Tourism in Belize Dips Slightly in October Amid U.S. Shutdown

Tourism numbers in Belize saw a modest decline in October, according to the Belize Tourism Board (BTB). Last month, just over 25,600 overnight visitors arrived in the country, representing a 5.1 percent drop compared to October 2024, about 1,368 fewer tourists. Officials attribute the slowdown largely to the U.S. federal government shutdown in October, which temporarily affected travel plans.

During a press conference held in late November, BTB Director Evan Tillett, however, said that the dip was balanced by record-breaking arrivals earlier in the year. “This entire year has been very volatile in terms of arrival numbers,” Tillett said. “Months like January, February, April, July, and August set new benchmarks, while others, like September and October, traditionally see lower numbers.”

Tillett added that the end of the shutdown two weeks before Thanksgiving, the unofficial start of Belize’s high season, helped position the industry for a strong finish to the year. To counter seasonal dips, the BTB continues to implement its green season marketing plan, including the Belizean Travel Marketing Program, and works with the private sector to offer deals aimed at attracting international visitors.