A little-known insider tip for an unforgettable Caribbean vacation is Belize. The small country on the southeastern tip of the Yucatán Peninsula attracts visitors with beautiful beaches, tropical rainforests, lush mangrove swamps, the largest cave system in Central America and the second largest coral reef on earth. About 40% of the country is protected. Belize is home to many exotic animals, such as monkeys, tapirs, crocodiles, pumas, toucans, manatees, sea turtles, etc. It is also home to the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, the world’s only jaguar reserve. Notable species of Belize’s flora include the black orchid, the colorful Malter finial, as well as the mahogany tree or cocoa tree, among others.
Some facts and important travel information about Belize
Belize borders Mexico to the north and Guatemala to the west and south. About 43.5% of Belizeans are mestizos, i.e. Mayan and European descent. Another part of the population, about 30%, is of African and Afro-European descent (hoop earrings). About 11.0% are Maya and 6.6% are Afro-Indians (Garifuna). The official language is English. The predominant colloquial languages are Spanish and Creole as well as the African Garifuna and various Mayan languages. The best time to visit Belize is during the dry season from February to May and during the period from December to January. In the rainy season from June to November, there are an average of 6 to 16 rainy days a month, in the form of short heavy rainfall. Isolated tropical storms can also occur during this time. Belize’s subtropical climate, with average annual temperatures of around 27° and humidity of 85%, is well suited for year-round travel. Even in winter, the average daytime temperature is still a pleasant 24°. Only in the mountainous region can the temperatures drop below 10°. A warming jacket can be quite helpful. A valid passport and proof of an onward or return ticket are required for the duration of your stay in Belize. A visa is not required when arriving as a tourist. The local currency is the Belize Dollar (BZD), the preferred means of payment of the USD. Most credit cards are accepted. For example, you can easily get cash at ATMs with Visa, Master Card, Pluscard and Cirruscard. Recommended vaccinations for a holiday in Belize are usually tetanus, hepatitis A and possibly rabies. Proof of yellow fever vaccination is not required. Belize is a relatively safe travel destination. Only in certain areas of the country is there an increased risk. Safe areas for vacationers are the islands of Ambergris and Caye Caye Caulker as well as Placencia, a popular coastal resort. In Belize City, caution is advised after dark. Visitors should then better refrain from going for walks. Before a holiday in Belize, it is also advisable to read the current travel and safety advice of the Federal Foreign Office.
Attractions in Belize
No matter whether you want to explore historical sites, enjoy nature, be active in sports or sunbathe comfortably on the beach. There is a lot to do and see in Belize. The main attractions are certainly the Great Mayan Reef, a 298 km long barrier reef and thus the second largest barrier reef in the world. It stretches from Cancun in Mexico across the entire coast of Belize down to Honduras to the Bay Islands. Another attraction is the Cayes, 450, mangrove-covered atolls that lie on or around the reef. Off the coast of Belize is also Great Blue Hole. The blue hole measures over 300 meters in diameter and is up to 125 meters deep. The world-famous diving paradise is home to numerous animal and plant species. Among other things, tiger sharks and hammerhead sharks can also be observed here. Belize is also known for its many Mayan ruins. A total of 900 Mayan temple sites inspire countless tourists every year. The 3000-year-old Lamanai is particularly imposing. Here, visitors can admire spectacular large buildings such as the 33-metre-high pyramid, high temple (“El Castillo”), the nine-tiered Jaguar Temple or the Mask Temple. The well-preserved ruins of Altun Ha, Xunantunich or Caracol are also particularly worth seeing. Sports enthusiasts also get their money’s worth in Belize. Many popular water activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, surfing, windsurfing, tubing, white water rafting and jet skiing are on offer. The gastronomy is also impressive. A typical Creole dinner includes rice and beans, various types of meat and salad. Furthermore, potatoes, vegetables or coleslaw. As well as fish, mussels and lobsters and some game varieties such as iguana and deer. It is served with ground cassava, cocoa and plantains. A special delicacy is Ducunu, a paste consisting of corn, fat, coconut milk and salt. On request, there is also a meat or vegetable filling. Ducunu is eaten wrapped in leaves, boiled, grilled or fried.
7 Important Information About Belize
1. Getting to Belize
Getting to Belize has become less complicated, even if there are no direct flights from Europe. Here is the most important information on how to get there:
- Flights from Europe: Most flights from Europe to Belize City (Airport: Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport) are via the USA or Mexico. There are frequent transfer options in cities such as Miami, Dallas or Houston as well as in Mexico City or Cancún. The total travel time is usually between 15 and 20 hours, depending on the connection.
- Entry requirements: No visa is required for German citizens for a stay of up to 30 days. A passport valid for at least six months is sufficient. If you plan to stay longer than 30 days, you must apply for a visa.
- Best time to visit: The optimal time to travel to Belize is the dry season from November to May. During these months, temperatures are pleasant and rainfall is low. However, the rainy season from June to October can also have its advantages – nature shines in lush green and there are fewer tourists on the road.
2. Health and vaccinations
Before traveling to Belize, travelers should take some health precautions to minimize potential risks. Here are the most important notes:
- Recommended vaccinations: In addition to the standard vaccinations such as tetanus, diphtheria and polio, travelers are recommended vaccinations against hepatitis A and B as well as typhoid. Vaccination against yellow fever is only required if you are entering from a yellow fever endemic area.
- Malaria and dengue fever: Belize is a tropical country, and some regions are at risk for malaria and dengue fever. Especially in rural areas as well as in the rainy season, you should use insect repellent and wear long, light-colored clothing to protect yourself from mosquito bites. Taking a mosquito net with you can also be helpful.
- Drinking water: Tap water should not be consumed in Belize. It is recommended to drink only bottled water or use filtered water to prevent gastrointestinal diseases.
3. Currency and means of payment
The official currency in Belize is the Belize dollar (BZD), which is firmly pegged to the US dollar (2 BZD = 1 USD). US dollars are easily accepted in most tourist areas.
- ATMs: ATMs can be found in most cities and tourist centers, but they are often difficult to find in more remote areas. The use of international credit cards is widespread, but it is advisable to carry cash with you as well.
- Credit cards and cash: Credit cards are accepted in many hotels, restaurants and shops. However, cash payment may be required on the islands and in smaller towns.
4. Language and culture
The official language in Belize is English, which often makes travel easier for German-speaking vacationers. Spanish and Kriol are also widely spoken, especially in certain ethnic groups and regions. Belize’s culture is strongly influenced by the diverse populations, including mestizos, Maya, Garifuna, and Mennonites. This diversity is reflected in the customs, cuisine and festivals of the country. Among the most famous festivals is the Garifuna Settlement Day in November, which celebrates the history and culture of the Garifuna people.
5. Sights and activities
Belize offers a wealth of sights and activities that will delight adventure seekers and nature lovers:
- Great Blue Hole: The world-famous Blue Hole is a spectacular destination for divers and snorkelers. This huge underwater hole offers a unique opportunity to explore Belize’s rich marine life.
- Mayan Ruins: Belize was once an important center of Mayan civilization. The impressive ruins of Caracol, Altun Ha and Xunantunich give a fascinating insight into the history of this ancient culture.
- Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye: These small islands are popular holiday destinations for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts. The clear waters and vibrant coral reefs make them ideal locations for snorkeling and diving trips.
- Jungle Hikes: Belize’s tropical rainforests are home to amazing biodiversity, including jaguars, howler monkeys, and numerous bird species. The nature reserves and national parks, such as the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, offer well-marked hiking trails.
6. Safety instructions
Belize is a relatively safe destination, but as with any country, travelers should take some precautions:
- Theft prevention: Leave valuables in the hotel safe and watch out for pickpockets in cities and tourist areas. In rural and less touristy areas, the risk of crime is usually lower.
- Road safety: Road conditions in Belize are not always optimal. Especially in the rainy season, roads can become impassable. In addition, many streets are poorly lit, which is why driving at night should be avoided as much as possible.
- Natural hazards: Belize is located in a tropical area that is occasionally affected by hurricanes. Before you travel, find out about the current weather conditions and possible natural events.
7. Useful travel tips
Some additional tips can make your trip to Belize even more enjoyable:
- Time offset: Belize is in the UTC-6 time zone. There is no change to daylight saving time.
- Power connections: Belize uses type A and B sockets, the voltage is 110 volts. An adapter is necessary.
- Internet and SIM cards: Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and cafes. For mobile data, local SIM cards are recommended, which are available at airports and in larger cities.