Belize: Caribbean Reefs & Mayan Culture

Students in the Belize program stay at two main locations. On Caye Caulker, accommodations include dorm-style or double occupancy rooms with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and bunk beds, just steps from the beach.

At T.R.E.E.S, students stay in ventilated wooden bunkhouses with fans; bathroom facilities are shared and located in a separate building. Wi-Fi is available in the common area only.

Students in the Belize program enjoy a variety of buffet-style meals, especially at the T.R.E.E.S base. Breakfast typically includes eggs, bread, cereal, milk, juice, and fresh fruit. Lunch and dinner feature both traditional Belizean dishes such as chicken, pork, fish, rice, black beans, potatoes, and salads and familiar favorites like barbecues and burgers.

While tap water is safe for brushing teeth, students receive unlimited bottled drinking water. To reduce plastic waste, participants should bring a reusable water bottle.

The Belize program includes a moderate level of physical activity through daily service projects and outdoor adventures. Students may take part in activities like hiking, snorkeling, kayaking, and manual labor during service days. While no advanced fitness level is required, participants should be comfortable being active for several hours each day in a warm, tropical environment.

Students in the Belize program fly directly from Miami (MIA) to Belize City (BZE). There are no internal flights within Belize during the trip. The program’s advertised dates include international travel time to and from the United States. Departures typically occur on Saturday afternoons, with return flights scheduled for the following Saturday afternoon.

International students from 53+ countries join programs like Belize: Caribbean Reefs & Mayan Culture each year.

Students outside the United States enroll online or with help from Admissions. After enrollment, our team coordinates flights into Belize City (BZE) and answers travel questions.

Many families speak with Admissions before enrolling to confirm travel plans and feel confident about the journey.

We guide international students through:

• Booking flights that match group schedules into the Belize City (BZE)

• Meeting passport and visa requirements for Belize

• Paying in USD

• Coordinating arrival and departure with Program Leaders

Students may bring their phones on the Belize program but must follow Rustic Pathways’ cell phone policy. Phone use is not permitted during group activities or at any time it disrupts the group dynamic. Failure to follow this policy may result in disciplinary action.

Wi‑Fi access is limited, and students are encouraged to disconnect and fully engage in the experience. International phone plans typically have spotty reception in Belize, and Rustic does not recommend purchasing one. Parents will receive staff updates during the trip and can contact Rustic’s 24/7 emergency line if needed.

Most costs, such as accommodations, meals, in-country transportation, and activities, are included in the Belize program fee. Students should budget extra money for personal expenses like snacks, souvenirs, phone calls, or internet access, if available.

Rustic Pathways recommends bringing approximately $150 per week for incidentals. Belize accepts U.S. dollars, and students will typically receive change in Belize Dollars (BZD).

Students can expect hot, humid weather in Belize during the program, with daytime temperatures ranging from 75°F to 90°F. Occasional rain showers are common, especially in tropical areas. The climate is generally consistent during the program months, including June through August.

Rustic Pathways recommends packing lightweight, quick-drying clothing made from synthetic fibers to stay comfortable in warm, humid conditions.

Laundry service is not guaranteed during the Belize program. Students should pack enough clothing to last the entire trip and plan to rewear items as needed. Bringing lightweight, quick-drying clothes is recommended for comfort and convenience.

Students should wear casual, lightweight clothing suitable for warm and humid weather. Breathable fabrics like cotton or moisture-wicking synthetic fibers are ideal. Clothing should be comfortable for outdoor activities such as hiking, service work, and water-based excursions. Rustic Pathways recommends packing items that dry quickly and can be reworn if laundry service is unavailable.

Student health and safety are top priorities on all Rustic Pathways programs, including the Belize trip. Rustic maintains strict safety protocols, including trained staff, 24/7 emergency support, vetted accommodations, and well-established risk management systems.

Parents are encouraged to review Rustic Pathways’ comprehensive Health & Safety measures for detailed information about supervision, emergency response, and student well-being while abroad.

Rustic Pathways offers an optional Travel Protection Plan for students participating in the Belize spring break program. This plan helps protect against unexpected events such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, lost baggage, and travel delays.

Coverage details may vary, so families are encouraged to review the full policy offered through Rustic’s insurance partner. Learn more about the Travel Protection Plan