Ultimate Belize Travel Guide: With the Best Tips and Secrets

So, you’re planning a trip to Belize? Heck Yeah! This Belize travel guide has everything covered for an epic adventure.

Belize is a treasure trove of Central American wonders and easily one of my top favorite destinations for bucket-list adventures! Traveling through Belize is not just a trip—it’s an unbelizeable journey and definitely worth visiting.

Despite its small size, this gem is overflowing with incredible things to do and explore, which means you can pack a lot of cool stuff into your visit in a short amount of time.

I’ve traveled to Belize four times and seen all the things, done all the things and learned a ton of advice to share with you.

So, in this Belize travel guide, you’ll get all the best tips and secrets to help you plan your stay, get great value for your money, and make sure you have an Unbelizeable time in this beautiful country.

Sound good?

Then, keep reading.

The Ultimate Belize Travel Guide

Below you’ll find everything you need to know to plan the most epic trip to Belize. Including insider tips and tricks for a smooth adventure.

What You Need to Know Before You Visit Belize

Ever come back from a trip thinking, “If only I’d known that before!”? It’s tough to know what you’ll need when you’re heading to a new country for the first time.

Here are a few things I wish I had known that’ll help you with planning your trip to Belize:

You probably won’t need a visa

Travelers can visit for up to 30 days without needing a visa. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates.

You don’t need to know Spanish

You don’t need to know Spanish when you visit Belize. English is the official language there, so you can easily get around and communicate with locals without any language barriers.

Fun fact: Belize was once under British rule, which is why English is the official language. It’s actually the only country in Central America where Spanish isn’t the main language!

Belize accepts the US dollar

If you’re traveling from the US, there’s no need to exchange your money when you arrive. Everyone accepts US dollars, and the conversion couldn’t be simpler. The Belizean dollar is fixed at 2:1.

For example, you get two Belizean dollars for every one US dollar.

Plan to spend at least two weeks in Belize

Aim for at least two weeks in Belize to really soak up everything the country has to offer. Spend one week adventuring through the jungles and exploring Maya ruins and another week enjoying the barrier reef and the picturesque cayes.

Bypass Belize City

I recommend against choosing Belize City as your primary place to stay. The area is known for its congestion, poor condition, and high crime rates. It’s best used just as a transit point to reach other destinations. Plan to move on quickly.

Plan flights to arrive mid-day

Schedule your flights to arrive mid-day so you have enough time to transfer to your jungle lodge or head out to one of the Cayes.

I wouldn’t drink the tap water

Stick to bottled water in Belize, as the tap water might not be as clean as you’re used to, which could mess with your stomach. Better yet, bring along a filter water bottle. This way, you can drink water safely wherever your adventures take you!

Time is more like a suggestion in Belize

In Belize, “Island time” is a real thing!

Schedules and punctuality tend to be more relaxed than you might be used to. Things often happen at a slower, more leisurely pace, so it’s a good idea to embrace this laid-back approach to time. Don’t be surprised if appointments or activities start a bit later than planned.

Just go with the flow and enjoy the “Go Slow” vibe of Belizean life!

Petty crime is your main safety concern in Belize

Petty crime is the main safety concern in Belize, but overall, the country is very safe and welcoming. The locals are friendly, and because tourism is a crucial part of Belize’s economy, visitors are generally well-respected and looked after. Just keep an eye on your belongings and use common sense.

No special vaccinations are needed to visit Belize

You don’t need any special vaccinations to visit Belize. Just make sure your routine vaccines are up to date before you head out, and you’ll be all set.

The Best Time of Year to Visit Belize

To help you decide when is the best time of year to visit Belize, you should know Belize’s seasons:

Dry Season: December to April

Shoulder Seasons: April to May and October to November

Hurricane/Rainy Season: June through Mid-November

I think the sweet spot is from March to mid-April.

This is during the country’s dry season, and even though it’s also the peak season, you really never have to worry about Belize being too busy. The sun continuously shines, it is the least windy, and the average temperature is ideal in the low 80s.

Important Note: The windiest months are December to February. Bursts of northern winds, known as “northers,” can sweep through the coastal regions, especially around the Cayes.

As the calendar flips to late April and May, it gets a bit warmer and more humid, with temperatures nudging up to around 87-90°F (31°C), but it’s still a great time to visit if you don’t mind the heat.

The turquoise waters are also the clearest and calmest during this time, perfect for scuba diving and snorkeling adventures, which is my favorite reason for visiting Belize!

Special Events to Consider When Visiting Belize

Here are a few popular festivities and events that happen in Belize. You can check out everything that is going on at Belizehub.com.

• June – Whale Shark Watching
• June – July – Lobster Fest
• July 1st-February 28th – Lobster Season
• September – Chocolate Festival, Belize City

How To Get To And Around Belize

After visiting Belize four years in a row, I’ve tried just about every way to get around, except for buses. I tend to get carsick on them, so I’ve steered clear!

Here’s the lowdown on the best ways to get to and around this stunning Central American country, ensuring you will move smoothly from one epic adventure to the next.

Getting to Belize

Flying into Belize is a breeze.

International flights land at Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport, just outside Belize City. Major airlines like Alaska, American, Delta, and United all offer direct flights year-round, and other budget airlines like Frontier and Southwest are now offering direct flights during peak season.

Once you land, you’ll have a few modes of transportation you can choose from to kick-start your Belize Vacation.

Getting Around Belize

Water Taxi

Ferries or water taxis are the most popular way to get from Belize City to the islands of Ambergris Caye, and Caye Caulker!

From Belize City, you can catch a ride to the Cayes using either San Pedro Belize Express or Ocean Ferry Belize/Caribbean Sprinter.

I recommend San Pedro Belize Express since it’s more reliable.

You don’t need to book your water taxi in advance. Just show up at the ferry terminal, grab a ticket, and you’re all set. But if you like the peace of mind of having your ticket in advance, you can definitely book online.

I’ve done it both ways, and it worked out great.

💡 Pro Tip: Sit up top if you get a double-decker boat for amazing views and a breeze but if you get a single-level boat, try to grab a seat along the side near an open window! It can get as humid as a sauna and as packed as a sardine can below deck! And if you tend to get seasick, sit towards the back of the boat where it’s not as rough.

Flying

Flying in Belize is an adventure in itself!

The country has two domestic airlines, Maya Island Air and Tropic Air, offering multiple direct flights daily.

These airlines operate small planes that zip you between destinations like Caye Caulker, Placencia, Corozal, and Ambergris Caye.

While these flights might not be the cheapest option, in my opinion, they’re the best use of your money. They save you a ton of time, getting you to your paradise spots way faster than any other transport could!

💡 Pro Tip: Maya Air is cheaper but has a reputation for delays. Tropic Air is more reliable and has a better schedule.

Rent a Car

Renting a car in Belize is best if you’re looking for flexibility, especially if you plan to get to San Ignacio, Cayo District, in Western Belize. I highly recommend a four-wheel drive to navigate the dense jungle on the mainland.

While attractions on the mainland might be a bit spread out, Belize is quite compact, making it easy to explore. With your own car, you can freely move from one incredible site to another, maximizing your adventure.

Driving in Belize is easy peasy, lemon squeezy! Even I can do it. That says a lot.

Just note the roads can be pretty rough, but they’re slowly getting better. Also, keep in mind that gas is three times more expensive than it is in the US!

To find the best car rental prices, I use Expedia or book directly through the travel portal on my credit card. There are plenty of major car rental companies right at the airport.

💡 Pro Tip: If you plan on taking your rental car across the Guatemalan border, then book with Crystal, as they are the only company that allows you to do so.

Taxi’s

Taxis in Belize are an easy way to get around, especially for transfers to and from the airport and ferry terminal.

They’re readily available just outside the airport and water terminal gates. Just look for cars with green license plates—that’s how you know they’re legit.

Remember, it’s a good idea to agree on the price before you hop in, as most taxis don’t use meters.

💡 Pro Tip: A taxi to and from the airport and water taxi terminal should cost $25 for the first passenger and then an extra $10 for each additional passenger.

Golf Cart Rental

Renting a golf cart is the best way to get around the smaller areas in Belize, especially on islands like Caye Caulker, where cars aren’t allowed.

And Ambergris Caye is what I call Golf Cart Mania! Everyone drives a golf cart on this island.

💡 Pro Tip: Book your golf cart months in advance, especially during peak season, or you won’t get one! Check with your accommodation because they will often arrange the rental for you and deliver it to you when you arrive on the island via ferry or plane.

Public Transportation

Don’t expect to rely on Public transportation!

It’s almost non-existent because most towns and villages are so small you can just walk everywhere.

💡 Pro Tip: If you want to avoid renting a car, there are ways to get around it. Many hotels and resorts offer airport transfers, and most guided tours include pickup and drop-off. And if you need to get from one city to another, there are shuttle services you can hire for that. Super simple!

How Much Does Belize Cost

If money grew on trees, we wouldn’t need to chat about this, but here we are.

While Belize may not be the least expensive among its Central American neighbors, Belize is still quite affordable.

So, let’s dive into what your dream trip to Belize might set you back. I’ll break down the expenses in this section to help you plan your dream Belizean getaway without any surprises.

Cost of Flights to Belize

First, you have to get there!

Flight prices can vary, but if you time it right, you can snag some great deals! From a mid-sized city, round-trip fares typically range between $450 and $600 per person.

For larger cities, like LA and NYC, you could even pay as low as $350-450 per person round-trip.

This is also a great opportunity to use points!

For example, we booked flights using our American Airlines points and snagged round-trip tickets for 25,000 points per person! All we had to pay was taxes and fees, which came to about $80 per person.

Total Cost of Flights to Belize: $80-600 per person, round-trip, depending on where you fly out of and if you use points or not!

Cost of Getting Around in Belize

Whether you’re headed to places like Caye Caulker on Ambergris Caye for island time, San Ignacio for jungle adventures, or Placencia and Hopkins for beach time, you’ll need transportation to get there.

To get to these places, it’s going to cost ya some:

Local Airlines – These short 15-25 minute flights cost about $100 USD per person one way but are well worth it if you ask me!

Shuttle: You can try arranging airport transfers with your accommodation. If your hotel doesn’t offer pickup, you can get an airport shuttle ranging from $20-200 USD per person each way, depending on where you’re going. Shuttles will take you to many of the major destinations in the country, like San Ignacio, Hopkins, or Placencia.

Rental Car: If you rent a car in Belize, it will cost you around $50-60 USD per day. Remember to factor in gas, as it costs about three times more than it does in the US.

For example, gas in Belize is sold in liters, and one liter (1/4 gallon) costs $1.73 USD. That’s almost $7.00/gallon!

Ferry: If you are staying in the Cayes, then you could take the Water Taxi to your destination. This costs between $37-57 USD per person, round-trip, depending on if you’re going to Caye Caulker or San Pedro.

💡 Pro Tip: You’ll save money if you book round-trip tickets instead of just one-way tickets. So know when and what time you need to catch the ferry back when you buy your tickets. Total saved is $5.00

Taxi: Don’t forget to factor in the cost of getting to the ferry. Taking a taxi is the best way to get there. It is $25 USD for the first person and $10 USD for each additional person.

Golf Cart: If you want to explore the islands, then you’ll probably want to rent a golf cart, especially on Ambergris Caye. A golf cart rental for a 4-seater will cost about $45-65 a day, and a 6-seater can cost $65-95 per day, depending on what company you book from.

Total Cost of Getting Around Belize: Overall, you’re looking at anywhere from $35 to $400 per person for a round-trip, depending on where you’re headed and how you choose to travel.

Cost of Accommodations in Belize

Of all of the factors in your Belize vacation cost, this will be the most variable.

You can book anything from Hostels to Luxury Resorts.

For the purpose of this post, I’m going to cover mid-range accommodations, which are what I typically book.

For each popular tourist destination, here are my favorite mid-range accommodations:

• El Ben Cabanas in Caye Caulker: Starts at $175-$280 per night for 1 cabana.
• Tres Cocos Resort in San Pedro: $130-$277 per night for a 1-2 bedroom condo.
• Vanilla Hills Lodge in San Ignacio: $230-$280 per night for a tree house.
• Hopkins Bay Resort in Hopkins: Starts at $175-250 per night for a 1 bedroom villa.
• Brisa Oceano Resort in Placencia: $160-$270 per night for a standard room.

Total Cost of Hotels in Belize for a Week: Between $175-280 per night. For a mid-range price point, you’re at about $1,575 for a week-long trip to Belize. 

💡 Pro Tip: I always manage to save about 30% on accommodations using my go-to platform, Hotels.com, thanks to their loyalty program. Plus, you can pocket even more savings if you use One Key Cash earned from previous bookings right on your next stay!

Cost of Food in Belize

Alright, now let’s talk about one of my favorite reasons for traveling in the first place, and that’s FOOD!

This can vary immensely based on where you’re at and if you’re eating street food or at a nice resort.

For street food, which is my favorite food in Belize, you can get a pupusa from a cart for $1 USD for breakfast or the classic Belizean rice and beans or stewed chicken for $5-10 USD, and a jerk chicken or grilled fish dinner for $10-15 USD.

Another favorite meal of mine is seafood. I dream about grilled snapper and Lobster dinners long after I’m home. Most places price lobster dinners around $25 USD. This is significantly cheaper than in the US and definitely worth ordering!

Beers purchased at a grocery store are usually only $1-2 per beer and $2-4 USD in bars and restaurants.

Cocktails typically cost between $7-12 USD, but you can find them for even less if you catch a 2-for-1 happy hour special! This deal got us hooked on coconut mojitos—a drink we would have never tried otherwise. Highly recommend!

💡 Pro Tip: Buy a bottle of liquor from the Duty-Free store after you get through customs at the airport. Liquor is cheaper here.

Cost of Food in Belize: We usually spend between $50-75 USD daily per person on food and drinks in Belize. Over a week that adds up to about $350 per person. If you like to splurge or drink more, then budgeting $100 daily per person is fair.

Cost of Other Expenses in Belize

Don’t forget to factor in a few extra costs when planning your Belize adventure. Here are some additional expenses you’ll want to budget for:

Travel Insurance: This is always a smart move, especially if you plan to do crazy activities like us.

We always choose SafetyWing – it costs us $40 each for our one-week Belize trip, including the sports package, which covers scuba diving. It was totally worth the peace of mind.

Tipping: Tipping isn’t as big here as in the US, but 10-15% is still a nice way to say thanks to restaurants, bars, tours, and hotel staff. Set aside about $100-200 per person for tips.

Souvenirs: If you want to take home a remembrance of Belize, plan to spend around $25-50 per person. Some of my favorite souvenirs are conch shell jewelry or the entire sea shell itself. You can get tiny ones or big ones.

💡 Pro Tip: It is illegal to take a conch shell that has not been professionally cleaned back into the US. You have to buy it! You can’t collect one from the beach. And when trying to get it home, YOU MUST CHECK IT. I tried to get it through in my carry-on and I got turned around at security to go check my bag if I wanted to keep it.

So… How Much Does a Trip to Belize Cost? Right around $4,000-$6000 USD for two people for one week on a mid-range budget!

We have spent anywhere from $2,000 per person per week on a sober trip to $3000 per person drinking and socializing with friends.

Cost of Activities/Tours in Belize

While kicking back on a beach all week is tempting, especially in a beach town, remember that Belize is brimming with adventure!

For starters, the Belize Barrier Reef is the second-largest coral reef system in the world! This country also offers some of the best scuba diving, snorkeling, zip lining, cave exploring, and the chance to see Mayan ruins.

Belize is a place to get out and explore! Here are some jungle tours and water activities we did and their costs:

• Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave Tour and Picnic: $125 USD per person
• Tikal Day Trip with Local Lunch from San Ignacio: $145 USD per person
• Hol Chan Full-Day Bucket List Snorkeling and Marine Life Tour: $95 USD per person
• Premium Private Fishing, Snorkeling, and Beach cookout tour in San Pedro: $202 USD for two people
• Scuba Diving from Caye Caulker: Anywhere from $80 for a half-day dive up to $400 for a full day to the Great Blue Hole.

Total Cost of Tours/Activities in Belize: There are loads of tours all over Belize, each priced a bit differently. You’re generally looking at anywhere from $75 to $400 per person, depending on which adventure catches your eye.

If you’re in Belize for a week, I suggest taking 3-4 tours. Depending on which ones you choose, you could spend anywhere from $200 to $780 per person.

💡 Pro Tip: Prices tend to drop during the rainy season (June-November) since it’s a less popular time to visit.

Where to Stay & What to Do When Visiting Belize

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a history buff, or just in it for some serious relaxation, this section is packed with the best places to stay in Belize and must-do activities for each location.

Here’s the scoop on where to go and what to do in Belize:

The Mainland/Jungle

If the jungle calls to you, the mainland is where it’s at.

📍 Placencia in Southern Belize offers a laid-back vibe with access to incredible beaches and lush rainforests.

📍 San Ignacio in Western Belize is the gateway to wild rainforests, ancient Mayan sites, and thrilling eco-adventures.

Don’t miss a day trip to Tikal in Guatemala. Just hop over the Guatemalan border for a peek at some of the most majestic ancient ruins you’ll ever see.

What To Do On The Mainland Of Belize

Here is a list of my favorite things to do on the mainland:

• Explore Ancient Maya Ruins like Xunantunich and Caracol, where ancient civilizations come to life.
• Experience the mystical cave of Actun Tunichil Muknal
• Fly through the jungle canopy on a zipline adventure
• Hike into and swim under waterfalls in the Jungle
• Go cave tubing
• Listen to the Howler monkeys

The Cayes (Islands)

Looking for island vibes? Head to the Cayes of Belize.

📍 Caye Caulker offers a super relaxed, go-slow atmosphere perfect for unwinding and soaking in the Caribbean sea and sun. (FYI: This is my favorite Caye!)

📍 Ambergris Caye is a bit livelier, with plenty of dining, shopping, and nightlife, plus some of the best snorkeling and diving spots right at your doorstep.

Both Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye have their own unique charm. You can choose to spend your time on just one or split between the two for an island adventure of a lifetime!

What To Do On The Cayes (Islands)

Here are my favorite things to do in San Pedro and Caye Caulker.

• Snorkel at Hol Chan Marine Reserve
• Go Reef Fishing
• Charter a sailboat for a day to explore the serene waters, with stops for snorkeling
• Fly over the Great Blue Hole
• Snorkel with Nurse Sharks at Shark Ray Alley
• Scuba Dive the Belize Barrier Reef
• Spend a Day at Secret Beach

Must-Have Items to Pack for Belize

Whether you’re planning to explore under the sea or hike through the jungle, there are a few key things you’ll definitely want to bring along.

Here’s the rundown on the must-have items to toss in your suitcase to make sure you’re all set for your Belize adventure!

Dry Bag Backpack

With all the snorkeling, diving, and cave exploration in Belize, a dry bag backpack is a must. It’ll keep your phone, camera, and other valuables dry and safe from water damage. These bags are especially handy if you plan on spending any time on a boat.

Waterproof Phone Case

There’s a high probability that you’ll be enjoying a few of the many water activities Belize offers and putting your most expensive camera, your cell phone, at risk. A waterproof case is a simple fix that lets you capture all the incredible sights without stressing over ruining your phone.

GoPro

One of the best things I bought for my first Belize adventure was a GoPro. It nailed capturing every epic moment, from swimming with sea turtles to swimming under waterfalls.

If you want to bring home incredible memories from Belize’s water-filled fun, seriously think about grabbing a GoPro for your trip. You’ll be super glad you did!

Polarized Sunglasses & Neck Strap

Polarized sunglasses are a must-have for exploring Belize’s stunning turquoise waters. They do wonders for your eyes and make the colors pop even more.

And let me tell you, my husband would always be fishing his sunglasses out of the water if it weren’t for his neck strap! We both wear a neck strap now to keep our shades safe after having lost a few to the sea.

Do yourself a favor: grab a good pair of polarized sunglasses and clip on a neck strap. You’ll be thanking me when you’re not diving in after them!

Sand-Free Towel

I didn’t know the magic of a sand-free towel until I snagged one, and now? My husband and I don’t head to Belize, or any beach spot, without them.

These towels are amazing because the sand just glides right off, letting you dry up without wearing half the beach. Plus, no more sandy mess in our suitcases or hotel room. Seriously, once you try one, you’ll never want to beach without it again!

Filtered Water Bottle

I wouldn’t drink the tap water in Belize. That’s why my filtered water bottle is a must-have in my travel gear.

I keep it handy in the hotel room so I can hydrate anytime without stressing about getting sick. And honestly, my husband drinks water like it’s his job, so having that filtered bottle means there’s always clean water on tap for us.

It’s also a win for the environment—using a reusable water bottle cuts down on plastics, which is super important for keeping the oceans clean, especially around those beautiful islands.

How to Be a Eco-Conscious Visitor of Belize

Travel Softly

The Belize Barrier Reef is a precious ecosystem, constantly under threat from human activity. To do your part in preserving its beauty, make sure to use reef-safe sunscreen! It’s tough to find such products locally, so packing your own is a must.

Never touch or stand on the reef, and keep a respectful distance from marine life. Even something as simple as hovering over a sea turtle can disrupt its natural behavior.

Plastic pollution is a significant issue for oceanic health. Always carry a reusable water bottle. Every little action helps reduce the footprint we leave behind.

Go Local

Take the time to learn about Belize’s culture and traditions. This respect for local customs enhances your interaction with residents and enriches your travel experience, promoting a deeper understanding and appreciation of the diverse communities you visit.

When you can hire local guides. Most guides are natives who’ve grown up here and know the lands and waters like the back of their hand. By hiring them, you not only get insider knowledge and a richer experience but also support the local economy directly.

Belize Travel Guide: FAQ’s

This FAQ section is packed with essential information and useful tips to help you prepare for your adventure. Here are the most frequent questions I get asked about visiting Belize.

Is it safe to travel in Belize right now?

Yep, it’s very safe! But like anywhere, keep your wits about you, especially in crowded or less touristy areas. The most you will have to worry about is petty crimes.

What is the best month to visit Belize?

Late November to mid-April is the sweet spot with perfect weather, and everything’s open!

But If I had to choose only one month, I would choose March. It’s got ideal temps, the least amount of wind, and the water clarity is the best.

What do I need to know before going to Belize?

They speak English, accept American dollars, and time is more of a suggestion than a rule. Embrace the “Go Slow” vibes!

Where should I go for the first time in Belize?

Head straight to the Cayes!

Caye Caulker or Ambergris Caye are your go-to spots. These islands are all about island vibes, crystal-clear waters, and friendly faces. Perfect for first-timers. You’ll love it!

Is vacationing in Belize expensive?

“Expensive” is a matter of perspective.

Compared to a week in Hawaii, it’s not expensive. However, when you stack it up against other Central American countries, it does tend to be on the pricier side.

It really depends on your style. There are budget options, but some experiences, like diving, add up.

How many days is enough for Belize?

If you’re aiming to chill on the Cayes or explore the mainland only, then one week will give you a solid taste of either. But if you’re tempted to see both, you’ll want to double up and plan for two weeks. That way, you get the full Belize experience, from reef to rainforest!

Can you drink the water in Belize?

Stick to bottled water to stay on the safe side.

Do you tip in Belize?

Yep, tipping is appreciated—10-15% is standard in restaurants and for guides.

Can you use credit cards in Belize?

Credit cards are widely accepted, especially in tourist areas, but it’s good to have some cash for smaller destinations.

That’s a Wrap: Belize Travel Guide

And that’s a wrap on this ultimate Belize travel guide.

I hope all these awesome tips and secrets help make your trip insanely epic!

Whether you travel to Belize to witness the vibrant barrier reef, explore ancient ruins, or lie on the beach, Belize is a playground for unforgettable adventures.

Let the adventure begin!

Talk to you later