Belize: Authorities extend nightly curfew through at least Aug. 31 to curb the spread of COVID-19 /update 27

Event

Authorities in Belize have issued orders to extend the 21:00-04:00 nightly curfew through at least Aug. 31 to curb the spread of COVID-19. Some version of a nighttime curfew has been in place since at least mid-June.

In the Conejo, Midway, Santa Elena, and Barranco villages of Toledo District, the nightly curfew will continue running between 20:00-05:00. Members of the security forces and immigration and customs workers, healthcare workers, and those with authorization from the national government are exempt from the curfew.

The government also extended other COVID-19-related restrictions. Businesses and facilities, including restaurants, gyms, fitness centers, churches, casinos, gaming establishments, and personal grooming services, can operate at 50 percent capacity, provided they enforce social distancing measures. Outdoor dining in restaurants is allowed at up to 75 percent capacity. However, all bars, rum shops, discotheques, and nightclubs remain closed. Nonessential businesses must allow employees to work from home whenever possible.

All persons over the age of five must wear protective facemasks at all times, except while in private residences or when exercising or engaging in any sports activity, driving alone or only with immediate family members, riding motorcycles or bicycles, or while seated at restaurants. Gatherings of more than 10 people are prohibited; all persons must adhere to social distancing directives. Outdoor exercise is permitted, provided social distancing measures are maintained; however, contact sports are allowed for training purposes only.

International Entry Restrictions
All air travelers five years or older, regardless of vaccination status, are required to show proof of a negative PCR test taken within 96 hours prior to their travel, or a negative antigen test taken within 48 hours prior to their travel. Travelers without proof of pre-travel testing must take a test in the airport upon arrival at their expense. If a traveler tests positive, they will be required to quarantine for 14 days at their own expense. Additionally, tourists must have a reservation at a Gold Standard-certified lodging establishment, and show proof upon arrival.

The Western Border (Benque Viejo del Carmen) and Northern Border (Santa Elena) land border crossing points remain open to foreign tourists only. Land borders are open to tourists Mondays through Fridays between 08:00-16:00, and Saturdays and Sundays between 08:00-12:00. Pre-departure COVID-19 tests will not be accepted for travelers arriving via these routes. Instead, travelers must take a rapid COVID-19 test upon arrival. Travelers arriving by land can use private transport, but must have reservations for at least three nights at a Gold Standard-certified lodging establishment.

Individuals who have recently been in India or Bangladesh remain banned from entering Belize by any form of transport until further notice.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks. Highly targeted, localized measures could be enforced in villages and towns with higher disease activity.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance.

Resources

World Health Organization (WHO)
Government COVID-19 Updates
Belize Tourism Board