Local Currency

Currency in Belize

The official currency in Belize is the Belize Dollar and notes are in denominations of BZ$100, 50, 20, 10, 5 and 2 and coins are in denominations of BZ$1 and 50, 25, 10, 5 and 1 cents. The Belize Dollar is tied to the US Dollar at US$1 = BZ$1.96 and because of this simple and consistent exchange rate the U.S. dollar is widely accepted anywhere in the country. Ensure to exchange your Belize bills before leaving the country as Belizean money is worthless outside of the country.

Foreign currency can be exchanged at most banks, hotels and travel agencies and many ATMs accept foreign cards, however there is a $500 limit per day and many machines are out of order or out of cash. Generally ATM exchange rates are 1% lower than bank rates.

American Express, MasterCard and Visa are widely accepted however you should be aware that most establishments will add a 5% service charge to the bills of customers using credit cards.

Traveler’s Cheques can be exchanged although commission will usually be charged and you may have some difficulty cashing them in more remote areas.

When exchanging large sums of money in Belize, ensure to keep your receipt so you can prove you did not exchange it on the black market, as this is illegal.

Banking hours are usually: Mon-Thurs 0800-1300, Fri 0800-1630. Exchange rates as of April 2009 are: £1.00=BZ$2.89; $1.00=BZ$1.98; €1.00=BZ$2.61.