Culturally rich and filled with adventure Belize welcomes visitors who crave a unique and exciting journey. Belize lures you in with its eye-catching turquoise Caribbean and beckons travelers inland to explore ancient Maya civilization scattered throughout dense jungles. Guests of Belize will enjoy the Belize’s Mesoamerican Reef (the globe’s second largest), the wide array of native jungle wildlife, the archaeological wonders of the ancient Maya, and unique cultural interactions. As you prepare for your Belize adventure, this assortment of important fast facts will help you prepare for the trip of a lifetime.
Currency
The Belize Dollar (BZD) is Belize’s currency. The Belize dollar’s exchange rate is two Belize Dollars = one U.S. Dollar, making it fairly easy to understand and convert.
Accommodations and tours are often listed in U.S. prices while shops and restaurants list prices in BZD. When using USD in Belize, be certain to have smaller denominations to purchase and pay for goods and services. Many establishments will not accept bills over $20 USD. More established resorts, hotels, restaurants, and other businesses in larger cities and towns accept credit cards but in villages you will want to have cash.
If you chose to exchange your USD for BZD, you can easily do so ATMs. ATMs are available in banks, as well as gas stations on major roadways and grocery stores. You will want to exchange any excess Belize Dollars before leaving Belize, as it is difficult to exchange them outside the country.
NOTE: Travelers entering Belize must declare funds when entering the country at all entry points. A maximum of $5,000 USD is allowed per adult. Violation can result in fines and arrest.
Passports, Visa, and Immigration Requirements
Passports are required for travel to Belize. Visitors must provide a valid passport, sufficient funds to cover their stay, and a return ticket showing your intent to leave. The exception to this rule is for cruise ship passengers who do not require an entry Visa.
Citizens from most countries, including the U.S., do require a Visa to visit Belize, which begins automatically upon entry into Belize. If you are unsure if you will need a Visa to enter Belize, contact the Belize Immigration and Nationality Department prior to your arrival. Your travel agent or resort should be able to facilitate this process for you.
Should you decide to stay in Belize longer than the allowed 90 days, you many request an extension of one month at the Immigration and Nationality Department. Those who decide to immigrate can renew their extension monthly for a short period and will need to apply for Belize Permanent Residency to complete the process.
Immunizations
Immunizations are not required when traveling to Belize, though some are recommended. Travelers should have current vaccinations including diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (DPT) vaccine, measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), varicella (chickenpox), polio, and flu.
Additional immunizations recommended for Belize are:
- Hepatitis A for all travelers over age one.
- Typhoid.
- Hepatitis B for all travelers not previously immunized.
When traveling to Belize, rabies is also recommended for travelers who will be involved in outdoor activities, in country for long periods of time. or those immigrating to Belize. Yellow Fever vaccine may be required for those visiting Belize following a visit to other Central or South American countries.
