last edited Dec 11, 2019
Overview of Belize
Quick Overview
Belize is the only English-speaking country in Central America. It is formed along the Caribbean coast by a long barrier reef (the second largest in the world), made up of mangroves, bordered by islets and reefs (the Cayes). Two-thirds of Belize is also covered in forests, with mountains in the north exceeding 1,000 m.
Key Facts
- Latitude/longitude: 17.15' N, 88.45' W.
- Local time:
- Capital: Belmopan.
- Nature of the state: constitutional monarchy.
- Official language: English.
- Currency: Belize dollar.
- Population: 385,854 inhabitants (2018).
- Area: 22,966 km².
- Density: 17 inhabitants/km².
- Highest point: Doyle's Delight (1,160 m).
- Lowest point: sea level.
- Coastline: 386 km.
- Driving: on the right.
- Flag: [drapeau: Belize]
Tourism
Although Belize is the least visited country in Central America—or often just a transit zone for travelers moving between Guatemala and the Mexican Riviera Maya, or a quick stopover for many US cruise ships sailing in this part of the Caribbean—it still has its enthusiasts. They are primarily drawn to its small islands, the Cayes, with their stunning beaches and diving spots. Additionally, the country boasts wild nature on its mainland and numerous Mayan ruins that deserve to be better known, especially among the European public, which is rarely present. Nevertheless, tourism remains a priority (visitation has doubled in ten years) and a significant source of revenue for the country.
Each year, excluding day-tripping cruise passengers, over 400,000 people now visit Belize (489,000 in 2018). More than half of these visitors come from the United States, which is by far the largest group, but also from neighboring countries (Guatemala, Mexico) or the UK.
Travel Essentials
- Destination: for beginner travelers.
- By air: France-Belize City for 550 to 880 €.
- Entry requirements: passport.
- Currency to bring: US dollar.
- Exchange rate:
- Daily "backpacker" budget: 35 to 50 € per person.
- Best for accommodation: mid-range hotels, guesthouses, or cabanas.
- Best for getting around: buses and boats to the islands.
- Risks: relatively low in terms of health and safety.
- Best time for climate/crowds/prices: February to May, avoiding Easter for a quieter experience.
- Interests (out of ): Nature ; Adventure ; Culture ; Relaxation/Holidays .
Addresses in France
- Tourist Office: online only (in English).
- Latin America House: 217 Bd Saint-Germain, 75007 Paris. Tel.: +33 1 49 54 75 00.
Addresses in Belgium, Switzerland, and Quebec
Socio-Economic Statistics
- "Quality of life": 106/188 (rank in 2018)
- GDP per capita: $8,300 USD (2017)
- Average monthly income: $348 USD (2011)
- Inflation: +1.1% (2017)
- "Official" unemployment: 9% (2017)
- Population below the poverty line: 41% (2013)
- Life expectancy: 74.7 years (2018)
- Migration rate per 1,000 inhabitants: 0 (2017)
- Population growth: 1.8% (2018)
- Literacy rate:
- Urban population: 45.7% (2018)
- Press freedom: 47/180 (rank in 2017)
- Political regime:
Sources: World Bank, Human Development Indicators, RSF, The Economist, The World Factbook