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- Incredible Belize
Incredible Belize
Central America’s best kept secret
Central America's Best Kept Secret
Belize is no ordinary destination – a still unspoiled wild destination, brimming with life and diversity. Full of national parks, marine reserves and wildlife sanctuaries, Belize has EVERYTHING that curious adventure minded travellers crave.
And It’s Your Playground
The 165 mile Belize Barrier Reef System, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the longest barrier reef in the Western hemisphere. It encompasses seven marine protected areas, three unique coral atolls and hundreds of tiny islands or cayes (“keys” as Belizean’s call them). There’s something for everyone in Belize.
What Makes Belize So Special?
Belize has 3 of only 4 coral atolls in the entire western hemisphere. Turneffe, Lighthouse and Glover’s Reef. Belize’s outer atolls combined with the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System put Belize in a league of it’s own amongst Central American destinations and the Caribbean as a whole.
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3 Atolls
Remote marine environments largely untouched by the modern world
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The Barrier Reef
2nd longest in the world - running the entire length of the country
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The Cayes
400+ tropical islands to be explored
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Conservation
24 marine + 100 terrestrial protected areas
Words and photos really do not do justice when relating how enjoyable this experience really was. I understand completely how people fall in love with Belize and it's coral atolls. Thank You Island Expeditions!
-Joseph S (Winnipeg, Canada)
Belize Has It All
Renowned for its vibrant coral reefs and rich marine life, Belize is a top destination for snorkeling, kayaking, fishing, and scuba diving. The Belize Barrier Reef is the second largest in the world, and offers endless opportunities in the marine environment.
Inland, Belize is equally impressive. The country boasts vast tracts of undisturbed wetlands, Caribbean pine forests, and lush rainforests. Remarkably, over 35% of Belize’s land is under some form of conservation protection, the highest percentage of protected land in Central America.
For those interested in history and culture, Belize is home to some of the most fascinating archaeological sites in the region. Discover the ancient Mayan ruins of Lamanai, Xunantunich, and Caracol or venture into the underworld at the legendary Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) cave. Exploring at least one of these ancient sites is a must for any Belize vacation.
All your 'un-BELIZE-able' Questions Answered...
The Belize Dollar has a fixed rate of $2BZD to $1USD. USD currency and travellers cheques in USD are widely accepted. Credit cards can be used in most shops in major towns and cities. ATMs are becoming more common in Belize but can be problematic at times.
Type A and B (110V AC). Same as the U.S.A. and Canada. No adapters needed.
Central Time Zone (CST). Belize does not observe Daylight Savings Time.
Belize does treat their tap water and most locals and expats drink from the tap; however, bottled water is readily available throughout the country. Safe drinking water is accessible throughout your Island Expeditions' tour.
Taxis are identifiable by their green license plates. Be sure to agree on a price before starting your journey. They are non-metered and fares are generally standardized. Taxis from the Belize International Airport are a standard rate which is posted upon exiting the customs area.
There are no endemic diseases. No inoculations are required for entry; however, we do strongly recommend you consider a Havrix injection for Hepatitis A (or Twinrix for both Hep A & B) and an up-to-date tetanus shot. Belize was certified Malaria-Free by the World Health Organization in 2023; however its good to exercise caution in areas with biting insects. Contact your doctor or travel clinic prior to traveling to Belize.
Valid Passports are required for entry into Belize.
For up-to-date information on entry requirements into Belize, please check the Belize Tourism Board's Website.
Please contact our office if you have any questions (1-800-667-1630) or the nearest Belize Embassy.
General Sales Tax (GST) adds 12.5% on top of most goods and services within Belize.
Belize Hotel Tax adds 9% on top of the cost of most hotel nights within Belize. Some hotels charge 5-10% as a service charge as well.
By Air
All passengers are required to pay an international departure tax of $39.25USD. Most of the airlines now include these fees in their ticket price - please review your airline fare breakdown for more information.
By Land
All travellers are required to pay an international departure tax of $20USD
By Sea
All travellers are required to pay an international departure tax of $20USD
Our Guests Have A Lot To Say
London, Canada
If there were higher ratings I would give them. There are some many positive things to say - but one thing which really stands out is the care the local guides take to engage us in their culture and let us know what we are seeing on land and in the sea.
Victoria, Canada
The food was incredible - both guides were top notch. Patient and flexible, fun and knowledgable. Extremely professional.
Stittsville, Ontario
I was blown away by the staff on this trip and they felt like family by the end! I just wish I had more time here.
Winnetka, Illinois
The guides were superb and well organized with lots of activities planned
Westminster, Colorado
We enjoyed the first so much we decided to return. We met some very nice folks and your staff are excellent. There aren’t many similar options out there.
Red Deer County, Alberta
We loved that we stayed with the same group more or less for the complete time. We became close. Lounging places were great in both locations. We hope to come again.
Ottawa, Ontario
A very special place. Snorkelling and reef were excellent. The sunset happy hour on the sandbar was phenomenal. A great start to the trip.
Toronto, Ontario
Well-run travel company with great customer support, in-country knowledge and support, and awesome people. Highly recommended.
Passekeag, New Brunswick
Both Alex and Matthew have been excellent. They took great care of us in planning a variety of activities based on our interest, comfort and fitness levels, and weather conditions. They were thoughtful, courteous, and put our safety and enjoyment as top priorities.
Redwood City, California
Excellent food, loved it all, amazing what she can cook up on an island. Enjoyed learning about Belize, it's people & it's cultures. Felt safe & well taken care of.
Cincinnati, Ohio
First experience was incredible. In fact we said it was the best holiday wed ever had. This time it was even better! Happy hour on the sand bar is so special. All my friends and family saw our Facebook posts and were blown away and everyone said they are tagging along with us next time.
Calgary, Alberta
Both of these guides were professional, knowledgeable and courteous. They genuinely cared about your needs and concerns and answered all of your questions without making you feel like a burden. Linden actually sat and just talked with us for a long time one morning sharing stories and information about his life in Belize.
Onancock, Virgina
Mel accommodated my dietary preference amazingly well. The food was so good that I looked forward to every meal .
London, United Kingdom
The meals were varied and balanced - I didn't feel I needed more. I liked the the adventures you offered. I like everything about glovers reef. Thank you, we'll be back.
Fernie, British Columbia
I'm very, very appreciative of the vegan meals that Mel and Elta provided. The food was delicious and filling and I felt very well looked after. Thank you! It's a trip I will be grateful for forever.
Victoria, British Columbia
After our first trip we were hooked, we have now returned 6 times!
Duncansville, Pennsylvania
Steve was wonderful at managing this large group and very personable and funny and entertaining and organized and knowledgeable about all of the nature on shore and in the water. Also other guides were just as helpful.
Ripley, Ontario
All meals were excellent. Really enjoyed the last night “special” dinner. Just an overall great trip. Well organized and just amazing environment to visit.
Brookings, South Dakota
Shannan and Mel made it super easy to line up what I wanted to do in my limited vacation time, and from the moment I touched down until the day I headed back to the airport the entire trip went seamlessly from one thing to the next. I'm extremely impressed with how efficiently everything was run. I've already been raving about this to all my friends, and I can't wait to come back!
Petawawa, Ontario
My family really appreciated the way meals were laid out to allow everyone, including children to help themselves family style. Meant everyone could eat what they enjoyed! Eating the fish we caught was a real highlight!
Calgary, Alberta
We have been using island Expeditions for many years because of the quality of services and expertise. Thank you for a wonderful experience.
Iowa City, Iowa
Overall it was an awesome trip. I was a little nervous, bringing 10 others besides myself, that they might not find it as exciting and delightful as I had the first time. I need not have worried - all in our group had an outstanding experience, and I've received nothing but gratitude for being the catalyst and organizer.
Portland, Oregon
Had so much fun on our first trip and wanted to do it again. Love the guides, snorkelling and kayaking. It was another fantastic action packed adventure, with enthusiastic guides and participants
Spruce Grove, Alberta
I had the most fantastic experience with Island Expeditions! I felt connected to the people and environment of Belize, learning more about its history, culture, wildlife, and geography every day. The island and its facilities were beautiful, and sleeping in my tent every night with the sea breeze blowing on me and the sound of the waves crashing was an unforgettable experience.
Ann Arbor, Michigan
They seemed to arrange the snorkeling so that the sites got better as we went rather than doing the best first. That is a good way to see lots but also make each new place the best. They answered all our questions and were also willing to talk about life in Belize. Which helped us understand the country and people better.
Harrison, Idaho
We chose Island Expeditions because we love the glamping and snorkelling and rustic luxury that they offer - AND longstanding relationship with their staff, their commitment to the environment and to Belize.
Vancouver, British Columbia
I think the actual service you provide is far beyond what you advertise. This really was a full-service tour company that didn't just help us set up a great vacation, but led all the important work to ensure the trip could logistically happen.
Pemberton, British Columbia
Your glamping camp systems and details are excellent, organized, comfortable and clean, so dialed. The whole team was very warm, cheerful, supportive and helpful. Lighthouse reef is a beautiful location with lots of adventure options.
Argenta, British Columbia
Above and beyond our expectations!! You are doing an amazing job! The staff was truly fantastic!
Hopkinton, New Hampshire
I have been travelling with IE for 10 years, on 5 separate trips. I initially found them when looking for a kayak trip to Belize. The IE SUP trips combine adventure, tropical weather and sun, skills development and snorkeling in a small group environment. Each day, the adventure is different and even better then the day before.
Sidney, British Columbia
We will definitely be recommending Island Expeditions to our friends. Your facilities and your guides are exceptional.
Anchorage, Alaska
I have worked in the education field my whole life. I was blown away by the care, knowledge and professionalism all of these guides had for us. They bent over backwards to make us happy. Best experience ever.
Flossmoor, Illinois
All the staff made our trip fantastic. They all work hard all day. Siri is new and her knowledge will grow. It’s great to see a female guide. Even though this was my fourth trip to Lighthouse Reef/Half-moon Caye I still learned new things from the guides.
Victoria, British Columbia
My trip will be forever remembered because it was special and outstanding. I enjoyed the happy hour also! Always delicious snacks and drinks.
Tobiano, British Columbia
I felt the guides all had great qualities and they cared well for our safety - and all while guiding a large group with such varied abilities and strengths. I don’t know how you get such wonderful guides, but keep up the great work!
Gaylord, Michigan
The setting was beautiful, the snorkeling and other nature on the island were wonderful but what really made the trip for us was the fabulous staff - each person we encountered (office staff and on the island) were professional, friendly and each added to our having a great experience.
Verona, Wisconsin
We knew it was going to be a great trip, but the team exceeded expectations every step of the way. We underestimated the amount of time we would spend learning about the ocean - the daily chats about coral, fish, etc were such a cool thing for our 10-year-old to experience. Thank you for such a memorable vacation, I have no doubt we will be back one day!
Winnipeg, Manitoba
EXCEPTIONAL. The whole place was ran like clockwork. The manager Luis was extremely personable, knowledgeable, helpful, he created an environment that was close to paradise. Everyone else was superb as well. The guides were superior and I particularly liked how they interacted with guests. It felt like one big family and we were introduced to the other guests to create a community.
Deep River, Ontario
The guides were all outstanding. Very knowledgeable, caring and considerate. They always did their best to make our experience top tier. Trip of a lifetime!
Pemberton, British Columbia
We chose Island Expeditions because of the small group sizes, unique experiences and care for the community and environment, This was the best trip we've ever taken - we look forward to traveling with you again.
Kansas City, Missouri
Pedro was always ready with interesting information and stories. A wonderful person to lead the Maya Moho River trip.
Vancouver, British Columbia
Crooked Tree is a very special place. So many birds! And staff who are committed to helping you find them. This was our first time to Belizian Mayan sites and those were very interesting.
Canmore, Alberta
The guides were all so very helpful and fun, patient, knowledgable and kind. Love, Love, Love and am planning to return!
Toronto, Ontario
Ben was very special for our family. He stayed with us the entire trip and became very close with the kids. Extremely positive and knowledgeable and kind. Hope we can see him again. One of our best family trips ever for the whole experience. Thank you for all the work and care in arranging our trip.
Woodlands, Texas
The snorkelling was AMAZING. I have never seen water that colour before. So many fish. The guides were so competent and would tell us each kind they saw. You could tell that safety was a priority. We met so many participants that had taken trips with Island Expeditions a number of times and we could see why. We want to join their number.
Deep River, Ontario
I loved the area where happy hour took place, as well as the dining area. It really allowed people to get to know each other. The "culture talks" were a highlight. The staff (Louis, Ben, Garfield, Matthew, and the cooks and housekeeping staff) were fantastic!
Glen Haven, Colorado


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The only problem we ever have with IE trips is choosing which one to do. We love Belize