Belize Travel Tips

Here are a few facts to make your time staying at the Belize Lodge & Excursion more convenient and comfortable.

Passport and Visa:

A passport is required for ALL visitors to Belize. It should be valid for at least six months beyond the duration of the intended stay in the country. A 30-day visa will be issued on arrival, and extensions (up to six months) may be obtained from any Immigration Office for a fee of BZ$25 for every 30 days. Citizens of the British Commonwealth (India excepted), the United States, Canada, Mexico, Costa Rica, and the European Community do not require visas for travel to Belize. All other citizens should contact the nearest Belizean Consulate or Embassy for details on obtaining visas before travelling. The Immigration & Nationality Department in Belmopan can be contacted at telephone numbers 501-8-22611, and -22423. All travelers are required to pay a departure tax of US $35.00 per person when leaving from the Belize Int'l Airport. Visitors leaving by the northern border with Mexico or the western border with Guatemala pay US$ 18.75 in US or Belizean currency.

Currency:

The Belize Dollar is fixed at $2BZ to $1US. US currency and travelers cheques are accepted most places and Credit Cards can be used in most Tourist Facilities. While ATM’s are becoming more common, they are not widely connected with North American systems. It is recommend that one not to rely on them as a regular source of funds during your travels. The local banks exchange ONLY American, Canadian and British Pounds Sterling

Clothing and What to Bring:

Loose fitting, comfortable and light clothes are desirable. Bring outdoor clothing and hiking boots for the active jungle adventures and trekking and sandals and swimwear for the beaches. On the coast while the temperature difference between day and evening is not as extreme as in the highlands, a light windbreaker against the prevailing winds, a brimmed hat is important to guard against the occasional showers and the powerful sun. As with all tropical climes – protection against the sun is important. While generally the pace and lifestyle of Belize is casual – it is advisable to have at least one change of evening wear for that special night out. Below is a list of important to remember items when travelling to Belize.

• Passport
• Visa (if applicable)
• Prescription Drugs
• Personal Items
• Spare Eyeglasses
• Sunglasses
• Suntan Lotion
• Sun Screen
• Sun Burn Cream
• Insect Repellant
• Camera/Film
• Batteries
• Cash / Travelers Checks / Credit Cards

Best Time to Go:

The busiest time of the year for travelers to Belize is November to May, the winter months of the Northern Hemisphere. Still, many visitors prefer the quieter days of the summer months from June to October for their vacation in Belize. Both times of the year have their own unique attractions and the choice of when to visit is totally up to you, your budget and the adventure you crave.

Transportation:

The most efficient way of travelling greater distances is via inland flights.  For shorter distances taxis are recommended, identifiable by their green license plates. Rental vehicles are also available from most major vendors.