Our trip to Belize was super last minute. The original plan had been to go to Amsterdam, but the Netherlands announced a strict lockdown just a little over a week before our flight. Consequently, we had to find somewhere we could travel to on such short notice.
Belize was chosen not just for the beautiful weather, but also due to the reasonable flights and straightforward travel restrictions. Moreover, Belize is recognized as one of iBestTravel’s top countries to visit in 2022. Flights from the US to Belize were still very affordable, with last-minute flights (7 days out) priced around $250.
Belize’s COVID-19 Testing Requirements
We discovered that a negative PCR test result taken no more than 96 hours before arrival was required. Alternatively, visitors could take a rapid test at the airport in Belize for $50. Because I was traveling over the holidays, I opted for both, as my PCR test results did not arrive on time.
If anyone tested positive, they would receive a call with the results within an hour or two and would be required to isolate at their hotel. According to the Belize Tourism Board, individuals who test positive must remain at their hotels for 10 days at their own expense, although special rates would apply.
Although we did not check these specifics beforehand, we anticipated some form of quarantine should one of us test positive. I purchased travel insurance ahead of the trip, covering up to $50,000 for medical emergencies, including COVID-19. Furthermore, starting from February 15, 2022, visitors are also required to apply for Belize Travel Health Insurance through the tourism board.
It’s noteworthy that I was asked to present my test result in New York when checking in for the flight with American Airlines. I recommend confirming in advance with your airline about any requirements regarding test results.
Accommodation Requirements in Belize
According to the Belize tourism website, there is an additional requirement that was not mentioned on the American Airlines website or other travel resources. Belize enforces “Gold Standard accommodation,” which signifies that accommodations have met specific safety standards set by the Belize Tourism Board to combat COVID-19. It is mandatory that you stay at a certified resort, and airport officials will request proof of your stay upon arrival. Therefore, ensure your accommodation holds this certification and consider printing a copy of your hotel reservation instead of showing it on your phone.
Pack Paper Copies of Your Documents
In general, we found that possessing paper copies of essential documents, such as test results, reservations, and boarding passes, was necessary in Belize. For someone accustomed to electronic storage of travel documents, this was somewhat surprising and could cause delays; thus, it is wise to plan ahead.
What Travel is Like in Belize Right Now
Airline
We took an American Airlines flight out of Miami, which was surprisingly full. The mask policy remained in effect, except while drinks were served, and refreshments were distributed as usual, although alcohol was not available in the main cabin.
Accommodation
According to the Belize Tourism Board, all Gold Standard Accommodations must adhere to a 9-point safety standard. At both hotels we stayed at, housekeeping was operating normally. In San Ignacio, hand sanitizing stations were available throughout the facility, and masks were mandated indoors unless guests were eating or drinking. However, in San Ignacio, they still offered breakfast buffets, which have been eliminated in many venues due to COVID-19. Conversely, in Caye Caulker, hand sanitizing stations were ubiquitous, even on the beach.
Are Masks Required in Belize?
Officially, masks are required in public spaces for both visitors and locals in Belize. Nevertheless, on the ground, adherence to this policy varied, particularly in Caye Caulker. While many wore cloth masks, I also observed visitors wearing N95 masks or even double masking. Service workers, especially restaurant staff, consistently wore masks. Surgical masks were available for purchase at some convenience stores in both San Ignacio and Caye Caulker, but we brought sufficient supplies ourselves.
COVID-19 Safety in Belize Restaurants
Restaurants in Belize did not require vaccine certifications; however, patrons were asked to wear masks indoors unless eating. As previously mentioned, restaurant staff were consistently masked. Tables appeared to be sanitized between customers, but whether any additional sanitation protocols were in place remained unclear. In Caye Caulker, a curfew was enforced, mandating that restaurants and bars close at 10 PM, except for New Year’s Eve.
In San Ignacio, the town’s smaller size contributed to an earlier winding down of activities. Most businesses closed by 5 PM, and dining venues typically closed when customer traffic diminished.
COVID-19 Rules for Visiting Attractions in Belize
Attractions
In San Ignacio, many of the ruins, which serve as the area’s main attractions, were relatively empty—an unexpected but delightful find. Our hotel organized tours of the Caracol and Xunantunich sites, and we were the sole participants on both tours. At Caracol, we encountered a couple of small groups, but the site was expansive enough that we rarely crossed paths, usually staying well over six feet apart.
My friend also took part in a nearly private horseback riding tour to the Xunantunich ruins because no other tourists had signed up. This site, pre-COVID, was a major popular stop for cruise lines and usually very crowded.
We also explored the Cahal Peche ruins, located within walking distance from our hotel, along with just a few other small groups. It’s essential to note that while many of these sites have museums where visitors can delve deeper into Mayan history and culture, all museums were closed due to COVID-19.
Beach and Pool Etiquette
In Caye Caulker, the atmosphere was somewhat livelier, with more visitors drawn to the beach, bars, and water sports. Social distancing was observed on the beaches but not consistently enforced. Mask-wearing outdoors was less common, and there was some ambiguity regarding outdoor definitions because many buildings featured open-air designs. Therefore, while servers generally wore masks, patrons in bars were less likely to do so. Beach towels were distributed individually at our hotel, and hand sanitizing stations were placed in public spaces.
On the Street
With fewer tourists than usual, we found ourselves interacting more with locals. In San Ignacio, we had extensive conversations with our tour guides about the region and COVID-19’s impact on their lives. They expressed mixed feelings: financially, without tourism, it was challenging, yet they were eager to share their love for Belize and their individual areas. One guide even made special stops to show my friend, who is an amateur arborist and herbalist, interesting local plants. We also gained valuable insight from locals operating snorkel and scuba tours regarding the reef’s preservation and ongoing efforts for its improvement.
Returning to the US from Belize
The United States mandates a negative COVID-19 test result or proof of recovery no more than 24 hours before boarding a flight back. Fortunately, this testing was easily accessible in Caye Caulker. A small cottage set up on the main street conducted tests with results available within a few hours for a fee of $75, offering printed, certified results for pickup. In San Ignacio, testing is also available at local clinics, with resorts often able to assist in arrangements.
Upon reaching the airport, it is advisable to skip the self-check-in kiosk and opt for the long line to see an agent, as an agent’s visual verification of your documentation will be necessary. It is crucial to have a printed boarding pass, a completed immigration form, and a hard copy of your COVID-19 test results ready, along with your passport, before reaching immigration. If you don’t have everything prepared, immigration officials may send you back to wait in line again, so being organized is essential. Additionally, ensure you allow extra time for the check-in process, just in case.
