Practical travel information to help you plan your trip — from the team that lives here.
A valid passport is necessary for entry into Belize. A 30-day visitor's permit will be issued to you upon arrival. 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 more information.
Visitors are permitted to stay in Belize for a period not to exceed 30 days. Extensions are routinely granted at immigration offices located in San Pedro, Punta Gorda, Belmopan, Orange Walk, and Belize City at a cost of US$12.50. For more information, the Immigration & Nationality Department in Belmopan can be contacted at 501-8-22611.
U.S. state licenses are valid in Belize for up to 3 months. At Cayo Auto Rentals we permit our rental cars to enter Guatemala — a popular option is crossing the Guatemalan border to visit Tikal. Note there is a US$17.50 per-person departure tax imposed by the Belize government.
The currency unit is the Belize dollar (BZ$). The fixed rate of exchange is BZ$2 to US$1. Commercial banks cash travelers checks, give cash advances on Visa or Mastercard, and offer wire transfer services.
Philip S. Goldson International Airport is situated 10 miles from Belize City, in Ladyville. Regular international services to and from the United States, Central America, and Mexico are maintained by a number of airlines. Taxi fare from the international airport to Belize City is about US$20 — or skip the taxi and have your rental vehicle waiting at the airport.
A cellular network is available countrywide. Visitors who plan on renting a vehicle may want to consider bringing their own cell phones and activating them locally, or purchasing a local SIM/phone card at the airport or shops throughout the country. When in Belize dial 113 for directory assistance, 114 for local and regional operator-assisted calls, and 115 for international operator-assisted calls.
Power is 110 volts AC, the same as in the United States. A small surge suppressor is recommended for computers and other sensitive equipment.
The climate is sub-tropical, tempered by trade winds, with an annual mean temperature of 79°F (26°C). Coastal temperatures range from about 50°F to 96°F. Annual rainfall varies from 50 inches in the north to 180 inches in the extreme south. The dry season usually extends from February to the end of May, with a possible dry spell in August.
The Belize Tourism Board is a good source for more information about Belize — free up-to-date bus schedules, city maps, a visitors' magazine, and a comprehensive list of accommodations. They are located in Belize City.
