FAQs

A: Our listed rates are based on a minimum of four participants, and a surcharge may apply for a “private” or “small group (less than 4)”.  We strive for transparency, so here is how our pricing works:

• Joining a Tour: If you are joining an existing tour group, there is no surcharge.

• Private & Small Groups: If you prefer a private experience or your group is smaller than four, a modest “Small Group Surcharge” may apply. This fee typically ranges from US$10 and up, per person.

• Park Fees & Tour Gear: Unless otherwise stated on the tour description (some snorkel tours), all park entrance fees and tour gear are included.

• Lunch: For all tours 5 hours or longer, lunch is included in your rate.

• What’s Not Included: Gratuities for your guide and personal items (souvenirs, extra beverages) are at your discretion.

A. Some tours require a minimum number of participants (typically 2 to 4). If the minimum hasn’t quite filled up by your tour date, don’t worry, we won’t leave you hanging! We will reach out to you at least 24 hours in advance to keep your adventures on track:

• Reschedule: Move your booking to a different date to join an already confirmed tour.

• Tour Switch: Join a different adventure! We’ll show you what is already confirmed for that day, and you are more than welcome to jump in.
• Go Private/Small-Group: Guarantee your original tour happens by paying a small-group or private-tour supplement. Fees start at just US$10 per person, offering a more intimate, personalized feel.  Note: Surcharges vary (typically US$10–$50pp) depending on specialized equipment or the need for subcontracted vehicles.

• 100% Refund: If none of the above options fit your schedule or travel style, we will issue an immediate 100% refund.
  

Please contact us to get the latest information on your desired trip.

A: Absolutely! We can accommodate most dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, kosher, and gluten-free diets.

Please let us know of any allergies or restrictions at the time of booking so we can ensure your included lunch is prepared safely.

Wear comfortable clothing. It is recommended to have a sturdy pair of broken-in trail shoes, boots, or sneakers. It is preferable to dress in clothing that will wick away perspiration and keep you dry and comfortable. Some tours specify certain requirements (such as socks on ATM and long pants on Black Hole Drop) – please review your tour information carefully and be sure to ask if you have any questions.

A day pack to carry towels, change of clothes, etc comes in handy. River tours are comfortable with water shoes and rash guards (but t-shirts and sneakers that you don’t mind getting wet are just fine).

On the islands, a large brimmed hat, sunshades, sunblock are vacation-savers.

In the jungle, very lightweight long pants, and lightweight long sleeve shirts over tank tops are comfortable. On some jungle tours, knee-high or short pants are fine.

Currency: everyone in Belize accepts US$ dollars. Most major hotels, tour shops, and stores accept credit card – but on-site and remote gift shops and vendors do not have credit card facilities – a little extra cash comes in handy.

A: We offer convenient pickup services for all our adventures! Here is how it works based on your location:

• Island Guests (Ambergris Caye/Caye Caulker): Your round-trip Water Taxi or “Puddle Jumper” flight to the mainland is included in your tour package! We will handle those bookings for you. The short taxi ride from your island hotel to the boat/air terminal is not included. We are happy to help you coordinate with our favorite local island taxi drivers to ensure you arrive at the terminal on time.

• Mainland Guests: We provide pickups from all central locations.

• Mainland Guests outside the Central Zone: For accommodations outside of our standard central zones, a small transfer surcharge may apply. Please contact us with your specific location (or a Google Maps pin) so we can coordinate your exact pickup time and any applicable fees.

We understand that plans can change. Our policy is designed to be fair to both our guests and our local guides who prepare for your arrival. For Standard Tours (1–5 Guests):

• Full Refund: Cancellations made more than 72+ Hours’ Notice.

• Partial Refund: Cancellations made between 36 to 72 Hours’ Notice.

• No Refund: Cancellations made Less than 36 Hours’ Notice or “no-shows” – we have already committed guides, gear, and logistics to your adventure.

Important: All bookings are subject to our full [Terms & Conditions and Cancellation Policy] including Group Bookings, Peak Tourism Dates, Speciality Tours, and Vacation Packages. By completing a booking, you agree to these terms. We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect your trip against unexpected changes.

Yes, advance reservations are required for: 

• Safety & Staffing: It helps us ensure we have the correct number of certified guides, vehicle size and safety equipment ready for your group.

• Communication: It allows us to notify you immediately of any changes due to weather or park closures.

• Guaranteed Spots: Your adventure is only officially “locked in” once payment is received.

A: Yes. To participate in any UpClose Belize Ltd activity, all guests (or their legal guardians) must sign our Assumption of Risks, Liability Waiver, and Indemnity Agreement document.

• Why? Our tours involve authentic adventures in remote jungle and river environments. The waiver ensures you are informed of the risks and physical requirements of the tour.

• How it works: You will acknowledge the waiver digitally during your online booking. For safety and insurance purposes, you will also be required to provide a physical signature on a hard copy with your guide before the tour departs.

• Preview the Document: You can review the full text of our [Liability Waiver & Release here].

Our Adventure Assurance: We want your Belizean experience to be memorable for all the right reasons! We do get plenty of “liquid sunshine” here in Belize 🌦️ and while we love a tropical shower, your safety is our top priority.  Occasionally, government authorities (NICH and other regulatory bodies) may issue official closure notices for specific tour sites to ensure visitor safety. Should an official closure affect your booking, you are guaranteed a 100% refund on your tour payment. No hoops, no headaches!

We track these official notices closely and pride ourselves on transparency. We make it a point to stay ahead of the forecast and will reach out to you the moment a closure is announced. Our goal is to handle the logistics so you can focus on the adventure! Whether it’s finding an exciting tour substitution, rescheduling for a better day, or processing your full refund, we’ll help you find the best “Plan B” so you don’t miss a beat.