in Belize that if you don’t know what you want to do or what there is to see you may miss out on some amazing sites and hidden gems. To prevent that, our Belize Itinerary will show you all you’d want to see and probably even more!

If you’re going to be using our Belize trip itinerary, you’re going to move around quite a bit. As such, there are two common ways for visitors to get around. Most of our stops are fairly close to one another and can usually be walked to and from but day to day you may have to travel to a different area or district. This will often be done using chicken busses!

Belize itinerary

In case you’re concerned about the name, it’s more of a nickname these days than a description although in some places the buses are still occasionally used to ferry, well, chickens . This is one of the cheapest and most fun ways to travel. Another fun way to travel may be using water taxis that are often used to travel up, down or across the  many rivers that flow through various cities!

For a more medium distance based form of travel, your best bet is the many green license-plate bearing cabs!

Old Belize | St. John’s Cathedral | Belize Zoo | Belize Museum | Riverside Tavern

The first thing you want to do when you arrive in a new city is to get to know it. Uncovering the hidden parks, niche shops, cool bars and understanding the heartbeat of where you are is half the fun of traveling! So for day 1 in Belize, we want you to get acquainted with your new home and the epicenter of your travels, Belize City!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – Loosen Up in Old Belize

  • Why it’s awesome: Old Belize is a nice way to ease into your adventuring
  • Cost: 10$ USD
  • Food nearby: Old Belize Exotic Beach & Bar has tasty snacks and more for you to kick-start your morning!

Old Belize prides itself on being able to provide a sense of history and at the same aiming to provide a modern, unforgettable experience!

Old Belize offers a series of interesting and fun activities ranging from Cucumber Beach Marina and Kukumba Beach to the Old Belize train ride and a series of enticing restaurants. It lies on a patch of the coast of Belize City unofficially known as “Kukumba Beach”!

Old Belize

The beach is a man-made one and is home to a 50 feet tall, 90 foot-long water slide which will have you screaming in delight. Other activities include bean bag toss areas, inflatable tubes, rope swings, volleyball nets, live music and bar, and restaurant!

Experience authentic Belizean cuisine! The Old Belize Exotic Beach & Bar restaurant is ideally situated facing Cucumber Beach and the Caribbean Sea. This provides a nice, tropical ambiance for some post-swim food!

Enjoy the peaceful panoramic view of the boats passing through the marina.

Day 1 / Stop 2 – Admire the St. John’s Cathedral

  • Why it’s awesome: An eerie reminder of the power of old empires. Sort of creepy seeing such a decidedly European building in a distinctly Central American country.
  • Cost: Free!
  • Food nearby: Bird’s Isle Restaurant, their authentic Belizean food will only enhance your cultural experience!

Welcome to your cultural stop on our Belize Itinerary!

Located in downtown Belize City, just a few hundred feet west of the Government House. The majestic Cathedral was built in 1812 as the Church of England’s headquarters in Central America. Once upon a time, the cathedral was once used to crown four different native kings of the Miskito tribe in lavish ceremonies.

Today, the cathedral is the oldest surviving building constructed by Europeans in Belize.

Admire the St Johns Cathedral

Using gigantic ballast stones brought over from Europe, English colonizers constructed the cathedral as the “power base” of the Church of England in Central America! It makes for an odd point of interest in Belize. The contrast is pretty weird, if you looked only at the Cathedral and ignored the fantastic weather, you could be convinced that you were in an old English town!

It may seem kind of touristy, but it’s also something you shouldn’t miss out on for that reason alone. It’s an incredibly worthwhile stop on our Belize travel itinerary. The incredibly well-maintained architecture (made from Sapodilla and Mahogany wood), as well as an antique pipe organ and tombstones of English colonists, is definitely worth checking out!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Visit The Belize Zoo

  • Why it’s awesome: The Belize Zoo is the world’s most famous “little zoo” and is a stunning way to see the wildlife of the country in as close to their natural environment as possible.
  • Cost: 15$ USD
  • Food nearby: Lil Texas Bar and Grill serves tasty Texan food with delicious Belizean flair!

Home to over one hundred and seventy-five species of animals, this is a must-see destination for animal and nature lovers. The Belize Zoo is a non-profit zoo that focuses on the conservation of wildlife through “environmental education and rehabilitation”!

It was the first nature destination in Belize that is fully accessible to handicap visitors!

The Belize Zoo’s 175 animals represent over 45 native species. The Zoo keeps animals that were orphaned, rescued, born at the zoo, rehabilitated animals, or sent to The Belize Zoo as donations from other zoological institutions around Belize!

Belize zoo

A must-visit on any trip to Belize District, the zoo has many animals you’re unlikely to see elsewhere – several tapirs (a Belizean relative of the rhino), scarlet macaws, white-lipped peccaries, pumas and a variety of other animals!

A visit to the Zoo is the best way to get an introduction to the animals of Belize and to understand why it is important to protect the habitats that sustain them.

Insider Tip: Arriving early in the morning is a sure way to beat the loud and often obnoxious tour groups that get brought in closer to midday!

Day 1 / Stop 4 – Learn at the Belize Museum

  • Why it’s awesome: The National Museum of anywhere is a must-see as it’s the perfect way to learn about where you are and its culture.
  • Cost: 5$ USD for entrance
  • Food nearby: Celebrity Restaurant & Bar serves some of the best seafood in Belize!

Just a few hundred meters from the coast, the Belize Museum is an essential stop for anyone in Belize! Belize was once a key part of the ancient Mayan Empire and ruins of their ancient cities litter the countryside. Artifacts from the Victorian Colonial era can also be found recounting the time when Belize was once known as British Honduras!

Learn at the Belize Museum

If you opt for a tour, part of the experience includes a visit to an authentic prison cell! Built more than 150 years ago by the British colonial government to house prisoners, the facility was closed down by the newly-independent government of Belize in 1992. Ten years later, the government of Belize renovated the building, converting it to the Belize Museum!

Passing by this stop allows you to experience more than 3000 years of history and is a nice way for anyone feeling reluctant to make the journey to see the ruins of the Mayan civilization!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – Dinner at The Riverside Tavern

  • Why it’s awesome: Home to the best and biggest burgers in Belize, this eating extravaganza is the perfect way to cap off a busy day!
  • Cost: Depending on what you eat, meals may range from 15$ USD (for a takeaway, includes a drink) and up.
  • Food nearby: Don’t worry about food, this is all you’ll need!

A definite highlight of our Belize Itinerary!

Whether you’re on the patio overlooking Haulover Creek or inside the busy bar area, this restaurant is a great way to either begin your night out or end your day. It is commonly spoken of as being one of the best restaurants in Belize and has a secure, free, fenced off and guarded area to park in if you’re driving.

Dinner at The Riverside Tavern

Their signature hamburgers come in sizes from 6 oz. and bigger, are arguably the best in Belize. Their onion ringed options are highly recommended as well as their steak and prime rib dishes. These are sourced from nearby cattle from the Bowen farm at Gallon Jug. The Bowens are also the owners of the restaurant as well as Belikin beers.

Insider Tip: This is one of the few restaurants in Belize with a dress code though so be warned, shorts aren’t allowed at night!

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These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

San Ignacio Farmer’s Market | Capello’s Art Gallery | ATM Cave  | Green Iguana Project | Ko-Ox Han Nah

This is the perfect last day for anyone just looking for a 2 day itinerary in Belize!

Day 2/ Stop 1 – San Ignacio Farmers Market

  • Why it’s awesome: The market is a fantastic opportunity to experience a literal taste of what makes Belizean life so unique!
  • Cost: Varies, depending on stalls, but prices have been known to be around 1$ USD for 10 bananas or 1$ USD for 5 limes!
  • Food nearby: Some of the best fruit and veg in the world, all locally sourced can be found right at the market! You can also enjoy breakfast and coffee at the near by Bamboo Tea & Coffee!

In this itinerary for Belize, some places can’t be missed. San Ignacio is one of those places!

San Ignacio is a small town in the Cayo district with a quaint, small-town vibe. It makes for a perfect stop on any Belize Itinerary! With a colorful history and an eclectic mix of cultures, it makes the perfect place to explore the country’s Mayan ruins and Cave Systems!

But before we get to the exploring part, one of the best things to do in San Ignacio is to visit the San Ignacio Farmers Market.

San Ignacio Farmers Market

Opening at roughly 04:30, this marketplace is the largest of its kind in Belize and with the variety of fruit and vegetables available, it is the perfect way to start your day. The open-air market is a perfect blend of bright fruits, vibrant clothing, and colorful languages as it is extremely multicultural. Everything from English to German, Spanish, Creole, and native Mayan can be heard through this bustling hub!

The busiest day to visit is a Saturday and many native Belizeans use this opportunity to meet, exchange gossip or just spend time out with one another. Perusing the best of what Belize has to offer is just the right way to begin your day as you load up on all the fresh produce you can inhale!

Insider Tip: Most adventuring in Belize starts early, ends late and can involve a lot of walking tours so bring some reliable shoes!

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Capello’s Art Gallery

  • Why it’s awesome: This stunning art gallery offers local artists a chance to shine and as a result, boast some of the most unique and beautiful works of art anywhere in the world!
  • Food nearby: Authentic Belizean food and more is available at a hole-in-the-wall spot called Ko-Ox Han Nah (Let’s Go Eat)!

Capello’s Art Gallery is one of the most beautiful buildings in San Ignacia, inside and out.

Capellos Art Gallery

The gallery prides itself on giving local artists the opportunity to create magical creations. It hosts four full time professional Belizean artists. Each artist has their own private studio and the gallery uses high-quality materials to ensure long-lasting value.

Visiting this talent-filled studio is an opportunity to experience the soul of Belize – just perfect for the art orientated traveler.

Day 2 / Stop 3 – Explore the ATM Cave

  • Why it’s awesome: These caves are the most sacred in the world and an almost spiritual experience
  • Cost: 110$ USD per person(includes guide, lunch, and transport, water and entrance)
  • Food nearby: Purple Star Sports Bar & Grill offers generous and cheap meals for anyone looking for nearby value for money!

The ATM Cave (short for the less catchy, Actun Tunichil Muknal) is, according to National Geographic, the world’s most sacred cave in the world. They tend to know a little something about these things so you can assume it’ll be time and money well spent!

The ATM Cave is a something of a mix of natural wonder and archaeological site. It stretches at least a kilometer into the earth, twisting through narrow passes in the rock. This goes on until you reach a massive, glittering atrium of crystallized stalagmites and stalactites.

Explore the ATM Cave

What makes the cave feel so sacred isn’t just the crystal cathedrals. The ATM Cave is the resting place of the remains from several ancient human sacrifices…. The most famous of these is the “Crystal Maiden” – the intact skeleton of a young female in near perfect condition in the heart of the cave. The “crystal” comes as a result of a covering of calcium carbonate which sparkles eerily…

In addition to human remains, there are also countless pieces of pottery and other artifacts broken into pieces, presumably as part of sacrificing rituals. As such it’s one of the most famous of all the Belize landmarks and not to be missed.

Insider Tip: Bring clothing you don’t mind getting wet and a pair of old shoes as the cave goes from wet to dry to wet and back again!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – Green Iguana Conservation Project

  • Why it’s awesome: You actually get to interact with these gigantic creatures!
  • Cost: 9$ USD
  • Food nearby: Running W. Steakhouse & Restaurant is one of the most beautiful places in Belize to grab a bite and toucans can often be spotted as you enjoy your meal

Native to Central, South America, and the Caribbean, green iguanas are some of the largest lizards in the Americas. In fact, their huge tails making up nearly half of their length!

Unfortunately, these iguanas and their eggs are eaten by humans, and considered a delicacy. Locally, edible iguana is known on menus as “bamboo chicken”.

A result of this as well as increasing the destruction of their natural environment has led to them becoming increasingly endangered. Hence the need for the Green Iguana Conservation Project!

Green Iguana Conservation Project

The project includes two critical programs. The first involves adopting an Iguana and the second; the Iguana Kids Club. Both promote the process of incubating, hatching, rearing, and releasing young iguanas back into the wild. The aim is to have youth participating in the program walk away with higher awareness and education about these large reptiles.

Situated at the San Ignacio Resort Hotel, the Iguana Conservation Project allows tourists hour-long tours. During this, you venture into the enclosed area where juvenile iguanas are raised until they are released into the wild. Touch and hold adult iguanas, and then enjoy dozens of baby iguanas cling to your body!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Dinner at Ko-Ox Han Nah

  • Why it’s awesome: Truly authentic meals at reasonable prices
  • Cost: Most meals are around 20$ USD or less
  • Food nearby: You’re already here!

The best way to end off a day is to enjoy some of the best food at one of the best restaurants in San Ignacio. Some go so far as to call it, THE restaurant. How could we not list it in our expansive Belize Itinerary?

Meaning “Let’s Go Eat” in Maya, this restaurant offers a diverse and incredible range of food from local and authentic Belize food to lamb curry and Mexican doof to American classics. It also offers several vegetarian and vegan options. The word eclectic gets used a lot but in this case, it’s entirely appropriate!

Dinner at Ko Ox Han Nah

Why an eatery should warrant a stop is a good question but all we can say is give it a try. No one who’s been has regretted it and you’d have to go out of your way to find someone who has had a bad experience!

With excellent service, a cool vibe, great food, an authentic ambiance, and a sense of inherent quality, you should definitely use this opportunity to pass up going back to the hotel and enjoying room service!

belize itinerary

Red Hut Inn

Located in a safe and convenient area just outside the city (around 8 miles from the airport) the beach isn’t far away enough for you to not smell the sea breeze.

  • Free Parking

Caye Caulker | Truck Stop in San Pedro | Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary | Xunantunich | Placencia

If you’ve got time for more than 2 days in Belize, you’ll definitely want to try and explore each district. Ideally, we suggest you try spending more than 3 days in Belize to maximize the value of your trip as for a small country, there really is a lot to see and do.

If you’re planning on spending at least 5 days in Belize, try to do as much as possible. To help with that here are a few key places to visit in Belize ( in 3 days) !

Unwind in Caye Caulker

  • Dive in one of the world’s must-dive sites, the Great Blue Hole!
  • Swim with Caribbean Reef Sharks!
  • A great way to see and do a little of everything Belize has to offer.

A perfect way to spend a day for anyone who has time for a 3 day itinerary in Belize! A mile away from the famous barrier reef system, the Great Blue Hole, Caye Caulker is a tiny island most popular among budget travelers, backpackers, and those wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of a chaotic life back home. The island is a cheaper alternative to the busier San Pedro islands and is often said to be its “little sister”.

There are no paved roads and to get around, most people wither make use of a combination of golf carts, bicycles, water taxis and good old fashioned walking!

Unwind in Caye Caulker

If windsurfing, snorkeling, and diving are your speed then this is for you. A variety of day tours are also available that include scuba diving, snorkeling, zip-lining, or seeing the local manatees!

Due to its varied geography, Caye Caulker is the perfect place to enjoy a romantic sunset. It’s a nice place to unwind and catch a break from all the adventuring you’ve no doubt been doing since arriving in beautiful Belize.

Eat Out at The Truck Stop in San Pedro

  • Experience the unique flavors of South America with travelers from all over the world
  • Right on the doorstep of some of the best daytime beach activities
  • Enjoy the chance to eat Arepa !

San Pedro, like Belize as a whole, boasts huge amounts of adventure activities to do!

From diving in the Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley to enjoying sunset cruises. One hidden gem of this golden island is the Truck Stop!

Located 1 mile north of San Pedro Town the Truck Stop is a bunch of shipping containers, converted into delicious eateries with something for everyone! Enjoy the cool breeze of the dock over the lagoon, eat/drink in the beer garden, or chill in the “tree pit”.

With entertainment like tossing cornhole bags, horseshoes, redneck golf, life-size Jenga and more you definitely won’t be bored!

Eat Out at The Truck Stop in San Pedro

They also sell some of the best tasting South American food in the form of Arepas as well as food from other parts of the world including Malaysian/Asian-style alternatives.

The Truck Stop is the type of hidden gem that really makes you appreciate having done some research beforehand!

Spend time with Jaguars at Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary

  • Visit the world’s only Jaguar Sanctuary
  • Get authentic and explore this sanctuary on foot!
  • Only 5$ per person!

With several hotels available roughly 30 minutes from the site, it may be best to book a spot there before heading to this one of a kind sanctuary. It’s a nice way to explore Belize’s natural beauty as there are over 14 different hiking trails and very few tourists to compete with.

From hidden waterfalls, rivers and mountain tops with amazing views of the park, it’s a truly surreal way to spend some time in nature.

Spend time with Jaguars at Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary

For birdwatchers, a large array of diversity of tropical birds exists! Tracks of wildcats and other wildlife are often spotted- especially along the bank of South Stann Creek. Plan an extended visit if possible. The park has several cabins as well as campgrounds for anyone looking to spend the night!

An interesting fact about the area is that the area was also designated to protect the upper watersheds of important river systems. Cockscomb has two distinctive basins, which separated by a ridge of land. The East Basin drains into South Stann Creek and the West Basin drains into Swasey River!

Xunantunich Tour

  • Makes you feel like a true blue adventurer, you can almost imagine Indiana Jones adjusting his hat next to you!
  • Enjoy the stunning view of the Mopan River from 130ft tall El Castillo!
  • Admire structures older than many religions

Probably the best Belize walking tour.

This is another ancient Belize site . Xunantunich means “stone woman” in Mayan and these ruins date back to about 200-900 AD. The ruins include over 25 different temples and palaces. One of the most impressive is the domineering El Castillo. It stands 40m (130ft) tall, and from the top, provides an amazing view of the jungle, other ruins, and beyond the Guatemalan border!

Xunantunich Tour

Fair warning though, getting to Xunantunich can take a little bit of effort, and as the park closes at 4pm, you’ll want to get an early start. If you’re coming from San Ignacio, you can usually find a bus going to the ruins fairly easily. Most of the main cities in Belize have organized tours that provide transportation daily. When you are dropped off, take a free ride on the hand-cranked ferry to cross the Mopan River, with a short scenic walk to the site!

This is one of the most important Belize attractions so make sure you don’t miss out!

Go Bar Hopping in Placencia

  • Home to some of the best beaches and bars in Belize, you may as well combine the two!
  • There’s always something to do in this happening nightlife scene
  • Safer for going out than Belize City and more entertaining at night than San Ignacia or Caye Caulker

Enjoy live music five nights a week, full-moon parties and fire dancing at the Barefoot Bar. If you prefer coffee or breakfast vibes, then check out Above Grounds or Brewed Awakenings!

Go Bar Hopping in Placencia

For a colorful lounging atmosphere and, Garifuna dancing on Wednesday, give the Tipsy Tuna Sports Bar a look. For nightclub scenes Yoli’s, Street Feet and Sky Deck are all happening places that can get pretty intense on the weekends.

If you’re looking for a more locally popular place check out dockside J-Byrds, especially on a Friday!

So how safe is Belize ? Well, Belize, like many other Central and South American countries has issues with high crime and you need to exercise caution.

Violent crimes against tourists do happen but are fairly rare. The major concerns are be pick-pocketing, muggings and general theft.

To help keep vigilant, there are a few things you might have to be wary of. Firstly, keep your stuff safe: whether it’s on a chicken bus, in a taxi, at your hotel or hostel or even while traveling. It’s not exactly rare to have things stolen from your  accommodation, so chose your stay carefully. Don’t skimp only to get robbed later.

If you feel unsafe or unsure about something, ask: The Belizeans are known for their hospitality and will most likely help you if they can. In addition to this, English is the national language so communication shouldn’t be too difficult!

While you’re chatting with the locals, try not to stick out. If you look like tourists, people will assume you’ve got money. Dress like a local, don’t show off and walk like you know where you’re going. Be very careful about flashing jewellerey or electronic gadgets – you never know who may be watching you.

Lastly, stay in public places. I.e don’t duck and dive into alleyways, don’t use dodgy ATMs and if it’s during the night, maybe don’t go to that hole-in-the-wall bar no-one knows about.

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Belize

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

how to travel to belize

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

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The Belize day trips below form a key part of any Belize vacation itinerary or travel guidebook for Belize and so  you definitely don’t want to miss out on any of them!

San Ignacio: Caracol and Rio On Pools with Lunch

Caracol and Rio On Pools with Lunch

Spend the day discovering the wonders of the ancient Mayans!

Head to Caracol, where you’ll stroll through the Maya villages of Cristo Rey and San Antonio, Toledo.

Follow the winding forest trail and listen to the wonderful guides immerse you in stories of old Maya. As they do so you’ll see the grand stone structures and the vast networks of ancient roads!

Walk along the paths the warriors used to take and climb one of the largest man-made structures in Belize (43 meters), the Canna. You’ll get to experience the plentiful tropical rainforests before stopping at the waters of either the Rio On Pools or the Big Rock Falls. After your delicious lunch, you can enjoy a refreshing swim!

Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave: Full-Day Tour

Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave

Prepare for a long day of adventuring in one of the must see’s during any of your day trips in Belize!

Hike to your starting point, cross a river before hiking some more until you come across one of the most famous caves in the world!

Switch between swimming and walking as you make your way through the cave. To protect the cave, travelers must remove their shoes before entering.

A living museum, most of the cave’s artifacts have been calcified into the ground, unmoved even by archaeologists. Hear stories of rituals, ceremonies, bloodletting, and human offerings. The cave contains a total of 15 human remains!

Climb a ladder to see full skeletal remains before exiting the cave in the same way you came in!

From Belize: Xunantunich, Cave Tubing, and Belize Zoo Tour

Xunantunich Cave Tubing and Belize Zoo Tour

Xunantunich is a national treasure that can’t be missed!

Once you arrive, you’ll start off with a 30-minute hike and while it’s mostly on flat ground, you may end up wading through a few knee-deep water streams!

Once you reach the entrance of the cave, it is time for your adventure to begin! Inside, you will see beautiful crystalline formations and eerie rock formations. If you’re lucky your guides may stop at the mini waterfall and swimming area.

Next, arrive at the Belize Zoo – a small zoo with a big heart which will definitely win you over. Every species is placed in habitats based on what their natural surroundings would be.

Caye Caulker: Full-Day Hol Chan Marine Reserve Snorkeling

Hol Chan Marine Reserve Snorkeling

The name means “little channel” in Mayan, and is home to a variety of colorful and intriguing sights, including an enchanting coral reef, seagrass beds, and a mangrove forest. Enjoy exploring these then go snorkeling among sharks, stingrays and a school of bright marine life!

4 great snorkel stops are included. The Hol-Chan Channel, Shark Ray Alley, Shipwreck, and the North Channel. In between stops, you’ll get a chance to visit San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye to enjoy a tasty beachfront lunch.

Belize Cave Tubing and Ziplining

Belize Cave Tubing and Ziplining

In this Belize Itinerary, there are more than a few adventure activities, and this is one for the highlight reel!

Absorb the vibrant flora and fauna during a 30-minute walk as you make your way to the entrance of the cave. The ancient Maya visited the site to conduct important rituals. You are propelled by the gentle currents as your guide tells you everything you need to know about the natural formations found inside the cave!

The second part of this adventure involves an adrenaline-inducing ride through the forest treetops, giving a bird’s eye view of the emerald forest canopy. The zip line tour involves crossing from one platform to another along with cables 75 feet above the forest floor!

Active Roots Security Belt

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Belize itinerary.

How many days do you need in Belize?

Three to four full days in Belize is plenty of time to explore the charming country. It’ll also give you time to relax at the beach and give your feet a bit of rest. Of course, having more time is always recommended.

What is the best month to go to Belize?

We’d recommend visiting Belize towards the end of dry-season, in March or April. That will promise great weather, still quite a few tourists, but nothing too overwhelming. Prices might start to drop as well.

What should you definitely add to your Belize itinerary?

Scuba diving should not be missing on your Belize itinerary. The crystal blue water is literally made for snorkeling and diving, and the calm sea means even beginners get to have their fun. Exploring Old Belize is pretty fun as well.

What can I do in Belize today?

To find out what’s on the activity menu in Belize today, check out GetYourGuide for awesome tours, attractions and tickets. If you want to have a more local vibe, go with Airbnb experiences instead.

Having finished our Belize Itinerary, you should have an idea of what to expect for your journey into the beautiful Caribbean, jungle hybrid that is Belize! You’ll have tested your Indiana Jones adventuring skills as well as your ability to take in all the natural beauty that lies in Belize.

Make sure you take note of when to go and remember that even in the rainy season, many of the things mentioned here can still be done without too much hassle. In fact, it may even enhance things!

Don’t forget to take a camera and snap up as many photos as you can of one of the world’s most photogenic, naturally beautiful and interesting places anywhere in the world. Try as much as you can, when you can, and you’ll definitely enjoy it all!

how to travel to belize

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Claire Martin

Claire Martin

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The Ultimate Belize Travel Guide

This Central American destination is the adventure traveler’s dream, from its jungle-covered peaks to a coastline dotted with more than 450 islands stretching across the world’s second-largest barrier reef. It’s also delightfully accessible (English is the official language and the dollar a main currency), culturally diverse, and home to historically significant Maya sites, creating a particular dynamism that's unique to the region

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There are half a dozen things in the jungle that worry me: skinny green vine snakes, 200-pound panthers, all kinds of poisonous plants. And yet I’m walking through the dense jungle in a bathing suit, with an inflatable tube hanging from my shoulder as if I’ve not a care in the world. Therein lies the beauty of Belize —the country is an odd mixture of foreign and familiar, a living contradiction in the most fascinating ways. It sits in the middle of Central America , flanked by Mexico and Guatemala, but has more in common with Caribbean culture than its immediate neighbors. The country welcomes foreigners as an integral part of its economy (and takes the American dollar), yet it has managed to resist some of the biggest trappings of that international influence. For example, there are no American chain restaurants. Kentucky Fried Chicken tried to open some locations here in the eighties, but it didn’t stick; locals were curious but ultimately more satisfied with the mom-and-pop shops that operate in backyard kitchens and the women who sell snacks out of coolers on the side of the road.

I’m not suggesting Belize has some sort of identity crisis. On the contrary, the country and its citizens seem to be very comfortable with the cultural nuances at play. It is one of the most stable nations in the region, and one of the most diverse in terms of both culture and adventure . Less than 9,000 square miles, and just 180 miles long and 68 miles wide, it’s roughly the size of Massachusetts, so you might not think there would be much to it. But get this: roughly 40 percent  is protected as a park or preserve. And with only 420,000 residents, even though the country’s landmass is small, it’s not hard to find solitude.

Mayans are the original denizens of Belize, having called it home since 1500 B.C., with communities inhabiting the Maya Mountains. Creoles, the descendants of enslaved Africans, make up roughly 24 percent of today’s population, while the majority of Belizeans are Spanish-speaking mestizo, a mixture of Maya and Spanish. The Garifuna, descendants of shipwrecked Africans who blended with native islanders, comprise a small but culturally significant portion of the demographic as well. More recently, a large influx of German-speaking Mennonites and Chinese immigrants have helped diversify the pot. Because the country was a British colony until 1980, English remains the official language (and Queen Elizabeth is still on all of the local currency), but due to the cultural diversity, most Belizeans speak three languages. They grow up speaking Kriol, are taught English in school, and many learn Spanish, thanks to the influence of their Central American neighbors.

The landscape is just as fascinating as the culture. With 240 miles of coastline along the Caribbean Sea, forest-covered mountains in the west, and peaks that rise up to 3,600 feet, Belize shifts between broad-leaved jungle, arid pine hillsides, and a coastline peppered with more than 450 cayes (small, low islands) that are strung together over the world’s second-largest barrier reef. You’ll find restored Maya ruins on one side of the country and seaside villages on the other.

Despite all this, most Americans know little about the country. We’ve made our mark and explored every inch of Costa Rica and Mexico, but aside from a handful of expat retirement communities and a few beach towns that get hammered with tourists, Belize is still largely a mystery.

What many have heard of is the Great Blue Hole, a sinkhole amid the barrier reef that Jacques Cousteau labeled one of the best diving spots in the world. The site, with a diameter of 1,000 feet and a depth of 400 feet, is truly amazing, but even more so is the thriving reef that surrounds it, an equally popular attraction.

I recently spent seven days trying to crack the mystery that is Belize. I followed Maya guides into caves and over towering ruins. I snorkeled with third-generation professional watermen and hiked through jungles looking for monkeys and wild cats. I ate a steady diet of stewed chicken with rice and beans in the mountains and seafood prepared every way possible on the coast. I couldn’t get enough of local delicacies, like banana jam and Marie Sharp’s pepper sauce, both of which changed my life in small yet not insignificant ways. I fully admit that a week was not enough. Even though I was constantly moving, always seeking the next adventure, I barely scratched the surface. Belize remains a mystery. A delightful mystery. And I can’t wait to go back.

What You Need to Know Before You Visit

View of majestic mayan ruins with green grass and trees at Tikal National Park in Guatemala near the border of Belize.

Hire a guide. I enjoy the discovery that trekking alone in the wilderness provides, but you should consider hiring guides for most of your pursuits in Belize. First, adventure guiding is a growing business here. Second, every guide that accompanied me grew up in the country and has a passion for their backyard and its resources. But mostly, you won’t know what you’re looking at without a guide. For instance, I toured Caracol, an impressive site of Maya ruins, with a guide and learned about how the city supported evidence of a middle class in the civilization and also that they believed the saba tree could span heaven, earth, and the underworld. In fact, some Maya sites, like the ATM cave (see below) require accompaniment by local guides to help preserve the sanctity of the area.

Getting around is slow going. It’s a small country, but it takes a long time to drive from one side to the other because there are only four paved highways. Belize is divided into six different districts, though most travelers stick to the mountains in the west, the coastal towns to the south, and the cayes that punctuate the sea. Aside from the highways, the rest of the roads are dirt, which require a four-wheel drive and can become impassable after a hard rain. Land travel between districts and towns is so tough that many travelers and locals take puddle jumpers between the bustling towns of Belize City, San Ignacio, Placencia, and the cayes. Keep this in mind if you’re planning to drive over to the next town or park—20 miles could take an hour or two.

Prepare for the jungle. If you’re going to spend time in the interior, you’ll be in a subtropical ecosystem that has all the hallmarks of a jungle: heat, humidity, and bugs. Lightweight hiking pants and long-sleeved sun shirts will be your best friends when it comes to keeping the bugs off. A layer of deet helps, too. That said, during my time in Belize, I didn’t find the mosquitos to be any worse than what I’ve experienced in Florida or South Carolina. Take a few precautions and you’ll be just fine.

Be serious about conservation. In 2017, the country passed a moratorium on oil exploration in Belizean waters, making it one of the few countries in the world to do so. In the past few years, the government has reigned in illegal fishing while expanding its offshore conservation areas, where hundreds of islands are dotted with resorts catering to anglers, paddlers, and divers. The most tangible and dramatic restoration effort happened recently, when the country sank the Winconcrete, a former World War II ship that will serve as an artificial reef, enhancing both the local ecosystem and its tourism draw. And last year an environmental coalition that includes the Nature Conservancy, Rainforest Trust and the World Land Trust purchased 236,000 acres of the Belize Maya Forest, protecting roughly 9 percent of the country’s landmass in a single effort.

Understand that it’s a rapidly developing country. After Belize broke from colonial rule, it experienced a huge developmental leap within a single generation. The growing pains are still apparent (a young road system is the most obvious), and much of the country’s residents remain below poverty level, but the future of Belize looks bright, particularly in terms of eco-tourism and conservation. Before the pandemic, lodges, parks, and Maya sites in the rainforest gave the local economy an annual boost of $15 million. Overall, ecotourism is responsible for $1 billion in annual revenue and more than 20,000 jobs in Belize .

Embrace soft adventure. The mountains and jungles are ripe for serious adventure, and dedicated residents are hard at work developing mountain-bike trail systems and rock-climbing routes. The potential for canyoneering in the Maya Mountains is off the charts as well. But by and large, guided adventures are of the soft variety, and most companies and resorts will steer you toward zip-line tours and cave-tubing opportunities. But don’t fret; the guides are locals who know the jungles well and are often willing to customize an adventure for a client. If there’s a river you want to explore, or a multiday excursion you’re dying to experience, ask your guide what’s possible. They’ll probably accommodate you.

Consult travel advisories. While certain sections of Belize City are widely regarded as dangerous due to gang activity, I stuck to touristy neighborhoods and felt safe there and throughout my travels. As always, it’s important to exercise caution and avoid making yourself a target for pickpockets. Check the current travel advisory status from the U.S. Embassy so you can make an informed decision.

Do a lot of research if you want to camp. The country has a variety of established campgrounds, both in the jungle and along the cayes. Most jungle preserves and parks offer camping options, and you might have the entire area to yourself, as the activity isn’t as popular in Belize as it is in the U.S. You’ll need to research each park you’re visiting directly to make sure they have sites for rent, as there’s no central reservation database. Be sure to bring everything you need; you won’t find any independent outdoor stores here.

The Best Time of Year to Visit Belize

Stunning landscape of Mayan Rainforest above the tree canopy with dramatic blue sky

Those who visit in the high season, which runs from late November to mid-April, will enjoy consistently pleasant weather, with little rain and mild but warm temperatures that peak in the mid-eighties. It can get chilly at night and in the morning, though, especially in the mountains.

The rainy season coincides with hurricane season, running from June through November, though days typically only see brief afternoon thunderstorms. Hurricanes peak in September and October. The amount of rainfall differs depending on the region, with the south getting three times as much (150 inches) as the north (50 inches).

Aside from April and May, which are the hottest months, when the mercury might might hit triple digits, the temperatures are relatively consistent in Belize. Winter weather is definitely warm enough for swimming in the ocean, although occasional cold fronts, called “northers,” will swoop in for a few days at a time.

Crowds disperse during summer months, and you can find the lowest prices then, but you’ll also deal with the most finicky weather.

How to Get There and Around

Belize, Placencia, Aerial view of village on sea coast

Getting to Belize

There are an increasing number of direct flights, most of which fly into Belize City, at the center of the country. Alaska, American, Delta, and United Airlines all offer direct flights to Belize City year-round, and Frontier, Southwest, and Sun Country Airlines are now offering direct flights during peak season.

Getting Around Belize

Renting a car is straightforward, and a number of major companies have offices in the Belize City airport, but keep in mind all car rentals have to be returned to their point of origin, and gas is three times as expensive in Belize as it is in the U.S. If you’re going to explore the jungle, it might make sense to rent a four-wheel drive.

While there’s an expansive bus system, it can be slow and unreliable. If you don’t want to rent a car, many resorts offer transfers from the airport. A guided hike or adventure usually includes pickup and drop-off, and many services can also be hired to transport you between cities.

If you’re spending most of your time on the cayes, skip the rental and simply book transfers to airports and ferry landings. Regional airports connect key cities on the mainland to a few of the larger cayes off the coast, and  Maya Island Air and Tropic Air  run daily flights between points. Ferries and water taxis  will also carry you to the larger and smaller cayes.

Belize Travel: Where to Go

Aerial View Of Island

It’s a small country, so you might be inclined to try and “see it all.” Don’t. If you only have a few days, pick one region. If you’re there for a week, consider splitting your time evenly between the islands and the mountains.

There are four regions: northern Belize, western Belize, southern Belize, and the cayes. Central, coastal Belize City offers quick access to the cayes via puddle jumpers and ferries. It’s also the starting point for the only paved highways headed north, west, and south. Western Belize is mountainous, full of waterfalls, Maya archeological sites, caves, and jungle resorts. Off the coast, the 450 cayes are a mix of privately owned, bustling centers of tourism and pristine preserves.

The reef acts as a sort of glue, linking all these islands and attracting snorkelers, divers, and anglers. Southern Belize is home to coastal towns with a vibrant Garifuna culture, like the scrappy port town Dangriga, and up-and-coming tourist towns, like Hopkins Village and Placencia. Inland you’ll find wild rainforests that hide animal preserves and archaeological sites. Northern Belize is the country’s hub of agriculture. Sugarcane is the main crop, but you’ll also find groves of bananas and pineapples.

We’re focusing on the hot spots of adventure—western Belize, southern Belize, and the cayes. Follow this guide to explore Maya sites, trek through jungles and caves, and island-hop along the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, paddling, diving, and fishing as you go.

Western Belize

The Mayan ruins in San Ignacio in Belize.

The 72-mile Western Highway runs from Belize City to the town of San Ignacio, a bustling hub with a lively food and bar scene roughly 11 miles from the Guatemalan border. As you make this drive west, the terrain quickly goes from floodplain (Belize City sits below sea level and was evacuated in the 1960s after a hurricane) to scrub brush to lush tropical forest. The mountains in western Belize rise to 3,681 feet, serving as a backdrop to communities like San Ignacio and Belmopan. From San Ignacio, the pavement mostly ends and the mountain roads that define western Belize can only be tackled by a four-wheel drive.

The terrain is decidedly jungly, with lush broad-leaved forest dominating most of the slopes and limestone crags giving way to hundreds of caves. Rivers run wild, offering numerous waterfalls and swimming holes. Citrus trees are everywhere, and Belizeans like to pull the fruit from the tree before it’s ripe, slice it, and eat it with salt, pepper, lime, and Marie Sharp’s pepper sauce. Mountain biking and rock climbing are gaining popularity, and more routes are being built every year. But if you’re in the Maya Mountains, you want to spend your time trekking to waterfalls, exploring caves, and visiting Maya ruins.

Some of these adventures can be done on your own, but again, splurge for a tour guide so you can fully comprehend the magnitude of what you’re seeing. Even if you’re not camping and you’re only exploring for a day, bring everything you need with you—snacks, extra layers, extra water. And try not to be the last car out of the parking lot; the roads in the mountains are remote and rough, so if you break down, you want there to be one more car coming behind you to help. Otherwise you’ll be spending the night.

Beautiful Big Rock Falls Waterfall in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve in the Caribbean Nation of Belize.

Explore Caracol

Caracol is a massive Maya city that’s now protected by Chiquibul National Park, the country’s largest, with multiple structures ranging from the foundational walls of “suburban” neighborhoods to towering temples. The ruins are not as famous as Tikal, in Guatemala, but it rivals its cousin in size and historical significance. In fact, the two cities would often battle each other, and toward the end of the Classic Period (250 to 900 A.D.), Caracol conquered Tikal and was the capital of the civilization in the region. The Maya flourished during this time, domesticating corn and erecting buildings with stone walls. Caracol supported up to 150,000 people, which is bigger than modern-day Belize City. The central structure of Cana, which translates to “sky place,” is still the tallest manmade structure in the country.

Hiking through the site doesn’t require putting in many miles, but access to the structures is essentially unchecked—nothing is technically off-limits. While you can climb the massive stone steps and learn about the Maya in a hands-on way, be sure to tread lightly. Kungo Belize offers guided walking tours of the site that delve into its significance; a hot lunch of stewed chicken, rice, and beans is included (from $60 per person).

Hike and Swim the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve

This reserve protects a rare pine forest atop 2,000-foot-tall mountains, but the real gem here are the rivers, which have carved tight gorges through granite and massive caves through limestone. Rio On Pools is the easiest waterfall to get to, about 20 miles from San Ignacio, and it’s worth a quick stop, but don’t spend too much time here, as it’s probably the least impressive feature in the area. Take the short but steep hike to Big Rock Falls , a 150-foot vertical drop surrounded by boulders to jump from. If you’re feeling brave, swim and climb your way a mile downriver, exploring chutes and cascades en route to Five Sister Falls, located below Gaia Riverlodge , where you can order a cocktail, or take the resort’s nature trail to the secluded pool at the base of the 20-foot twin Little Vaquero Falls.

Cave into Maya Culture

There are more than 400 known cave sites in Belize, 80 percent of which contain Maya artifacts. The most spectacular of them all has to be the Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM), which requires a semi-technical descent more than a mile underground. It’s like canyoneering into the center of the earth. After a river crossing and a hike through the rainforest, you’ll swim into the mouth of the cave, then wade through channels, squeeze through narrow hallways, climb rock slabs, and spot the remnants of pottery and human remains dating from 300 to 900 A.D., all of which were used as sacrifices to the gods.

As you travel deeper, you can see how the Maya became more desperate as they lived through a two-century-long drought, moving from a culture that gave thanks to the gods with food and pottery to a culture that pleaded with the gods with human sacrifices. Only guided parties can enter the ATM cave, and local guides receive special certification to ensure the cultural heritage of the site is honored. Book your guide in advance, as there are no guides on-site available for tours (from $100 per person).

Where to Stay

Gaia riverlodge.

This 16-cabana resort will put you in the heart of the mountains in a high-end thatch-roofed hut overlooking Provincial Creek and the Five Sisters Waterfall. Even better, on-site hiking trails lead to multiple other falls. If you’re lucky, Coco, the resort dog who has her own thatch-roofed hut, will follow you on adventures throughout the property. The food is top-notch, too. Ask for the banana jam with your breakfast; it changed my life. From $205

If you want to stay in the middle of San Ignacio and have multiple restaurants and bars within walking distance, this hotel has 40 well-appointed rooms and colorful cabanas surrounding a large pool. It also sits on 30 acres, with hiking and equestrian trails. From $105

San Miguel Campground

This drive-in campground is located in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest, above Big Rock Falls and close to Privassion Creek. Make sure you bring everything with you, as it’s miles from the nearest town and there are no stores or visitor centers to stock up on provisions. Camping in Belize is all about self-sufficiency. From $30 per person

The Best Place to Eat and Drink

San Ignacio is busy and charming without feeling like a tourist destination. On Burns Avenue, a collection of bars and restaurants are popular with locals, Guatemalans that come across the border, and adventurous tourists. Ko-ox Han-Nah is a good place to look for traditional Belizean food (rice, beans, and stewed chicken or pork) but it also serves solid vegetarian options, like mixed veggie curry.

Southern Belize

San Pedro is a town on the southern part of the island of Ambergris Caye in the Belize District of the nation of Belize, in Central America. It is the second largest town in the Belize District and largest in the Belize Rural South constituency. The once sleepy fishing village was granted the status of a town in 1848.

This region is a tangle of lively coastal towns and beach bars, thriving wildlife preserves, pristine beaches, lesser traveled Maya sites, and active Garifuna culture. For the most part, it’s not as busy as western Belize and there are still vast tracts of jungle and forest that tourists and even most locals visit, particularly in the southernmost tip of the country.

Wild Yucatan black howler monkey in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve in the Caribbean Nation of Belize.

Explore Hummingbird Highway

The Hummingbird Highway, running 55 miles between the capital of Belmopan and coastal town of Dangriga, is hands down the prettiest road in the country. It’s flanked by the occasional orange grove and small village, which give way to steep slopes on either side of the road covered with palm-leaf forests. Most people drive the highway, but its length, hilly nature, and scenery beg to be cycled. You can rent basic-level bikes in the towns of Hopkins and Placencia (think: cruisers and older mountain bikes), but don’t expect top-end equipment. If you want to pedal Hummingbird Highway (or anywhere in Belize), it’s best to bring your own rig with you.

Whether you’re driving or cycling, make a pit stop at Billy Barquedier National Park , a 1,600-acre tropical forest at milepost 17 where you can take a 20-minute hike to a waterfall with a swimming hole that’s tucked inside a limestone gorge plastered with moss, ferns, and palms. Après at Mrs. Bertha’s Tamales , a red and white roadside stand that has what might be the best tamale in the nation. Get there early before its spicy chicken tamale sells out.

Look for Jaguars

The Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary and Jaguar Preserve is the only one of its kind in the world, a 128,000-acre oasis of mountains and rivers set aside specifically for the protection of the big cat. Much like the rest of North and Central America, hunters have done a number on the species in Belize. As other countries made hunting them illegal throughout the 20th century, wealthy hunters could still travel here and pay up to $25,000 for the shot. Needless to say, populations were dwindling when the preserve was officially recognized in 1986. Today more than 100 live within the preserve, many of which grow to 200 pounds, thanks to a steady diet of armadillos. Sightings of the jaguars here are still rare, however (the animal is notoriously elusive), so you don’t need a guide. Trails are well marked and extend from a staffed visitor center into the low-lying rainforest surrounding the wide, meandering South Stann Creek. This rich biodiversity is as much the draw as the chance of spotting a big cat.

Sign up for a trip with D’Tourz , and you’ll get the lowdown on local flora and fauna from a guide who makes a habit of poking sticks into holes until something cool crawls out (it’s usually tarantulas the size of your hand). The operator also runs mini-canyoneering adventures that will have you jumping off of waterfalls through a tight, limestone gorge, followed by a mellow float by tube along the South Stann Creek River. Even better, hike the preserve at night, from 6 P.M. to midnight, and you’ll get to see the forest come alive with snakes, spiders, and (fingers crossed) jaguars.

Boat the Monkey River

The howler monkey is a cartoonish creature, big and loud, and can be found hiding in the jungle canopy. Your best bet for seeing these primates is by taking a boat up the Monkey River, an hour and a half south of Placencia, off of the Southern Highway. The journey starts at the mouth of the river as it dumps into the Caribbean at the small hub of Monkey River Village.

Head with a guide (from $120 a person) on a small powerboat into mangrove forests filled with manatees, crocodiles, giant iguanas, and toucans. Deeper in the jungle, a short hike will bring you to an area where howler monkeys thrive. They live in tribes and are prone to howling at each other when one tribe encroaches on the territory of another, but they’re not aggressive, even though their call sounds like the scream of a dinosaur. The worst thing they’ll do to you is pee or poop on you. Seriously, don’t let them pee or poop on you.

Belizean Nirvana

This two-story hotel has rooms on the water, each with its own share of Caribbean-facing beachfront. It’s located in Placencia, a funky village at the end of a peninsula with luxury resorts, expat retirement communities, and restaurants and bars where you’re likely to see as many locals as tourists. Get a first-floor room and you’ll have a porch that spreads out into the sand. The beach is stunning, a narrow strip of sand dotted with coconut trees, with a mellow bay on one side and small resorts and lively bars and restaurants on the other. The heart of the village is a pedestrian-only street lined with beachfront dining and drinking establishments. From $190

You’ll find Garifuna culture throughout the coastal towns of southern Belize, but Dangriga is the epicenter, home to regular festivals, museums, and drum-making shops. Check out the Gulisi Garifuna Museum  to learn about the history of the people and their contributions to today’s vibrant cultural community, and step into the Lebeha Drumming Center to try your hand at working the instruments, made from mahogany and deerskin.

If you’re looking for seafood and elevated cocktails, Muna , a rooftop restaurant at the top of a boutique hotel in Placencia has the best of both. Order the Seafood Sere, a Garifuna chowder served with coconut rice and plantain chips.

Aerial view of the small Lighthouse island (Key, Caye) of the coast of Belize, Lighthouse Atoll.

Belize is absolutely lousy with islands. These act as exclamation points along the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest reef system in the world and one of the healthiest of its size. Yes, the Great Blue Hole is here—a seemingly bottomless pit that you can dive into, paddle around, or fly over during a scenic tour—but there is so much more to this area than diving into a hole.

Sandy beaches are rare here, but they do exist if you know where to look. The ironically named “Secret Beach” on Ambergris Caye is the most popular, boasting restaurants and thatch-roofed picnic tables jutting out of the water. There’s world-class snorkeling and diving everywhere, some of the most productive saltwater fly-fishing in the world, and paddling options that range from easy two-hour spins to multiday bucket-list adventures.

Local airlines Maya Air and Tropic Air operate regular puddle jumpers making trips from the mainland to Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker, the two busiest cayes off the coast. There are also regular ferries that connect the major islands, and you can hire boats and guides to take you to smaller, more remote islands along the reef.

A couple paddling a yellow kayak in 80 degree, vivid blue, Caribbean water with a small tropical Island in the background.

Swim with Sharks

OK, they’re nurse sharks, and they’re more harmless than the fish that follow them around feeding on their scraps, but they’re still sharks. And they can get quite big (a nine-footer swam beneath my feet while I was in the water). The sharks like to hang out in a break in the reef system dubbed Shark Ray Alley in the Hol Chan Marine Reserve . Book a snorkeling trip to the reef (from $55 per person for a half day), which includes a stop at Shark Ray Alley. Sure, the snorkeling is amazing and you’ll get to see all kinds of species, but come on… sharks. That’s the story you’ll tell when you get back home, not the parrotfish you saw.

Paddle the Islands

The breadth of the barrier reef and the sheer volume of islands that stretch across it make Belize an open-water paddler’s dream. A variety of experiences exist here, from casual half-day excursions within eyesight of high-end resorts to multiday adventures that will have you camping on primitive islands.

Caye Caulker, a 10-minute flight or 45-minute ferry from Belize City, is a great spot for beginners. The island is divided into two sections by a narrow channel, with most of the development existing on the southern side, while the northern side is occupied by a dense mangrove forest. Reef Break Surf Shop rents boards and windsurfing kits (from $13 an hour) and guided tours if you don’t want to go it alone (from $140 per person).

If you’re an experienced paddler looking for a big adventure, Island Expeditions will rent you expedition-ready gear and give you maps with suggestions for routes along the southern cayes for self-guided trips (from $255 a week or $40 a day). The outfitter also offers a trip that starts with three days of guided paddling and lodging, then four days of self-guided paddling at the Glover’s Reef Atoll, a Unesco-designated World Heritage site that covers 80 square miles of reef, islands, and open water. You can spend a few days at its base camp learning key skills, then break out on your own for a few days to practice what you learned. Norm Hann Expeditions also offers fully guided seven-day paddleboard trips throughout the same terrain. Instead of camping, you’ll stay at various lodges (from $2,559).

Fish for the Big Three

You can find world-class fishing all along the coast, and most anglers show up with their fly rods in hopes of snagging a Grand Slam, which entails catching a bonefish, tarpon, and permit in a single day. There probably isn’t a bad place to fish along Belize’s portion of the Mesoamerican Reef, but the country’s atolls have become hot spots. Turneffe Atoll, the largest of the ringed reefs, casts a halo that’s 30 miles long and 10 miles wide.

More than 150 islands along the reef serve as launching points for the lagoon, which encompasses a shocking variety of ecosystems, from expansive mangrove and seagrass habitat to saltwater flats and creeks to vibrant reef structures. Turneffe is just 20 miles off the coast, south of Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye, so the fish do receive some pressure. If you’d prefer an area that receives less attention, head farther south to the expansive South Water Caye Marine Reserve , the largest of Belize’s eight protected marine reserves, much of which consists of shallow saltwater flats. Local anglers have dubbed the South Water Caye “permit alley,” due to an abundance of the highly sought-after species.

The Big Three are all catch-and-release only. You’ll be able to land bonefish year-round, so timing isn’t as important for that species, but permit are hungriest in spring and summer and tarpon pass through in summer. In addition to the Big Three, you’ll have the chance to cast for jack, snapper, and triggerfish. Hire a local guide service like Blue Horizon , one of the most storied in Belize (and the only Orvis-endorsed outfitter in the country), to increase your chances of success. Half-day and full-day trips depart from Hopkins or Placencia (from $350).

Victoria House

If you’re looking to treat yourself, book one of the thatch-roofed villas at Victoria House , some which have their own private pool and all of which overlook a sandy beach with tall palms. The location on Ambergris Caye is ideal if you’re looking to explore the Hol Chan Marine Preserve, and in-house guides can take you on a variety of adventures. The restaurant is top-notch as well, especially its rotating selection of ceviche (get the tuna with watermelon if it’s on the menu). From $210

Glover’s Atoll Resort

This adventure resort sits on Northeast Caye, a big, sandy island on the edge of the Glover’s Reef Atoll. Its variety of inexpensive accommodations range from hostel-style bunks and individual huts built on stilts to campsites beneath coconut palms. You can cook your own meals or eat in the restaurant (lobster dinners are $22). Accommodations are basic yet charming, but you’re here for the location—snorkeling, fishing, and paddling starts right on the edge of the island. Camping from $10, cabins from $40

Thatch Caye Resort

Occupying the shorefront of a private island 30 minutes off the coast of Dangriga, this resort hosts just 30 guests at a time. Stays include meals, all beverages, and adventure gear. Choose from an oceanfront cabana or an over-the-water bungalow. From $500 a night for two guests

Where to Eat and Drink

Yeah, you’re in the islands and you’re probably craving seafood, but take a break from the conch and spend one dinner at El Fogon , in the heart of Ambergris Caye’s bustling San Pedro, where everything is cooked in the traditional Belizean way over an open fire. Don’t worry, there’s actually quite a bit of fresh fish on the menu, but don’t overlook the pork stew or chicken kebabs.

How to Be a Conscious Visitor

Underwater view of Loggerhead sea turtle swimming in Caribbean Sea.

The majority of the guides you’ll encounter here were born and raised in Belize, making it easy to pass an entire trip with local experts. The Belize Tourism Board curates a list of gold-standard guides and hotels that follow new safety and health protocols. Follow the same principles for tipping as you would at home.

Tread Lightly

The barrier reef is a living thing that’s under constant pressure from humans. Be sure to pack non-nano zinc sunscreen without extra chemicals, like Thinksport, as you’ll have a hard time finding it here. Don’t touch or stand on the reef—ever—and no matter how friendly a fish or turtle looks, don’t try to get close to them. Even hovering over a turtle is a disruption.

Eat Sustainably

It’s never been more important to know where the fish you’re eating comes from. Belize is going to great lengths to help preserve the various populations within its waters, limiting commercial operations and certain harmful practices. Check out Fish Right, Eat Right to learn what species you should seek out and which to avoid, and consult its list of restaurants that source only from local fishermen who follow sustainable practices.

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Most travellers from overseas fly to Belize, arriving at Belize City’s Philip Goldson International Airport (BZE) . Virtually all flights to the country originate in the US; major operators include American, Continental, Delta and US Airways. However, it is usually cheaper to fly to southern Mexico – usually Cancún – and take a bus into Belize. You can also enter Belize by land from Guatemala. However, from southern Guatemala or Honduras it is often easier to enter Belize by boat . Local airlines Maya Island Air and Tropic Air operate daily flights from Flores, Guatemala, to Belize City.

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12 days  / from 6840 USD

Off the tourist trail and highlights of Guatemala and Belize

Meet school kids in Antigua and traders in Chichicastenango before learning ancient cookery and weaving skills and viewing a Mayan ceremony. This fascinating tour visits archaeological sites such as majestic Tikal before an idyllic private island stay off Belize’s Caribbean coast completes the trip.

The Best Of Guatemala & Belize

12 days  / from 2820 USD

The Best Of Guatemala & Belize

Visit Antigua with the nearby Pacaya volcano before heading to Lake Atitlán and further to Tikal, once one of the most powerful kingdoms of the ancient Maya. Afterwards, cross the border to Belize to visit the Caracol ruins and enjoying some sun & sand on Ambergris Caye.

Guatemala and Belize Family Adventure

12 days  / from 2450 USD

Guatemala and Belize Family Adventure

Take a family-friendly adventure through Guatemala and Belize. Discover Lake Atitlan on kayaks, explore the active volcano Pacaya or play hide and seek in the large archaeological complex of Tikal before heading out to Belize for its fantastic underwater world and gorgeous beaches.

Land and sea routes to belize

There are two land border crossings into Belize: one from Chetumal, Mexico , to Santa Elena, and one from Melchor de Mencos, Guatemala , to Benque Viejo del Carmen.

There are also sea routes to Belize from Guatemala and Honduras . Daily skiffs travel to and from Punta Gorda, in the far south, and Puerto Barrios, Guatemala. Dangriga and Placencia, on the southern coast, are served by at least one weekly skiff from Puerto Cortés, Honduras.

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written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 26.04.2021

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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).

Island vibe in Caye Caulker Belize 50 things you need to know before traveling to Belize

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.

Things you need to know before traveling to Belize

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.

Things you need to know before traveling to Belize

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.

Things you need to know before traveling to Belize

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.

Things you need to know before traveling to Belize

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.

Stuff you need to know before traveling to Belize

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.

Reasons to travel do Belize

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.

Facts about traveling to Belize

#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.

Interesting things about traveling to Belize

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.

Why you should travel to Belize

#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.

Fun things about traveling to Belize

#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.

Fun things about traveling to Belize

#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.

Useful informations about traveling to Belize

#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.

Exciting things about traveling to Belize

#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.

Everything about traveling to Belize

#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.

Fascinating things about traveling in Belize

#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.

Travel tips for traveling in Belize

#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.

What to eat and Drink in Belize

#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.

Information about traveling in Belize

#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.

Cool things about traveling in Belize

#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.

What to do in Belize

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.

Useful travel tips about 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.

Everything about Belize

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.

Mayan pyramid in Cahal Pechno ruins in Belize

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.

Mayan pyramid in Cahal Pechno ruins in Belize

#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.

Mayan pyramid in Cahal Pechno ruins in Belize

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.

Best attractions of Belize

#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.

How much does it cost to travel in Belize

#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

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.

Other things I need to know before traveling to Belize

#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.

How to travel in Belize

#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.

Everything you should know about Belize

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.

Everything you must know about Belize

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.

What do I need to know about Belize

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

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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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

Step 1 Apply for a passport.

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

Step 5 Consider taking anti-malaria medication.

  • 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

Step 1 Keep your budget in mind before you book.

  • 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

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21 Belize Travel Tips: How to visit Central America’s hidden gem

Traveling to Belize and need some advice? You’ve come to the right place! I’ve spent over a month in the country and visited some of the most popular places in Belize and hidden gems.

I often get asked about Belize and decided to put together my Belize travel tips to help have a better and safer experience in the country, save money and visit places that many other visitors miss.

Belize is a small country, but it’s jam-packed with scenic beauty, dozens of Mayan ruins , and incredible biodiversity. Most people know Belize as one of the best diving places in the world, but there’s a lot more to this country!

✅ Check my guide to planning a perfect Belize itinerary

So let’s look at some of my Belize travel tips, so you could have a better time in the country. Here’s what you should know before visiting Belize:

What language do they speak in Belize? While English is the official language of Belize, many other languages are spoken throughout the country, including Spanish and Creole.

1. Belize is an English-speaking country

Belize is the only country in Central America where English is the official language. The former British colony, Belize was known as British Honduras until 1981, when it became independent.

A few other languages are spoken in different parts of Belize including Spanish, Mandarin, Creole, and various dialects of the Mayan language. Many Belizeans are multilingual, and you can often hear different languages in the same household.

2. Be careful in Belize City 

Belize City is the least safe place in the country, and most tourists use it only for launching their trips to other parts of the country. Avoid the areas south of Belize City, because that’s where most gang activity and violence take place.

✅ Read: Honduras or Belize vacation ?

Is Belize City safe? 

While most of Belize is safe for travel, Belize City has garnered a bad reputation because of the high rate of homicides per relatively small population. Always exercise caution, limit your activities to daytime and use only licensed taxis with green plates. As a tourist, you are not likely to be the target of serious crime in Belize, but you should always stay alert. 

Belize City has some landmarks like the Museum of Belize, Altun Ha Mayan Ruins, and Belize Zoo, which warrant a stay here.

✅ Check my guide to the best places to stay in Belize

Safety tips for Belize:

  • Don’t flash your wealth – Belize is a tropical paradise, but a significant part of its population still lives below the poverty line. Dress down when you travel around the country, and avoid wearing expensive clothing and jewelry.
  • Belize has a developing infrastructure – while the country has several highways that connect major towns, much of Belize’s infrastructure is still in poor shape.
  • Drive during the day – If you plan to explore Belize, limit your driving to daytime, as some roads are in poor condition and amenities are limited.

✅ Is Honduras safe ?

3. Belize has some of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean

Belize boasts about 386 km of coastline dotted by about 450 islets and islands (or cayes) pronounced keys, and three atolls. From the most famous islands like Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye to smaller and less visited Tobacco Caye and Glover’s Reef Atoll, Belize is a tropical paradise.

Book a tour of the most beautiful islands in Belize

4. atm caves are a must .

Visiting Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM caves) is one of the best things to do in Belize . Profiled by National Geographic, these caves were used by the ancient Mayans to conduct rituals and ceremonies. Visiting ATM caves is possible only with a guided tour, and most guided tours of ATM cost from $100 per person and up. 

You can book a tour of ATM caves from the most popular destinations in Belize like San Pedro , Caye Caulker , Belize City, and San Ignacio . You will get picked up by a van from your hotel and spend most of the day on the road, as the entrance to the ATM caves is deep in the jungle. 

Best tours of ATM caves

ATM caves is a fun trip where you will swim in the cool water and walk through the caves to get a glimpse into the history of Belize. 

Wear comfortable footwear and fast-drying clothes, as you will be swimming and wading through the water. The caves are dark and have no light besides the artificial lighting that your guide will bring.

You can’t bring any photo or video cameras ATM caves, so leave your GoPro and other fancy equipment in your hotel. 

You can pay with US dollars in Mexico in many popular areas like Cabo San Lucas, Cancun and Puerto Vallarta

5. Belize is not a cheap country

Belize is not a budget destination, and it’s only slightly less expensive than Costa Rica , the most expensive country in Central America. If you want to travel to Belize on a budget, use public transportation, stay in hostels, and cook your meals. 

Plan at least $100-120 on food, accommodations, and transportation per day when traveling in Belize. If you want to take tours and private shuttles in Belize, costs could quickly add up, so budget carefully.

Belize islands (or cayes) are the most expensive, as most goods need to be imported from elsewhere. Don’t be surprised when you see high prices in restaurants and grocery stores, as virtually everything has to be imported from elsewhere. 

6. The best way to see Belize is by renting a car 

Renting a car in Belize is the best way to see the country without relying on public transportation and tours. While some places in Belize can be visited only with tours like ATM caves or Hot Chan Marine Reserve in the Great Meso-American Barrier Reef, the majority of places in Belize can be visited by car. 

Renting a car in Belize City

The best place to rent a car in Belize is Philip Goldson International Airport (BZE). They have several car rental companies, and you don’t have to get outside the airport to look for car rentals. 

Where to rent a car in Belize City? 

Check available options for car rentals in Belize through  DiscoverCars , my favorite platform for finding car rentals in Belize. I frequently use  DiscoverCars  during my trips and have used it for renting a car in Belize. 

It has available cars and prices online. Type in your travel dates and look for the vehicle you need. Once you select your vehicle, pay the price, and voila! 

➡️ CHECK PRICES ON RENTAL CARS IN BELIZE

What to know about driving in Belize 

If you rent a car in Belize , you should be aware of the poor infrastructure in many parts of the country. 

While main highways in Belize are in good shape, secondary roads are less so. For example, while the highway from Belize City to San Ignacio is well-maintained, many roads around San Ignacio are in poor shape with bumps and potholes, so you should be cautious when driving around town.

7. Belize currency is easy to convert 

The official currency of Belize is the Belize Dollar (BZD). The exchange rate is two Belize dollars to one U.S. dollar, and you can exchange US dollars in most places.

Belize dollars come in $2, $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100 paper bills and coins are 1, 5, 10, and 25,50 cents. 

If you are traveling to Belize from Canada or Europe, exchange your local currency for US dollars before leaving for Belize, as it will save you money. You can exchange Euros, Canadian dollars, and British Pounds in Belize, but you most likely won’t get a very good rate. 

8. US dollars are accepted everywhere in Belize 

US dollars are accepted practically everywhere in Belize, especially in popular destinations like Ambergris Caye , Caye Caulker, or Placencia . Prices in Belize are in the local currency, so always double-check when paying for things.

Traveling in Belize by bus is the best way to save money

9. Take public buses in Belize to save money 

Belize has several bus routes that connect different parts of the country with Belize City. Also known as chicken buses, Belize buses are painted in bright colors and have no amenities, so be prepared for a less comfortable ride with no AC, and minimum space for your luggage. 

On a good note, taking buses in Belize is a great way to save money, as you will pay an average of $10-15 USD for a one-way ticket.

Whether you need to catch a bus from Belize City to Placencia or Belize City to San Ignacio, you will need to go to Novelo Bus Terminal in Belize City.

I recommend taking a taxi, because the area around the bus terminal is a bit seedy, and while you won’t be in any danger if you decide to walk, you will definitely draw attention as a tourist. 

10. Use private shuttles to get around Belize quickly

Private shuttles are the most popular way to get around Belize for many tourists. They are comfortable, and clean and get you around quickly and with no hassle. 

An English-speaking driver will pick you up at the airport and transport you to your hotel. Belize private shuttles offer door-to-door services allowing you to relax and nap after a long day of traveling. 

Sun Breeze Hotel is one of the best resorts in San Pedro, Belize that has an on-site diving shop.

11. Belize is the best place to get your PADI certification 

Belize is home to the second-largest barrier reef in the world and is one of the most popular destinations for scuba diving. Many people come to Belize because of scuba diving only to discover that Belize offers so much more than popular water sports.

Designated as the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Great Meso-American Barrier Reef is home to hundreds of species of colorful fish, gorgeous corals, and three atolls. The Belize reef is in great condition and offers amazing scuba diving and snorkeling.

✅ Check out the best resorts in San Pedro, Belize

Why get your SCUBA diving certification in Belize? 

If you are traveling to Belize and are not PADI certified yet, it’s time to get your scuba diving certification! You can sign up for a discovery dive with one of the diving schools in Ambergris Caye , Caye Caulker, or Placencia, the most popular beach towns in Belize that are within quick reach of some of the best diving spots in the country. 

12. Belize is a perfect destination to try snorkeling 

If diving isn’t your forte, you can also go snorkeling. Unlike diving, snorkeling doesn’t require specialized training or expensive equipment. All you need to do is put on your goggles, get a snorkeling tube in your mouth, and jump in the water to enjoy the view of the stunning aquatic world below you.

The most popular places for snorkeling in Belize are Hol Chan Marine Reserve located near San Pedro, as well as places near Placencia.

13. Belize is less crowded than other destinations in the region

Belize is a hidden gem of Central America, and many travelers still don’t know about it. While many countries in the region like Costa Rica , and Mexico , have well-established travel routes and can feel too touristy in some places, Belize is still flying under the radar, although more travelers are starting to discover it. 

✅ Belize or Costa Rica? Check my honest comparison

Is San Pedro Belize safe?

14. Belize is a small country, but it has a lot to offer

Belize is the second smallest country in Central America by land mass and the smallest country in the region by population, as its home to just over 400,000 people.

But despite its small size, Belize has plenty to offer: from snorkeling and diving to spelunking in the caves and Mayan ruins like Xunantunich, Caracol, and Lamanai, Belize is a true paradise for the adventurous. 

Best tours of Lamanai ruins

I recommend staying in the jungle during your time in Belize. The Sleeping Giant Rainforest Lodge in the central part of the country is one of the most beautiful hotels in Belize that offers spectacular views of the Mayan mountains. 

15. Belize boasts amazing wildlife 

Although Belize isn’t famous for its eco-tours like Costa Rica, its biodiversity is on par with its famous Central American counterpart. The tropical rainforest in Belize is home to jaguars, tapirs, ocelots, and several types of monkeys. 

The country also boasts over 600 types of birds like toucans, macaws, herons, and more. There are several areas of Belize where you can go bird-watching, like Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary, Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve , and Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary.

How much time do I need in Belize?

Plan at least 10 days in Belize so you could have enough time to visit different parts of the country and visit some of the most beautiful islands.

Tikal is one of the best day tirps from San Ignacio, Belize

16. You can take a day trip to Guatemala from Belize

Speaking of Guatemala, one of the most popular day trips from San Pedro is an excursion to Tikal, one of the most famous Mayan ruins in Central America . You can join a guided tour of Tikal ruins from San Ignacio, the largest town in western Belize, near the Guatemala border. 

Best tours of Tikal from San Ignacio, Belize

The tour of Tikal from San Ignacio departs early morning and brings you back to your hotel late in the evening. 

17. You can also take a day trip to Mexico from Belize  

Belize borders the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico , and you can easily hop across the border if you want to visit the neighboring country.

To cross the border between Mexico and Belize you will need a passport and might need other documents, depending on where you are from. If you are traveling from Belize to Mexico by land, you should check the Mexico travel requirements for your country before planning your trip.

Once in Mexico, you can visit some of the best destinations in the Yucatan like Bacalar , Campeche , and Tulum , and go further north to Playa Del Carmen , Cancun , and Merida . Mexico is a vast and diverse country, and you will have a lot to choose from when you come here. 

18. Belize offers great tax benefits to ex-pats 

In recent years, this small country has become popular with American and Canadian ex-pats who are moving to Belize attracted by its tropical climate, gorgeous scenery, and slow pace of life. 

If you move to Belize, you will enjoy plenty of benefits: the country is a tax haven, as it doesn’t have a corporate tax, property tax, or capital gain tax. It also has a retirement program, and keeping money in a Belizean bank account is easy. 

19. Belize is culturally diverse 

Belize is a melting pot with many ethnicities and cultures calling this country home. Belize. The country was populated by the Mayans, but it was colonized by the British in the 1600s after the British pirates in the Caribbean started using it as a hiding place from the Spaniards. 

Belize is home to many communities like Garifuna in Placencia and Hopkins or Maya in the northern part of Belize and the Cayo district near Guatemala. One of the newest cultures in Belize is Mennonites, who live off agriculture in the western part of the country and the growing population of Lebanese and Hindu immigrants. 

The many cultures of Belize live in harmony, and people in the country are generally friendly and laid-back. 

20. Belize doesn’t have chain restaurants 

When you come to Belize, one of the first things you will notice is the lack of Western food chains. Most restaurants in Belize are small and locally run, and while you can find plenty of Western-style food like pizza, burgers, or pasta, they won’t come from familiar restaurants. 

Honduras vs Belize: travel cost, safety and transportation

21. Belizean food is must-try 

Belizean food is a must-try! The staple of Belize is rice and beans served with a variety of meat, veggies, or fried bananas. 

When you travel around Belize, you will find different dishes that correspond with the various cultures of Belize. For example, in Hopkins and Dangriga, you can sample Garifuna dishes with Caribbean influences like fried fish and chicken. If you go to Western Belize or Northern Belize, you can try tamales, salbutes, and cocchinita pibil – staples from the Mayan cuisine. 

One of the most popular snacks in Belize is fry jacks – deep-fried pieces of dough often paired with beans, eggs, or meats.

More reasons to visit Belize

If you are still not convinced whether you should travel to Belize, book a ticket and spend a few days in this tropical paradise. The people are friendly, the activities are aplenty, and the weather is between 80-85 degrees Fahrenheit most of the year.

Belize travel restrictions 

If you are planning Belize travel, you are probably wondering whether the country has any restrictions. Belize had a strict protocol during the pandemic, but the country has removed all the rules as of 2023.

Does Belize have any travel restrictions?

Belize is currently open for travel and removed all travel restrictions associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. Maska is no longer required when visiting the country, and recommendations for vaccination have been removed. 

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How to get around Belize

How to Get Around Belize: A Local’s Guide

  • by Colette Kase
  • July 27, 2022
  • Belize , Daily Life , Travel

Boats, cars, taxies, planes, buses, golf carts, and bikes. Colette Kase talks about the different ways of how to get around Belize, both on the mainland and out on the cayes.

When people ask about how to get around Belize , it’s one of those ‘depends’ questions.

It depends on where you want to go and where you are. On your personal needs regarding comfort and luxury. On your independence and street smarts. Oh – and we mustn’t forget this, either – it also depends on your budget.

You see, it really does depend on so many factors.

So, let’s look at the most common ways of how to get around Belize, and who they’ll suit best.

On the mainland, you have five main options for travel. These are plane, car, taxi, shuttle, and bus. Boat, helicopter, and ferry options are also available.

How to get around Belize by air

The two main airlines in Belize are Tropic Air and Maya Island Air , who both operate what many refer to as ‘puddle jumpers’. Their fleets vary from tiny three-seaters to larger caravan-style planes holding up to 14 passengers.

Both airlines offer scheduled and charter flights to many destinations across the country including Belize City, Caye Caulker, Caye Chapel, Corozal, Dangriga, Placencia, Punta Gorda, San Ignacio, San Pedro, and more.

Tropic Air also offers international services to El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Mexico.

Prices are generally reasonable (although much more than any kind of overland travel), coming in anywhere from around $70 to $150 depending on route and ticket type.

Tropic Air and Maya Island Air have online and phone booking options. If you call, you reserve your flight on the phone and pay when you check in.

When flying domestically in Belize, you should get to the airport for check -n at least 30 minutes before your flight. Both airlines are accommodating and helpful with issues like extra baggage and pets, so ask if you have special travel needs.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tropic Air Belize (@tropicair)

Driving in Belize

Car rental is easy in most of the larger towns.

The more established car rental companies will allow one-way rentals to certain towns, where they may not have offices.

Car rental is not cheap in Belize, and neither is gas. Keep that in mind if you’re planning to drive around Belize.

While Belize has five named highways, they may not be what you expect. Highways in Belize are two-lane roads with little in the way of lighting or street markings. Maintenance is spotty in areas, so potholes are common.

Speed bumps, known in Belize as ‘sleeping policemen’, guard the entrance to most villages with little to no warning until you hit them. Don’t drive at night for this reason.

Driving during the day, however, can be a joy in Belize. Many claim the Hummingbird Highway is one of the most scenic drives in the world . They’re not wrong.

Make sure you familiarize yourself with traffic regulations and don’t worry if the police stop you at checkpoints and ask for ID.

While it may seem an interesting way to meet new people, picking up hitchhikers isn’t recommended.

Use common sense and don’t leave valuables visible in your car while unattended. Always park in well-lit areas and lock up when leaving it.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Central America Living (@centralamericaliving)

Taxis and private drivers/transfer services are a popular way of getting around Belize

If you don’t want to drive around Belize yourself, no problem. Taxi drivers will drive you anywhere in the country – for a price. Prices may sound high for long distances, but remember what I said about the price of gas and the road conditions. Both these issues make operating a taxi a costly business.

Taxi drivers can also be a source of valuable local information. Many of them double up as registered tour guides and can legally show you around as your personal guide.

On the mainland, taxis have no clear identification. They can range from rough-looking old cars to fancy SUVs but should display green plates if licensed.

If you’re staying in a hotel or rental, ask the management to recommend a driver – they’ll almost certainly have someone, or some service they trust and use. If you’re stepping out of the airport, bus, or ferry terminal, licensed taxi drivers will be available.

Taxis don’t have meters in Belize, so you’ll need to discuss the fare with your driver before you set off. Regular trips have standard fares, but other journeys will be a matter of negotiation.

Discuss whether you want to pay by the hour, distance, or the number of stops, as all are options. Also, agree with the driver in advance whether you are happy to share the ride. If you do not, the driver may pick up other passengers along the way. Paying a fare does not guarantee a private car.

Tipping taxi drivers for short distances isn’t necessary, but if the driver acts as a guide or provides excellent service, he’ll always be grateful to receive something.

If a taxi is too much for your budget, but you’d prefer an alternative to a public bus or plane, consider one of the many private or semi-private shuttle services available.

Many offer services between major towns and airports and are cheaper than taxis, especially for longer distances. A simple Google search will bring up options to choose from or ask your hotel for suggestions.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Julian Shuttles & Transfers (@julian_shuttles_belize)

Getting around Belize by bus

Belize has cheap public transport on buses run by a variety of companies. Like many other countries in Central America, old U.S. school buses are the norm. They may be re-purposed but they haven’t been converted or refurbished, so expect vinyl seats, designed for short legs, and not at all luxurious.

Air conditioning comes via open windows, which passengers always close tight at the first sign of rain.

Many buses have sound systems playing a range of music from reggae to 80s hits. The occasional preacher may be on board who will regale you with the fate of sinners. Food vendors will hop on and off at various stops offering everything from fresh fruit to tamales.

This should give you the picture that public bus travel is an interesting and quirky way to get around Belize. For most people, it’s the main mode of transport.

While they aren’t chicken buses like next door in Guatemala , you may see chickens – or at least Mennonite chicken farmers – on these buses. This makes them an adventurous way to learn more about Belize culture.

There’s a bus terminals in all major towns and a bus stop in every village.

If you’re traveling from one town to the next, take an express bus as the standard buses stop in every village, and can take a long time to reach their destinations.

The bus terminals may seem chaotic if you’re not familiar with how things work, so don’t be afraid to ask. Belizeans are friendly and helpful, and will do their best to make sure you get on the right bus.

Public buses do not have assigned seats and you do not pay in advance. Some routes and times of day are very busy, so sometimes expect standing room only.

Pregnant women, women carrying young children, and elderly people get the priority for seats. Try to get into line early if you want to guarantee a seat.

Once you sit down, the conductor will get to you at some point, ask your destination and tell you the fare. Make sure you have small change as the fares are low.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tracy Middlebrook (@tracysbackpack)

How to get to the islands and cayes of Belize

Anyone familiar with Belize will know it isn’t only all about the mainland. The islands are also popular, and traveling to the cayes and around them is a little different.

You get to the cayes by boat or plane (yes, helicopters are available too for the rich and famous).

Two main water-taxi companies operate ferries to Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker from Belize City – San Pedro Belize Express Water Taxi and Caribbean Sprinter (formally called Ocean Ferry Belize). Ferries from the cayes to the mainland start as early as 6:00 AM and from Belize City to the cayes at 8:00 AM. The last ferries to the cayes are at 5.15 PM.

The boats take about 1.5 hours from Ambergris Caye to Belize City, stopping at Caye Caulker, and hold up to 120 people, depending on the vessel. Prices are reasonable and, if you enjoy the sun, sea and fresh air, the journey can be very enjoyable.

On rainy and windy days or when the boat is crowded, the trip may not be so fun. Either way, you check out Belize from a different perspective and experience how locals travel every day.

You can book online or buy a ticket at the departure point.

A handful of private water taxi companies provide direct services from the International Airport to the cayes.

Their services are sporadic, so better inquire with your hotel if you wish to consider this option.

They are more expensive but provide a service direct to the dock nearest to your resort or villa, meaning you don’t have to rely too much on finding transport options once you arrive.

Flights to the cayes leave around every hour from the Belize International and Belize Municipal airports. There’s also a direct flight from Corozal to San Pedro on Ambergris Caye.

These flights are short (15 to 20 minutes) and fly at low altitude, providing stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and the many atolls along the way. On clear days, rays, sharks, and manatees can be visible from above.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Belize Surf & Turf Adventures (@belizesurfandturfadventures)

Getting around Ambergris Caye, Belize

Once you’re on the cayes, you’ll still need transportation, especially on Ambergris Caye and in its only town, San Pedro.

Ambergris Caye is 26 miles long, and you will want to explore once you arrive. Caye Caulker is smaller, but as development grows, transportation can be necessary.

On Ambergris Caye, the golf cart is the motorized vehicle of choice. There are plenty of golf cart rental companies, and many resorts provide rental services themselves. It’s worth shopping around for the best deal.

Familiarize yourself with the local regulations and watch out for the eagle-eyed traffic wardens who are always keen to issue tickets.

A public ferry serves most of the coast north of San Pedro Town running through the day, from 5.30 AM to 10.30 PM. These times are subject to change depending on the season, so remember to confirm. You can buy tickets right on the boat dock and they will drop you at the dock nearest to your destination.

Private boats are also available and many restaurants offer their own complimentary boat service for customers.

Taxis are easy to find on Ambergris Caye as they are well-marked. Most of them are vans driven by licensed taxi drivers. You can hail them from the street. The advice for using taxis on Ambergris Caye is the same as for the mainland.

Getting around Caye Caulker, Belize

Most places on Caye Caulker are walkable, but golf carts are available for rent. There are also golf cart taxi services.

With the new, and popular bars and activities north of the cut on Caye Caulker, there are now water taxi services available. It is easy to find information about these when you’re on the caye.

Bicycles are also a popular method of transportation on both cayes.

There are bicycle rental companies all over and many properties offer complimentary bikes to their guests. If you’ll be there long term, you can buy a good quality beach cruiser bike from any hardware shop.

For a small country, Belize has a lot to visit. The good news is there’s always a way to get there.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Caye Caulker Belize Photographer (@cayecaulkerphotography)

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Colette Kase

Colette Kase

Colette and her partner moved from London to Belize and set up a photography business called Conch Creative. Colette also writes, starting the first blog on Ambergris Caye in 2006. Once Conch Creative got underway, she gave up that blog and began blogging for the business instead. She writes professionally for a number of websites and magazines and has also been writing a book for a very long time. So far, it's not a very long book. She is passionate about Belize and hopes you’ll love it just as much as she does.

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Last updated on June 4th, 2023 at 08:35 pm

How To Get To And Around Belize

Table of contents, getting to belize by air, how to get to belize by land, belize entry requirements, what to pack and bring, getting around belize, car rentals and driving.

Belize flight connections map

Most all visitors travel to Belize by air – the safest, fastest and most convenient way to get to Belize arriving at Belize City’s Phillip Goldson International airport (BZE). Almost all flights to Belize originate from the U.S. hubs at Miami, Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, Los Angeles and Newark. The major airlines serving Belize are American Airline, Delta, Continental, United, US Airways and WestJet from Canada. The cost of airfare to Belize can be high compared to for example Cancun in Mexico, so much so that regular travelers sometimes opt to fly into Cancun and from there ride the ADO bus to Belize. Getting to Belize from Guatemala and Mexico is easier by land, public or chartered tour bus, rented vehicle or by sea. Local Belize Airlines Tropic and Maya Island Air operate daily flights from Guatemala and Honduras using Cessna Caravan equipment.

For additional information regarding amenities, quick facts, and other helpful details about Philip Goldson International Airport, please click here for PGIA Passenger Info And Quick Facts . It is generally recommended to allow yourself a few hours between your arrival in Belize City and any connecting flights or water taxis you may have. Although the airport is small and typically not crowded, there are instances where two or three full-size jets land simultaneously, resulting in a rush of passengers trying to clear customs and retrieve their luggage all at once.

All private aircraft arriving in Belize must be cleared at the PGIA through the Belize Airport Authority and Civil Aviation Department. The maximum airport runway available is 9,900 feet. The PGIA is designated as a Category 8 Airport in accordance with International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Annex 14 Standards and Recommended Practices.

Getting to Belize from Guatemala and Mexico is easier by land, public or chartered tour bus, rented vehicle or by sea. In the south entry is possible by sea at Punta Gorda Toledo district which has several water taxi operators travelling to and from neighbouring Guatemala and Honduras. Artisanal fishermen and locals enter and exit Belize informally in the south using the Sartstoon and Temash rivers and numerous creeks as transportation corridors. Milpa farmers regularly criss-cross the Belize land border with Guatemala in this area. Belize has formal border crossings at Benque Viejo del Carmen in Western Belize, and at Santa Elena Corozal bordering Chetumal Quintana Roo in the north. Like in the south, informal crossings by river, creeks and land are numerous in the Orange Walk and Corozal districts. The north of Belize has the least rainfall and rivers and creeks are small and shallow especially in the dry season. To say that Belize has porous land borders, is an understatement.

With effect from 12 July 2022 travellers are no longer required to show proof of vaccination for entry into Belize’s airport, land borders or sea ports. Unvaccinated travellers are no longer required to show proof of a negative PCR or a negative Antigen Rapid test upon arrival. You must have a valid passport to enter Belize, with at least six months before expiration, but visas are not required for citizens of the U.S., Canada, the U.K. and most Caribbean and European Union countries. You should also have an onward or return ticket. Immigration in Belize won’t ask for it, but the airline you fly in on most likely will. Entry is granted for up to 30 days, with renewals of up to a total of six months permitted (renewals cost US$25. per month for the first six months, then US$50. a month.) Children under 18 years of age must have proper documentation, including a valid passport and letter of parental consent. Children traveling with one parent require a notarized letter of authority from the other parent indicating travel consent.

Belize is a very casual country. You don’t need evening clothes or even a coat and tie or other U.S.-style business dress. You’ll live in tee shirts, shorts, loose-fitting slacks and shirts. A really dressy occasion for men might require a guayaberra or collared shirt and long pants; for women a simple skirt or dress. Leave all your fancy jewelry and Rolex watches at home. They will impress only thieves. Also leave your rain gear at home. It probably will rain, but raincoats just make you sweat. Here are ideas for your packing list: Lightweight cotton clothes or quick-drying cotton/synthetic blends. Comfortable walking shoes. Consider light boots or walking shoes for hiking and sandals for the beach. Extra swimsuits. Maps, guidebooks and reading material. If available at all in Belize, these will cost more than back home and may be out of date. Cap or hat — be sure it’s one that won’t blow off in windy conditions on the water. Sunglasses — the darker the better. Small flashlight with extra batteries, baggies in various sizes, a roll of duct tape, a large garbage bag, pen and writing pad — with these you can go anywhere and do almost anything. Health kit consisting of your prescription medicines and a copy of your eyeglass prescription, plus aspirin, insect spray with 30% DEET, sunscreen (more than you think you’ll need), baby oil or Avon Skin-So-Soft for sandflies, Pepto-Bismol or other tummy medicine, bandages, sun-burn lotion, toilet tissue, moist wipes, seasick pills and other over-the-counter medicines.

For a small nation, Belize has a well-planned highway and road system that connects all mainland towns, villages and attractions. This system allows travelers to fashion a unique combination of experiences in one of the last unspoiled places on earth. There are small airports in Belize centrally located around key points of interest in the country, bus terminals in most towns and boat services operating from all major coastal regions and island towns. Travel via local airlines in passenger aircraft is the fastest and most popular means of transportation throughout Belize, especially for itineraries that combine different in-country locations. Flight schedules are coordinated with the arrival and departure of international flights, for even more convenient traveling and exploring. Belize City and the Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport (BZE) are hubs for most rental agencies, with localized services available in the larger tourism destinations.

how to travel to belize

Upon your arrival at Philip Goldson International Airport (BZE), you can find car rental services conveniently located across from Terminals 1 and 2. Crystal Belize is one of the bigger car rental companies in the country. They allow you to drive to Tikal in Guatemala, although it is necessary to arrange this in advance. There is also Budget, Avis, Hertz and a slew of local auto rental companies. For a comprehensive list of available rental providers, please refer to this list provided by the Belize Airport Concession Company that operates the PGIA International Airport.

Driving in Belize can be challenging at times. Similar to the United States and Canada, traffic moves on the right side of the road. While a 4×4 vehicle is generally not required, having good ground clearance can be advantageous. It’s important to note that roads outside major urban areas are often poorly lit during nighttime. Additionally, you will encounter some substantial speed bumps when entering or leaving villages along major roads. Exercise caution as you may encounter drivers who exhibit creative maneuvers and attempt unsafe overtaking, particularly around motorcycles. Lastly, ensure that you have your local driver’s license readily available for any checkpoints you come across.

In Belize, taxis are typically operated by independent owners, resulting in affordable fares. However, it’s important to note that prices can vary between drivers, even for the same route. It is recommended to confirm the rates before accepting a ride. Many taxi drivers are flexible and can provide services as you need them, including longer trips. They may also offer local tours and excursions, adding convenience to your travel experience.

At PGIA (Philip Goldson International Airport), the taxi service is managed by the Ladyville Airport Taxi Association. They offer transportation to Belize City and various other destinations throughout Belize. You can reach them at +501-225-2125 or +501-610-4450. Alternatively, as you exit the airport, you will find available drivers waiting for passengers.

It’s worth mentioning that many drivers and other tourism providers in Belize utilize WhatsApp for communication. They often coordinate with travelers through text or voice messages. If you encounter difficulty reaching a local number, try reaching out via WhatsApp instead.

How to get around Belize for the ultimate adventure

Jan 17, 2024 • 8 min read

how to travel to belize

Find your way around Belize with these top transportation tips © Ulrike Schmitt-Hartmann / Getty Images

Belize is a very small country, so it’s easy enough to get from one spot to another within a few hours at the most.

It’s even possible to see most of Belize’s top sights in one trip if you know the transportation options available. Sometimes getting around means taking an ad hoc approach of pairing this plane with that boat, or that bus with this car service. The bigger your budget, the easier it is to navigate Belize, but no matter what, it’s always an adventure. 

Here are the best ways to travel around Belize .

A 1950s-style green school bus is parked at a bus station in Belize City

Experience local life by taking the bus

Anyone harboring nostalgia for 1950s American vehicles will be delighted by Belize’s public transportation: it’s made up of retired Bluebird buses. The various bus companies throughout Belize are private companies, but they share the familiar school buses painted to evoke Caribbean colors. 

Taking the local commuter buses is useful for traversing the major highways on mainland Belize, including the Northern, Southern, Western, and Hummingbird highways.

They go through the major villages and towns including Belize City , San Ignacio , Dangriga  and all the way down to Punta Gorda, with major connections taking place at the bus station in Belmopan.

The buses run on a schedule that is more or less adhered to – the express buses in particular – and the cost will vary by distance, though often you’re looking at no more than a few dollars.

The longest bus ride is from Belize City to Punta Gorda, a seven-hour trip that costs BZ$27 (around US$13). There are no municipal bus services in Belize City, but private bus companies can still be found there. 

Local tips for taking the bus: Belize’s culture is both friendly and casual, so the bus experience here is less than strict. Yes, there are bus stops, but generally, you can flag down a non-express bus anywhere along the roads they drive. It’s also possible to ask your bus driver to let you off wherever is convenient along the route. Bring cash, as there are no passes or digital ways to pay. 

See Belize’s beautiful coast by boat

Belize’s mainland is lucky enough to have nearly 200 miles of Caribbean coastline, and for many Belizeans those waters are the roads they navigate in their daily lives.

Visitors will typically use boat transport to visit various cayes on tours, or to stay at resorts that employ their own boats. However, the most common way to get out on a boat is by taking the water taxi to and from Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker .

The San Pedro Belize Express water taxi station is located at a terminal in Belize City near the tourism village, about a 25-minute drive from the international airport. You will need to take a taxi to get there.

The water taxi works like a ferry, shuttling guests on a regular schedule from Belize City to Caye Caulker (which takes 45 minutes) and on to San Pedro, which takes another half hour. It returns to Belize City along the same route.

There is also a daily service to Chetumal , Mexico – one from Belize City, and the other from San Pedro. It’s an additional 90 minutes from San Pedro to Chetumal.

It’s possible to buy tickets in advance via the website, and there is a small discount for buying roundtrip tickets. There is also a ticket office onsite for purchase in person. While you will be asked to select a particular time of departure, if you miss that boat you can just catch the next one – unless it was the last boat of the day!

Get the guided experience by hiring a shuttle service or taxi

A great way to get around is to hire drivers as needed. Belize City and the larger towns like San Pedro, San Ignacio, and Placencia have taxi drivers that you can flag down, or you can have your hotel call one for you.

Drivers will often share their phone numbers with you so you can call them later when needed. Taxis are best used for shorter rides within a single town or region. 

Shuttle services are also available. Belizing is a popular shuttle service offering a range of mainland routes, most significantly to and from San Ignacio – a taxi ride from the airport could run to US$150, while the shuttle can be as low as US$35 per person. The shuttle vans are clean, well-maintained and even have wi-fi.

Choose your own adventure when renting a car

Belize is pretty drivable if you don’t mind navigating potholes, random rainstorms and the occasional Mennonite horse cart.

Renting a car enables you to visit harder-to-reach destinations like the Mountain Pine Ridge , visit several destinations in one trip without worrying as much about logistics and timing and, of course, allows for great road trip stops like fruit stands or Ms Bertha’s Tamales on the Hummingbird Highway – keep an eye out for the red-and-white shack on the side of the road surrounded by parked cars.

Most car rentals take place at the airport, where there are several global brands, but also a local favorite called Crystal Auto Rental .

Most rental cars in Belize are not going to be in the greatest condition, but they have plenty of options, including the 4WDs needed to get into the country’s more adventurous destinations. If you’ve made it to San Ignacio and realize you want to get behind the wheel, Matus Car Rental will have you covered. 

Local tips for driving: Belize’s roads and buildings are not always well marked, so don’t be shy about pulling over to ask for help with directions. There’s no real risk in revealing you’re lost or need help. Belizeans are generally friendly and will gladly point you where you need to go – often going so far as to call someone else who may have more information to share with you. 

A small white golf cart is parked under palm trees on a beautiful beach backed by turquoise ocean

Get into the island spirit and rent a golf cart

Cars are not the only way to drive around Belize and on Ambergris Caye they’re not even an option. Renting a golf cart is the way to go in San Pedro, whether you’re a tourist or a local. The narrow island can barely accommodate the few trucks and cars that do use its roads, so you will mostly see golf carts. It adds a sense of charm to Ambergris Caye: it’s just too relaxed for a mainland-style commute.

Carts can be rented all over the island. There are dedicated stores near the San Pedro airport, rental services at various places in town, and many of the higher-end hotels offer their own fleet to guests for an additional fee. Take care to note which one is yours – there are only so many golf cart varieties out there. 

Local tips for driving a golf cart:  Golf carts may not seem particularly powerful, but you will feel it if you hit a speed bump – or “sleeping policeman” as Belizeans say – while going too fast. And there are speed bumps everywhere.

Sometimes they’re made of asphalt, sometimes they are thick nautical ropes that seem to be melting into the ground and sometimes there are no road signs letting you know they’re coming up. The last thing you want to do is launch your cart into the air, not only because it hurts coming down, but you will be on the hook for the cost of its repairs – or replacing it entirely. 

Caye Caulker from above with plane wing in foreground

See stunning bird’s-eye views when traveling by plane

There are two domestic airlines in Belize: Tropic Air and Maya Island Air . The environmental impact is undoubtedly greater than other forms of transport, but flying does significantly reduce the time it takes to get between places like Corozal, Orange Walk, San Pedro, Dangriga, Placencia, and Punta Gorda, as well as both the municipal and international airports in Belize City.

There is a landing strip in San Ignacio that has been out of service since the pandemic, but keep an eye on it reopening. 

Flying is a memorable way to get around in Belize. Flights are not particularly expensive, they reduce overall travel time and they offer an incredible perspective of the country.

From above you can enjoy the jungle canopy, the sweeping savannahs and the colors of the coastline just by traveling to your next destination. It’s the kind of view that would typically be charged at a much higher price during an airplane tour.

Local tips for flying:  Many travelers are accustomed to being bound to a strict timetable when it comes to flying. However, if your flight coming into the country is delayed, the domestic airlines are more than likely going to get you onto one of the next available flights, which leave frequently from the international airport.

Transportation is not very accessible in Belize

The truth is that, overall, Belize is not a particularly accessible destination. This is true not only for transportation but experiences as well. The Belize Zoo is considered the only accessible nature experience in the country. It is currently recovering from Hurricane Lisa but has reopened.

Perhaps the best way to arrange accessible transport is to work with a tour guide who will have local intel on who can provide such services. Check our accessible travel resource page for more info on traveling with disabilities.

This article was first published December 2022 and updated January 2024

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Getting to Belize

Belize’s location at the north of Central America makes it an easy destination to get to from anywhere in the world.

For North Americans, the main carriers are Delta, SouthWest, TACA, United and American Airlines. Unless you live in Houston, Miami, New York or Atlanta, expect to have to transfer at one of these major cities. Occasionally you may be able to catch a connection in either Los Angeles or Chicago.

Unfortunately, because of how large North America is, the time to your destination varies greatly depending on where you’re located. While a direct flight out of Miami is only 2.5 hours, Toronto travelers can expect a four to five hour trip with WestJet which operates seasonally from November to April every year. Even so, no matter where you depart from or who you depart with, you’ll always end up at the Phillip Goldson International Airport in Belize City.

Should you want a cheaper way to travel that takes a bit longer, nothing beats going by land. Try Mexico’s ADO bus line, taking visitors to Belize City from Cancun and Playa del Carmen. There are also the Guatemalan Linea Dorada buses that travel from Flores, Peten and Guatemala City to Melchor de Menchos, a small Guatemalan town on the border of Belize.

Travel within Belize is a Breeze!

If you’ve ever been to a foreign country and had a tough time getting around after you arrive, Belize requests the pleasure of your company. In-country travel is so easy and effortless, we call it breezy. Approximately the same size as the state of Vermont, Belize is small enough to make sure you see everything you wish to see, because instead of traveling to and from attractions and sites, you can spend all of your time “being there.” The following ground and air options should cover all of your in-country needs, and unlike other Caribbean destinations, you can travel seamlessly from place to place by bus without ever having to share the ride with noisy crowds and squawking chickens!

Travel by car

Come and go when you please by renting a car while you’re in Belize; especially if you are skilled at map reading and have a good sense of direction. That said, frequent Belize visitors rarely take this option because they know that their resort hosts specialize in getting guests where they want to go, so you can avoid car rental fees and driving strange roads. That stated, if you are the independent sort and require a car, choose between two recommended resources: Roam Belize www.roambelize.com (phone: 011-501-630-7870) and Barefoot Rentals and Services  http://barefootservicesbelize.com/ (011-501- 629-9602) to get the best rates during your stay. Use BELIZEHUB coupon to get a discount.

Travel by air

Whether you’re in a rush to get from place to place or love flying, two Belize airliners service a limited number of cities and offer convenience and time savings. There are plenty of north-south routes ready to deliver you to these small airports expeditiously: Ambergris Caye , Belize International, Belize Municipal, Big Creek, Caye Caulker , Caye Chapel, Corozal, Dangriga, Placencia and Punta Gorda. Down the line, things will get even easier once Ambergris Caye’s little runway turns into an international airport. Service from Belize is fairly inexpensive at around $68 USD one way. Your in-country carrier options are Maya-Island Air www.mayaregional.com (Belize: 011-501-223-1140; USA: 1-800-225-6732) and Tropic Air www.tropicair.com ; (Belize: 011-501-226-2012; USA: 1-800-422-3435).

Travel by bus

Belize bus fares and schedules change frequently to service busy routes, but what never changes is the fact that you won’t find a more affordable way to get around! This is the primary transportation method for people throughout the nation, and at any given time, eight bus lines service residents and tourists alike. Your resort host will be a font of information if you need bus service to get where you’re going, but http://www.guidetobelize.info/en/travel/belize-bus-timetable-route-guide.shtml , is a terrific resource for getting information on bus times, locations and fares.

Travel by cab

As you can imagine, taxis are easy to find in this thriving tourist mecca, so if you prefer not to go by bus and don’t mind paying more, taxis could become your favorite form of travel while you’re in Belize. Drivers eager to help offer helpful information in hopes their tips increase, but if you’re already paying a premium price to travel long distances (Belize City to San Ignacio, for example, could set you back $125 USD!), you can probably afford to tip generously. While the government posts rates at Belize City’s international airport, taxi companies often use that day’s gas prices as their rate-setting guide. Look for green license plates and once you flag one down, ask how much your driver charges to transport you to your destination before you get in to show him how Belize-savvy you happen to be!

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Belize travel advice

Latest updates: Health – editorial update

Last updated: March 13, 2024 14:22 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, belize - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Belize due to high levels of violent crime throughout the country.

Southside Belize City - Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid non-essential travel to Southside Belize City, south of the Haulover Creek River, due to gang and drug-related violence, including murders and shootings.

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Southside Belize City

Gang violence is a significant concern in Belize, especially in Southside Belize City. Gang members often use weapons to resolve disputes. Clashes occur frequently between gangs to gain control over territories for illegal activities.

Police capacity to respond to violent incidents is limited, and many crimes remain unsolved.

Tourists are not usually targeted, but you could find yourself in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Violent crime

Violent crime is also a major concern elsewhere in the country, including in Belmopan. Belize has one of the highest per capita murder rates in the world.

Drug and human trafficking, organized crime and street gang activity is prevalent. Violent incidents are frequent, including:

  • armed robberies
  • home invasions
  • sexual assaults

There has been an increase in the number of violent incidents against foreign national residents, including home break-ins and physical assaults.

Border areas often see higher criminal activity and violence. Criminals are active around the border with Guatemala, close to tourist sites such as the Mayan ruins at Caracol.

To avoid becoming the victim of a crime:

  • remain aware of your surroundings at all times
  • avoid travelling after dark
  • maintain a charge in your cellphone
  • if you are threatened, hand over your cash and valuables without resistance

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs. Criminals may target tourists, including at resorts. They often operate in groups and sometimes target individuals travelling alone.

  • Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
  • Avoid walking alone
  • Avoid carrying large amounts of cash
  • Be suspicious of strangers approaching you or of recent acquaintances
  • Avoid accepting rides or similar invitations
  • Avoid showing signs of affluence

Belize faces unresolved territorial disputes with:

  • Guatemala regarding the land border
  • Honduras regarding the Sapodilla Cays

When crossing borders by road:

  • exercise caution
  • only use official border crossings
  • avoid travelling at night

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs frequently, especially in San Pedro. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:

  • pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
  • use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
  • avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
  • cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
  • check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Overseas fraud

Spiked food and drinks

Snacks, beverages, gum and cigarettes may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

  • Be wary of accepting these items from new acquaintances
  • Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse. Cases of sexual assault, including against foreigners, occur.

  • Avoid unlit alleys and isolated areas
  • Avoid unsupervised beaches
  • Don’t hitchhike or pick up hitchhikers

Advice for women travellers

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

LGBTQ2 travellers have experienced harassment and verbal or physical abuse.

Avoid public displays of affection.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Demonstrations

Demonstrations and large gatherings may occur. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

  • Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
  • Follow the instructions of local authorities
  • Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Water activities

Coastal waters can be dangerous. Riptides are common.

Rescue services may not be consistent with international standards. Not all beaches have lifeguards or warning flags.

  • Only undertake scuba diving and other water activities with a well-established company
  • Don’t swim alone, after hours or outside marked areas
  • Consult residents and tour operators for information on possible hazards and safe swimming areas
  • Monitor weather warnings

Water safety abroad

Adventure tourism

Outdoor activities, such as snorkelling, diving, zip-lining, canopy touring, hiking, mountain biking and other adventure activities can be dangerous if unprepared. Trails are not always marked, and weather conditions can change rapidly, even in the summer.

If you intend to practice adventure tourism:

  • never do so alone, and don’t part with your expedition companions
  • obtain detailed information on your activity and on the environment in which you will be before setting out
  • buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
  • ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
  • avoid venturing off marked trails
  • ensure that you’re adequately equipped and bring sufficient water
  • stay informed of weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
  • refrain from using equipment if you have doubts on the safety
  • inform a family member or friend of your itinerary

Road travel

Road conditions and road safety are poor throughout the country. Accidents are common.

Road conditions

Besides George Price and Philip Goldson highways, most roads are unpaved. Bridges often face severe flooding after a storm. Driving conditions may be hazardous, especially during the rainy season, due to:

  • inadequate lighting
  • narrow or unpaved roads
  • lack of guardrails
  • lack of traffic signs
  • roaming livestock

Road safety

Drivers don’t respect traffic laws. They may be reckless.

There are many bicycles in urban areas. Most of the time, cyclists don’t respect traffic laws either. They contribute to the chaotic situation by posing further traffic hazards.

There is no emergency road assistance. Service stations are scarce, and they are often closed for holidays.

If driving in Belize:

  • familiarize yourself with your route before starting the trip
  • avoid travelling after dark, especially on rural roads
  • keep your windows and doors locked at all times
  • keep your belongings out of reach and sight
  • never leave belongings unattended in a vehicle, even in the trunk
  • don’t stop to change a flat tire in an isolated area and be aware of strangers offering their help
  • don’t stop to offer road-side assistance to others
  • inquire about insurance coverage options for roadside assistance when renting a car
  • always keep your gas tank full when in remote areas
  • advise a relative of your anticipated itinerary and route

Public transportation

Public buses are not commonly used in Belize. Bus services are available to travel between cities but are not reliable. Vehicles lack maintenance and safety equipment.

Avoid travelling by bus.

Taxis are not safe. You should refrain from using them.

Registered taxis are identifiable by their green licence plates. Private vehicles have white licence plates. Both may not have a meter.

Popular ride-sharing apps are not available in Belize.

If you must use a taxi:

  • never board taxis at taxi stands or flag taxis on the street
  • note the driver’s name and plate number
  • never share a taxi with strangers
  • negotiate the fare before getting in the vehicle

Water taxis are the main way to travel between the cayes, the Belize Barrier Reef and the mainland.

If you choose to travel by ferry:

  • make sure the vessel you are boarding is carrying appropriate safety equipment
  • make sure that life jackets are always provided for all passengers and are accessible
  • avoid boarding vessels that appear overloaded or unseaworthy
  • verify the safety standards of ferries with your tour operator
  • ensure your belongings are properly closed and locked

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Belizean authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Belize.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

  • Foreign Representatives in Canada
  • Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 30 days Work visa: required Student visa: required

Length of stay

If you intend to stay longer than 30 days in Belize, you must apply for a visa from immigration authorities. Immigration offices are in major towns and cities.

If you overstay the 30-day period without the required visa, you may be fined, detained or deported.

Other entry requirements

Customs officials may ask you to show them:

  • a return or onward ticket
  • proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay

Children and travel

Children traveling alone or with only one parent may have to provide:

  • a notarized consent letter confirming that the child has permission to travel
  • proof of parentage, such as a birth certificate showing the names of the parents
  • Travelling with children

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

  • Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
  • Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
  • COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

  •  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
  •  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
  •  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

  • There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

  • Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

  • Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.  

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

  • Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
  • Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
  • Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

  • Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
  • Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
  • Minimize exposure to insects
  • Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

  • In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
  • Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
  • The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
  • Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
  • Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Zika virus is a risk in this country. 

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

During your trip:

  • Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
  • Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel. 

For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

American trypanosomiasis (Chagas disease)   is a risk in this country. It is caused by a parasite spread by infected triatomine bugs. The infection can be inactive for decades, but humans can eventually develop complications causing disability and even death.

Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from triatomine bugs, which are active at night, by using mosquito nets if staying in poorly-constructed housing. There is no vaccine available for Chagas disease.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

  •   washing your hands often
  • avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
  • avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Good health care is very limited in availability.

Medical facilities are underequipped. They may lack of medical supplies and adequately trained professionals. Private hospitals may be better equipped and provide better health care. They are mostly located in Belize City. There are none in rural areas.

Services remain available at low cost. Hospitals and doctors may expect immediate cash payment.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Some prescription medications may not be available in Belize.

If you take prescription medication, you’re responsible for determining its legality in the country.

  • Bring enough of your medication with you
  • Always keep your medication in the original container
  • Pack your medication in your carry-on luggage
  • Carry a paper and an electronic copy of your prescriptions

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and Belize accede the Inter-American Convention on Serving Criminal Sentences abroad. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Belize to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Belizean authorities. This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

The legal system is cumbersome and not always transparent. If you are arrested in Belize, even for a minor incident, you should expect lengthy delays to resolve your case and you may not be allowed to leave the country.

Death penalty

Belizean authorities may apply the death penalty for the offence of murder.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences or heavy fines.

Belize is a transit point for illegal drugs between South and North America.

  • Pack your own luggage and monitor it closely at all times
  • Never transport other people’s packages, bags or suitcases

Drugs, alcohol and travel

The possession of firearms and ammunition is strictly regulated.

You can face heavy fines and jail time if you are found in possession of an unlicensed firearm or ammunition, especially for repeat offenses.

The possession of pre-Columbian archaeological and Colonial-period artifacts is strictly regulated.

You must obtain a permit to possess pre-Columbian archaeological and Colonial-period artifacts.

Plants, and animal products

Belize is a signatory to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora.

You must have a permit to collect, possess or export:

  • certain plants
  • plant and animal products

Investments

Disputes related to property acquisition or other investments are costly and take time to resolve.

If you plan to buy property, or making other investments in Belize:

  • seek legal advice in Canada and in Belize before making commitments
  • choose your own lawyer
  • avoid hiring a lawyer recommended by a seller

Belizean law does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. However, homosexuality is not widely socially accepted.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Belize.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Belize.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Belize, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Belize.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Belize, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Belizean court.

If you are in this situation:

  • act as quickly as you can
  • contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
  • consult a lawyer in Canada and in Belize to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
  • report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

  • List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
  • International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
  • The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
  • Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
  • Emergency Watch and Response Centre

Identification documents

Authorities may request to see your ID. Belizean police won’t issue a police report without a digital copy or a photocopy of your passport

  • Carry valid identification at all times
  • Keep a photocopy of your passport in case it’s lost or seized
  • Keep a digital copy of your ID and travel documents

Coral reef is safeguarded by Belizean legislation. Damage to the reef is considered a criminal offense. Penalties are severe, from heavy fine to jail time.

If you are boating in Belizean waters:

  • navigate with caution
  • avoid getting too close to the reef
  • ensure you have a good understanding of local rules and regulations

You can drive in Belize with your valid Canadian driver’s licence for up to 3 months.

You should carry an international driving permit.

International Driving Permit

The currency in Belize is the Belizean dollar (BZD).

U.S. dollars are widely accepted but cash advances may be difficult to obtain. Sometimes prices are provided in USD. Change for payments in USD is frequently given in BZD.

Credit cards are usually accepted in large cities. ATMs may not be available in rural areas.

Currency exchanges or purchases on black market are punishable by law.

  • Confirm if a price is in USD or BZD before buying
  • Bring enough U.S. dollars in small bills
  • Exchange foreign currency at banks or official exchange offices only

Hurricane season

Hurricanes usually occur from mid-May to the end of November. During this period, even small tropical storms can quickly develop into major hurricanes.

These severe storms can put you at risk and hamper the provision of essential services.

If you decide to travel to a coastal area during the hurricane season:

  • know that you expose yourself to serious safety risks
  • be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
  • stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
  • carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
  • follow the advice and instructions of local authorities
  • Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons
  • Large-scale emergencies abroad
  • Active storm tracking and hurricane watches and warnings  - United States’ National Hurricane Center

Rainy Season

The rainy season extends from May to November.

Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable, and bridges may be damaged. Heavy rains may also contribute to dangerous landslides.

Bush and forest fires are common between December and May, particularly in the Cayo District and in southern districts of Belize. The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke.

In case of a major fire:

  • stay away from the affected area, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments
  • follow the instructions of local emergency services personnel
  • monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation

Local services

In case of emergency, dial 911.

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the Consulate of Canada in Belize, in Belize City, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

Update January 10, 2024

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Belize Travel Advisory

Travel advisory november 13, 2023, belize - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Exercise increased caution in Belize due to crime . Some areas have increased risk. Please read the entire Travel Advisory.

Country Summary : Violent crime – such as sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder – are common even during daylight hours and in tourist areas. A significant portion of violent crime is gang related. Due to high crime, travelers are advised to exercise caution while traveling to the south side of Belize City. Local police lack the resources and training to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents. Most crimes remain unresolved and unprosecuted. 

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Belize.

If you decide to travel to Belize: 

Read the Department of State’s COVID-19 page before planning any international travel.

  • Be aware of your surroundings. 
  • Avoid walking or driving at night. 
  • Do not physically resist any robbery attempt. 
  • Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs. 
  • Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry. 
  • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.  
  • Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter . 
  • Review the Country Security Report for Belize.
  • Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist . 
  • Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

Belize City – Level 3: Reconsider Travel

U.S. citizens should avoid traveling to Belize City. Historically much of the violent crime in Belize occurs in the Southside of Belize City and is gang related. This area (south of Haulover Creek Canal and continuing south to Fabers Road) does not overlap the typical tourism areas. All visitors should maintain an elevated level of due diligence and reduce their exposure to crime-related risks by practicing good safety and security practices.     

Travel Advisory Levels

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how to travel to belize

10 Best Places To Visit In Belize In 2024

B elize is a magnificent country tucked between Mexico and Guatemala, with a long stretch of coastline along the Caribbean Sea. We spent a week in Belize during our Central America backpacking trip and could’ve easily stayed much longer! 

I was blown away by the kindness of the local people and their vibrant energy. Not to mention the stunning beaches and relaxed island lifestyles. I loved nature and wildlife and just how welcoming Belize felt.

Belize is not only a perfect destination to visit on its own and spend a week or two exploring but you could also easily combine it with a longer trip from Mexico to Guatemala for example, thanks to its relatively small size. 

With so many incredible places to visit in Belize, this list will give you all of the best options to choose the perfect destinations for you.

Best Places To Visit In Belize

Belize may be a small country but there are so many great places in this beautiful country.

Here are the top 10 best places to visit in Belize.

1 – Caye Caulker

Caye Caulker is a small island with a very relaxed and laid-back vibe . In fact, it is more correct to describe it as 2 islands since it was hit by a hurricane in 1961 and torn in two. Naturally, the locals took this in their stride and this narrow channel of sea between the 2 islands is now named ‘The Split’.

The Split is a popular place to hang out and enjoy the beautiful clear waters. There is a great beach bar by the split called the Lazy Lizard, where I highly recommend spending an afternoon. 

Caye Caulker is well known for being a backpacker hub , especially around the main town. You will find plenty of hostels and bars to meet fellow travelers. We loved the beachside coffee shack called Ice & Beans. They do great coffee and have hammocks on the beach so you can swing while you sip.

If you are looking for something a little more luxurious, on the other side of The Split you will find more resor t s and hotels that are geared more toward families visiting Belize with kids .

2 – Ambergris Caye

Ambergris Caye is one of the best Caribbean islands for families . The largest of the Belizean islands, and one of the most popular places to visit in Belize, Ambergris Caye is around 25 miles long but no wider than 1 mile .

The main town is San Pedro, towards the south of the island. There are a lot of things to do in San Pedro , as it is a bustling hub with a much more authentic feel than Caye Caulker. 

In this town, you will find more local people going about their day-to-day lives than you will tourists.

We stayed at the Sandbar Beachfront Hostel and this was one of the best hostels we found in Central America . Located right on the beach they have a private pier over the water, a great pool and the restaurant makes the best pizzas!

If you head further north along Ambergris Caye you will find many quiet and stunning beaches with breathtaking turquoise waters. From the shores of the island, you can even see the Barrier Reef that runs alongside Belize.

3 – San Ignacio

Found just a short drive from the Belize-Guatemala border is the town of San Ignacio. Located in far western Belize , it is often used as a stopover by travelers heading from one country to the other. But the town of San Ignacio actually has an awful lot to offer.

San Ignacio is a small town and can be explored on foot , you can take a stroll along the river or head to the big local market for some fresh fruit or homemade local delicacies. 

San Ignacio has a lot to do , and is a great place to base yourself if you want to visit the ATM Cave (Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave) or explore some of the other places mentioned on this list such as Caracol or Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve.

San Ignacio is also home to its very own Mayan Ruins site called Cahal Pech .

Cahal Pech is only $5 USD to enter and when we visited we had the entire site to ourselves for hours! You are even allowed to climb the Pyramids still at this site.

If you are heading from Belize to Guatemala, it is worth spending a couple of days in San Ignacio before moving on to Guatemala .

ALSO READ: WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING GUATEMALA WITH KIDS

4 – Hopkins

Hopkins is a quiet and peaceful beach village located in the south of the country. It is steadily growing in popularity among travelers but this south Belize gem still maintains its authentic nature, food and culture . This is what visitors love most about Hopkins. 

You can enjoy the quiet, pristine beaches in peace and get a real experience of the way of life in this area. One of the most special things to do while in Hopkins is experience the Garifuna drumming . An art that is only practiced in a handful of places still, so it is not to be missed. 

The Garifuna people are of mixed Afro-Caribbean descent. They immigrated from the island of Saint Vincent to Belize, settling primarily in the coastal areas, like Hopkins, where Garifuna culture is a celebrated part of the visitor experience.

Hopkins is also the best place to stay if you want to explore the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary and Jaguar Reserve . This is one of the only Jaguar reserves in the world.

You can join a tour to hike through the reserve , swimming in beautiful waterfalls as you keep your eyes peeled for a rare glimpse of a Jaguar.

5 – Belize City

If you are flying directly to Belize then you will be landing in Belize City as this is the only international airport in the country . It then makes sense that you may want to spend a day or two exploring the country’s capital city. 

There is a surprising amount of colonial history and architecture to be found throughout the city and the best way to experience it all is on a guided tour of the city . This way you will have a local guide who can explain more about what you are seeing as well as advising on the safe areas to stick to around the city.

Some more great spots to have on your itinerary in Belize City are the government buildings, St John’s Cathedral and the Museum of Belize.

Spend a day exploring these sites before you head out to the Cayes and you will really be able to appreciate the contrast between city and island life.

6 – The Blue Hole

Perhaps one of the most iconic and well-known places to visit in Belize is the magnificent Blue Hole . This incredibly unique sinkhole is a natural wonder that is located around 43 miles off the coast of Belize.

It is possible to experience the Blue Hole by boat or from above in a helicopter or small plane. Boat trips are best from Ambergris Caye as this is closer to the hole and the journey will be 3-4 hours each way.

Flights also leave from the small airstrip in San Pedro each day to take tourists on an hour-long flight over the hole .

It is also known to be one of the most sought-after dive sites in the world , drawing experienced divers from far and wide to experience its mysterious depths.

7 – Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley

Belize is located right next to the second-largest barrier reef in the world . If you are an ocean lover then no trip to Belize should be complete without taking a diving or snorkeling trip out to Hol Chan Marine Reserve on the Belize Barrier Reef.

The reef is a UNESCO World Heritage Site comprising seven protected areas, including the Blue Hole, Hol Chan Marine Reserve, and stretching as far south as the South Water Caye Marine Reserve and Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve, located off the shores of Placencia. 

We did a combination of snorkeling and diving and were blown away. Hol Chan Marine Reserve is home to hundreds of colorful fish, rays and sea turtles and the water visibility is great.

Shark Ray Alley is an incredible spot that is now home to hundreds of friendly nurse sharks and rays. You can jump right in and swim amongst them. It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. These waters are also home to Manatees .

We were lucky enough to see one and they are much larger than we expected.

Hol Chan Marine Reserve can be accessed by boat from either Ambergris Caye or Caye Caulker .

8 – Caracol Mayan Ruins

Belize is known for its impressive Mayan ruins. The ancient Mayan archeological site of Caracol is pretty special.

It’s no secret that there are hundreds of Maya sites in Belize , as well as sprinkled across Mexico and Guatemala. While there are a few more famous than Caracol, like Tikal in Guatemala and Chichén Itzá in Mexico, Caracol is seriously underrated.

This impressive site is buried deep within the Belize jungles, 2 hours from the nearest town and no public transport goes there. Making this one of the most off-the-beaten-path places to visit in Belize.

You will need to join a tour or rent a 4×4 to get there as there is an hour of driving off road before you reach the site.

Caracol was once one of the major Maya hubs, covering an area of 55 square miles. Now the main pyramids have been uncovered and tower over the jungle.

9 – Placencia

Placencia is the most southern beach destination on this list, located a little further south along the coast from Hopkins. 

This sleepy fishing village is slowly becoming a favorite among travelers thanks to its small and charming main street, lack of traffic and incredible beaches.

Placencia is the name of the village that sits at the end of the 16 mile-long Placencia Peninsula. The narrow strip of land is only half a mile wide at its widest point making it very much feel like a remote caye.

Luckily for us, it has all the vibes of a gorgeous caye but we can drive there. It is still largely undeveloped and mostly inhabited by locals. You will find no high rises here.

Each morning the local fishermen still head out in their boats around the peninsula and during the summer months, this is an ideal spot to head out on a snorkeling tour find Whale sharks.

10 – Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve

The Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve is a unique landscape in Belize. You won’t find the iconic pine trees in the other jungles across the country.

This entrance to the reserve is around a 45-minute drive from San Ignacio . It is possible to drive yourself however the roads inside the reserve can get treacherous after rainfall. The best way to visit the pine forest reserve is on a guided tour . 

A tour can take you to multiple spots in a day so you make the most out of your time there. The reserve is home to beautiful towering waterfalls as well as smaller rock pools like Rio On Pools which are perfect for swimming. 

It is also where you can find the impressive Rio Frio cave . An enormous cave that leads to a huge underground river system. It is well worth a trip to this wonderful nature spot if you enjoy time in the great outdoors.

BOOK A TOUR TO RIO ON POOLS, RIO FRIO CAVE, AND THE CARACOL MAYAN RUINS

Best Places To Visit In Belize FAQs

If you’re planning a trip to any of the best places to visit in Belize, you likely have some other questions about this Central American destination.

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Belize.

What part of Belize is best to stay in?

If you are looking for beautiful beaches and to meet lots of fellow travelers then you should stay on Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker. The water around the cayes is shallow and calm, which is ideal if visiting on a Belize family vacation . 

If you want beaches but peace and quiet then you should stay along the beaches in the south of the country. If you are looking to experience the jungles and Mayan ruins then you should stay in San Ignacio.

The jungles around San Ignacio are also home to some beautiful eco-lodges that are great for a peaceful escape.

How long do you need in Belize?

I would recommend spending no less than one week in Belize to get the most out of your time there.

Ten days or more would be the ideal amount of time if you want to experience the islands and the coastal area along the mainland, as well as see the Mayan ruins and the jungles in western Belize.

If you have less than a week then I recommend spending your time on the Cayes and not moving around too much.

When is the best time of year to visit Belize?

The best time to visit Belize is during the dry season from January to May. This is when you will have the best temperatures and the least rainfall.

From August to December there is a low risk of hurricanes so always check before you travel.

Is Belize safe to visit?

Belize is generally known to be a safe country for tourists to visit. Belize City has a bit of a reputation for being unsafe in certain areas but crime is rarely directed towards tourists. If in doubt there are plenty of great group tours you can join to explore the city with a local who knows the area.

Regardless of where you visit, it is always best to leave your valuables at home and not wander around alone at night time.

Is Belize cheap or expensive?

Belize is not typically a budget travel destination. It is possible to find cheaper hostel beds, take public buses and eat street food. However, there are far more luxury resorts and activities in Belize which are usually pretty expensive.

A Summary of the Best Places to Visit in Belize

So, this concludes our list of the best places to visit in Belize and hopefully, you now have all the information you need to decide which places to visit on your next trip to Belize. 

From the beautiful Cayes to the lush jungles, Belize is home to some of the best places to visit in Central America for families , couples, or even solo travelers. It is such a wonderful country that it feels like visiting a true gem, hidden in plain sight.

Like it? Pin this list of the best places to visit in Belize to save it for later!

Do you have a question or comment about any of these best places to visit in Belize? We’d love to hear from you! Leave your thoughts in the comments below.

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Belize is a magnificent country tucked between Mexico and Guatemala, with a long stretch of coastline along the Caribbean Sea. We spent a week in Belize during our Central America backpacking trip and could’ve easily…

For years, I dreamed of overwater bungalows in destinations like the Maldives and Tahiti. Then, I found one just a 6-hour flight away in Belize.

  • I dreamed of overwater bungalows in places like the Maldives but dreaded the long flight there.
  • Then, I discovered places in Central America and the Caribbean are home to overwater resorts. 
  • I landed on Thatch Caye in Belize, where my bungalow dreams were met after a six-hour flight. 

Insider Today

Waking up to ocean waters lapping underneath me, a breeze rustling through a thatched roof, and sea salt coating my skin is my vision of an ideal tropical vacation.

And I believed the best place to create that experience would be in an overwater bungalow — the epitome of a luxury tropical vacation.

For years, I assumed I'd first have to hop on a long-haul flight if I wanted this tropical getaway.

I could fly 17-plus hours to Tahiti, where the accommodation concept originated, or explore the dozens of overwater resorts in the Maldives, as long as I was willing to embark on a 26-hour journey.

This winter, I was proved wrong with a stay at Thatch Caye , an all-inclusive, private island resort home to overwater bungalows off the coast of Belize.

There's a reason overwater bungalows aren't as popular in the Caribbean

Overwater bungalow resorts are more than 55 years old. And it all started when three Americans — Jay Carlisle, Hugh Kelley, and Donald McCallum — moved to French Polynesia to start a vanilla farm.

When vanilla couldn't grow on the land they bought, the men pivoted to the hospitality industry. They bought a run-down hotel on the island of Moorea and named it Bali Hai.

The trio — who became known as the Bali Hai Boys — built other hotels, including on the island of Ra'iātea, where the idea for the overwater bungalows originated. As this resort grew in popularity, there was nowhere to expand, Hugh Kelley's daughter, Vaihiria Kelley, told Business Insider. A road cut off one side of the resort, and other resorts neighbored Bali Hai.

"The only way to expand was to expand out over the water," Kelley said.

Using inspiration from traditional Tahitian fishing huts, which similarly sit over the ocean, the men built the first overwater bungalows in 1967.

And Ra'iātea's calm waters made it the ideal place for an overwater bungalow, Kelley said. The trio built ladders leading straight into the ocean and added clear panels to the bungalow's floors so guests could view aquatic life below.

"They didn't expect it would be so popular and that it would be such a novel concept," Kelley said.

It was. The Bali Hai Boys added overwater bungalows to all of their resorts. Then, other resorts started popping up with the accommodations, too.

Today, sites like Overwater Bungalows state that more than 250 resorts worldwide offer this accommodation style.

Yet, most of these places are in the Maldives and South Pacific.

Related stories

Places like Tahiti and the Maldives have the ideal environment for overwater bungalows since the region's waters tend to be calmer, and tranquil lagoons often surround the islands, Condé Nast Traveler reported. In the Caribbean, strong tides and hurricane-prone regions can make building overwater bungalows a feat.

But that hasn't stopped companies across Central America and the Caribbean from building these structures. In 2016, the Sandals Resort in Montego Bay, Jamaica, was the first resort to offer overwater bungalows in the Caribbean, according to Condé Nast Traveler.

Other resorts followed. The accommodations now exist in Aruba, Panama, Antigua, Mexico, St. Lucia, St. Vincent, Belize, and Turks and Caicos, according to Dream Overwater .

Without a desire to spend 26 hours traveling to the Maldives, I settled on Belize

At the end of last year, my friend and I were planning a scuba diving trip. We wanted to go somewhere with incredible diving but didn't want to spend most of our vacation on a plane.

We landed on Belize, which involved two three-hour flights from Denver, Colorado. If we had flown directly, it would've taken just four hours .

When it came to accommodations, I started looking at luxury options. Thatch Caye's overwater bungalows caught my eye.

I realized I could have the overwater bungalow experience much closer to home than I originally thought.

The private island is home to eight overwater bungalows, and it's one of the few resorts that offer them in Belize.

Five are considered premier with private decks; the other three share a deck. Depending on the season, the premier overwater bungalows cost about $950 a night for two people, which includes resort fees and taxes.

The photos online were stunning. Wooden decks led out to the ocean, and each premier bungalow had a hammock for lounging and comfy beds for sleeping.

So when I say settled, I mean we eagerly booked two nights at Thatch Caye. BI received a media rate for the two-night stay.

The bungalows exceeded my tropical vacation dreams

For two nights, I did exactly what I had dreamed of. I went to sleep under a spattering of night stars with the ocean lapping beneath me. I woke up to the wind rustling in the thatched roof and the sun shining.

The overwater bungalows lacked two amenities I had hoped for: a clear floor to peer into the ocean and direct water access from my bungalow.

But the resort made up for it in other ways. The island had a sandy beach area where guests could wade in the water, as well as a snorkeling area for spotting rays, starfish, and nurse sharks. There were complimentary kayaks, paddleboards, and sailboats, and an on-site dive shop that coordinated dives and allowed me to explore the Belize Barrier Reef.

Since Thatch Caye is home to only 30 guests, the entire trip felt much more intimate than other all-inclusives . I bonded with other vacationers as we dined at a communal dinner table each evening, and I watched sunsets from a hanging hammock.

My first overwater bungalow stay reminded me I don't need to hop on an all-day flight to experience the accommodation.

But that doesn't mean places like Tahiti are no longer on my radar. And Kelley urged me to prioritize a Tahiti bungalow experience.

"The concept was really inspired, at the end of the day, by something that's culturally tied to Tahiti with the fisherman hut," Kelley said. "I'm biased, but I do think the most beautiful ones are in Tahiti."

So, one day, I'll get on that 17-hour flight.

Watch: You can rent an entire private island in Belize on Airbnb

how to travel to belize

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COMMENTS

  1. Belize Travel Guide (Updated 2024)

    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.

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

    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.

  3. 16 things to know before traveling to Belize

    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.

  4. Belize Travel Tips: 12 Things to Know Before You Visit Belize

    4. When to Visit Belize: Dry Season vs. Wet Season in Belize. The best time to visit Belize is during the dry season, which roughly spans from December through late April. The dry season is the peak season for tourism in Belize since there are much lower chances of rainy days! Keep in mind that I said lower, not zero.

  5. Know before you visit Belize 2023

    The information listed below serves as a 10-step travel guide for Belize that offers information on when to visit, where to stay, the best places to go, and top-rated tourist attractions. 1. Best time to visit Belize and top places to go. Belize is small but it has a lot to offer.

  6. Belize Vacations, Travel & Tourism

    Traveling to Belize is only the beginning of a great experience. Once you arrive, you have the opportunity to discover our beautiful beaches, lush jungles, multiple islands and more. Whether you're exploring the Bladen Nature Reserve trails or exploring Mayan ruins in the Cayo District, we have local airlines, helicopters, rental cars, buses ...

  7. Complete guide to Belize

    Purchase our award-winning guidebooks. Get to the heart of Belize with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance. Shop Our Guidebooks.

  8. EPIC BELIZE Itinerary! (2024 Guide)

    This is usually during the country's dry season, which lasts from November to April. During this time you can expect the best from Belize's tropical climate and coastal sea breezes. In fact, temperatures rarely dip below 20 °C/68 °F! These are the best times to visit Belize!

  9. Belize Itinerary: How to spend 5 to 10 days in Belize (2023)

    Day 1: Arrive in Belize City. After arriving at Belize City International Airport, take a flight or private shuttle to Placencia, a beach town located along the coast of Belize. If you are on a budget, catch a bus from Novelo Bus Terminal in Belize for about 10 BZD. How to get from Belize City to Placencia.

  10. The Ultimate Belize Travel Guide

    The Ultimate Belize Travel Guide. This Central American destination is the adventure traveler's dream, from its jungle-covered peaks to a coastline dotted with more than 450 islands stretching ...

  11. Getting to Belize

    Land and sea routes to belize. There are two land border crossings into Belize: one from Chetumal, Mexico, to Santa Elena, and one from Melchor de Mencos, Guatemala, to Benque Viejo del Carmen.. There are also sea routes to Belize from Guatemala and Honduras.Daily skiffs travel to and from Punta Gorda, in the far south, and Puerto Barrios, Guatemala.

  12. 50 things you need to know before traveling to Belize

    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.

  13. 9 of the best places to visit in Belize

    5. Ray Caye. Best private island experience. There are hundreds of islands off Belize's coasts to choose from and Ray Caye is one of the best. The Raye Caye resort is developed, has modern, clean lodging and an incredible restaurant.. Visitors can either choose to stay overnight or visit for the day, though overnight guests will have access to the entire island while day guests are ...

  14. How to Travel To Belize: 11 Steps (with Pictures)

    2. Book a return ticket before you enter the country. The Belize customs and immigration authority requires that you have a return ticket book and enough money to cover your trip throughout Belize. You may need to state these 2 facts when you enter and go through customs. 3.

  15. Belize International Travel Information

    Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel. Belize City - Level 3: Reconsider Travel. U.S. citizens should avoid traveling to Belize City. Historically much of the violent crime in Belize occurs in the Southside of Belize City and is gang related. This area (south of Haulover Creek Canal and continuing ...

  16. 21 Belize Travel Tips: How to visit Central America's hidden gem

    5. Belize is not a cheap country. Belize is not a budget destination, and it's only slightly less expensive than Costa Rica, the most expensive country in Central America. If you want to travel to Belize on a budget, use public transportation, stay in hostels, and cook your meals. Plan at least $100-120 on food, accommodations, and ...

  17. United States to Belize

    It was once the capital of the former British Honduras. According to the 2010 census, Belize City has a population of 61,461 people. It is at the mouth of the Haulover Creek, which is a distributary of the Belize River. The Belize River empties into the Caribbean Sea 5 mi from Belize City on the Philip Goldson Highway on the coast of the Caribbean.

  18. How to Get Around Belize: A Local's Guide

    Ferries from the cayes to the mainland start as early as 6:00 AM and from Belize City to the cayes at 8:00 AM. The last ferries to the cayes are at 5.15 PM. The boats take about 1.5 hours from Ambergris Caye to Belize City, stopping at Caye Caulker, and hold up to 120 people, depending on the vessel.

  19. Transportation Guide For Getting To And Around Belize

    At PGIA (Philip Goldson International Airport), the taxi service is managed by the Ladyville Airport Taxi Association. They offer transportation to Belize City and various other destinations throughout Belize. You can reach them at +501-225-2125 or +501-610-4450.

  20. Getting around in Belize

    The longest bus ride is from Belize City to Punta Gorda, a seven-hour trip that costs BZ$27 (around US$13). There are no municipal bus services in Belize City, but private bus companies can still be found there. Local tips for taking the bus: Belize's culture is both friendly and casual, so the bus experience here is less than strict.

  21. Getting to Belize

    Travel by bus. Belize bus fares and schedules change frequently to service busy routes, but what never changes is the fact that you won't find a more affordable way to get around! This is the primary transportation method for people throughout the nation, and at any given time, eight bus lines service residents and tourists alike. ...

  22. Travel advice and advisories for Belize

    Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country's entry rules. Regular Canadian passport. Your passport must be valid at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Belize. Passport for official travel. Different entry rules may ...

  23. Belize Travel Advisory

    Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel. Belize City - Level 3: Reconsider Travel. U.S. citizens should avoid traveling to Belize City. Historically much of the violent crime in Belize occurs in the Southside of Belize City and is gang related. This area (south of Haulover Creek Canal and continuing ...

  24. 10 Best Places To Visit In Belize In 2024

    Belize is a magnificent country tucked between Mexico and Guatemala, with a long stretch of coastline along the Caribbean Sea. We spent a week in Belize during our Central America backpacking trip ...

  25. I Dreamed of Overwater Bungalows in the Maldives. Then, I Found One

    Business Insider's author thought she'd have to travel 26 hours for a night in an overwater bungalow. Then, she found Thatch Caye Resort in Belize.

  26. Special Presidential Advisor for the Americas Dodd's Travel to Belize

    Special Presidential Advisor (SPA) for the Americas Christopher J. Dodd will travel to Belize and Costa Rica January 17-20. In Belize, SPA Dodd will meet with Prime Minister Briceño, Foreign Minister Fonseca, and members of the business community. In Costa Rica, SPA Dodd will meet with President Chaves and members of his cabinet, members of ...