Obtain the appropriate paperwork before you travel. Secure a passport for travel by air or land to Belize City that is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival. You will also be required to provide a proof of return to the United States. No visa is required for those tourists who stay up to 30 days. Children are required to have both travel documentation as well as a parental letter of consent. Pets require health documentation for entry into Belize.
Fly into Belize City from the United States through most commercial airlines such as American Airlines, Continental Airlines, Delta or US Airways. International passengers can fly such airlines as Maya Island Air Regional and Grupo TACA. Private aircraft can also fly into Belize, but must be cleared through the Belize Airport Authority and Civil Aviation Department. International flights land at Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport, and the Belize Tourist Board maintains an information booth by the baggage claim to assist you.
Americans who attempt to drive into Belize City will have to travel through Mexico and roughly over 1000 miles. However, it can provide a cheaper alternative than flying, and this trip can often be an adventure in and of itself. You will be required to show your entry documents as well as proof of ownership and proof of insurance. As an alternative to driving your own car, U.S. border cities provide bus travel to Belize via Cancun and Mexico City.
Arrive by sea either by a cruise ship or by boat. Any boats that arrive in a Belize port must check in with the Belize Port Authority to clear any immigration, customs or health criteria to enter the country. If you are taking a cruise to Belize City but will travel back to the United States by plane, ensure that you have a valid passport so that you are allowed to board the aircraft. Otherwise check with your cruise line what documentation is required for any closed-loop travel, which simply means returning to the port where you departed. Generally speaking, passengers on a closed-loop cruise are only required to show a birth certificate and a government-issued photo ID.
If traveling from the United States, the U.S. State Department recommends that you sign up with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program. This will provide up-to-date information on security and local travel, and will enable the U.S. Embassy to assist you in the event of an emergency. Sign up either online or at your nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
