Activity Level 3: Moderate
Through multifaceted activities, this eco-adventure showcases Belize’s biodiversity, archaeological treasures, and cultural and natural wonders as you explore coastal, riverine, rainforest, and urban landscapes. Also included are excursions to Guatemala’s Mayan ruins at Tikal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Yaxhá. There are two boating excursions, one on a large inland lake and another to a reserve on Belize’s Barrier Reef, where you may swim and snorkel. Other activities include cave tubing, birdwatching, wildlife viewing, hiking, and river kayaking. Active periods may last from 2–6 hours per day, balanced with free time to relax and enjoy your lodge facilities. Belize is typically hot and humid; the cooler dry season is generally between November and early May, when there is less rain and average daily highs in the mid-80s. There are two border crossings, as well as one internal connecting flight; and several overland transfers lasting 1–4 hours in private, air-conditioned motorcoaches.
Entry & Exit Requirements
American and Canadian citizens must have a valid passport to enter Belize. U.S. passports must be valid for the duration of your stay in Belize. It’s recommended to have at least six months’ validity from your date of departure, as entry requirements are subject to change without notice. Canadian passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of expected departure from Belize.
A visa is not required for visits up to 30 days.
If you are not traveling with a U.S. passport, please check with the Belizean Embassy for the requirements based on your nationality.
When leaving Belize there is a departure tax of approximately $40, which is included in the cost of your ticket if you purchase your airfare through Holbrook Travel. If crossing a land border, there is an exit fee of approximately $15 USD ($30 BZD) for U.S. citizens.
Health Information
IMMUNIZATIONS
The Centers for Disease Control recommends that all travelers be up to date on routine vaccinations such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus vaccine, varicella (chicken pox) vaccine, and your yearly flu shot before every trip.
There are no vaccinations required for entry into Belize, unless you are traveling from an endemic yellow fever area within six weeks prior to entry.
Some physicians recommend that travelers get hepatitis A and typhoid vaccines before visiting Belize.
Please consult your physician for additional information and recommendations based on your individual circumstances.
MALARIA
The CDC warns that travelers to Central America may be at risk for exposure to malaria. Malaria is caused by a parasite found in Anopheles mosquitos, which are active from dusk until dawn. Prevention is twofold: the use of anti-malarial drugs and the prevention of insect bites. If you choose to use an anti-malarial drug, as recommended by the CDC, see your physician for a prescription.
CHIKUNGUNYA
Locally transmitted cases of chikungunya have been reported in Belize. Local transmission means that mosquitoes in the area have been infected with chikungunya and are spreading it to people. The CDC recommends that travelers to Central America take the usual precautions to protect themselves from mosquito bites.
ZIKA VIRUS
Locally transmitted cases of Zika virus have been reported in Belize. Local transmission means that mosquitoes in the area have been infected with Zika and are spreading it to people. The CDC recommends that travelers to Belize protect themselves from mosquito bites. As a precaution, the CDC advises women who are pregnant to consider postponing travel to any area where Zika virus transmission is ongoing.
SUN EXPOSURE
The effects of the sun can be damaging to the eyes and skin. Spending time outdoors exposes you to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, even on cloudy days. To protect yourself from the sun, use a broad spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 15, protect skin with clothing, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and drink plenty of fluids.