Best accommodation in Belize

Belizean accommodation is expensive by Central American standards, but there are nonetheless plenty of budget hotels in all towns, and the most popular tourist destinations – Caye Caulker, San Ignacio, Placencia – have a great deal of choice and are often less expensive than the rest of the country. Finding a room is usually no problem, though at Christmas, New Year and Easter, booking ahead is advisable.

Hostels are uncommon in Belize, though some dormitory accommodation (usually US$10–15) is available in Belize City, Caye Caulker, Dangriga, Placencia, San Ignacio and San Pedro. Most budget travellers rely instead on budget hotels, which usually charge US$25–35 for a double, depending on the city. Check out Belize Explorer (www.belizeexplorer.com), which lists over 100 good-value places to stay for under US$75, for ideas.

There are also few proper campsites in the country, and those that do exist have only the most basic services. Some mid-priced hotels in smaller villages and on the coast will allow you to pitch a tent on their grounds, but this can be expensive. In order to camp in any protected area, you’ll have to get permission from park authorities – except at the entrances to the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve and the Jaguar Reserve, where reservations are usually not necessary.