The popular travel destinations of Costa Rica and Belize have recently lowered their entry requirements for international travelers. The two countries – popular with both cruise and regular vacations – are the latest in a string of Central American and Caribbean nations that have recently made it easier for travelers to enter, highlighting a notable policy shift in the region towards attracting high volume tourism once more and pivoting to living with Covid-19.
Several different changes to Covid-19 entry requirements have been made by the two countries, from the removal of mandatory travel insurance requirements and digital health forms to the elimination of the need to provide a negative PCR test result prior to traveling. Here’s a look at what exactly is about to change for travelers heading Costa Rica and Belize, and which requirements are set to remain in the two countries.
Costa Rica Changes Restrictions – Information For Travelers
Whilst Costa Rica’s restriction changes don’t go as far as other countries in the region, they still make travel to the country easier and more appealing. From April 1st, the country will be removing its requirement for passengers to complete the online Health Pass prior to arriving, whilst unvaccinated arrivals will no longer need to purchase a travel insurance policy – though it is strongly recommended.
Costa Rica is also making significant changes to everyday life regarding Covid-19, with a number of social restrictions also set to be removed from April 1st. Capacity restrictions for several businesses are set to be lifted without the requirement for patrons to show their vaccination QR codes, which is set to provide travelers heading to the country with a better experience.
Travelers heading to Costa Rica do not need to provide proof of a negative test result, but must ensure their passports are valid and that they have the correct visa type where necessary. A country rich in biodiversity, those heading to Costa Rica can expect to see stunning national parks, a variety of flora and fauna and stunning, palm-lined beaches throughout the country.
Belize Eases Requirements – What Travelers Should Know
Belize has become one of the latest countries to remove the negative PCR testing requirement prior to arriving at the country via its air, sea or land ports. The change is only applicable to those who are fully vaccinated, with unvaccinated travelers still needing to present a negative test result. This can be either a PCR test taken within 72 hours, or an antigen test taken within the last 48 hours. Unvaccinated travelers attempting to arrive without one can take a test at the airport for a fee of $50 per person.
These changes to Belize’s entry requirements are immediate, with any fully vaccinated traveler flying to the country from now on able to benefit from the removal of the pre-flight Covid-19 test. International travelers are still required to purchase Belize’s Travel Health Insurance and complete the country’s customs and immigration form, which is handed out on flights. Masks are also no longer required to be worn outdoors in the country.
Travelers may however choose to wear a different kind of mask when in Belize. The country is home to some of the most incredible diving spots in the world, including the world’s second-largest barrier reef and the incredible Great Blue Hole. Those who prefer to stay on the shores can enjoy miles of unspoiled beaches and backdrops of lush, green rainforests or explore Mayan ruins.
