Many nationalities (US, UK, EU, Canada) do not need a visa for stays up to 30 days. Check with the Belizean embassy.

What currency is used?

Belize Dollar (BZD) pegged to USD at 2:1. US dollars widely accepted.

Yes, English is the official language. Spanish and Kriol are also common.

Are there ATMs in St. Matthew's?

No ATMs in the village; bring cash from San Ignacio.

Can I drink tap water?

No, tap water is not safe. Drink bottled or purified water.

What plug type is used?

Type A and B (same as US). Voltage 110V.

Is there cell service?

Yes, but coverage can be spotty. Major carriers like DigiCell work in most areas.

Are there guided tours?

Yes, local guides offer tours to ruins, caves, and nature reserves. Book through accommodations.

St. Matthew's

CityCayo, Belize

St. Matthew's is a CITY in Cayo, Belize.

St. Matthew's is a serene village in Belize's Cayo District, nestled along the Macal River and surrounded by lush tropical forest. This off-the-beaten-path destination offers travelers a genuine taste of Belizean rural life, with opportunities for birdwatching, river tubing, and exploring nearby Mayan ruins like Xunantunich. The village exudes a laid-back charm, where locals greet you with warm smiles and the pace of life slows to a gentle rhythm. Visitors can enjoy fresh local cuisine, from stewed chicken to fry jacks, at small family-run eateries. The nearby Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve provides dramatic waterfalls and granite cliffs for hiking and swimming. St. Matthew's is ideal for eco-conscious travelers seeking authentic cultural immersion and natural beauty away from tourist crowds.

Best time to visit St. Matthew's

The best time to visit St. Matthew's is from November to April during the dry season, when weather is sunny and pleasant with lower humidity. This period offers optimal conditions for hiking, river activities, and exploring ruins. May to October is the wet season with heavy rains, but also fewer crowds and lower prices. The dry season coincides with the peak tourist period, so book accommodations early.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Hot 27-32°C, rain easing

Travel notes

Crowds: Low
Prices: Low

Shoulder season

Know before you go

Getting there

BZE

Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport

International

130 km away

CYD

San Ignacio Town Airstrip

Domestic

15 km away

Getting around

"Getting around St. Matthew's is best done by rental car or bicycle, as public transport is limited. Taxis from San Ignacio are available but can be costly. Walking is pleasant for short distances. For excursions to Xunantunich or Mountain Pine Ridge, a 4x4 vehicle is recommended due to rough roads. Local buses connect to San Ignacio and Belmopan but run infrequently. Bicycle rentals are available in the village."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

15 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Available at some lodges and cafes in village

Local SIM

Local SIM available at airport from $5

Stay safe

Overall

8/10

Low crime but petty theft possible. Scams are rare.

Night safety

7/10

Low crime but petty theft possible. Scams are rare.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

6/10

"St. Matthew's is generally safe for travelers, with low violent crime rates. Petty theft can occur; secure valuables and avoid displaying expensive items. Roads are unpaved and can be muddy; drive cautiously, especially at night. River swimming is safe but be aware of currents after rain. Solo female travelers report feeling comfortable, but standard precautions apply. Avoid walking alone after dark in isolated areas. Local police are friendly but resources are limited."

Police

999

Ambulance

112

Fire

999

Entry and health

Health information

"Travelers should ensure routine vaccinations are up to date, including hepatitis A and typhoid. Malaria is present in rural areas; consider prophylaxis and use insect repellent with DEET. Tap water is not potable; drink bottled or purified water. Medical facilities are limited in St. Matthew's; serious cases may require evacuation to San Ignacio or Belize City. Carry a basic first-aid kit and any personal medications. Dengue and chikungunya are risks; avoid mosquito bites. Travel insurance with medical evacuation is strongly recommended."

Culture

Local customs

"Belizeans are friendly and polite; greet with a smile and a 'good morning/afternoon'. Dress modestly when visiting villages or churches; swimwear is for the river only. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; 10% in restaurants is standard. Respect local customs and ask permission before photographing people. Punctuality is relaxed; expect a laid-back approach to time. English is widely spoken, but learning a few Spanish or Kriol phrases is appreciated."

English (official)SpanishBelizean CreoleGarifunaMayan languagesEnglishMaya (Yucatec, Mopan, Q'eqchi')

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Budget

Meals

$5 | a cheap local meal costs ~$5

Hotels

$40-80 | budget hotels range $40-80/night

Local transport

$1 | local bus ride ~$1

Cost notes

Prices in USD. St. Matthew's is affordable compared to coastal resorts.

Timezone

America/Belize
Local time 13:43

More facts

Population

1,398

Type

City

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: St. Mathews

CityEco-TourismHikingHistoricFamily-FriendlyNature