21 Must-Know Belize Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

So, you’re planning your first trip to Belize? And I’m willing to bet you want to do it up right! Am I right?

Well, I’ve been flying down to this tropical paradise every year (sometimes twice a year) for the last four years. So, you can bet I’ve learned a thing or two and made some mistakes along the way.

In this post, I’m sharing all my best Belize Travel Tips to save you from the newbie mistakes I made and to make sure you’re doing Belize like a pro. From where to go first, the best way to get there, and what exactly should be in your suitcase to safety tips and other must-knows. I’ve got you covered!

Ready to learn from my mistakes, favorite experiences, and insider tips to make your first trip to Belize one for the books?

Yup?

Well, then, keep reading.

Belize Travel Tips: 21 Things You Must Know Before You Go

Let me drop 21 travel tips on you that’ll transform your Belize vacation from “It was fun” to “It was EPIC!”

We’re talking everything from nailing the local vibe to finding the hidden gems. These are the insider secrets you absolutely need to know before you go!

1. The Best Time of Year to Visit Belize

Well, that depends on what you’re after.

If you’re all about soaking up the sunshine and scoring the best beach days, aim for the dry season from December to May.

But if you want to dodge the crowds and snag some killer deals, then the rainy season from June to November is your best bet.

But wait! There’s so much more to consider before you choose when to visit!

Read my post, “Best Time to Visit Belize: Everything You Need to Know!“ In this article, I’ve tailored the best time to whatever adventure calls your name. Whether you’re coming for the sun-soaked shores, lush jungles, amazing wildlife, or the vibrant festivals.

2. You Don’t Need to Speak Spanish

Don’t worry if you don’t speak Spanish.

Belize is one of the few places in Central America where English isn’t just spoken; it’s the official language!

This means you’ll be able to chat it up with locals, order food, and navigate around the place without hitting a language barrier. You’ll find that all official documents, road signs, and menus are in English.

That said, Belize is a cultural melting pot, and while English is the standard, you’ll also hear languages like Creole, Spanish, Garifuna, and Mayan throughout your travels.

Engaging with locals in English is the norm, but picking up a few phrases in these other languages can enrich your experience and bring smiles to the locals during your interactions.

3. You Don’t Need to Exchange Your Money

Another huge plus about traveling to Belize is that you don’t need to fuss with exchanging your money if you’re coming from the U.S.

American dollars are happily accepted pretty much everywhere across Belize.

This means less time spent figuring out the exchange and more time enjoying your vacation. Restaurants, shops, and even taxis are cool with USD, so you can pay for pretty much everything without any hassle.

Just know that while USD is widely accepted, you’ll often receive change in Belize dollars or a mixture of both, so be ready to do some quick math.

Pro Tip: The currency exchange rate is super straightforward: 2 Belize dollars (BZD) for every 1 US dollar (USD). This fixed exchange rate makes it super easy to understand prices while you’re there.

4. Credit Cards Are Accepted Everywhere

If you don’t like carrying a lot of cash on you, good news…

Using your credit cards in Belize will be easy peasy!

Most hotels, restaurants, and shops in tourist areas readily accept major credit cards like Visa and MasterCard. This makes it incredibly convenient, so you don’t have to do a lot of math on vacation.

Whether you’re booking a snorkeling trip, grabbing food, or picking up souvenirs, your plastic money has you covered.

For the times when you do need cash, like buying street food or tipping, there are ATM’s everywhere.

5. You Don’t Need Special Vaccinations

No special vaccinations are required to enter this gorgeous country.

However, it’s probably a good idea to make sure you’re up to date on your regular vaccinations before heading out on any international trip. Always consult with your primary care provider before you leave.

6. You Shouldn’t Drink The Tap Water

It’s a no-go on drinking tap water in Belize.

Stick to bottled water or water that’s been properly purified, as the water might not be as clean as you’re used to. You really don’t want a bad belly while on vacation.

Most restaurants will give you bottled water, and if they don’t, it’s filtered. But to be sure, just ask.

Better yet, bring along a filter water bottle. This way, you can drink water from anywhere with peace of mind.

7. You’ll Need at Least 7 days in Belize

Aim to spend at least a week here. That’s the bare minimum to soak up the incredible diversity and beauty of this country.

Belize can feel like both a tropical island retreat and a Central American jungle adventure all at once. Honestly, you can experience both in a single vacation, but you’ll want more than a week to do so.

Yes, it’s true that you can cross the entire country in a one-day road trip. And sure, you can see both landscapes in seven days, but that doesn’t mean you should. It’s better to do things the Belizean way, which is “Go Slow.”

If you try to do it all in just seven days, you’ll just barely dip your toes into its stunning landscapes of the jungle and the turquoise Caribbean Sea.

To make the most of your time, I recommend focusing on just one of the two main draws: the Cayes or Western Belize Mainland.

Either way, you’re in for an unforgettable adventure in one of Central America’s most vibrant destinations.

8. Get Out of Belize City

When you arrive in Belize, you’ll land in Belize City, as this is where the international airport is.

While it’s the gateway to the country, Belize City is busy, congested, and has parts that are a bit rough around the edges with a reputation for crime. It’s not the highlight of what Belize has to offer, so plan to just pass through.

To make your transition as smooth as possible, try to schedule your flight to arrive mid-day. This gives you plenty of daylight to get to your next destination, whether you’re heading to a beach house in the Cayes or a lodge in the jungle.

Getting out of Belize City quickly allows you to start your real adventure in the parts of Belize that you came to see.

9. Where Should You Go For Your First Time in Belize

For your first time in Belize, I highly recommend making the Cayes your first stop.

It’s tempting to want to pack in everything—Maya ruins, cave tubing, island hopping, and all of the water activities Belize is famous for. But trust me, start with just the Cayes for your first visit!

The islands are paradise with some of the clearest Caribbean waters and are home to the world’s second-largest Barrier Reef system. Where you’ll experience truly world-class snorkeling and scuba diving.

And after all your adventures on the sea, you can kick back, relax, and really embrace the laid-back island lifestyle.

For more info on deciding exactly where you want to go, check out my blog posts, “Where to Stay in Belize“ and “Caye Caulker vs Ambergris Caye,” to help plan the perfect first trip.

10. Belize By Land – Which Rental Car Company is Best

If I couldn’t convince you to spend your first trip on the Cayes and you’re planning to explore mainland Belize and the Cayo District, renting a car is definitely the way to go.

Relying on public transport or the bus system might leave you stranded. It’s often unreliable and not widespread.

Having your own car gives you the ultimate freedom to discover hidden gems and take spontaneous detours along the way.

However, if you plan to cross the Guatemalan Border to see the incredible Tikal Maya ruins, Crystal Rental Cars is your go-to choice. They are the only rental company that allows crossing the border with their vehicles.

For all the details on making the trip from Belize to Tikal, be sure to check out my blog post, “Day Trip from Belize to Tikal.” It’s loaded with all the details you need to make your cross-border adventure as smooth and epic as possible.

11. Must-Do Adventures on Your First Trip to Belize

I totally get a case of FOMO (fear of missing out) every time I’m planning a trip to a new country! There’s often so many awesome things I want to do and just not enough time.

If you’re also having a case of FOMO don’t worry. I’ll tell you the bucket list adventures you absolutely can’t miss.

Fly over the Great Blue Hole!

Seeing this giant sinkhole from above is a bucket list-worthy view you won’t forget. When you see its perfectly circular deep blue surrounded by turquoise, you will be reminded of just how incredibly awesome planet Earth is.

Scuba dive the Belize Barrier Reef!

Even if you don’t know how to scuba dive, you should at least take an introductory dive to explore Belize’s Barrier Reef. As the second-largest reef system in the world, it’s an underwater paradise teeming with the most marine life and mesmerizing coral formations you’ll probably ever see in the ocean. It’s the best part of Belize, in my opinion!

Snorkel at the Hol Chan Marine Reserve!

This protected channel is only about four miles south of Ambergris Caye and has the absolute best snorkeling in Belize, with guaranteed sightings of sea turtles, nurse sharks, spotted eagle rays, and schools of tropical fish. It’s a marine wonderland that brings you face-to-fin with some of Belize’s best aquatic residents.

Day trip to Tikal, Guatemala!

These ancient Mayan ruins are just across the Guatemalan border and are an absolute Bucket List must! They are one of the largest archaeological sites in Central America. Surrounded by wild rainforests that echo the calls of the howler monkeys. You will be truly amazed!

For a full list of all the incredible adventures in Belize, check out my posts, “Best Things to Do in Belize“ and “Things to Do in San Ignacio Belize.“ Get ready to fill your itinerary with the best Belize adventures!

12. Buy Travel Insurance

Honestly, I can’t wrap my head around why anyone would skip on travel insurance, especially when heading to a place like Belize, where the adventures are as wild as they come!

Belize is a playground for activities that come with their fair share of risk—think scuba diving, cave exploring, and zip-lining through the jungle. So, let’s not challenge the karma Gods and cover your ass!

Make sure your travel insurance is up to snuff with the right sports coverage for whatever crazy adventures you plan to do.

I always go with SafetyWing to cover my adventures. They offer comprehensive and affordable coverage that’s perfect for the activities Belize has to offer.

Don’t just hope for the best—plan for peace of mind. So you can push your limits without sweating the ‘what ifs.’

If you are wondering just how safe Belize is read my post, “Is Caye Caulker Safe? Everything You Need To Know.”

13. Fly to The Cayes

When it comes to getting to the Cayes, I’ve experienced both the water taxi and flying via small domestic airlines, and let me tell you, flying is the way to go!

Splurging a bit extra on a flight to the Cayes is totally worth it. And honestly, you really don’t pay that much more!

For about $35-$50 USD more, you skip the hassle of multiple transfers, including a 35-minute taxi ride to the water taxi terminal and then a 45-minute-1.5-hour boat ride to the Cayes. That’s not including the wait for your boat at the water terminal. Overall you’re saving yourself about 1.5-3 hours! Time is money, friends!

Plus, the aerial views of the Belize Barrier Reef and the Caribbean Sea are simply stunning and not to be missed.

You’ve got two options for domestic flights to the Cayes: Tropic Air and Maya Island Air. Both offer multiple flights a day to Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye.

If you’re wondering about the specifics of getting from Belize City to the Cayes, check out my step-by-step guide in the blog post “How to Get from Belize City to San Pedro and Caye Caulker.” It’s packed with all the info you need to make a smooth transition to the islands.

14. Get Yourself a Waterproof Camera

If there’s one piece of advice I can’t stress enough, it’s to get yourself a waterproof camera before you head to Belize.

For my first trip, I bit the bullet and got myself a GoPro, and boy, was I so happy I did!

The underwater shots I captured were nothing short of spectacular—vivid, clear, and truly captured the beauty of Belize’s aquatic life.

PS. I’ve experimented with several other waterproof cameras and even tried using a waterproof cell phone case, but honestly, nothing compares to the quality of a GoPro.

Yes, it’s a bit of a splurge, but I think you’ll be surprised at how many other adventures you’ll take it on. Plus, you don’t want terrible photos of these precious memories.

Do yourself a favor and just get the right camera from the start! You won’t regret having clear, vibrant pics that perfectly capture your experiences!

15. What to Pack for Belize

Packing for Belize is all about preparing for sun, sea, and adventure. Here are some must-have items to throw in your suitcase to ensure you have the best experience possible:

Reef-Safe Sunscreen

This is crucial not just for your skin protection but also for preserving the pristine condition of the Belize Barrier Reef. Surprisingly, reef-safe sunscreen isn’t easily found once you arrive, so bring some with you. Let’s do our part to keep those coral reefs alive!

Leave-In Conditioner

Trust me, the combination of salt water, sun, and salty air will do a number on your hair, leaving it a tangled mess and as dry as a popcorn fart. A good leave-in conditioner is a must!

Dry Bag Backpack

With the high humidity and constant presence of water, whether you’re on a boat in the islands or trekking through the jungle, a dry bag backpack is much needed to protect your belongings. Plus, it doubles as a day pack for all your exploring.

Sand-Free Towel

I fell head-over-heels for my sand-free towel on my first trip, and you will too. Place it on the beach, give it a shake, and dry off without taking half the beach home with you. No more sand in your bag or on your belongings.

Sun Shirt

If any of your activities involve being out on the water, like boating, snorkeling, or just swimming, a sun-shirt will be your best friend. Trust me, a sunburn on vacation is not what you want! It also helps keep you cooler under the intense Belize sun.

These items are just a sample of what to pack for Belize. For a more detailed packing list, check out my blog post, “Belize Packing List,“ which covers everything you’ll need for your trip!

16. What Not to Pack for Belize

First up, leave your makeup bag at home! The heat and humidity in Belize are real deal-breakers for a full face of makeup; you’ll just sweat it all off anyway.

All you really need is tinted sunscreen, waterproof mascara, and tinted chapstick to give yourself that effortless vacation glow.

Also, leave your fancy dresses, jewelry, and high heels in your closet back home. In Belize, the dress code is about as casual as it gets. You’ll mostly see swimsuits, cover-ups, and flip-flops on the islands, while shorts and athletic wear are the go-to choices on the mainland.

17. Island Time is a Real Thing

Island time is a real thing in Belize and something you’ll quickly get familiar with, especially when eating in the local restaurants.

Don’t expect the hurried service you might be used to back home. Here, the staff fully embraces the “Go Slow” motto.

Just chill! Don’t get frustrated; instead, adjust your mindset and soak in the slower pace of life. Remember, you’re on vacation in a beautiful paradise!

18. Power Outages Can Happen

Power outages are quite common in Belize and throughout Central America. Especially during peak season and particularly on the islands where the infrastructure can be overwhelmed by the demand.

I’ve experienced my fair share during my visits and even had to finish eating dinner by candlelight once.

Being prepared for occasional outages can help ensure they don’t disrupt your adventure too much. Keep handy items like a flashlight or a portable charger, and embrace these moments as part of the authentic experience.

19. You Don’t Have to Book Tours in Advance

In Belize, there are many tour operators, making it incredibly easy to book adventures on the fly.

On my trips, I’ve always opted to book tours after I’ve arrived rather than in advance. When I get there, I consult with my accommodation to arrange my excursions. Which most will do, FYI. This approach often means they connect me with local guides, which I find provides a more authentic experience.

Or, you can stroll through town and drop into tour companies to check out their offerings.

This approach allows you the flexibility to tailor your activities based on the weather, your mood, and advice from the locals and fellow travelers.

There is one exception to this tho. If you’re traveling with a large group, like I did during my big 40th birthday bash with 17 people, you might need to plan ahead.

For my birthday trip, I What’s App’ed my accommodation, and they were very kind to help organize excursions that could fit us all.

If the thought of winging it isn’t quite your style and you prefer planning ahead, check out my blog post on the “Best Tours in Belize” for a detailed guide to the best tours and experiences.

20. Don’t Touch The Wildlife

As tempting as it may be to pet the cute sea turtles or reach out and touch the nurse sharks who can get quite close – DON’T!

First, interfering with these animals disrupts their natural behavior and can even lead to fines if you are caught. Secondly, the nurse sharks may appear docile, but they could mistake your hand for food, and they do have teeth!

There are, however, a few exceptions where interaction with wildlife is monitored and guided by professionals.

At Iguana Reef Beach on Caye Caulker, there’s a controlled feeding show every evening where you can feed and gently interact with stingrays under supervision, allowing them to glide over your legs as you sit in shallow waters.

Similarly, when diving with a guide, they might carefully handle certain sea creatures like conch, crabs, or sea urchins to show you up close. These activities are designed to educate and enhance your experience without harming the ecosystem.

21. Safety in Belize

Belize is widely recognized as a safe destination for travelers.

While petty theft does exist, as it does in many tourist destinations, it is the most common type of crime you’ll encounter here. Using common sense, like keeping an eye on your belongings and being aware of your surroundings, goes a long way in ensuring a trouble-free visit.

Just exercise more caution in Belize City, where incidents of crime are more frequent compared to the rest of the country.

The locals in Belize are incredibly friendly and welcoming. Tourism is a vital part of the country’s economy, and Belizeans genuinely value and look after tourists.

Quick example: I once bought a bottle of Tequila at the duty-free in the airport, forgot it on my short flight from Belize City to Caye Caulker, and was sure I’d seen the last of it. However, to my surprise, not only did the bottle make the journey back to Caye Caulker, but our golf cart taxi driver even went out of his way to retrieve it from the airport and deliver it to us on the island.

Just WOW! That would probably never happen back home in the states.

Another story that speaks volumes about the safety and honesty in Belize involved me losing two credit cards during my last visit. Remarkably, both were returned to me within a few days, with no fraudulent charges made.

These experiences highlight the integrity and helpfulness of the Belizean people and just how safe of a travel destination Belize is.

That’s a Wrap: Belize Travel Tips You Should Know Before You Go

Armed with these practical Belize travel tips and personal insights, you’re much better equipped to make your first trip to Belize absolutely unforgettable.

From planning, booking, and cultural insights, each tip is sure to smooth out the bumps for a successful and stress-free trip to Belize.

So, let those worries drift away and focus on enjoying yourself in paradise. Whether it’s snorkeling with sea turtles, trekking through lush jungles, or simply sipping a cocktail under a palm tree, Belize is ready to offer you memories that will last a lifetime.

Let Belize’s charm sweep you off your feet as it did me.

Talk to ya later!