Belize
Central America · Americas
- Capital
- Belmopan
- Currency
- Belize Dollar (BZD $)
- Language
- English (official), Belizean Kriol, Spanish
- Timezone
- UTC-6
- Safety rating
- 6/10
- Best time to visit
- The dry season from late November to mid-April brings the best weather for diving, beaches, and inland exploration.
Overview
Belize blends Caribbean coastline with dense jungle, offering the world's second-largest barrier reef and the famous Great Blue Hole. English-speaking and culturally diverse, it's a haven for divers, snorkelers, and adventurers exploring Maya ruins like Caracol and Xunantunich.
Visa requirements
Visitors from the US, Canada, EU, UK, and many other nations can enter visa-free for up to 30 days with a valid passport and proof of onward travel.
Safety information
Tourist areas like Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker, and Placencia are generally safe, but Belize City has high crime so avoid walking alone there at night. Stick to well-traveled areas and use registered tour operators.
Travel tips
US dollars are widely accepted alongside the Belize dollar, which is fixed at 2:1. Cash is essential for small islands and rural areas where card acceptance is limited. Mosquito repellent and reef-safe sunscreen are must-haves.