In Belize, you can use your US Dollars freely, but there are a few limitations. Locals accept the exchange rate of $1.00 USD to $2.00 BZD countrywide.
For most of your vacation, it's recommended to have cash available for day to day expenses. For larger expenses like tours and accommodation, it's better to use your credit card or debit card.
Should I Exchange US To Belize Cash?
The US Dollar is pegged $1 USD to $2 BZD countrywide. There is no need to exchange US Dollars to Belize Dollars. Banks, however have a different exchange rate.
Can I Use US Cash In Belize?
Yes US dollars are accepted, but there are a few caveats:
- $1 dollar notes are rarely accepted (local banks reject it)
- $5, $10 and $20 notes are welcome by most businesses
- $50 and $100 notes may be rejected by smaller businesses because of size
- Bring crisp, clean and undamaged US dollar bills (local bank requirement)
- Change from vendors will more than likely be Belize dollars
- US coins are not accepted in Belize
Are Credit Cards Accepted In Belize?
Visa and Master Card are accepted in Belize. American Express is accepted in Belize but only by vendors using a Belize Bank POS system.
Touristy areas like Ambergris Caye/San Pedro or Placencia will have more vendors that accept card, but small villages in the mainland will likely only accept cash.
Is American Express Accepted Widely?
The simple answer is no. Only vendors that use Belize Bank as their credit card processor can accept Amex Cards. The majority of vendors use use Atlantic Bank and Heritage bank which do not process Amex Cards.
Ask the merchant if they use Belize Bank to confirm if your Amex card is accepted.
Best ATM To Withdraw In Belize
Atlantic Bank has the lowest fees for international credit cards. Belize Bank has higher fees but also has more ATM locations throughout the country.
Cash withdrawn from Belize ATMs are in Belize Dollars and NOT US Dollars.
International debit cards also work at ATMs and at vendors with a Credit Card (POS) machine. As long as it has the Visa/Mastercard Logo, you should be fine.
Money Tips
If you'd like to convert your Belize dollars back to US Dollars, you can go to popular Chinese stores in touristy locations, and they often convert small amounts for you at the same 2 to 1 exchange rate.
When withdrawing money from ATM, avoid going on the 15th or the end of month since ATMs have long lines especially at the end of the work day.
About Author
Everything written on this blog is based on first-hand experience or knowledge as a local living in Belize. No fluff, just honest information.
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