You’ve got questions? We’ve got answers!
Review our most frequently asked questions for more information about Belize Adventures at Long Caye and traveling to Belize.
While no Wi-Fi is available, as of 2021, our island now has a cell phone signal. You will likely have access to phone service to contact those who did not travel with you.
Staff members are trained in First Aid, and we maintain constant phone contact. Evacuations by boat can be arranged, but you must pay all expenses. There is a rental helicopter in Belize, but no medical helicopter at this time. If inland, transportation to Belize City is easily arranged at your expense. Be sure you have funds on hand to pay for any emergency. Hospitals in Belize do accept credit cards. We require all guests to get travel insurance during your stay.
Southern Regional Hospital in Dangriga would be the most commonly used for minor injuries.
There is also Love Clinic and Southern Emergency Services Belize close by in Hopkins.
For more advanced medical attention and procedures, this would entail being transported to Belize City to the private hospitals: Belize Medical Associates or Belize Healthcare Partners.
Dehydration is the first and foremost issue. Please drink plenty of water, which is available 24/7 in five gallon drums, located in the library and dining hall.
Sunburn is the second risk to be very mindful of. Bring your own reef-safe sunscreen, or purchase from our gift shop. There are several aloe vera plants on the island, which hopefully you won’t need to use. Please apply at least an hour before activities, and reapply during the day.
Although the island has beautiful sand, it is broken coral, so please wear flip flops or sandals when walking. Even a small scratch or cut from the sand or coral can be painful.
With the postcard perfect photos, it can seem ideal to read a book under the shade of a coconut tree.
Please be mindful of sitting (or walking) under the coconut trees bearing nuts.
They can fall and cause injury, with or without the breeze.
Our seating areas are away from such danger.
Accommodations consist of 21 beachfront cabanas, two being duplex cabanas with 2 rooms, so 23 units in total. Each cabana has a Queen orthopedic bed.
Most cabanas sleep 2, and some accommodate 3 or 4. Linens, towels, blankets, and pillows are provided. Specific cabana reservations cannot be made, as assignments consider everyone’s needs.
Rooming is not always based on a first-come, first-served basis, as we prioritize accommodating the group as a whole.
On the island, we have both urinals and composting toilets. Rainwater is used (heated and pumped by the sun) for bathing. Showers are private, but the bathroom facilities are at least 50 feet from the rooms. For more information on our island facilities, please click here.
Due to rusting issues, we do not have safes on the island. We are cashless on the island, so there is minimal need to bring cash to the island. We advise against leaving money in plain sight in the cabana. We have security and first aid trained staff on duty 24/7, for peace of mind of all guests.
While no Wi-Fi is available, as of 2021, our island now has a cell phone signal. You will likely have access to phone service, but make roaming plans in advance with your provided to avoid costly charges.
Please be aware that the island’s conditions can be harsh on electronics due to waves and salt in the air. We advise against bringing computers as they may be damaged. On the island, we have 12 Volt electric systems and cigarette lighter outlets with USB ports in the Dining Hall for charging.
To charge devices or camera batteries without USB cords, use a car cigarette lighter charger or purchase an inverter for your regular battery charger. Most battery chargers will work on small inverters, but we don’t provide them to avoid compatibility issues and responsibility for your devices. Please test your charger with the inverter in your car beforehand to ensure compatibility. Note that charging is only possible during daylight hours.
We always use cabana #1 for guests with a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine.
Although we are powered by solar and wind, the biggest battery bank is in the adjacent dining hall, with a steady electricity supply for night time.
Yes. Glover’s Reef Atoll is part of The Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System (BBRRS), inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996.
During periods of calm weather, a few bugs could be present on the island. As a preventative measure, we do treat the resort for sandflies and mosquitoes on a weekly basis.
The West end of the island, and adjacent islands are not treated. Reef-safe bug spray and sunscreen is available to purchase in our gift shop.
While no Wi-Fi is available (perfect for unplugging), our island does have cell phone signal.
The furthest island within Glover’s Reef Atoll installed a cell phone tower in 2021, which provides reliable cell service (calls/data).
You will likely have access to phone service, but make roaming plans in advance with your provided to avoid costly charges.
We suggest a roaming plan (~US$10/day) to avoid roaming fees.
Please contact us to request our Belize packing list if you have not received it yet.
No, you should never touch coral. We prioritize the preservation of the reef and urge everyone to be mindful of this area we feel fortunate to have access to.
Yes. In colder weather (60-65 degrees), the extra layer extends the warmth of your other clothes. Cold spells can happen any time of the year, and long underwear is a helpful item most people already own.
Many sports require special gear that we do not provide as it is personal gear and must fit your body. Contact us to request a complete packing list, which we can mail or email. For recommendations on fishing in Belize and the best fins for snorkeling, visit these blogs.
We don’t have a restaurant on the island; all our meals are buffet-style. Our Belizean menu showcases fresh seafood, locally sourced fruits, and vegetables. A typical dinner includes an appetizer, an entrée (fish, chicken, pork, or vegetarian), two side dishes with vegetables and carbohydrates, and a dessert. We often serve homemade bread and salads as part of the meal.
We happily accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other requirements—just let us know in advance, due to our kitchen’s remote island location.
Contact us in advance with questions about your specific dietary needs.
All drink supplies are restocked multiple times a day.
Limited ice is available.
Our drinking water comes from the mainland in purified five gallon containers.
Belikin beer and stout (Belizean brand), Sprite, Coca-Cola, Orange Fanta, and Soda Water (no diet sodas) are included in the trip price and stored in a solar-powered refrigerators.
We offer fresh oranges with a handheld juice press, as well as juice concentrates for mixing with water or cocktails.
Guests are responsible for bringing their alcoholic beverages, such as rum, which can be purchased duty-free at the international airport in Belize City upon arrival.
Please call to check availability before booking airfare. We must confirm availability if you want to make a reservation less than four weeks before the trip. You must ensure we have room, make your air reservations, and then call back to confirm your spot. We only hold spaces with deposits for 48 hours (or 24 hours on popular dates), and seats can sell out quickly. If the hold expires, we may sell the seats to others on the waiting list if we have yet to receive your deposit.
Participants must be 5 years or older to join. For specific activities such as Diving on Glover’s Reef Atoll, the minimum age is 8, while for Windsurfing and Kayak Surfing on Glover’s Reef Atoll, the minimum is 12.
Yes, pregnant participants are welcome on our trips. However, you must discuss your travel plans with your doctor and obtain a letter of permission, specifically mentioning that being 3 hours away from medical care and a 1.5-4-hour boat ride to the island is not a concern. A belly strap for added support is recommended.
While pregnant, you can participate in most sports except scuba diving and windsurfing due to potential risks. Surf kayaking is a possibility. The best time to visit is during the first and second trimesters when you have more energy. Please note that unpasteurized yogurt is the only item on our menu that should be avoided. Remember to rent a wetsuit several sizes larger than your usual size to accommodate your belly.
We kindly request a 20% deposit per person to secure your space. Making a reservation is accessible through our secure online payment link. We accept most card payments, including American Express, VISA and MasterCard. Please note that any applicable discounts will be applied toward the final balance rather than the initial deposit.
A digital Waiver is sent via email. The completely-filled-out form and the final balance are both due 60 days prior to departure. This includes dietary requirements. Please contact us if you wish to book less than 60 days out.
If you are unable to travel due to illness, cancellation, restrictions placed on your home country or Belize by the government(s) or airlines, or if the resort is unable to open due to government restrictions, any paid bookings are eligible for an insurance claim through your travel insurance policy. Travel credit for the following season (only) is available, with enough notice.
Any conditions out of our control that delay your arrival or departure may add to your cost; all extra charges caused by delays (late luggage, additional flights, or catching up with a trip in progress) or any variations from the itinerary (early departure, evacuation) will be at the customer’s expense.
To cancel, please call us or send an email. Your cancellation is only complete once we have acknowledged receipt or spoken to you in person. Once you release your seats, Belize Adventures reserves the right to resell them. Cancellation fees still apply even if we can find others for these seats.
Our reservation and cancellation policy is set because all flights to Belize fill extremely early during this time frame, and third-party costs are paid in advance. When a spot is vacated less than three months before the package date, reselling is difficult because flights to Belize are prohibitively expensive or no longer available.
We require 20% of the deposit per person (not per booking) at the time of booking. If the cancellation occurs more than 60 days before trip, the deposit will not be refunded. The remaining 80% is due within 60 days of arrival.
If unforeseen circumstances make trip cancellation unavoidable, we reserve the right to cancel a trip for which deposits have been collected. In such cases, we will refund all of your money, but please note that our financial liability is limited to the amount you have paid and does not cover any additional costs incurred by the trip member. Travel credit for the same season, or following season would be offered.
Please note that no partial refunds or credits will be provided for any unused services, including hotel rooms or meals. Our trips are offered as complete packages, and credits are not issued for unused services. No refunds will be given for any reason once the trip has begun.
Below are the island rental policies, but please reach out with further questions.
1. Minimum 30 paying guests required depending on the season. The island can hold up to 46 guests, maximum.
2. No one books individually; only balloon payments are accepted for charter bookings.
3. One-week charter includes accommodations, meals, transfers, and specified inclusions. Detailed list of inclusions is provided above.
Belize is English-speaking, safe for international travel, and easy to get to. From most U.S. and Canadian destinations, you can travel here in one day. We specialize in Belize—let us show you our favorite destination in the world.
Passports are required for travel to Belize. Your passport must be valid throughout your stay in Belize with proof of return ticket. If you do not have evidence of a return ticket, your passport must be valid for six months past your entry date into Belize. Visas are automatically distributed to U.S., Canadian, and British citizens on the plane. Persons from other countries need to contact their consulate.
In general, late November – June is the “dry” season, with February – March enjoying the most ideal weather. Ideal weather means a temperature in the low 80s during the day, the low 70s at night, and winds at 10-15 mph. June through early November is the “rainy” season, but out at Glover’s Reef Atoll, it’s not nearly as wet as on the mainland. Please note that online weather forecasts available for Glover’s Reef Atoll can be unreliable for specific dates.
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, it is essential to read the trip material as soon as you sign up. We will send you comprehensive trip documentation since being well-prepared significantly influences your trip experience. We recommend reading the following materials: (1) the detailed Guidebook you receive upon completing your reservation, (2) this FAQ page. If you have any questions, contact our staff, who will gladly assist you.
While our island is all-inclusive, a few expenses are not covered on the mainland, such as alcoholic beverages (other than beer at the island) that you purchase on the mainland, airport taxis, and third-party hotels. Island SCUBA diving, staff tips, and gift shop purchases are paid by card at the end of your stay. These additional costs can amount to several hundred dollars. It can be challenging to access cash in Belize, so we recommend US dollars to cover any extra expenses and unforeseen emergencies such as delayed luggage, unreliable ATMs, or blocked credit cards.
Tipping the crew is not mandatory but is appreciated as a reflection of your satisfaction with their service. Typically, tipping is organized as a group effort, where one guest collects the entire tip from all group members and presents it to the trip leader at the end of the trip. The tip is divided among the staff members, including trip managers, guides, cooks, and island caretakers. It’s important to note that tips are added to guest credit cards at the end of the stay. The industry standard for each guest is 10-20% of the trip price.
To prepare physically, focusing on improving stamina and overall health is recommended. The activities on the island involve walking, bending, scrambling, carrying boats, getting in and out of boats, swimming, and windsurfing, which require physical effort. Engaging in all-body conditioning exercises like yoga can be beneficial. Additionally, it is crucial to maintain good health and avoid contact with sick individuals.
Kids under 16 must travel with both parents or documentation from the absent parent is required. A new Belize law (2010) requires any kids under 16 to have a notarized letter from each of their parents permitting them to enter the country if either or both parents are not present. For further explanation on this topic, visit our Belize Family Vacation page and read the Special Documentation for Traveling with Kids to Belize section.
You will receive your t-shirt during your final day on the island.
We require all guests to acquire travel insurance, including medical and trip cancellation policies.
When entering the total trip cost, please enter the total for all lodging, tours, or transportation purchased. Most insurance companies require you to purchase a policy when you make your reservation, or within 14 days of booking.
https://www.squaremouth.com is a good price comparison website for travel insurance. Belize Adventures does not reccommend a certain insurance policy or provider. Our cancellation policy and travel delay policy is firm.
There are no longer any COVID-19 restrictions in Belize, as of June 2022.
Once you arrive at the Belize International Airport, you will need to get to the Southern town of Hopkins and overnight at a third party hotel or guesthouse. We are happy to assist you in arranging transport between Belize City or anywhere in Belize to Hopkins. We offer a complimentary shuttle from your accommodation in Hopkins to Sittee River Marina, the morning of your package.
The boat ride takes an hour and a half, on average (weather dependent). The distance is 36 miles, and Long Caye is an hour beyond the Belize Barrier Reef.
This initial night allows our guests to be ready to meet their guides and fellow travelers the following morning at 10:00 am, before embarking on the boat ride at 10:30 am to the island. The boat journey to the island typically takes about 1.5 hours, though it can be longer depending on weather conditions, and it usually departs early in the morning. Please note that early departures may occur due to approaching storms. Therefore, it is essential to be in Hopkins the night before.
Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate late arrivals or date changes for our scheduled boat departures from Hopkins. The only way to arrive late or depart early is to charter your own boat. Due to logistical constraints and potential weather conditions, it is impossible to delay the boat departure even by a few hours.
Guests who choose to arrive late because they can’t meet our schedule need to stay in close contact with us. If extreme weather occurs, causing a delay, you will need to meet the delayed group in Hopkins by 10 am on Sunday or Wednesday. Please stay in contact with our team.
Orientation sessions are essential for each sport due to safety reasons. Snorkel orientation is mandatory on the first afternoon, followed by the Belize sea kayaking orientation the next morning. These orientations are not repeated. Other orientations like windsurfing, and paddleboarding are available multiple times once the initial orientations are completed. Weather conditions can vary, affecting the availability of certain activities.
The itinerary begins structured to ensure everyone attends sports orientations but becomes entirely flexible by the end of the trip. While participation in sports is not mandatory, attending an orientation/safety session is required before trying any sport, regardless of your experience. You can join guided activities or explore on your own as long as you have a buddy and have attended the orientation session. We reserve the right to veto any plans we deem unwise.
We reserve the right to change the itinerary if necessary due to weather conditions or other factors beyond our control. No refund is given if this occurs.
Guests who wish to arrive late or miss a flight will be financially responsible for chartering a boat from Hopkins, Belize, out to the island. The boat ride from Hopkins to Long Caye is $750US, which can be paid by card. We arrange the charter for you with our experienced captains. The latest safe departure time from Hopkins to reach Long Caye before dark is 2:30pm. If your flight is delayed or you cannot make it on time, it is recommended to stay overnight in Hopkins and travel to the island the following morning. If you make your own boat arrangements, ensure the boat has two engines, life jackets are available, and it is essential to wear the life jackets, as captains may not insist on them.
No. Diving and dive courses are available through our dive shop Off The Wall Dive Center for an additional fee.
For diving prices, please click here:
https://www.belizeadventures.com/belize-scuba-diving-certification/
For dive courses, please click here:
https://www.belizeadventures.com/belize-scuba-diving-certification/
Yes you can. We have shore access from the beach, and daily guided trips.
We concentrate solely on Glover’s Reef Atoll. Although they have been spotted around Glover’s Reef Atoll in the past, we never advertise or offer tours to see Whale Sharks.
Whale Sharks tend to be found every year, following the full moons of April, May, and June nearer to Gladden Spit, located within the Gladden Spit and Silk Cayes Marine Reserve off the coast of Placencia, Belize.
Sargassum is normally minimal at Long Caye as we have the atoll protecting us. It is only when there are northern trade winds (after snow in the US) that some appears on the beach. We mainly get east winds, so it rarely stays.
Our grounds team work hard to keep the island (including the beach) pristine year-round.
We have had northern trade winds, where the temperature can down to a chilly 56F.
The average temperature is 80F and the water hovers around 75-80F.
Whereas power cuts have been occurring from time to time in Belize, the island is self-reliant and not connected to the national grid.
Since we moved to Long Caye in 1996, the island has been run completely off-grid, on a 12 volt system.
This is mainly with solar panels, backed up by wind turbines after the sun goes down, to keep the batteries topped up.
As a back up, we have generators, but these tend to be used as an absolute minimum.
We do not offer Blue Hole diving or snorkeling tours.
The Blue Hole is based at Lighthouse Reef Atoll, which is up to three hours via boat from Glover’s Reef.
Our diving is solely at Glover’s Reef Atoll.
Package Options
We’re excited to introduce more flexible adventure packages to better suit your travel plans! We will offer three all-inclusive options:
Our equipment is exclusively available for in-house guests (only) at our private island resort, located 36 miles offshore.
Transporting the gear for rental purposes would be impractical.
We do not rent our beachside cabanas separately. The island is extremely remote, our transport only runs twice a week, and there is no restaurant other than our Dining Hall. The only way to visit our island is to purchase a package that includes transportation to and from the island, lodging and meals, beer and soda, and full use of our sports equipment with instruction.
While our accommodations may lack amenities like maid service, flush toilets, WiFi, or fancy drinks with umbrellas, our program offers unparalleled sports opportunities and the privilege of staying on a private island. Our extensive selection of top-notch gear, including over 40 sea kayaks (so your kayak fits you), windsurfing sets, surf kayaks, paddleboards, and specialized fishing kayaks, sets us apart from any resort in Belize.
Yes! Depending on the group, your guide may lead longer excursions, paddle outside the reef in the open sea, or allow advanced kayakers to paddle on their own with a “buddy.” Glover’s Reef Atoll has more to see than one could ever cover in one week.
We provide a guided, multi-sport experience with orientation sessions required for each sport. While guests with extensive experience may receive an abbreviated orientation, our guides prioritize safety and balance their time among the entire group. If you prefer a particular sport, our guides will try their best to accommodate you, but the orientation may not be available immediately. The availability of sports depends on weather conditions, so having a variety of options ensures a great experience if your preferred sport is not possible.
Our SCUBA diving has a discounted rate for 13+ dives: See pricing here.
No experience is required for any of our trips. While unpredictable weather occasionally creates challenging conditions, our island trip is perfect for beginners. The longest paddle is typically 2.5 miles, and we provide complete instruction for all sports. With the ideal setting of 80-degree water, it’s an excellent opportunity to learn or enhance your skills. People in average shape have no trouble enjoying the activities.
Don’t worry if you’re traveling alone. We have group activities all day, and you can easily find a buddy among other guests participating in the same activity. If you prefer to do an activity without a guide, plenty of people are usually looking for activity partners.
The package price per person has no hidden extras.
We do not charge a single occupancy surcharge.
The maximum group size for The Package is 46 guests in 21 cabanas. If your group size is important to you, please feel free to call us for updates on the trip size. During peak times (Christmas, New Year’s, Spring Break, and Easter), trips tend to be full, while during other times, trips may not reach maximum capacity.
Yes, there are no exceptions. Our licenses, insurance policies, and your personal safety require this.
Our boat ride is 36 miles and takes 1.5 hours across water that is up to 3,000 feet deep.
The boat will not depart if anyone is not wearing their lifejacket (personal flotation device) properly.
