Preparing for your paddling trip...

From the beginning, we will work with you to find the best international airfare into Belize and can assist with any pre or post trip arrangements. Upon booking a guided trip with Island Expeditions Co., you will receive a complete Pre-Trip Information Package. This package includes a comprehensive packing list, essential information for your arrival into Belize, and background information on the country and people. For those people renting boats for a self-propelled adventure, we have included some useful information (below) to get you started. If you have any further questions regarding any of our programs, please visit our main website or contact our office.

Weather

In Belize the 'dry season' is considered from December until May. This is generally the best time to visit the country, as the weather is most consistent during these months. The later summer and fall (August-October) are considered part of the stormy season in Belize, which can be rainy and humid. Please keep in mind that you can get great weather at any time of year in Belize, but the outdoor nature of our guided programs and sea kayaking in general means that weather can play a major factor in your enjoyment of the region. So, when planning a kayaking adventure to Belize, we recommend planning it anytime from December through to May.

For further information on the weather in Belize please visit one of the following links:
www.wunderground.com - also provides a monthly average!
www.weather.com

Supplies

Purchasing supplies in Belize is possible as long as you are willing to be innovative with the materials you find. We strongly recommend purchasing any camping or specialty gear at home before you arrive in Belize. Basic hardware supplies are available and local gas stations carry kerosene and diesel fuel.

Food

Belize has an amazing variety of different foods. Because of its ties with the Commonwealth and established trade routes, imported foods are available. North American and European snack foods can also be found but if you have one thing from home that you must have it is best to arrive into he country already supplied. It is best to stock up on basic dry foods in Dangriga where you can readily find rice, beans, flour, biscuits, and breads. Oranges and other citrus fruits are quite inexpensive and readily available, as are a variety of tropical fruits and vegetables. The local open air market in Dangriga is open Monday to Saturday each week and is the best place to pick up any fresh supplies. Canned preserves are also available through local stores and make for tasty lunches when accompanied by breads or crackers.

For those people heading out to the Barrier Reef, we recommend arriving the day before your rental (remember most stores in Dangriga are closed on Sundays) to stock-up on supplies in Dangriga. At this point you can also speak with one of our staff about your paddling routes. There are a limited number of "camper friendly" cayes and areas for replenishing water supplies, which are best discussed when you arrive in Belize. If you have any other questions about trip planning, please contact our office for further details.

Water

When paddling in the tropics hydration is your primary concern. Because of very limited supply of potable drinking water on the cayes, it is essential that you have an ample water supply to keep you hydrated for the duration of your trip. Unlike many Central American countries, Belize has safe drinking water from the tap in larger towns and cities. Implemented by CIDA, the water chlorination system is similar to what you probably have at home. However, when you are collecting water on the cayes or you don't know the source we recommend taking some extra precautions. We use, and highly recommend, a chlorite-based water treatment system called Pristine <www.pristine.ca> for treating your water. You may find this, or an alternative, through your local outdoor equipment retailer.

We do ask that you bring your own water bags or containers for kayak rentals. A limited supply of water bags are provided with a rental package.

Belize Marine Charts

For the most accurate information regarding the Belize Barrier Reef and atolls we recommend the British Admiralty series of marine charts. For paddling on the Southern Barrier Reef or in and around Dangriga you should obtain the following chart:

British Admiralty Chart #1797 - Monkey River to Colson Point

It may be found in your area or you can contact Triton Holdings in Vancouver, BC and they will send it to you. They can be reached at:

Canadain Clients:

Maritime Services Ltd.

Website: http://maritimeservices.ca/

3440 Bridgeway Street
Vancouver, British Columbia
Canada V5K 1B6

Toll Free: 1-888-387-8667
Telephone: (604) 297-1204 
Fax: (604) 294-0211

Email: sales@maritimeservices.ca