What Is Tourism Like In Belize?

Tourism in Belize offers a unique blend of adventure and relaxation, but it’s essential to be aware of the safety and security landscape. SIXT.VN can help you navigate Belize’s travel landscape with ease, providing insights and services to ensure a worry-free trip. With SIXT.VN, plan your Belize adventure while staying informed and prepared.

1. Understanding Tourism and Safety in Belize

Is Belize safe for tourists? Yes, with precautions. Belize is a beautiful country with a lot to offer tourists, but like any travel destination, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary safety measures. Understanding the current situation and safety tips can lead to a safer experience in Belize.

1.1. Exercise a High Degree of Caution

Belize requires a high degree of caution due to high levels of violent crime throughout the country. It’s essential to stay informed about the current situation and safety tips to ensure a safe experience.

• Violent Crime: There is a high level of violent crime throughout Belize.
• Petty Crime: Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, also occurs.

1.2. Areas to Avoid

Southside Belize City, south of the Haulover Creek River, has been flagged as an area where non-essential travel should be avoided due to gang and drug-related violence.

1.3. Safety and Security Measures

Here are measures to keep you safe and secure in Belize:

• Awareness: Remain aware of your surroundings at all times.
• Avoidance: Avoid travelling after dark.
• Communication: Maintain a charge in your cellphone.
• Compliance: If threatened, hand over your cash and valuables without resistance.

1.4. Crime Hotspots

High crime rates in specific areas like Southside Belize City necessitate caution. Violent crime is a major concern, with one of the highest per capita murder rates in the world. Drug and human trafficking, organized crime, and street gang activity are prevalent.

1.5. Understanding Violent Crime

Violent crime is a significant concern, including:

• Murders
• Armed robberies
• Home invasions
• Muggings
• Sexual assaults

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

1.6. Border Precautions

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.

1.7. Staying Safe from 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.

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

1.8. Border Disputes and Safety

Belize faces unresolved territorial disputes with Guatemala regarding the land border and Honduras regarding the Sapodilla Cays. When crossing borders by road:

• Caution: Exercise caution.
• Official Crossings: Only use official border crossings.
• Night Travel: Avoid travelling at night.

1.9. Protecting Yourself from Fraud

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

• Attention: Pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others.
• ATMs: Use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business.
• Card Readers: Avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature.
• Keypad: Cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN.
• Transactions: Check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements.

1.10. Awareness of Spiked Food and Drinks

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

• New Acquaintances: Be wary of accepting these items from new acquaintances.
• Unattended Items: Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers.

1.11. Safety for Women Travelers

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

• Unlit Areas: Avoid unlit alleys and isolated areas.
• Beaches: Avoid unsupervised beaches.
• Hitchhiking: Don’t hitchhike or pick up hitchhikers.

1.12. Considerations for 2SLGBTQI+ Persons

LGBTQ2 persons have experienced harassment and verbal or physical abuse. Avoid public displays of affection.

1.13. Staying Safe During 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.

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

1.14. Water Activity Safety

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.

• Established Companies: Only undertake scuba diving and other water activities with a well-established company.
• Swimming Alone: Don’t swim alone, after hours, or outside marked areas.
• Local Information: Consult residents and tour operators for information on possible hazards and safe swimming areas.
• Weather Warnings: Monitor weather warnings.
• Instructions: Follow the instructions of local authorities.

1.15. Adventure Tourism Precautions

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:

• Companions: Never do so alone, and don’t part with your expedition companions.
• Information: Obtain detailed information on your activity and on the environment in which you will be before setting out.
• Insurance: Buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation.
• Physical Condition: Ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity.
• Marked Trails: Avoid venturing off marked trails.
• Equipment: Ensure that you’re adequately equipped and bring sufficient water.
• Weather: Stay informed of weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard.
• Equipment Doubts: Refrain from using equipment if you have doubts about the safety.
• Itinerary: Inform a family member or friend of your itinerary.

2. Navigating Transportation in Belize

How can tourists safely navigate transportation in Belize? Use these guidelines for road travel, public transportation, and air travel to ensure a smooth and safe journey.

2.1. Understanding Road Travel

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

2.2. 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:

• Potholes
• Inadequate lighting
• Narrow or unpaved roads
• Lack of guardrails
• Lack of traffic signs
• Roaming livestock

2.3. Road Safety Practices

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: Familiarize yourself with your route before starting the trip.
• Avoid Night Travel: Avoid travelling after dark, especially on rural roads.
• Locked Doors: Keep your windows and doors locked at all times.
• Belongings: Keep your belongings out of reach and sight.
• Unattended Vehicles: Never leave belongings unattended in a vehicle, even in the trunk.
• Flat Tires: Don’t stop to change a flat tire in an isolated area and be aware of strangers offering their help.
• Roadside Assistance: Don’t stop to offer roadside assistance to others.
• Insurance: Inquire about insurance coverage options for roadside assistance when renting a car.
• Gas Tank: Always keep your gas tank full when in remote areas.
• Itinerary Advice: Advise a relative of your anticipated itinerary and route.

2.4. Public Transportation Options

What are the risks associated with public buses in Belize? 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.

2.5. Taxi Safety Tips

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:

• Boarding Taxis: Never board taxis at taxi stands or flag taxis on the street.
• Driver Information: Note the driver’s name and plate number.
• Sharing Taxis: Never share a taxi with strangers.
• Fare Negotiation: Negotiate the fare before getting in the vehicle.

2.6. Ferry Travel Guidelines

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:

• Safety Equipment: Make sure the vessel you are boarding is carrying appropriate safety equipment.
• Life Jackets: Make sure that life jackets are always provided for all passengers and are accessible.
• Overloaded Vessels: Avoid boarding vessels that appear overloaded or unseaworthy.
• Safety Standards: Verify the safety standards of ferries with your tour operator.
• Belongings: Ensure your belongings are properly closed and locked.

2.7. Air Travel Information

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards. It is recommended to research airlines before booking.

3. Entry and Exit Requirements for Belize

What are the essential entry and exit requirements for Belize? This section covers everything from passport validity to visa requirements, ensuring you are well-prepared for your trip.

3.1. Passport Validity

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel. Your passport must be valid at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Belize.

3.2. Visa Requirements

• Tourist Visa: Not required for stays up to 30 days.
• Work Visa: Required.
• Student Visa: Required.

3.3. 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.

3.4. Travel Declaration Form

Belize has a new immigration and customs declaration system. You must fill the online travel declaration form to enter and exit Belize. The digital form must be completed before you travel.

3.5. Other Entry Requirements

Customs officials may ask you to show them:

• A return or onward ticket.
• Proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.

3.6. Travel with Children

Children travelling 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.

3.7. Yellow Fever Vaccination

Proof of vaccination is not required to enter Belize.

4. Health and Medical Considerations in Belize

What health precautions should travelers take in Belize? Understand routine vaccines, pre-travel vaccines, and safe food and water practices to stay healthy during your visit.

4.1. Routine Vaccines

Make sure your routine vaccinations are up-to-date before you travel, no matter where you’re going. These may include vaccines for measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), polio, varicella (chickenpox), meningococcal disease, seasonal flu, and others.

4.2. Pre-Travel Vaccines and Medications

When travelling in this destination, you might be at risk for diseases that can be prevented with vaccines or medications. Talk to a travel health care provider about which ones are right for you based on your travel plans.

• Hepatitis A: Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.
• 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: Vaccination is not required to enter this country.
• Rabies: Discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure.
• Measles: Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.
• Influenza: The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year.
• COVID-19: It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling.

4.3. Safe Food and Water Precautions

Eating or drinking unsafe food or water, or swimming in contaminated water can make you sick while travelling. Take precautions by following these tips:

• Boil, Cook, Peel, or Leave It: Only eat food that is prepared safely.
• Avoid Water in Eyes, Mouth, or Nose: Avoid, if possible, getting water in your eyes, mouth, or nose when swimming in freshwater (like streams, lakes, or canals), especially after heavy rain or flooding – the water might look clean but can still be contaminated.
• Don’t Swallow Water: Don’t swallow water when bathing, showering, swimming in pools, or using hot tubs.

4.4. Preventing Travelers’ Diarrhea

Travelers’ diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water. Risk of developing travelers’ diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

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

4.5. Typhoid Prevention

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.

4.6. Tick and Insect Bite Prevention

Many diseases are spread by bites from infected ticks and insects like mosquitoes, fleas, or flies. Before you travel, find out what types of ticks or insects are in the area, when they’re most active, and what diseases they can spread.

To protect yourself from bites:

• Bug Spray: Use an approved bug spray (insect repellent) on exposed skin.
• Clothing: Wear light-coloured, loose clothing made of tightly woven materials like nylon or polyester.
• Socks and Shoes: Wear socks and closed-toe shoes.
• Mosquito Netting: Sleep under mosquito netting if you’re outdoors or staying in places that aren’t fully enclosed.
• Tick Check: Do a full body tick check on yourself, your children, your gear, and any pets you’re travelling with when you return from outdoor activities.

4.7. Specific Diseases

• Chikungunya: There is a risk of chikungunya in this country. Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times.
• American Trypanosomiasis: American trypanosomiasis (Chagas disease) is a risk in this country. Protect yourself from triatomine bugs, which are active at night, by using mosquito nets if staying in poorly-constructed housing.
• Dengue: In this country, dengue is a risk to travellers. Protect yourself from mosquito bites. There is no vaccine or medication available in Canada to prevent dengue.
• Zika Virus: Zika virus is a risk in this country. Prevent mosquito bites at all times.

4.8. Animal Precautions

Some infections, like rabies and bird flu (avian influenza), can be spread from animals to humans.

To reduce your risk of getting sick, avoid contact with animals like stray dogs, livestock (such as pigs and cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats. Avoid eating undercooked meat. Make sure to closely watch children; they are more likely to try to touch animals.

4.9. Person-to-Person Infections

When travelling, you can reduce your risk of getting or spreading respiratory infections, like the flu or COVID-19, by:

• Staying at Your Accommodation: Staying at your accommodation and limiting contact with others if you’re sick.
• Wearing a Mask: Wearing a well-fitting mask, especially if you’re sick and need to be around others, or when you’re at large indoor events or in crowded settings.
• Cleaning Your Hands: Cleaning your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or using hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol.
• Covering Coughs and Sneezes: Covering your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow, not your hands.

To lower your risk of getting sexually transmissible infections (STIs), HIV, and mpox, you can:

• Get vaccinated against mpox if you’re eligible.
• Have fewer sexual partners.
• Use protection during sexual activity, like condoms and dental dams.

4.10. Medical Services and Facilities

Good health care is very limited in availability. Medical facilities are underequipped and may lack 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.

4.11. Medication

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 Medication: Bring enough of your medication with you.
• Original Container: Always keep your medication in the original container.
• Carry-On Luggage: Pack your medication in your carry-on luggage.
• Prescription Copies: Carry a paper and an electronic copy of your prescriptions.

5. Understanding Belizean Laws and Culture

What are the key laws and cultural norms travelers should know in Belize? This guide covers everything from drug penalties to cultural sensitivities, ensuring you respect local customs and stay out of trouble.

5.1. Abiding by Local Laws

You must abide by local laws. Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.

5.2. 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.

5.3. Death Penalty

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

5.4. Drug Laws

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: Pack your own luggage and monitor it closely at all times.
• Avoid Transporting Others’ Items: Never transport other people’s packages, bags, or suitcases.

5.5. Firearms Regulations

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.

5.6. Artifact Restrictions

The possession of pre-Columbian archaeological and Colonial-period artifacts is strictly regulated. You must obtain a permit to possess these items.

5.7. Wildlife Protection

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
• Animals
• Plant and animal products

5.8. Investment Precautions

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

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

• Seek Legal Advice: Seek legal advice in Canada and in Belize before making commitments.
• Choose Your Own Lawyer: Choose your own lawyer.
• Avoid Seller-Recommended Lawyers: Avoid hiring a lawyer recommended by a seller.

5.9. 2SLGBTQI+ Persons

Belizean law does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. However, homosexuality is not widely socially accepted. 2SLGBTQI+ persons should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Belize.

5.10. 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.

5.11. 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.

5.12. 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 ID: Carry valid identification at all times.
• Photocopy of Passport: Keep a photocopy of your passport in case it’s lost or seized.
• Digital Copy: Keep a digital copy of your ID and travel documents.

5.13. Boating Regulations

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: Navigate with caution.
• Avoid Reefs: Avoid getting too close to the reef.
• Understand Local Rules: Ensure you have a good understanding of local rules and regulations.

5.14. Driving 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.

5.15. Currency and Money Matters

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 the black market are punishable by law.

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

6. Natural Disasters and Climate Considerations in Belize

How should tourists prepare for natural disasters and climate-related events in Belize? Be aware of hurricane season, rainy season flooding, and wildfires to ensure your safety and well-being.

6.1. 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. You could face serious safety risks during a hurricane.

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

• Change Travel Plans: Be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip.
• Stay Informed: Stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts.
• Emergency Contact Information: Carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator.
• Follow Local Advice: Follow the advice and instructions of local authorities.

6.2. 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.

6.3. Wildfires

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: Stay away from the affected area, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments.
• Follow Instructions: Follow the instructions of local emergency services personnel.
• Monitor Local Media: Monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation.

7. Essential Travel Tips for Belize

What are the essential tips for planning a trip to Belize? Plan your Belize vacation with confidence using SIXT.VN, where you’ll find travel advice, safety tips, and convenient booking options for a seamless experience.

• Stay Informed: Monitor local news for updates on safety and health.
• Plan Transportation: Book reliable transportation services with SIXT.VN for safe travel.
• Secure Accommodation: Choose accommodations in well-reviewed areas with good security.
• Pack Appropriately: Include insect repellent, sunscreen, and necessary medications.
• Respect Local Customs: Be mindful of local laws and cultural norms.

8. Planning Your Trip to Belize with SIXT.VN

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• Travel Advice: Access up-to-date travel information and safety tips.
• Transportation: Book reliable airport transfers and car rentals.
• Accommodation: Find secure and comfortable lodging options.

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Hotline/Whatsapp: +84 986 244 358.
Website: SIXT.VN.

9. FAQs About Tourism in Belize

9.1. Is Belize safe for solo female travelers?

Yes, with precautions. Avoid isolated areas, especially at night, and use reputable transportation services.

9.2. What are the best times to visit Belize?

The dry season (December to April) is ideal for avoiding rain and hurricanes.

9.3. Are credit cards widely accepted in Belize?

Credit cards are accepted in larger cities, but cash is preferred in rural areas.

9.4. What should I do in case of a medical emergency?

Seek medical attention at a private hospital in Belize City and ensure you have travel insurance covering medical evacuation.

9.5. Can I drink tap water in Belize?

It is recommended to drink bottled or purified water to avoid illness.

9.6. How can I protect myself from mosquito bites?

Use insect repellent, wear long sleeves and pants, and sleep under mosquito netting.

9.7. What is the local currency in Belize?

The local currency is the Belizean dollar (BZD), but U.S. dollars are widely accepted.

9.8. Are there any cultural norms I should be aware of?

Respect local customs, dress modestly in religious areas, and be polite and patient in interactions.

9.9. What should I do if I encounter a demonstration?

Avoid the area, follow local authorities’ instructions, and monitor local media for updates.

9.10. Is it necessary to speak Spanish in Belize?

English is the official language, but Spanish is also widely spoken.

10. Conclusion: Ensuring a Safe and Memorable Trip to Belize

Planning a trip to Belize requires careful consideration of safety and health factors. By staying informed, taking necessary precautions, and utilizing services like SIXT.VN, you can ensure a memorable and safe travel experience. From understanding local laws to preparing for natural disasters, being well-prepared is key to enjoying all that Belize has to offer.