If you’re planning a trip to Belize and want to stay connected without racking up international roaming charges, getting a prepaid SIM card is the smartest option. This guide breaks down everything you need to know, from mobile frequencies to pricing, plans, and how to activate a SIM card as a tourist.
Basics: Mobile Operators in Belize
Belize has two major mobile network operators offering prepaid SIM cards:
- DigiCell (formerly BTL)
- Smart! Belize (Speednet)
Both offer competitive prepaid plans, 4G LTE coverage in populated areas, and basic tourist-friendly packages.
Official Websites
- DigiCell Belize – www.livedigi.com
- Smart! Belize – www.smart-bz.com
These websites provide plan details, coverage maps, data add-ons, and locations to purchase SIM cards.
Frequencies
Here are the frequencies used by Belizean networks, important if you’re bringing your own unlocked device:
| Network | 2G | 3G | 4G LTE |
|---|---|---|---|
| DigiCell | 850 / 1900 MHz | 850 / 1900 MHz | Band 2 (1900 MHz), Band 4 (1700/2100 MHz) |
| Smart! | 850 / 1900 MHz | 850 / 1900 MHz | Band 2 (1900 MHz) |
Make sure your phone is compatible, especially with LTE Bands 2 and 4.
Coverage & Speed
Digicel
- Coverage: Widest in the country. Excellent signal in Belize City, San Pedro, Placencia, and popular tourist areas.
- Speed: Up to 30 Mbps in urban zones; slower in remote villages.
Smart!
- Coverage: Decent in cities and towns, improving in rural areas.
- Speed: Generally lower than DigiCell but sufficient for browsing, messaging, and maps.
At a Glance Comparison
| Feature | DigiCell | Smart! Belize |
|---|---|---|
| Network Type | 4G LTE | 4G LTE (limited) |
| Coverage | Best in Belize | Moderate |
| SIM Price | BZD 10 (~USD 5) | BZD 10 (~USD 5) |
| Tourist SIM | Yes | Yes |
| Top-up Locations | Widely available | Widely available |
| App | MyDigi | Smart App |
Biometric User Registration
As of recent regulations, all SIM card purchases in Belize require biometric registration. Tourists will need to present:
- A valid passport
- A photo will be taken at the point of sale
- Sometimes, proof of address or hotel booking
This process is fast and usually done at authorized reseller stores or at the airport.
What to Expect
- SIM availability at Belize International Airport (Philip S.W. Goldson International).
- Staff will assist in registering and activating your SIM.
- Coverage may be patchy in national parks or off-the-beaten-path villages.
- English is widely spoken, making the process tourist-friendly.
Device Registration
Unlike some countries, Belize does not currently require device (IMEI) registration. However, ensure your device is:
- Network unlocked
- Supports the GSM 850 / 1900 MHz bands and LTE Band 2/4
Apps
- DigiCell: MyDigi App
- Smart!: Smart App
These apps let you:
- Check balances
- Buy data bundles
- Recharge via card or e-wallets
SIM Card Price
- Both DigiCell and Smart! offer SIM cards for around BZD 10 (~USD 5).
- Often includes some starter credit (~BZD 2–5).
You can purchase SIMs at:
- Airports
- Mobile shops
- Supermarkets
- Gas stations
Prepaid Plans
DigiCell Prepaid Plans
| Plan Name | Data | Validity | Price (BZD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Data 1 | 1 GB | 1 Day | 3 |
| Data 3 | 3 GB | 3 Days | 7 |
| Data 7 | 7 GB | 7 Days | 15 |
| Combo | 10 GB + 100 mins | 30 Days | 40 |
Smart! Belize Plans
| Plan Name | Data | Validity | Price (BZD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| SmartStart | 500 MB | 1 Day | 2 |
| Smart7 | 2 GB | 7 Days | 10 |
| Smart30 | 5 GB | 30 Days | 25 |
| MegaData | 10 GB | 30 Days | 40 |
Tourist SIM Options
DigiCell offers a dedicated “Tourist SIM” with:
- Pre-loaded data (e.g., 5 GB)
- 100+ local minutes
- Valid for 7–30 days
- Starting from BZD 30–40
Smart! also offers a similar visitor-friendly package, though less promoted.
Data Add-Ons
You can top-up anytime using:
- Recharge cards from local shops
- Mobile apps (with a local or international card)
- Online top-up portals
Add-ons range from 500 MB to 20 GB, valid for 1–30 days.
Activation
Activation is usually automatic after:
- Inserting the SIM
- Completing biometric registration
- Receiving a confirmation SMS
If not, dial:
- *100# for DigiCell
- *133# for Smart! Belize
Customer service reps at stores can also help activate your SIM.
Conclusion
Getting a prepaid SIM card in Belize is a straightforward and budget-friendly way to stay connected. With wide coverage from Digicel, affordable data from Smart! and easy access at airports and stores, tourists can enjoy hassle-free mobile service throughout their stay. Just make sure your device supports Belizean networks and be ready to register with your passport.
For the best balance of speed and coverage, Digicel is generally recommended, especially for travelers exploring both cities and remote islands.