Safety · Destination Guide
Caye Caulker Belize
Go Slow basecamp for Belize's reef, reserves, and atolls
Updated Oct 30, 2025 • 20 sources
Safety And Conservation
Belize's marine reserves are strictly managed. Follow guide briefings, stay with your group, and respect no-touch and no-take policies. For Blue Hole, only qualified divers with recent deep experience should participate. SMBs and audible signals are standard on every dive.
Top Risks
- Primary risk: Boat traffic near docks and The Split
- Secondary risk: Thimble jellyfish season
- Emergency contact: San Pedro Hyperbaric Chamber (+501-226-2851)
- Safety overview: Belize's marine reserves are strictly managed.
Dive safety
- Carry an SMB, whistle, and cutting tool. Use reef hooks only where permitted and never on living coral.
- Confirm operator oxygen, radio, and first-aid on board. For offshore days, choose larger, shaded boats.
- Observe no-fly times after diving and stay hydrated in tropical sun.
Hyperbaric support is on nearby Ambergris Caye in San Pedro, with 24-hour emergency response. Major referrals go to Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital in Belize City. Maintain DAN-style dive insurance and keep policy numbers on the boat.
Snorkel and freedive safety
Boat traffic near docks and The Split
Swim flags and high-visibility floats are essential near busy piers. Enter and exit only where local guides indicate.
Thimble jellyfish season
Wear a full rashguard or shorty during spring blooms to avoid sea-lice irritation.
Hurricane season
June to November brings tropical systems. Keep flexible plans and monitor forecasts.
Sun and dehydration
Tropical UV is intense. Use reef-safe sunscreen, hats, and hydrate between drops.
Wildlife and protected areas
- No gloves, no feeding fish outside regulated activities, and no spearfishing in reserves. Use moorings and avoid anchoring on reef.
- Respect guide-to-guest ratios and ranger instructions. Licensed guides are required for tours inside Hol Chan.
- Use reef-safe sunscreen and avoid standing on coral or seagrass.
Do Not Do This
Avoid entering when boat traffic near docks and the split. Confirm local briefings before committing.
Emergency contacts
| Contact | Role | Phone | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Pedro Hyperbaric Chamber | 24/7 dive medicine | +501-226-2851 | 24/7 |
| Belize Chamber Project Hyperbaric | Hyperbaric facility | +501-226-2660 | 24/7 |
| Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital | National referral hospital | +501-223-1548 | 24/7 |
| Emergency services | Police, Fire, Medical | 911 | 24/7 |
| DAN Emergency Hotline | Dive emergency assistance | +1-919-684-9111 | 24/7 |