Travel Guide: Exploring Cancun And Belize's Best Spots

There are several ways to travel from Cancun to Belize, including flying, taking a bus, or driving. Flying is the fastest option, with a direct flight from Cancun to Belize City taking around two hours. There are also flights from Cancun to Caye Caulker, with a stop in Belize City, and from Cancun to San Pedro, with a stop in Corozal. The cheapest way to travel from Cancun to Belize City is by bus, which takes almost ten hours and costs around $45-$110. Driving from Cancun to Belize City is around a seven-hour journey and covers a distance of about 327 miles.

Flights from Cancun to Belize City

There are a number of airlines that offer flights from Cancun, Mexico to Belize City, Belize. The distance between Cancun International Airport (CUN) and Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport in Belize City is approximately 260 miles, and the average non-stop flight time is 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Tropic Air offers the most frequent flights between the two cities, with 26 flights per month. They are also the only airline that flies direct, with 30 direct flights between the two cities each month. A direct flight with Tropic Air takes 3 hours and 25 minutes.

Other airlines that fly from Cancun to Belize City include Hahn Air Systems, Copa, and United. Round-trip flights can start from $617, and one-way flights from $282. It is worth booking in advance, as last-minute flights are rarely cheaper.

Driving from Cancun to Belize

• Fly into Cancun Airport (CUN) and rent a car.
• Drive from Cancun Airport to Playa Del Carmen (about 70 minutes depending on traffic).
• Take a taxi between the two bus stations in Playa Del Carmen: Tourist and Alterna.
• Take the ADO bus from the Alterna Bus Station in Playa Del Carmen to Chetumal (about 5 hours).
• Take a taxi from the Mexican border to the Belize Immigration office.
• Take another taxi from the Belize border to the Corozal airstrip.
• Fly from Corozal to Ambergris Caye, Belize.

The entire journey will take an additional day, so it is important to plan accordingly. It is also essential to have all the necessary documentation when crossing the border, including a valid passport.

There are alternative routes and transportation methods, but this is the most common way to drive from Cancun to Belize.

Taking a bus from Cancun to Belize

The ADO bus company offers a direct bus service from Cancun to Belize City, with buses departing twice daily from Cancun terminal at 7:30 a.m. and 10:15 p.m. The journey takes around eight hours, including stops at Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Bacalar, Corozal Town, and Orange Walk Town. The overnight bus is a good option if you want to sleep during the journey, while the daytime bus offers beautiful seaside views.

Tickets and Costs

Tickets for the ADO bus can be purchased online via the ADO website, or by phone. Fares are approximately 840 Mexican pesos or $45 from Mexico, and around $40 from Belize. Tickets can also be purchased in person at the Cancun bus terminal, although it is recommended to arrive early to secure tickets.

Border Crossing

The bus will stop at the border for passengers to go through immigration and exit/enter Mexico and Belize. This process is straightforward and usually takes less than an hour. Passengers must have a valid passport to ride the bus due to the international border crossing.

Onboard Experience

The ADO buses are modern and comfortable, with features such as air conditioning, large seats, onboard restrooms, and video screens. However, it is recommended to bring warm clothing as the air conditioning can be very cold.

Alternative Options

If the direct ADO bus is not available, it is possible to take a bus from Cancun to Chetumal and then cross the border by taxi to Belize. From there, you can take a Belizean bus or water taxi to your final destination in Belize. This option offers more flexibility but may take longer and require additional costs.

The Mexico-Belize border crossing

Crossing from Mexico to Belize

When transitioning from Mexico to Belize, you will pass through the border cities of Chetumal, Quintana Roo (Mexico), and Santa Elena, Corozal District (Belize). You will need to bring the appropriate documents to enter Belize from Mexico. For most countries, a passport that is valid for at least six months after your intended stay period will be sufficient to enter Belize visa-free for 30 days. However, you should always check the entry requirements for your specific nationality.

As of 2024, there is no longer a requirement to take a COVID test at the border. However, you will need to show proof of accommodation in Belize, which should include the hotel's name and full address.

By Rental Vehicle

If you are renting a car in Mexico and plan to cross into Belize, you should be aware that most car rental companies in Mexico do not allow their vehicles to be taken outside of the country. One company that does, however, is America Car Rental, which has locations in popular tourist destinations such as Tulum and Cancun.

Before leaving for the border, ensure you have the following:

• Immigration papers/visa (if needed)
• Driver's license
• Car rental documentation
• Plane ticket receipt showing payment of the DNI (Mexican tourist tax)

Upon crossing the border, you may be subject to additional fees such as car fumigation (30 BZD/ $15 USD) and Belize liability insurance (approximately 30 BZD/ $15 USD per week).

By Public Bus

There are day and night buses that can bring you from Mexico to Belize City. ADO is the most popular bus company for this route, departing from Cancun and making stops in Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Bacalar, Corozal Town, Orange Walk Town, and finally, Belize City. The ADO bus is comfortable and offers various amenities such as video screens, USB/AC outlets, bathroom facilities, and air conditioning.

The price for the ADO bus is 960 pesos or approximately $50 USD, and tickets can be booked on their website. The trip from Cancun to Belize City takes between 8 and 9 hours, with two buses departing per day at 7:30 am and 10:15 pm.

By Taxi

Crossing the border from Mexico to Belize by taxi can be a bit more complicated due to COVID-19 regulations. You will need to show your accommodation documents to Mexican officials, and there is a fixed, non-negotiable fee of $180 USD for the taxi. Additionally, you are not allowed to share a taxi with strangers, unless you are travelling together. You will also not be able to leave the taxi until it reaches your hotel in Belize.

Crossing from Belize to Mexico

Crossing from Belize into Mexico requires similar documentation and can be done by rental vehicle or public bus.

By Rental Vehicle

Unlike Mexico, Belize does not allow rental cars to cross borders. However, if you own a car registered in Belize, you can bring it into Mexico. You will need the following:

• A valid driver's license
• International credit card
• Temporary Import Permit for your vehicle (if driving outside Quintana Roo)
• Mexican car insurance

The Temporary Import Permit costs approximately $50 USD, and a $400 deposit is charged to your credit card, which is refunded upon cancellation of the permit when returning to Belize. Mexican car insurance can be purchased from Atlantic Insurance in Corozal for around 40 BZD/day. Additionally, a charge of 95 Pesos is required to fumigate your car before crossing the border.

By Public Bus

There are bus companies such as ADO and Marlin Espades that offer service from Belize City to Cancun, Mexico. The ADO bus is preferred by many travellers for its route and amenities, including comfortable seats, an onboard bathroom, charging stations, video screens, and air conditioning.

The trip from Belize City to Cancun takes around 7 hours, with tickets costing approximately $40 USD. The ticket is paid in two instalments: the first in Belize City and the second in Bacalar, Mexico. The Belize City to Cancun route operates twice a day, at 11 am and 7:30 pm, with tickets going on sale two hours before departure.

Flying into Cancun vs Belize City

Cancun Airport

Cancun Airport (CUN) was the 10th busiest airport in the world in 2021, serving over 13 million passengers. It has four terminals, with Terminals 2, 3 and 4 serving domestic and international flights. The airport boasts first-class shops, amazing duty-free areas, famous restaurants and friendly service. It is regarded as one of the easiest and most convenient airports to fly to and from in Mexico.

When arriving at Cancun Airport, it is recommended to have your paperwork and passport ready for the immigration lineup, which can take up to three hours due to serious backups. It is also important to pre-book your transportation to avoid negotiating with cab drivers.

Flying into Cancun

Cancun is a popular tourist destination, known for its stunning beaches, turquoise waters and pristine beach. It is easily accessible, with direct flights from more than 40 cities in the United States and 20+ cities in Europe.

Belize City

Belize City is a popular destination for those seeking adventure and a change of pace from the typical tourist hotspots. It offers the chance to explore ancient Mayan ruins, enjoy delicious local cuisine and immerse yourself in the English-speaking environment.

Flying into Belize City

There are several airlines that offer flights to Belize City, including Tropic Air, Copa, United, American Airlines, Delta and Alaska Airlines. Round-trip flights from Cancun to Belize City can range from $484 to $633, with one-way flights starting at $224. The flight time is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Getting from Cancun to Belize City

The journey from Cancun to Belize City can be made by air, bus or car. Most tourists prefer to fly due to time constraints, but it is also possible to travel by bus or drive yourself.

Flying is the fastest option, with Tropic Air offering a direct route between the two cities. Taking the bus is a more affordable option, but it can add several hours to the journey due to connections and customs procedures. Driving allows for more flexibility and independence, but it can be costly in terms of fuel and vehicle wear and tear.

Both Cancun and Belize City offer unique experiences and attractions. Cancun is ideal for those seeking a lively and vibrant atmosphere, while Belize City provides a more off-the-beaten-path adventure. When it comes to flying into these destinations, Cancun offers greater accessibility and a wider range of amenities at its airport. However, Belize City may be more appealing to those seeking a less touristy and potentially more affordable option. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on your specific interests, budget and travel preferences.

Frequently asked questions