As worldwide COVID-19 vaccination rates continue to climb and new case counts continue to decline, a growing list of countries around the world are changing their travel requirements accordingly.
If you’ve been thinking about a trip to Costa Rica or Belize this spring, before the temperatures begin to get hot, here’s some good news: Both countries have recently announced that they have eased, or will soon ease, travel restrictions for tourists.
Costa Rica
Currently, Costa Rica does not require tourists to present a negative COVID-19 test upon arrival and they do not need to quarantine either.
Tourists who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19, and those who are 18 years old or younger, can enter the country without a Costa Rica travel insurance policy.
However, tourists who are not vaccinated for COVID-19 and are 18 and older must purchase a travel insurance policy with a duration equal to the time they will be in Costa Rica.
Finally, all tourists, regardless of their vaccination status, must complete Costa Rica’s Health Pass. The pass, which may be found here, must be completed within 72 hours prior to arrival in the country.
That’s all about to change, however. Beginning April 1, Costa Rica will no longer require travelers to complete an online Health Pass.
What’s more, unvaccinated travelers will no longer be required to purchase a travel insurance policy. It is, as you would expect, still recommended that unvaccinated travelers purchase travel insurance to cover medical and lodging expenses in the event they contract COVID-19 while in Costa Rica.
You can learn more about traveling to Costa Rica here.
Belize
Belize has now joined the growing list of countries that no longer require proof of a negative COVID-19 test for travelers who are fully vaccinated. The change took effect March 1.
Travelers who are not vaccinated for COVID-19 or cannot provide proof of vaccination must provide proof of a negative PCR test result taken within 72 hours of arrival or proof of a negative rapid antigen test taken within 48 hours of arrival in Belize. Alternatively, a test can be administered by the Health Ministry upon arrival at the airport for $50.
However, it must be noted that all international travelers must purchase Belize Travel Health Insurance. The policy, which costs $18, lasts 21 days and provides coverage for medical treatment if needed.
Finally, all international visitors must stay at a hotel approved by the Belize Tourism Board. You can find a list of those hotels here.
You can learn more about traveling to Belize here.
While you’re thinking about it, be sure to read all of our Belize and Costa Rica content. Plus, considering many countries are lifting or easing travel requirements, be sure to read all of our travel news to stay up to date.
