Global Community Health Volunteers
Explore, Learn, and Serve the World with GCHV
Belice The Hidden Gem of the Caribbean and Central America
Belize is a country that captivates those seeking a unique blend of Caribbean adventure and jungle mystery. It is the only English-speaking country in Central America, giving it a distinct cultural identity and making it a particularly accessible destination for visitors from the United States.
Beauty and Tourist Significance
Belize's beauty lies in its striking contrasts. It is world-famous for hosting the Belize Barrier Reef, the largest coral reef system in the Western Hemisphere and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Within this reef lies the iconic Great Blue Hole, a spectacular marine sinkhole, ideal for world-class scuba diving.
On land, Belize is covered by dense jungles that shelter stunning Mayan archaeological sites like Xunantunich, Caracol, and Lamanai. Ecotourism is a cornerstone of its significance, offering wildlife sanctuaries, manatee reserves, and the highest waterfall in Central America, the Thousand Foot Falls.
Located
Located on the eastern coast of Central America, bordered by Mexico to the north, Guatemala to the west and south, and the Caribbean Sea to the east. It is part of the Anglophone Caribbean.
Population
Approximately 441,000 people (estimated for 2025). It is a small country with a rich ethnic diversity (Creole, Mestizo, Maya, Garifuna, etc.).
Languages
English is the official language, making it the only country in Central America with this feature. However, the majority of the population is bilingual or multilingual; Spanish and Belizean Creole (Kriol) are widely spoken, along with Mayan and Garifuna languages.
How to Get There (from the U.S.)
Easily reached via direct flights from several major U.S. cities to Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport (BZE) near Belize City.
Currency
he Belizean Dollar (BZD). It is pegged to the U.S. Dollar at a fixed rate of 1 USD = 2 BZD, which greatly simplifies currency exchange for U.S. travelers.
Global Health Volunteering Opportunities
Yes, opportunities for volunteering exist, including in the health sector.
While Belize has public and private hospitals in urban areas, medical services in the interior and rural areas can be more precarious and resource-limited.
Global Health volunteers and professionals are often needed to:
- Support clinics and health programs in rural or underserved communities.
- Participate in public health and education campaigns.
- Exchange knowledge and skills with local professionals.
It is essential that any health volunteering program be organized through an established organization (such as Global Community Health Volunteers) to ensure that the work adheres to the highest ethical and legal standards and truly benefits the communities, complementing the efforts of the local health system. It is always recommended to carry robust travel and medical insurance.
Programs In Belice
Our commitment to serving communities in Belice extends beyond traditional medicine, offering impactful programs for all types of individuals and professionals. We harness a broad range of skills and passions through specialized service initiatives. Opportunities are available across multiple disciplines, including Physical Therapy, Global Health, Nursing, Education, Veterinary Medicine, Dentistry and Faith Based Trips . Furthermore, participants can engage in unique cultural initiatives like Local Tourism, allowing them to support local economies while immersing themselves in the country's rich heritage. Whatever your background, we have a program where your skills can make a significant difference.