Belize Selfdrive

Favourably located on the Caribbean Sea, this spectacularly diverse Central American nation is characterised by lush forests, magnificent mangroves, a gloriously green mountainous interior, and a coastline dotted with innumerable islands. Populated by a wide range of ethnic groups including the Mayan, Mestizo, Garifuna, Creole, and Mennonite people, this relatively young country offers a captivating melting pot of cultures and traditions. The crystal clear waters, decorated with a profusion of marine life, offer a jaw-dropping setting for swimming, snorkelling, and diving. In the jungle, enjoy hiking, horseriding, or ziplining past exotic plants, animals, and birds. A world of historical treasure awaits in the fascinating Mayan ruins, which feature excavated tombs, intricate hieroglyphs, and towering stone temples, often providing panoramic views.

Currency

Local currency: Belize Dollar

Symbol: BZ$ 

ISO code: BZD 

Subunit: Cent 

Banknotes: BZ$2, BZ$5, BZ$10, BZ$20, BZ$50, BZ$100

Coins: 1¢, 5¢, 10¢, 25¢, 50¢, BZ$1, BZ$5, BZ$10, BZ$20

Banking

Card Transactions: Yes

ATMs: Yes 

Mastercard: Yes 

Visa: Yes 

American Express: Yes 

Diner’s club: Yes

Banking Hours: 

Weekdays: 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM 

Weekends: Closed 

Public Holidays: Yes 

Foreign exchange services: Yes

Air:

Main airlines: Tropic Air, Maya Island Air

International Airports: Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport 

Domestic Airports: Belize City Municipal Airport, San Pedro Airport, Placencia Airport

Road:

Driving side: Right 

Tar roads: Yes

Gravel roads: Yes

Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes 

Car hire available: Yes 

Taxis: Yes 

E-hailing services: No

Bus:

Inter-city bus services: Yes 

Local city bus networks: Yes

Rail:

Railway system: No 

Subway System: No

Water:

Ferries: Yes 

Water taxis: Yes 

Leisure cruises: Yes

Food and water safety:

Can you drink the tap water: No 

Fresh fruit and veg: Yes 

Ice: Yes Meat: Yes 

Street food: Yes

Local cuisine:

Belizean cuisine reflects its diverse cultural influences, blending Maya, Creole, Garifuna, Mestizo, and European flavors. Staple foods include rice, beans, plantains, and seafood. Popular dishes include rice and beans, fry jacks, garnaches, and hudut. Notable local drinks include Belikin beer, rum punch, and seaweed shakes.

Tipping: 10-15%

Annual rainfall: 1000 - 4500 mm

Average temperature: 25°C

Summer:

Average highs: 31°C 

Average lows: 24°C

Winter:

Average highs: 28°C 

Average lows: 20°C

Best time to visit:

The best time to visit Belize is during the dry season, from late November to mid-April, when the weather is sunny and there is less rainfall.

Spring and Summer

Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes 

Lightweight warm clothes: No

Winter and Autumn

Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended 

Heavyweight clothing and boots: No

General

Umbrella and raincoat: Yes 

Warm gloves, hat and scarf: No 

Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes 

Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes 

Walking shoes: Yes 

Casual: Yes 

Smart-casual attire: Yes

Internet cafes: Yes 

Accommodation options: Yes

Restaurants: Yes 

Cafes: Yes 

Shopping malls: Yes 

Public parks: Yes 

Libraries: Yes

Plug Type: Type B, Type G 

Voltage (V): 110V

Frequency Hertz (Hz): 60Hz

*Travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances.