Travel Vaccines and Advice for Belize

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Belize. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Belize: COVID-19, 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.

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.

Canadian citizens do not need visas for tourists or business visits of up to thirty days, but they must have onward or return air tickets within 30 days and proof of sufficient funds to maintain themselves while in Belize.

You must have a valid passport to enter Belize, with at least six months before expiration.

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

Sources: Embassy of Belize and Canadian Travel and Tourism

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

Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit requirements.

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 20’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 at 32, with winters at 26. 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 30’s.
• San Ignacio – While rain is abundant during this region’s wet season, it is drier than areas like Belize City. Temperatures range from 25 to 30 degrees.

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 travelling 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.

Canadian consular services can help travellers with many issues they may face including passport services. Once in Belize, the information for the Canadian consulate is:

Canadian Embassy Belmopan
The Renaissance Tower of Belize
# 8 Newtown Barracks
Belize City, Belize
Tel.: 501 223-1060

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