£1 BZD 2.69
Today
9:52 pm
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Weather in Belize
Belize
28°
Slight rain showers
Wed
17
28
Thu
21
29
Fri
21
30
Sat
21
30
Sun
21
31
SPF level in Belize
Recommended: SPF 50+ (extreme)
Spring
SPF 50+
Summer
SPF 50+ (extreme)
Autumn
SPF 50+
Winter
SPF 50+
Suncream is often more expensive in tourist zones. Pack your preferred SPF from the UK, especially for beach holidays. Always carry travel-size (100ml max) for hand luggage.
Getting around Belize
Tipping in Belize
Tipping is customary in Belize for good service. While not mandatory, it is a common way to show appreciation.
Restaurant
10-15% of the bill
Bar/Café
10-15% of the bill
Taxi
10% of the fare, or round up
Hotel Porter
1-2 BZD per bag
Hotel Housekeeper
2-5 BZD per night
Tour Guide
10-15% of the tour cost
Safety in Belize
Tips for British travellers
Belize is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
Use only registered taxis with green licence plates and always agree on the fare before getting in, paying in cash.
When withdrawing money, use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business.
Keep valuables out of sight and be aware that wearing expensive jewellery could attract attention from thieves.
Check local weather forecasts and only use registered and licensed operators for activities like snorkelling and diving.
Avoid dark alleys and be watchful of your surroundings, particularly in tourist areas like San Pedro and Caye Caulker.
Bonus tips:
Consider updating your paper driving licence to a photocard if you plan to drive, as you can use a UK photocard licence for up to three months.
Be aware that roads often have potholes, are unlit, and can become hazardous, especially during the rainy season.
Driving in Belize
A UK driving license is valid for up to 3 months. After that, an international driving permit or a Belizean license is required.
Side of road
right
Motorway speed limit
120 km/h
Urban speed limit
40 km/h
Alcohol limit
0.08%
Remember: Belize drives on the right. Take extra care at junctions if you normally drive on the left.
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
911
Save 911 in your phone before travelling.
Electrical in Belize
Voltage
110/220V / 60Hz
Plug types
Type A, Type B, Type G
UK adapter needed?
Yes
Belize uses both 110V and 220V, so check your devices. Plug types A, B, and G are used. UK travellers will likely need an adapter.
Cards & payments
Credit and debit cards are accepted in many establishments, especially in tourist areas. However, smaller businesses and local markets may prefer cash.
Visa
High
Mastercard
High
American Express
Medium
Lost card? Call Visa: +1-303-967-1096
ATMs in Belize
ATMs are available in major towns and tourist areas, but less common in rural locations. It is advisable to withdraw cash in larger towns.
Local name
ATM
Chip & PIN required?
Yes
ATMs generally accept international cards, but it's a good idea to check with your bank beforehand. Fees may apply.
Mobile & roaming
Mobile roaming charges can be high in Belize. Check with your UK provider for specific rates and consider purchasing a local SIM card for cheaper calls and data. EU roaming agreements no longer apply post-Brexit.
Local SIM data package
5 GB for 50 BZD (~£20)
Network coverage
4G, 3G, GSM
Local carriers
DigiCell, Smart
WiFi & internet
WiFi is available in hotels, restaurants, and cafes, particularly in tourist areas. Coverage may be limited in more remote locations.
Average speed
10 Mbps
While generally available, internet speeds can be slower than in the UK. Consider purchasing a local SIM for more reliable data access.
Health & vaccinations in Belize
Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including repatriation, as healthcare in Belize may not be free for foreign nationals. Check your policy's coverage and ensure it includes adventurous activities if you plan to undertake them. You should also check that the insurance covers the cost of ambulance and/or helicopter evacuation.
Vaccinations required?
No
Recommended
Hepatitis A
Consult your doctor or a travel clinic for the most up-to-date health information and advice before travelling to Belize. Discuss necessary vaccinations and preventative measures for diseases prevalent in the region, such as mosquito-borne illnesses. Drink bottled or purified water and be cautious about food hygiene to avoid gastrointestinal issues.
Calling Belize
Country code
+501
To call Belize from the UK, dial 00 501 followed by the local number.
To call the British High Commission in Belmopan from the UK, you would dial 00 501 822 2146.
To make an international call to Belize, you'll need to dial the UK exit code, followed by the Belize country code (501), and then the local number. Remember to drop the leading zero if there is one in the local number.
UK Embassy in Belize
British High Commission Belmopan
Embassy Square, Belmopan, Cayo District, Belize
Airport in Belize
Frequently asked questions
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.