Belize - Traveller information

Local laws and conventions: Possession of drugs is considered a serious crime in Belize and can lead to a fine and or even imprisonment.

Dress is casual, although beachwear must not be worn in towns.

Appointments for business meetings are customary and business cards are often exchanged. Office hours are Mon–Fri 0800–1200 and 1300–1700.

Immigration and customs: Passports must be valid for six months beyond the intended length of stay. When entering the country, visitors must prove they have sufficient funds for their stay as well as a return or onward ticket. All visa requirements must be checked well in advance of travel.

A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required by all those arriving from infected areas.

Prohibited imports include Pre-Columbian articles, marine products, unprocessed coral, and turtle shells.

Travel within the country: Traffic drives on the right and visitors can hire cars with a national driving licence for the first three months of stay. Car hire is available in larger towns and at the international airport. All-weather highways link the main towns and most of the roads are in good condition. Visitors should be aware, however, that the Manatee Highway running from the Western Highway to Dangriga is prone to severe flooding after torrential rain.

National speed limits are 40kph in built-up areas and 90kph on the highways.

The country’s main domestic airline is Maya Island Air, which operates scheduled flights from Belize City to most of the main towns and cayes (islands). Boat services connect Belize City to Ambergris Caye, Caye Chapel and Caye Caulker.

Bus services are frequent and inexpensive, and link most of the towns and villages. Many of the vehicles are ex-school buses imported from the USA.

Travel health: There are government-run hospitals in all the main towns. Visitors are advised to take out comprehensive medical insurance.

Dengue fever is present in Belize, and visitors will need to protect themselves from mosquito bites with insect repellent and suitable clothing. Tuberculosis and Hepatitis B also occur, and vaccinations are sometimes required. All those planning to travel to Belize should check the most up-to-date inoculation requirements.

Tap water is usually safe to drink, though it is advisable to check before drinking; bottled water should be used if there is any doubt. Milk is unpasteurised and should be boiled before use.

Money: Local currency is the Belize dollar, although most businesses accept US dollars. ATMs accept some foreign cards but should not be relied on for cash. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted. Travellers cheques can be exchanged at most banks, many hotels and some travel agencies. Banking hours are Mon–Thur 0800–1300 and Fri 0800–1630.

There were 236,573 tourist arrivals in 2005.