Belmopan, Belize holds the distinction of being both one of the newest capital cities in the world, and one of the smallest. Established in 1970 after Belize City, the former capital, was heavily damaged by Hurricane Hattie in 1961, Belmopan started as a planned community.
Today, it is home to over 16,000 residents, as well as a number of interesting attractions for tourists. Though not as large and vibrant as the rebuilt Belize City, there’s plenty to see and do in Belmopan. Let’s discover some of what you can experience here, and why it’s so important to have travel medical insurance covering you.
Travel Medical Insurance for Travelers visiting Belmopan – FAQs
If you get sick or hurt when you’re at home, it’s an inconvenience. If it happens while you’re in a foreign country, it can be an expensive nightmare. Your domestic health insurance probably won’t be accepted, leaving you with a bill you may not be able to afford to pay. Don’t let this happen to you. Get travel medical insurance instead.
Do I need travel medical insurance for Belmopan?
Belize ended its mandatory requirement for travel medical insurance back in 2022. But while it may not be legally required, it’s still absolutely essential. Can you afford to pay for major surgery with no insurance coverage? What if you need emergency medical evacuation? It’s better not to take the chance and purchase travel medical insurance.
Why buy travel medical insurance before visiting Belmopan?
Not all public hospitals in Belmopan will be equipped to handle every medical condition. You may require emergency medical evacuation to a larger facility, which can cost upwards of $100,000.
Even for less severe conditions, private treatment can be the best option, and it’s not inexpensive. Don’t risk your financial security by simply hoping you don’t become ill or get hurt while you’re abroad. Look after your health and your bank balance with travel medical insurance.
Belmopan’s Most Popular Activities
Belmopan may not be the biggest city, but who needs massive tourist attractions to have a great time? There’s plenty to see and do while you visit here. We suggest the following:
Stock Up at an Outdoor Market
Experience Belmopan as the locals do by visiting one of its traditional market stalls. They sell a variety of local fare, as well as fresh fruits and vegetables. The largest of these markets is located right in the core of the city’s downtown area, and it’s easily accessible by bus. You’ll also be a short distance from one of the city’s buzzing flea markets, so you can enjoy even more shopping.
Explore Guanacaste National Park
At just 50 acres, Guanacaste National Park isn’t as large as you might expect a national park to be, but it more than makes up for it with its beauty and accessibility. There are several miles of hiking trails here, native flora and fauna all around, and storybook views of Roaring Creek. There’s even a birdwatching deck for the birding fans who come to visit. Guanacaste National Park is a great way to decompress and relax for a pleasant afternoon.
Find Adventure in the Caves
Located just 30 miles from Belmopan is Nohoch Che’en Caves Branch, an extensive network of caves that are extremely popular for tubing on the Caves Branch River running through. If you’re not a fan of going belowground, you can stay up top and enjoy a ziplining tour of the surrounding jungle.
Get Outdoors at St. Herman’s
There’s another park located less than half an hour from Belmopan: St. Herman’s Blue Hole. Named after the blue cenote in the park, it’s a popular swimming destination. You can also go hiking or birdwatching using the park’s network of trails, or simply enjoy the natural beauty of rural Belize.
George Price Centre for Peace and Development
George Price is known as the father of Belize. This educational center and museum chronicles the development of Belize, and explains its aims to be a peaceful, welcoming country now and in the future.
Key Guidelines for Travelers visiting Belmopan
Every international destination comes with its own risks and things you should be aware of. Belmopan is no different. Keep the following in mind when planning your visit to help it go as smoothly as possible.
Violent Crime is Possible
Unfortunately, Belize does have one of the higher violent crime rates in the world. And while Belmopan does not experience this as much as parts of Belize City, it is still something to be aware of. Government travel advisories recommend not traveling after dark, keeping your cellphone charged, handing over cash and valuables without resistance if demanded, and to remain aware of your surroundings at all times.
Pesky Pickpockets
Where there are tourists, there will be pickpockets. You can’t totally eliminate the risk of having your valuables snatched, but you can lessen it by keeping your valuables secure at all times, not walking alone, and not flashing cash or expensive jewelry. Be wary of strangers approaching you and getting too close, and invest in a money belt to secure your cash and credit cards.
Weather Woes
Due to its location on the Caribbean Sea, Belize is vulnerable to hurricanes and their associated winds, storm surge, and flooding. Belmopan is located somewhat inland and can weather storms better than coastal cities, but it can still be affected. And in any case, a hurricane or tropical storm will most certainly impact your flight and local transportation. Keep an eye on the weather forecast before your trip, and make sure you understand how your travel insurance may or may not cover you in the event of a hurricane.
Buzzes, Bites, and Stings
The jungles around Belmopan are home to a lot of mosquitoes, so be sure to wear long pants and long sleeves when hiking, and consider sleeping with a mosquito net if necessary. Effective mosquito repellent is a must as well. Belize is also home to a lot of scorpions. Be sure to shake your clothes and shoes out before putting them on to make sure that an uninvited guest isn’t snoozing inside them. Finally, keep an eye out for venomous snakes, and consider packing antivenin for longer jungle treks. Though snakebites are rare, it is always best to be prepared.
Best Time to Visit Belmopan
Due to its tropical location, the temperature in Belmopan doesn’t vary a huge amount throughout the year, with highs typically reaching 80-90°F year-round. The most popular time to visit is during the relatively dry season from December to May. You can certainly visit during the rainy season from June to November, as it rarely rains all day, but be sure to bring an umbrella regardless.
Before You Visit Belmopan – Do This
- Pack a raincoat and waterproof boots. It’s unlikely that it will stay completely dry during your visit to Belmopan, even during the dry season.
- Keep an eye on the tropical weather forecast. Belize is especially vulnerable to hurricanes and tropical storms, which can seriously impact your trip and make travel impossible.
- Buy insurance. Do your best to stay prepared for any eventuality with travel medical insurance.