BELIZE
Must Do
Taste the incredible seafood, Caribbean curries, snorkel or dive in the Cayes and venture inland to discover the jungle.
Pick a Spot
About
BELIZE
Though more expensive than its other Central American neighbours, it is one of our favourite countries in the region.
It’s a small country, and very easy to get around. The locals take it slow and are incredibly welcoming.
The world’s second largest Barrier Reef lives here – the Belizean Barrier Reef. So, a visit to the cayes cannot be missed on any Belizean itinerary, as the snorkelling and diving is more than world class.
The seafood we had on Caye Caulker (BBQ lionfish, conch curry, crab claws to name a few) lives on in our dreams!
Although it’s small, easy to navigate, and you don’t need so much time, don’t skip a visit inland to discover Belize’s many cave systems, jungles and Mayan ruins.
LANGUAGE
ENGLISH (official)
Belizean Creole (dialect)
Suggested budget is $75USD/day, assuming economy range accommodation, limiting dining out, using public transport and spending on key activities.
BEST TIME TO VISIT BELIZE
The best time to visit is during dry season: late-November to mid-April.
This will therefore also be the busiest time, but you will have the warmest weather and beautiful blue skies, so it’s an easy trade! Belize doesn’t get too crowded anyway to be honest. June to mid-November brings rain, humidity and strong winds. Be sure to check the weather forecast beforehand if you are visiting the coastal regions.
Many businesses close during September and October (low season), so keep this in mind when you are planning. For seafood lovers, double check the lobster and conch seasons online beforehand as they are seasonal and change yearly to allow stocks to replenish sustainably!
Our Belize Travel Guides
More Info
TRANSPORT
Most towns are small and walkable while you are there. Renting a bicycle is a great way to explore the area, and generally costs around 25 BZD for the day!
Local Bus: A simple, reliable and cheap way to get between towns. It will cost you between 5-25 BZD depending on how far you’re going, and there will generally be local vendors jumping on and off so you can pick up cheap snacks! (Try the Peanut Seaweed!)
Ferries and water taxis: the best route between the islands (cayes). They generally leave from Belize City and run with San Pedro Belize Express and Caribbean Sprinter. These are reliable and safe. You don’t need to book online in advance (but you can) – just turn up at the ferry terminal and buy a ticket.
- San Pedro Belize Express – Check water taxis
- Caribbean Sprinter – Check water taxis
SAFETY
Belize is a very safe place to backpack and travel.
The most common type of crime is petty theft or pickpocketing. Be sure to take common precautions, keep valuables on you, and try not to flash any luxury items. Be extra vigilant as always when taking cash out of an ATM.
Avoid Belize City if you can, especially at night. Though the rest of the country is safe, this city is not. We passed through to grab a bus and didn’t have any issues at all, but did hear some stories from other travellers of helpful locals warning them of which sketchy streets not to step foot in.
