Travel Vaccines and Advice for Belize

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Belize. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Belize: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, yellow fever, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia and influenza.

COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. Check with your local Passport Health clinic if immunization is offered in your area.

There is a risk of contracting the Zika virus in Belize. Be sure to use mosquito repellents, netting and wear protective clothing. Malaria and dengue are also present in some regions. Antimalarials may be recommended based on your itinerary. Speak with a travel health specialist to learn more.

Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now.

Americans planning to go to Belize do not need a visa for tourism visits less than 30 days. But, travelers must provide proof of return tickets or flights to another destination. Visitors must also prove that they have enough money for their trip.

Belize Entry Requirements
Do I Need A…	For My Trip to Belize?
Passport
Tourist Visa
Business Visa
Vaccinations

Sources: Embassy of Belize and U.S. State Department

If you enter the country by land, extra fees may apply. There is also an exit fee of $40 USD when leaving Belize.

The climate in Belize is tropical and warm. The country’s dry season ranges from about February to April, the rainy season from May to December. Even in the cooler months (December to February) the average temperatures are in the 70’s.

While the climate is consistent throughout Belize, the weather may vary by region. Here is what to expect in a few tourist destinations:

• Belize City – Temperatures remain pretty consistent from month to month. Summers can be hot in the low-90’s with winters in the low-80’s. Belize City has a short dry season with rain throughout the rest of the year.
• Belmopan – The capital of Belize experiences frequent rains. The temperature is warm, with highs in the low-90’s.
• San Ignacio – While rain is abundant during this region’s wet season, it is drier than areas like Belize City. Temperatures range from the low-70’s to low-90’s.

There are high levels of criminal activity in Belize. The most troubled areas are southern Belize City and along the country’s borders. These areas should be avoided if possible.

Tourists are prime targets for crime. Petty theft, pick-pocketing, credit card fraud and similar crime is not uncommon. Various cases of sexual harassment do occur, especially when traveling alone or in small groups. When going out, never go out on your own and stay with as many people that you trust as you can.

Crime rates remain high in Belize. The majority of crimes are reportedly unsolved. It is difficult for local police to investigate and prosecute many of the reported incidents. Travel with care and always be aware of your surroundings.

The beaches of Belize are blue, bright and beautiful. The waters teem with sea creatures and corals, a kaleidoscope of colors and life. It’s no wonder that tourists come from around the globe to snorkel and swim in the oceans around Belize. Some of the most popular spots include the Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Ambergris Caye.

Snorkeling can bring you face-to-face with situations that can overwhelm the unprepared. Make sure the equipment you rent or buy, such as the snorkel and your swimming fins, are high-quality. A good snorkel will not allow water to come down the breathing tube, and the right fins will protect your feet and save you valuable energy while swimming.

Secure all dangling or loose aspects of your gear, as it can damage the reefs or catch on animals. Do not touch any of the wildlife you encounter while snorkeling or swimming in Belize waters. This can stress the animal and many of them could injure you.

Do not touch any of the coral reefs. They are fragile, and any part of the reef that is touched will die.

Besides travel documents and medications, there are some other key items to make sure are in your luggage.

• Insect Repellent – With Zika, dengue and malaria in Belize, you should pack bug spray. Packing a repellent with at least 20%-30% DEET will help keep perilous pests away.
• Camera – You will want to bring a camera to snap photos of the Mayan ruins, the ocean, the jungle, the animals and all the other wonders Belize has to offer.
• Airy Clothing and Shorts – While you may want to bring some nicer clothes for going out, days will be hot and humid. Wearing shorts and loose clothing allows your skin to breath and will keep you cool.
• Sunscreen – Pack sunscreen to protect your skin and prevent sunburn. Even if it is rainy, your skin may still be damaged in the warm, tropical temperatures.
• Snorkeling or Swim Gear – If you know that you plan to swim or snorkel, save money and peace of mind by bringing your preferred gear with you. If you know you will be snorkeling, consider packing your own snorkel and swim fins. Always bring more than one bathing suit.

The U.S. embassy in Belize offers services to help U.S. citizens who are traveling or living in Belize.

Some of these services include helping in emergencies, like replacing lost passports, assisting if someone is arrested, and providing information about local laws and customs. They also provide health and safety information, including advice about vaccinations and how to stay safe in areas with higher levels of crime or political instability.

All Americans visiting Belize should register with the U.S. Embassy in Belmopan. This will inform the office of your travel plans and will allow them to reach out in the case of an emergency or evacuation. You can register online, through the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).

U.S. Embassy Belmopan
4 Floral Park Road
Belmopan, Belize
Telephone: +(501) 822-4011
Emergency After-Hours telephone:+(501) 610-5030
Fax: +(501) 822-4012

Visit the U.S. Embassy website before your trip to confirm local embassy information.

Stay safe abroad with Passport Health. Call or book online now and start traveling safely today!