Although most of the planning and preparation is taken care of for you, there are still a few things you should know and some details you might want to care for to ensure your comfort, safety, and peace of mind. Please review the following information before your departure to ensure that any surprises along the way will only be pleasant ones.
Weather
The Overall climate of Belize can be described as sub-tropical. The humidity while high, is seldom oppressive for long and is most noticeable along the coast. The mean annual humidity is 83%, but many days the humidity is masked by the cooling sea breezes. The Belize coastal area is exposed to southeast tradewinds averaging 10-13 knots and attain an uncanny consistency during the month of July. Temperatures in Belize range from 50°F to 95°F with an annual mean of 79°F. November to January are traditionally the coolest months with a 75°F average and May to September are the warmest at about a 81°F average. Location is a big factor for temperature as Cayo to the west can be several degrees colder then along the coast and during November at night, temperatures can fall to a beautiful 46°F in Cayo. In the mountains, the coldest days and nights might seem relatively very cold and blankets will definitely be needed at night. However, the mean annual temperatures on in the mountains is a perfectly comfortable 72°F.
Hazards
The sun. If you want to enjoy your entire passage, make sure you wear strong sun block.
What to Pack
The items on this list represent everything that you will need on your trip. Since space for baggage is often limited in the field, it is important that you do not bring extra items. Your own experience should help you choose individual items, but don't overestimate the predictability of the weather. On many of our trips you should be prepared for showers and hot sun.
Shirts: Cotton, or light synthetic blend such as those sold by Ex Officio, short-sleeved, or T-shirts; one light long-sleeved NOTE: Many travelers enjoy purchasing T-shirts throughout their trip and, therefore, pack accordingly.
Trousers: Jeans or light hiking pants. Shorts can be worn in all places except town
Underwear: Cotton is comfortable, synthetic blends dry better overnight.
Headwear: Light hat with wide brim, including back of neck, for sun protection. Tie under the chin is advisable to prevent possible loss due to wind on boats.
Foul Weather Gear: Poncho - lightweight but sturdy (with any rain garment make sure the seams are sealed). Small folding umbrella can be useful while walking trails or in boats. Light- weight jacket or wind breaker for nights in the mountains or boat rides. A heavy cotton sweat shirt can be substituted for a windbreaker and feels great on the boat after snorkeling.
Socks: Cotton, athletic.
Shoes: Trails are often wet and therefore slippery, so your footwear is important. Walking shoes that grip or two pairs of tennis shoes (in case one pair gets wet and muddy). Flip-flops or shower togs. NOTE: Most landings on islands are wet landings and we recommend always wearing shoes in the field
Swimsuit: An extra swimsuit may be helpful.
Your favorite waterproof sunscreen
Your favorite bug repellent
Bathing suit cover-ups and wraps
Your favorite beach towel &
sunglasses
Mask, snorkel, and fins (we have them if you do not)
Comfortable
relaxing hanging out talking at the end of the day with girlfriend clothes
Pajamas
Your Trip
A little pre-planning can make your trip go a lot smoother. Several weeks before your trip, make a list of what you’ll need to take with you. Make sure your travel documents are in order and that you have enough prescription medications to last through the trip
Passports and Visas
All all visitors to Belize must present a valid passport before entering the country. Please note that driver's licenses and birth certificates are not approved travel documents and cannot be used to enter the country. Visitors to Belize must be in possession of a passport valid for at least 3 months after the date of arrival and a return ticket with sufficient funds to cover their stay. Citizens of most countries do not require a visa to enter Belize.
Click here for a complete list of countries whose citizens DO NOT require visas to enter Belize.
Click here for the list of countries whose citizens DO require visas to enter Belize.
E-tickets
Your e-ticket from Houston, TX USA to Belize City, Belize will be provided to you once you have booked your passage. At check-in, you should be ready to provide your e-ticket itinerary and ticket numbers, as well as identification to the agent. In a few cases where e-tickets cannot be issued, you will receive your tickets in a paper form.
Luggage
Most airlines are now charging for luggage check in. Pack light and be prepared for charges of up to $100 per piece. The Peaceful Woman Corp. is not be responsible for loss or damage to luggage and personal belongings. If your luggage is lost or damaged by the airlines, a baggage claim form should be filed with the carrier before leaving the airport.
Money & Gratuities
The Belize Dollar (BZ$) has a fixed rate of exchange of BZ $2 to US $1. Most hotels, resorts, restaurants, and tour operators will accept U.S. currency, traveler's checks, or credit cards. When using your credit cards in Belize, most establishments will add a 5% service charge to your bill. Always make sure that you understand which dollar rate is being quoted.
Electricity
Although most of the electricity is provided by Diesel/Generator Sets, the power is stable at 110 Volts A.C., which is the same voltage as in the United States.
Language
English is the official language of Belize, although Spanish, Creole, Garifuna and Maya are widely spoken throughout the country.
Your Safety is Very Important
Every effort has been taken by The Peaceful Woman Corp to ensure your safety. However, it is important that you do not allow your common sense to take a vacation while you're on your trip. Be aware of potentially dangerous places and situations as you would at home. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry and carry your valuables concealed in inside pockets or hidden pouches. Don't put all your valuables (money, credit cards, passports, etc.) in the same place. (In case that one wallet is stolen, you should have other valuables and identification in another safe place.) Don't leave valuables laying loose in your room-use the hotel safe. Keep copies of your passports, credit card numbers and travelers checks numbers in the hotel safe.