Basic facts about Belize

Reading Time: 4 mins

A small democratic country of about 400,000 people, Belize is the only English-speaking nation in Central America. As a former British colony, it is a part of the Commonwealth and Caribbean Community (CARICOM).

The country is known for having the world’s second-largest barrier reef, quaint islands known as cayes, beautiful coral atolls, pristine mainland jungles, ancient Maya sites, and rich cultural experiences.

On this page
Intro
Location
Geography
Climate
History
People & Culture
Government & Economy
Currency & Money

Intro: Tourism in Belize

Most tourists visit Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker and San Ignacio

As a tourism destination, Belize offers a pristine natural environment, rich cultural heritage, and affordable luxury accommodations. It focuses on sustainable travel, taking into account the environment, culture, and well-being of local communities while minimizing negative impacts. The country’s proximity to the US and that it is English-speaking, make it an attractive destination for North American travelers.

Approximately 80% of overnight tourist arrivals in Belize are from the U.S. and Canada. Of that, about 70% are from the U.S., primarily from California, Texas, New York, Colorado, and Florida. The most popular destinations in Belize are Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker, Cayo, Placencia and Hopkins. The offshore atolls and southern cayes such as Tobacco Caye and South Water Caye also trail in popularity.


Location

Where is Belize Map

Belize borders Mexico to the north, Guatemala to the west and south, and the Caribbean Sea to the east. Geographically it is in Central America, but its people, language, and culture mirror the Caribbean.

Belize is on US Central Standard Time or Greenwich Mean Time – 06. Since the country is small, daylight savings time is not necessary or practiced.


Geography

Approx 185 miles long and 75 miles wide, Belize is a small country with hilly inland terrain, lowlands, and coastal plains. Its coastline is dotted by many cayes and three atolls.

The country is divided into six districts: Corozal and Orange Walk in the North, Belize in the East, Cayo in the West, Stann Creek in South East, and Toledo in the South. The nation’s capital is Belmopan City.

Map of Belize's three atolls

Climate

Rainbow after rain. The Palapa Bar in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye

Belize’s year-round average temperature is 80 degrees Fahrenheit (26.6 Celsius). The country shares the same climate as other tropical countries in Central America.

Belize has two seasons, the dry season which runs from December to April, and the wet season from May to November. Keep this in mind when choosing when to visit Belize.


History

Belize has a rich history dating back to the ancient Maya. Initially named British Honduras, it was colonized by the British in the 17th century and remained a colony until its independence in 1981.

Although the country has faced many challenges such as disputes over land ownership between Spain and the UK, it has fostered a diverse and vibrant culture.

El Castillo is the tallest temple at Xunantunich

People & Culture

Garinagu people of Belize

The people of Belize are multi-ethnic, with the main cultures being the Maya, Mestizo, Garinagu, Creole, Mennonites, East Indians, and Chinese. Belize’s entire population is a little over 400,000.

Belize is the only English-speaking nation in Central America. However, Belizean Creole is what is widely spoken. Other common languages spoken include Spanish, Maya, Garifuna, Mandarin, and Mennonite Low German.


Government & Economy

Belize is a constitutional monarchy and parliamentary democracy. Since gaining independence from Britain in 1981, it has had democratically elected parliamentary governments and it’s a member of the Commonwealth.

Belize’s economy is primarily based on agriculture, tourism, and offshore financial services. The country’s main exports are agricultural products such as citrus fruits and sugar.

National Assembly of Belize in Belmopan City

Currency & Money

Belizean Money. BZ Dollars from $2 to $100

The local currency is the Belize dollar. However, U.S. dollars are accepted throughout the country. $1 USD is equal to $2 BZD.

Banks and ATMs are located in cities and towns across Belize. VISA and Mastercard are accepted countrywide. And unless you have a special travel credit card, your bank will likely charge a foreign transaction fee of 1 to 2%.


Helpful articles: