Facts About Belize – Essential Information for Visitors

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Facts About Traveling to Belize

Languages in Belize

English is the official language of Belize, and is widely spoken throughout the country. Spanish is also spoken in most parts of the country, and various indigenous communities speak Maya, Garifuna, and Creole.

Here are a few different ways you’ll hear “good morning”

• “Gud Mawnin” – Kriol
• “Buiti Binafi” – Garifuna
• “Buenos dias” – Spanish

Belize Demographics

Belize has approximately 361,000 residents, including Creoles (Afro-European), Garinagus (people of African descent who emigrated from neighboring Caribbean islands), Mestizos (of Spanish and Native American descent), Maya, North Americans, and Europeans.

Taxes in Belize

Belize imposes a flat 9% tax on hotels and lodging. A sales tax of 12.5% is imposed on general goods and services.

There is an airport departure tax of $15 US required plus a $1.25 US security tax plus a Protected Areas Conservation Trust fee of $3.75 US which is used to conserve Belize's protected areas.

Belize Time Zone

Belize is on Central Standard Time, and does not observe daylight savings time adjustments.

Tipping in Belize

Tipping is a commonplace practice, generally 10%, or up to 15% for exemplary service. In some establishments, a gratuity may be automatically added to your bill.

Geography of Belize

Belize measures 8,867 square miles, and is located on the eastern side of Central America, with a long coastline fronting the Caribbean Sea. Belize shares a northern border with Mexico while the western and southern part of the country borders Guatemala.

Water in Belize

The water in Belize is generally safe to drink.

Climate in Belize

Belize has a subtropical climate, with brisk eastern winds coming inland from the Caribbean Sea. Annual temperatures average 80F, with a green season occurring annually between June and August.

What to Wear in Belize

Belize is an informal country, so casual, comfortable and light clothing is generally commonplace. Visitors embarking on jungle excursions should wear appropriate clothing to protect against insects and thick undergrowth. Early mornings and late evenings are often cool enough to require a sweater or light jacket.

Money in Belize

The official currency of Belize is the dollar (BZD), officially pegged at 2:1 to the U.S. dollar. American dollars are generally accepted throughout the country.

Entry Requirements in Belize

Citizens of the United States, British Commonwealth, European Union, CARICOM nations, Mexico, and Costa Rica do not require a visa, but must hold a valid passport and proof of return/onward tickets.

Citizens of other nations must obtain a visa beforehand. For more information, contact your local Belizean Embassy or consulate, or inquire at the nearest British Embassy.

Belize Government

Belize is a sovereign democratic nation with an elected representative parliament. Belize is also a member of the British Commonwealth.

Airlines that fly to Belize

Arrivals

¹Mon,Thurs,Fri,Sat,Sun
²Sat
³Tue,Wed

Departures

Questions about visiting Belize? Send us an email or call 239- 494- 3281. We will love to help you plan your Belize vacation and tours!