If you're considering a future in Occupational Therapy and want real-world exposure beyond the classroom, this immersive 8-day program in Belize offers the perfect introduction to the OT profession. Designed specifically for undergraduate pre-OT and OTA students, this trip allows you to explore OT in action, learn from licensed practitioners, and gain insight into how culture and community shape therapy delivery. Through structured observation, interactive workshops, and site visits, you’ll see OT in a global context—observing professionals in educational, pediatric, community, and rehabilitative settings. Whether you’re prepping for grad school or just beginning your exploration of OT, this trip offers an unforgettable blend of learning, mentorship, and cross-cultural engagement.

You can book this 8-day trip for the following dates:

• May 30, 2026

• July 5, 2026

Please note this does not include travel days en-route. To book your spot, simply find the green "Book Now" button on this page, select the date you wish to travel with us, and put down your deposit. It's as simple as that!

This award-winning program is ideal for undergraduate students, recent graduates, and post-bacc students who are interested in pursuing careers in OT as an OTR or COTA. Whether you're studying Kinesiology, Sports & Exercise Science, Psychology or another related field, this experience is designed to give you hands-on exposure, valuable observation hours, and real-world insight into OT practices. You’ll work closely with experienced Occupational Therapists who will help you build your resume, strengthen essential skills, and prepare you for graduate school and beyond. 

This program is observation- and volunteer-oriented prioritizing education, exposure, and mentorship. Activities may include:

• Shadowing OT professionals during home visits and community outreach sessions

• Visiting schools and inclusive classrooms to observe adaptive and developmental support strategies

• Participating in hands-on workshops and therapeutic camps exploring assistive devices, sensory integration, and motor skills interventions

• Engaging in caregiver education sessions and discussing the OT role in family and community support

• Reflective discussions with clinicians on case studies, ethics, and professional growth

This program is ideal for undergraduate, pre-OT, or post-bacc students seeking OT exposure and learning from our amazing professionals.

Therapy Abroad programs emphasize hands-on skill development in evaluation and treatment. On this trip you will have the chance to:

• Foundational knowledge of occupational therapy settings and populations

• Introduction to activity analysis, adaptive equipment, and environmental modifications

• Cross-cultural communication and global health awareness

• Observational journaling, professional reflection, and team-based collaboration

• A clearer sense of career readiness and grad school expectations

Known as the "Jewel" of the Caribbean, Belize is a vibrant Central American country rich in history and culture. Formerly British Honduras, it gained independence in 1983 and continues to expand services for its special needs population. Therapy Abroad partners with Belize’s Ministries of Education and Health to support these efforts. With English as the official language and a diverse mix of languages—including Kriol, Spanish, and Mayan—Belize offers the perfect setting to develop cultural competence and clinical skills. Students will gain hands-on experience while exploring the country’s rich history, unique communities, and stunning natural environment.

Students and faculty will stay in accommodations with communal areas, meeting spaces, and plenty of outdoor areas to relax and explore. Transport will be provided by private bus or van with a dedicated driver. You'll have access to WiFi, fresh drinking water, western-style toilets and showers, and towels and sheets. Accommodations are shared with individual beds and bathrooms. Meals, prepared by local cooks, will feature a mix of Belizean and Western cuisine. Dietary needs can be accommodated with prior notice. The warmth and hospitality of the Belizean people will make you feel right at home!

The total program cost does not include international airfare. Therapy Abroad organizes a chaperoned flight from Houston, TX or Dallas, TX. You can find out more information about flights and how they work here. Most students choose to travel on the chaperoned flight, though we have flexibility for those who cannot or choose not to.

With the exception of international airfare, everything is included. There are no surprise costs or "optional activities" trying to upsell you. Your tuition covers all activities, materials, meals, and housing—everything you need for an incredible experience. We want you to focus on learning, exploring, and making the most of your time without ever worrying about extra expenses.

• Non-refundable deposit due at booking

• Remaining balance due 90 days before departure

We've got you covered every step of the way! We understand that travel and study abroad is a big investment, and we're fully committed to making sure your experience is nothing short of amazing. From our professional staff to delicious meals, comfortable accommodations, and a carefully planned itinerary filled with diverse activities and great people, we've thought of everything.

The $1,000 deposit is non-refundable, but it can be transferred to a different program (for the same person only). In the event of a cancellation, your deposit will be applied toward any tuition owed. Any remaining balance from the deposit will be held as a credit for a future Therapy Abroad trip. Refund percentages include the non-refundable deposit.

• 100% refund for cancellations made 90+ days before departure.

• 75% refund for cancellations made 90–61 days before departure.

• 50% refund for cancellations made 60–46 days before departure.

• 0% refund for cancellations made within 45 days of departure.

Safety is our top priority, and we take a hands-on approach to ensure every aspect of your experience is secure. Every location, accommodation, and activity is personally vetted by Therapy Abroad directors. Belize is a safe destination with strong infrastructure, and we work closely with the Ministries of Education and Health to organize every detail of your trip. From departure to return, we provide a seamless, worry-free experience. You’ll always be part of a group led by experienced facilitators—never outsourced staff. Our team ensures access to medical care, clean food and water, and reliable communication at all times.

Here are some links to our website that are worth exploring:

• More about this specific trip

• Explore TherapyAbroad.org

• Our mission at Therapy Abroad

• Meet our team

• Why travel with us

• Read student and staff reviews

• FAQ

A finalized and detailed itinerary will be shared with participants approximately one month prior to departure. This is a sample itinerary provided to give you a general idea of the types of activities, excursions, and clinical opportunities that may be included during your trip. Specific schedules may vary based on site availability, local partnerships, and group needs.

 Welcome to Belize! Upon arrival at the airport, you’ll be greeted by Therapy Abroad staff and transferred to the Tropical Education Center. After settling in, you’ll join your fellow participants for a welcome dinner and orientation. This session introduces the week ahead, including your role in OT-related community activities, group expectations, and how your participation aligns with professional competencies and cross-cultural learning.  

Enjoy a welcome dinner consisting of traditional Belizean food.

 Your day begins with a half-day visit to Ms. Emily’s Resource Center, a locally run initiative that supports children with diverse learning and developmental needs. You’ll spend the morning interacting with staff, learning about the challenges and triumphs of inclusive education in Belize, and getting a firsthand look at how local caregivers and educators work with limited resources to make a meaningful impact. It’s a powerful introduction to the social and educational context of your clinical work.

In the afternoon, you’ll head to Hermit’s Blue Hole, a serene freshwater cenote tucked in the forest. You’ll have time to swim, relax, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings before heading back to the Tropical Education Center. The day blends heart, perspective, and nature—giving you a grounded start to your journey in Belize.

 Start your day by conducting basic school-based motor and developmental screenings in a local primary school. You’ll observe and assist with informal assessments related to handwriting, fine motor skills, and school participation, guided by Therapy Abroad’s professional staff. In the afternoon, you’ll attend a classroom session introducing OT frameworks and culturally responsive practice. After dinner, get ready for a night safari at the Belize Zoo, where you’ll explore local wildlife in a nocturnal setting and learn more about Belize’s environmental richness. 

Today, you’ll work in teams to lead activity stations for local children that integrate OT-based principles like motor coordination, sensory integration, and daily living skills. You’ll take a hands-on role in designing and facilitating structured play, adaptive crafts, and skill-building exercises—all supervised by licensed OT professionals. This experience gives you direct, applied exposure to the kind of work you’ll do in your future clinical rotations. 

 After several meaningful days of clinical work and community engagement, today is all about fun, adrenaline, and adventure. You’ll spend the day exploring the lush Belizean rainforest with two unforgettable experiences.

First, you’ll gear up and soar through the jungle on an exhilarating zipline course, gliding from platform to platform above the treetops. Then, you’ll cool off with a guided cave tubing expedition through Belize’s underground river systems. As you float through cathedral-like caverns, your guide will share stories about the ancient Maya who once used these caves for ritual and ceremony.

This day offers the perfect balance of nature, culture, and recreation—giving you time to recharge, connect with your peers, and experience the beauty of Belize in a completely different way.

 Your day begins with a visit to The Inspiration Center in Belize City—an outpatient rehabilitation clinic that serves children with disabilities and developmental delays. During your time there, you’ll tour the facility, meet with local therapists, and learn about how speech, language, occupational, and physical therapy services are provided in a resource-limited environment. You may also observe therapy sessions or engage in conversations with clinicians about the challenges and innovations involved in their work.

Following this enriching visit, you’ll make your way to the water taxi terminal for your transfer to Caye Caulker, where you’ll check in to Island Magic Hotel. The rest of the afternoon is yours to relax and enjoy the island’s laid-back pace—whether that means beach time, exploring, or simply soaking in the ocean views. 

Head out on a boat excursion today for guided snorkeling to see nurse sharks, rays, and many beautiful fish and coral! The Belize Barrier Reef is the second largest barrier reef in the world, and the largest in the western hemisphere. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Belizeans work hard to manage this resource sustainably. Our snorkel provider will provide snorkel equipment and life jackets we require all students to wear during the snorkel trip.

Spend your final afternoon relaxing in the sun, swimming, shopping, or exploring the island. Tonight we will have a farewell dinner at one of our favorite spots on the island.

Take the water taxi back to Belize City to catch your flight home! Exchange information with new friends to stay connected! Please reflect back on all of the amazing things you did on your trip.

Share your experience with family, friends, peers and professors! Please be sure to tag us in your social media posts and leave us a review on GoOverseas.com.