SUSTAINABLE TOURISM IN BELIZE

protect marine life and decrease trash pollution

5 easy-peasy tips to be a responsible traveler in Belize

Obviously, the universal principles of responsible travel and sustainable tourism also apply to Belize. But as every country is unique, we listed you some of Belize’s specificities to make it even easier and comfortable to travel responsibly in Belize.

1. Coconuts&fresh juices are the #1 sustainable choice on Belize’s coast

You already know it: We love our lifestraw bottles! But on the coastal areas or small Cayes, the tap water was still salty. Even though our Lifestraw bottles cleaned the water, it often tasted a little unpleasant. Seldom has a zero-waste alternative tasted so well: coconut water or fresh juices! Just make sure to bring your straw and a bottle with you!

2. Love seafood? Know the seasons!

Belize is a haven for seafood lovers. The surrounding waters are home to yellowfish tuna, conch shells, lobsters, shrimp and lots of other tasty fish. With increasing tourism and the aim of the hosts to provide the best of the best, local fishing regulations are often mistreated. Since over-fishing has become a problem, strict regulations are in place to help marine life recover. Disregarding the rules is not only harmful to the environment but imposes severe risks on fishermen as punishments are imposed strictly. Check out the overview below to know which seafood can be enjoyed without a guilty conscience.

Do not eat:

Conch shells from July 1st to September 30th
Lobster between February 15th to June 14th
Nassau Grouper from December 1st to March 31st
Wild Shrimp from July 14 – March 14

By the way: we have seen a lot of tourists, and often even kids spearfishing parrotfish. This is not just wholly senseless and cruel but also forbidden.

Responsible Travel: know the seafood seasons!

Resonsible Travel Belize: Avoid cruise ships

4. Do not visit Belize on a cruise

For many reasons, cruise ships are a terrible idea. But with Belize being such a popular cruise destination, we feel like we can’t stress it enough. Do not visit Belize on a cruise! The country is tiny with only about 300 000 inhabitants. Just imagine the impact of 6000 people ship on people, infrastructure, and environment. Islands and villages are literally being overrun by masses of visitors.

5. Avoid centers of over-tourism

As tourism in surrounding countries picks up, so does the industry in Belize. While areas like Ambergris Caye, San Pedro, and Placencia (we hope we don’t have to add Caye Caulker to the list soon) are frequented by masses of tourists. As a result, many touristic points of interest are now run by foreigners, increasing tourism leakage. The masses of visitors cause piles of trash and challenges on the local infrastructure. Belize is so versatile and charming, why not venture off-the-beaten-path and have a beach, or even the island almost all to yourself ?!