Sittee River Oasis
Hopkins, Belize
Planning Your Visit To Belize
Passports
A current passport with 3 to 6 months available validity is required for Canadian, American, and British citizens for entry to Belize. For citizens of other countries, contact your embassy or consulate for entry requirements. When traveling with children you will require full documentation as well as a consent letter or minor travel consent form from the absent parent(s) or guardian approving out-of-country travel. Notarization may be required.
Travel, Medical & Evacuation Insurance
We recommend short-term traveler’s insurance to ensure that you are covered for medical and evacuation expenses in case of illness or accident while traveling. We also recommend trip cancellation insurance to cover your international flight and tour package.
Though not rigorous, some activities can be physically challenging and do come with inherent risks. You will be required to complete and sign waivers in Belize, to participle in Zipline, Rappelling and other high risk activities.
Weather in the Tropics
The climate of Belize is subtropical. Temperatures range from 70 to 105F (20 to 40C) with high humidity during the day, dropping at night to 70 to 80F (20 to 27C). From November to June conditions are usually clear, sunny, and warm. However, November and December are generally cooler with rain. July through October is also a great time to travel. It is considered a shoulder season but this is because most people tend to enjoy spring and summer in their home region, and travel to hotter destinations during the winter months.
Activity schedules may need to be adjusted to compensate for inclement weather.
Travel To Belize
When traveling to Belize it is best to travel with one larger check-in bag and one carry-on bag. These bags are easy to move around, can be toted easily, fit in boats, small planes, and van roof racks. Soft luggage works best; Backpacks can work too; do try to avoid large suitcases. Check with your airline for weight restrictions and carry-on allowances.
Rental Car
We recommend renting a car unless you’ve already arranged alternative transportation for your stay. It’s the most convenient and flexible choice, with car rentals available directly at the airport, making it easy to explore all that Belize has to offer. An alternative route is to fly from Belize City to Dangriga where you can arrange a rental car service.
Packing For Belize
When packing we recommend your carry-on also be a small day pack to include what you would need to be comfortable in Belize your first few days in case your checked baggage is misrouted by the airline. Also it is smart to bring some ziplock bags to keep items extra dry incase of inclement weather.
Belize is so low key and there’s a good chance you’ll have an active vacation. There’s no reason to have expensive jewelry or watches. Leave it at home so you don’t have to worry about it.It's recommended to bring comfortable light-weight and breathable apparel. Skip the jeans, and formal wear and embrace active and casual wear.
Here is a list of things not to forget.
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Sunscreen & bug spray
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Large refillable water bottle (non-plastic)
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Lightweight hiking shoes that are ok to get wet.
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Watersport sandals,
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Tennis shoes, flip-flops
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Quick dry t-shirts and shorts
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Lightweight quick-dry long pants, long t-shirts
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Swimsuit
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Rain jacket
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Wide-brimmed sun hat or lightweight cap
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Headlamp and spare batteries
Don't bring to Belize
-Drones:They’re currently not allowed unless you have been hired to film in Belize.
-Camo:Camouflage is reserved for active members of the police or military.
-Jeans: it’s too humid in Belize for denim. Choose lightweight fabrics that are breathable. Denim shorts should be ok.
Money & Tipping
$1USD = $2BZD
US cash is accepted everywhere in Belize at a rate of 1 to 2, as well as credit cards. The amount of personal spending money you bring will largely depend on your own needs. Tipping is customary in our industry. A 10% is standard, 15-20% is for an outstanding service.
Critters and Bugs
Yes, they do exist in the jungle! Weather, wind conditions, and proximity to the previous rainy season affect the concentrations of biting insects found both on the mainland and at the island. The most effective form of precautions are clothing to cover up and a good deet-based repellent when necessary. For insect repellent you should look for something with 20%+ deet content for optimal protection. Lightweight long pants, socks, and a light long sleeve shirt will help when the bugs are out. Quick-dry fabrics work very well in these instances.
Drinking Water
The water system in mainland Belize towns/cities is normally potable and safe to drink. Be sure to bring a durable water bottle and we will provide drinking water throughout your stay with us.