Travel Vaccines and Advice for Belize
Belize is bursting with culture and tropical fun for all types of travellers. Whether exploring archaeological sites, studying culture or venturing in the wild, Belize has a bit of everything.
The district of Cayo is the perfect destination for history fans, archeologists at heart and for those who love to learn. The world famous Hol Chan Marine Reserve in San Pedro offers tourists the chance to swim with a variety of sea life, including rays and sharks. Travellers can also make their way to Belize City with its amazing museums and adventures.
Rich in culture, nature and adventure, Belize is the perfect destination for a every traveller.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines For Belize?
Do I Need a Passport or Visa for Belize?
What Is The Climate Like In Belize?
How Safe Is Belize?
Snorkeling and Swimming In Belize
What Should I Pack for Belize?
Embassy of the United Kingdom in Belize
Do I Need Vaccines for Belize?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Belize. The National Travel Health Network and Centre and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Belize: COVID-19, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, yellow fever, rabies, polio and tetanus.
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunisations:
- COVID-19 –
Airborne –
Recommended for all travellers - Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travellers to the region, especially if unvaccinated. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Accelerated schedule available - Tetanus –
Wounds or Breaks in Skin –
Recommended for travelers to most regions, especially if not previously vaccinated. - Typhoid –
Food & Water –
Jab lasts 3 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. - Yellow Fever –
Mosquito –
Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-stay travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Required if arriving from a region with active polio transmission. Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended.
See the tables below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for Belize |
||
VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
---|---|---|
COVID-19 | Airborne | Recommended for all travellers |
Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travellers to the region, especially if unvaccinated. |
Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Accelerated schedule available |
Tetanus | Wounds or Breaks in Skin | Recommended for travelers to most regions, especially if not previously vaccinated. |
Typhoid | Food & Water | Jab lasts 3 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. |
Yellow Fever | Mosquito | Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. |
Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-stay travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
Polio | Food & Water | Required if arriving from a region with active polio transmission. Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. |
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.
Do I Need a Passport or Visa for Belize?
A visa is not required to enter Belize. Travellers can enter for a limited time. A fee can be paid for extending your stay. Passports must be valid for at least six months. Proof of yellow fever vaccination may be required if you are travelling from a region where yellow fever is present.
Belize Entry Requirements |
||
Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Belize? | |
---|---|---|
Passport | ||
Tourist Visa | ||
Business Visa | ||
Vaccinations |
Sources: Embassy of Belize and GOV.UK
What Is The Climate Like In 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 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.
How Safe Is Belize?
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.
Snorkeling and Swimming In Belize
The seasides of Belize are blue, bright and beautiful. The waters teem with sea creatures and corals, a kaleidoscope of colours 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. Ensure 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 whilst 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 whilst 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.
What Should I Pack for Belize?
Besides travel documents and medications, there are some other key items to ensure are in your luggage.
- Insect Repellent – With Zika, dengue and malaria in Belize, you should pack insect 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.
- Sun Cream – Pack sun cream 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.
Embassy of the United Kingdom in Belize
If you are in Belize and have an emergency (for example, been attacked, arrested or someone has died) contact the nearest consular services. Contact the embassy before arrival if you have additional questions on entry requirements, safety concerns or are in need of assistance.
British High Commission Belmopan
North Ring Road/Melhado Parade
(Entrance via North Ring Road)
PO Box 91
Belmopan
Belize
Telephone: +501 822 2146/2147/2717/2981
Emergency Phone: 00 501 822 2146
Contact Form: Click Here
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