Can You Fly A Drone In Belize? Complete 2023 Guide
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Can you fly a drone in Belize? This post answers all of your questions about drone flying in Belize.
Can you fly a drone in Belize? Well, it’s not as simple as a yes or no answer. I’m going to tell you about our experience flying a drone in Belize, as well as the official guidance.
According to Drone-Laws.com, flying a drone in Belize is prohibited. But you may have seen drone shots on Instagram in locations all over Belize, and wonder, how these creators or photographers took these photos.
Let’s discuss what happens when you take a drone into Belize, and if you are actually able to use it.
Other Belize posts:
- Backpacking Caye Caulker: Everything You Need To Know
- Belize City To San Ignacio: Complete Backpacker Guide
- Flores to Belize City: Complete Step-By-Step Guide
- Belize City To San Ignacio: Complete Backpacker Guide 2023
- Hummingbird Highway Belize: Ultimate Guide + Stops`
Can You Fly A Drone In Belize? A Summary
The truth is, you will be questioned about taking a drone into Belize, especially if you are travelling via Chetumal, Mexico.
At the border, immigration will ask if you have a drone. Having a drone in my bag, I immediately responded with ‘yes!’ (as I’m not someone who can lie to anyone who is official).
The immigration officer proceeded to tell me that he wouldn’t confiscate the drone, but I was not to use it, especially on the islands of Caye Caulker and San Pedro. This is because of the number of planes in Belize flying at low altitudes.
Technically, to fly a drone in Belize, you need a license, and must be Belizean. This os subject to change, so make sure you check online when you are planning a visit to Belize.
However, I have many friends who have flown their drones in Belize. Many creator friends, bloggers and vacationers. The truth is, when you are on the mainland exploring areas like the Hummingbird Highway or Mountain Pine Ridge, there isn’t anyone to tell you otherwise.
Of course, this is up to you. You could get into a bit of a twist if you’re caught by an official and need to explain why you’re using your drone without a license. Personally, we didn’t want to risk it and didn’t use our drone throughout our time in Belize.
In summary, your drone will not be confiscated upon arrival to Belize. You are not allowed to fly a drone in Belize without a specific license.
But, unofficially, from personal experience of being in Belize (and after seeing first-hand, many people flying their drones and taking photos), you can use this information at your own discretion.
Rules for drone flying in Belize
- In March 2023, Belize has strict rules banning the use of drones.
- Only commercial users are permitted to use drones in Belize.
- Drones are not allowed to be used without prior approval from the BDCA (Belize Department of Civil Aviation).
- You can only apply for a drone license to use in Belize if you are Belizean (March 2023).
- Drone laws are constantly changing, so be sure to check the latest advice when visiting Belize.
If you would like to know more about drone rules in Belize, check out this website.
Getting a drone into Belize
- All drones entering Belize should be carried in hand luggage, if possible. We always carry our drone in our small backpack, as it’s expensive and we wouldn’t want to lose it! If you buy a suitable case, it can be kept neatly away in any carry-on luggage.
- Always check with your airline if you are carrying extra batteries for your drone in your hand luggage.
- I recommend buying your drone before arriving in Belize, as electronic stores can be hard to find, and buying a drone in Belize is near enough impossible!
Need a new drone? I highly recommend the DJI Mavic 3 if you’re going to be posting on social media. It’s one of the few drones that take photos in portrait mode instead of landscape, making it perfect for Instagram posts and stories.
Tips for flying a drone
- Always make sure it is safe to fly your drone, and that there is no one around you to upset. The buzzing sound of a drone can be irritating if you’re trying to relax on the beach!
- Never fly a drone whilst driving, and always ensure you are parked somewhere safely to take drone footage (or the passenger is controlling the drone, not the driver).
- Ensure no animals are bothered or harmed by your drone flying. Dogs can become quite overwhelmed and excited with drones, so be extra cautious when landing.
Best backpacker travel insurance for Central America
If you’re visiting Central America as a backpacker, or even for a short vacation, it is so important to have travel insurance. And if you ended up on a post that’s called ‘epic party tips’, you know (just as well as I do) that you definitely need travel insurance.
Personally, I recommend SafetyWing. As a digital nomad and world traveller myself, I can confirm it is the best travel insurance out there. And one of the cheapest – they have deals that start at just $42 USD per month.
I know, I know, you’re thinking ‘but I can’t afford that!’. I was the same! It’s tough to fork out $42 a month on something ‘you might not need’. But what if something DOES happen? That extra Mezcal shot results in you falling down the stairs, or you eat something dodgy from a street food van.
If you need medical help at any point whilst in Central America, you need travel insurance.
With SafetyWing, you’re covered on travel emergencies, basic medical costs and medical expenses throughout your trip, so you can travel without worry (at a backpacker’s price!)
Don’t even think twice about getting travel insurance for Central America. Trust me, I have heard enough horror stories about backpackers who haven’t had insurance and have ended up in a lot of debt. Don’t be that person!
If you’ve been putting the job off because it takes a lot of time and effort to research the best travel insurance companies, I understand. That’s why I’ve done the hard work for you. Sign up for SafetyWing, and the job is done!
Can you fly a drone in Belize: In a Nutshell
So, there you have it! Everything you need to know about flying a drone in Belize.
When you’re planning a trip to Belize, make sure you let me know over on Instagram or in the comments below!
If you haven’t come across my blog before, I write posts aimed at first-time backpackers on a budget. I’m currently backpacking Central America with my boyfriend (read more here!), whilst creating guides and itineraries for you to follow in our footsteps!
Keep an eye out for more Belize content, all written from a personal and realistic point of view. You can sign up for my newsletter and juicy travel updates here!
As always, thanks for reading and supporting the blog!
Happy travelling 🙂
Jennie x
Other Belize posts:
- How To Get From Tulum To Caye Caulker: Backpacker Guide
- Driving in Belize: Ultimate Car Hire Guide
- Xunantunich From San Ignacio: Day Trip COMPLETE Guide
- Best Restaurants in San Ignacio Belize
MEET THE AUTHOR!
Hi! I'm Jennie! As a part-time travel blogger based in London, I'm using my 10+ years of travel expertise to encourage & inspire you to step out of your comfort zone through sustainable, mindful and purposeful travel.
If I'm not writing, I'm either reading, drinking coffee or taking a wild swim (all at the same time if I'm feeling impressive).
