What Money Do They Use in Belize? Currency Tips from a Local Guide
When you land in Belize, your money changes—but what matters more is how you use it, and how people see you using it. As a Belizean guide, I’ve watched travelers pull out crumpled bills at roadside stalls, worry about ATM withdrawals, or leave unsure about tipping. So let me walk you through money in Belize—not just what it is, but how to move with it.
🇧🇿 What Currency Does Belize Use?
The official currency of Belize is the Belize Dollar (BZD). It’s been pegged to the U.S. dollar at a fixed rate of 2 BZD = 1 USD for decades. That means:
- $10 USD = $20 BZD
- $1 USD = $2 BZD, no matter the day or bank
Is the U.S. Dollar accepts?
U.S. dollars are widely accepted, especially in tourist areas. Most shops, hotels, and tour operators take USD bills. But they don’t accept U.S. coins. Change is always given in Belize dollars.
You’ll find:
- Bills: $2, $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100 BZD
- Coins: 1, 5, 10, 25, 50 cents + $1 coin
📎 Source: Central Bank of Belize
💳 Do They Accept Cards in Belize?
Yes, in most towns and tourist areas, credit and debit cards are accepted. But it’s still a cash-first culture:
- Rural areas: Cash only
- National parks and attractions: Some still require cash for entry
- Fruit stalls, tacos, local buses: Always cash
Some ATMs accept foreign cards (Visa/Mastercard). Atlantic Bank ATMs may allow USD withdrawals, but most give out Belize dollars.
Tip: Always carry small bills, especially when tipping or paying in places with limited change.
🛂 How Much Cash Can You Bring Into Belize?
Travelers can legally bring up to US $5,000 (or equivalent) into Belize without declaration. Anything above that must be declared to customs upon arrival.
Important Update: Starting in January 2025, Belize will increase the undeclared cash limit to US $10,000. This means you’ll be able to bring more without hassle, but keep documentation like receipts or bank statements if carrying large amounts.
Failing to declare amounts over the limit can lead to fines or even seizure, so it’s best to play it safe and honest.
📎 Source: Belize Customs and Excise Department
⛔️ Money Safety in Belize
Belize is generally safe, but just like anywhere, smart handling of money matters:
- Don’t flash large amounts of cash
- Use a money belt or zippered pouch in busy areas
- Be cautious at ATMs—decline help from strangers
- Withdraw during the day, and preferably in well-lit, bank-attached ATMs
I’ve had guests thank me later for telling them not to rely on card-only payments in jungle lodges or villages.
🤝 Belizean Money Ethic: Respect, Not Flash
In Belize, how you handle money says a lot. Flashing cash is seen as showing off. But spending respectfully, tipping when moved, and being generous without acting superior? That goes a long way.
We have a saying: “Money come and go, but respect last long.”
🛍️ How Much Cash to Carry?
Estimate $50 to $100 BZD per day for general expenses like:
- Meals, snacks, drinks
- Souvenirs or street vendors
- Small park entrance fees
- Taxi or bus rides
Also set aside:
- Cash for border crossings if traveling to/from Guatemala or Mexico
- Tips: 10–15% at restaurants
- Airport taxis often require cash
🏦 Where to Exchange Currency in Belize
- Banks: Best rates and safest option (e.g., Atlantic Bank, Belize Bank)
- Hotels/resorts: Offer convenience but lower exchange rates
- Avoid border changers unless no other option
Safe ATMs by location:
- Belize City: Atlantic Bank (Main Street)
- San Ignacio: Belize Bank (Burns Ave)
- Placencia: Atlantic Bank near the main sidewalk
🌎 Local vs Tourist Spending
Locals know how to stretch their dollar:
- Buy from local markets
- Eat at roadside grills
- Take buses instead of shuttles
Tourists often overspend where they don’t need to—but it’s not about penny-pinching. It’s about spending wisely and in good spirit.
✨ Facts About Currency in Belize
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Official Currency | Belize Dollar (BZD) |
| Exchange Rate | 2 BZD = 1 USD (fixed) |
| USD Accepted? | Yes, bills only |
| Cards Accepted? | Yes, in towns/resorts |
| ATMs Available? | Yes, in most towns |
| USD Withdrawals? | Some ATMs allow (e.g., ScotiaBank) |
| Foreign Exchange? | Best via banks |
| Tips Expected? | Yes, 10–15% standard |
| Max Cash Without Declaration | $5,000 USD (rising to $10,000 USD in 2025) |
🇧🇿 Belize’s New Money 2025: What It Really Means
The Queen is gone. Belize now features George Price and Philip Goldson on our national currency.
But this isn’t just a design change — it’s a step toward reclaiming Belizean identity.
Learn what changed, why the dollar still holds its value, and what this moment says about our past and future.
📍 Final Word from Alvin
Don’t let the exchange rate confuse you. If you show up with curiosity, humility, and respect—your money will work just fine.
The most valuable currency you can bring to Belize is your good manners.
📎 Want More?
Philip Goldson and George Price
Queen Elizabeth and Belize
Belize Dollar Fixed Exchange Rate
