Exploring Belize: Road Trip From Riviera Maya

Yes, it is possible to drive from Riviera Maya to Belize City. The distance between Riviera Maya and Belize City is around 219 miles, and the road distance is around 270 miles. The drive typically takes between 6 and 7 hours. There are also alternative options to get from Riviera Maya to Belize City, including by bus or shuttle and plane.

Driving distance between Riviera Maya and Belize City

Yes, it is possible to drive from Riviera Maya to Belize City. The driving distance between the two locations is approximately 272 miles and the journey typically takes around 6 hours and 36 minutes. However, it is important to note that there have been reports of this trip taking longer than expected, up to three times as long in some cases, due to various factors such as traffic, road conditions, and border crossings.

When planning a road trip from Riviera Maya to Belize City, it is essential to take into account the potential challenges and complexities involved. One crucial consideration is the border crossing between Mexico and Belize, which can be time-consuming and may require specific documentation and compliance with customs regulations. It is recommended to research the current requirements and restrictions before embarking on the journey.

In addition, it is worth noting that driving in Mexico and Belize may differ significantly from what you are accustomed to. For instance, there may be unexpected speed bumps ("topes") and potholes, as well as narrow and dangerous highways. It is advisable to exercise caution and adhere to the local driving rules and regulations.

Furthermore, it is important to be prepared for potential language barriers. Learning some basic Spanish phrases can be immensely helpful in navigating the journey and communicating with locals. Additionally, it is recommended to have Mexican car insurance and be aware of the procedures for crossing the border with a vehicle.

While the drive from Riviera Maya to Belize City offers a unique and adventurous experience, it is important to plan carefully and be prepared for potential challenges along the way. Taking the time to research and understand the requirements, regulations, and road conditions can help ensure a smoother and more enjoyable journey.

Transport options from Riviera Maya to Belize City

There are several transport options to get from Riviera Maya to Belize City. The best option for you will depend on your budget, how much time you have, and your personal preferences. Here are some of the most popular options:

• Bus: This is a cost-effective option, with tickets costing between $19 and $40. However, it is a lengthy journey, taking anywhere between 5 and 9 hours. There is no direct bus, so you will have to take multiple buses and make several transfers. The exact route depends on your starting point in Riviera Maya, but you will likely take buses from Akumal to Limones, Limones to Huay-Pix, Corozal to Belize City, and Puerto Aventuras to Tulum. From Tulum, you can take a bus to either Bacalar or Chetumal, and then on to Belize City.
• Shuttle and Fly: This is a faster option, taking around 4 to 5 hours including transfers. However, it is more expensive, with costs ranging from $220 to $600. You will need to take a shuttle from Puerto Aventuras to Cancun Airport, and then fly from Cancun to Belize City Goldson International Airport.
• Drive: If you prefer the independence of having your own car, you can drive from Riviera Maya to Belize City. The driving distance is around 270 miles, and the drive will take approximately 6 and a half hours.
• Bus and Shuttle: This option combines bus travel with a shuttle. It takes around 7 to 8 hours and costs between $30 and $130. You will take buses from Akumal to Limones, Limones to Huay-Pix, Corozal to Belize City, and Puerto Aventuras to Tulum. From Tulum, you can take a bus to Bacalar, and then a shuttle from Bacalar to Belize City.
• ADO Bus: The ADO bus company offers a direct bus service from Cancun to Belize City. This option provides stunning coastal views and takes you through dense tropical forests. The journey takes around 10 hours, with seven stops along the way, including Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Bacalar, and Chetumal. The bus is large and modern, with air conditioning, comfortable seats, an onboard restroom, and TV screens. Tickets cost around $69.

Travel restrictions

Driving from Riviera Maya to Belize is possible, but there are some important travel restrictions to be aware of. Firstly, there are high border fees and taxes when crossing from Belize to Mexico, so budgeting for these additional costs is essential. The Belize exit fee, for example, is currently 40 BZD or 20 USD per person, and must be paid in cash. Additionally, there is a Mexican entry fee, which is a bit of a grey area and may depend on the length of your stay. Officially, you can enter Mexico for up to seven days without paying a tax, but if you plan to stay longer, you may need to pay. This tax is often included in flight tickets out of Mexico, so be sure to have your itemized flight receipt handy to avoid paying twice.

Another important restriction to note is the requirement for pre-booked accommodation. Mexican immigration officials may ask for proof of your accommodation arrangements, so it is essential to have this information readily available.

Furthermore, it is crucial to ensure your passport is valid for at least six months and has at least two empty pages before crossing any border. Checking the specific entry and health requirements for your nationality is also recommended, as these can vary. Keeping yourself updated with the latest travel advice is essential, as rules may change rapidly.

Lastly, it is worth noting that there is only one land border crossing between Belize and Mexico, but it is also possible to travel by boat. However, the water taxis do not operate daily, so planning ahead is crucial.

Border crossing

Crossing the border from Mexico to Belize can be done by bus, ferry, or plane. The cheapest way to cross the border is by local "chicken" bus, which is a converted American school bus. The most convenient way to cross the border is by ADO bus, which is a comfortable, air-conditioned bus that runs between Cancun and Belize City.

There are two official crossings between Mexico and Belize: the New Border and the Old Border. The New Border is used for entering and exiting Belize, while the Old Border can only be used to exit Belize. The Old Border is a more budget-friendly option as the route is shorter. The New Border has a distance of 4km and you are not allowed to cross this border by foot. The Old Border has a distance of only 1km and can be crossed by foot.

When crossing the border, there are a few fees to be aware of. The Mexico Tourism Tax (or DNI) is a fee that must be paid to the Mexican government by all foreign nationals, including Belizeans, who enter Mexico by air, road, or sea. This fee is typically already included in your flight ticket if you flew into Mexico. The Belize Exit Fee is a fee that must be paid when exiting Belize and is approximately $20 USD.

It is important to have all the necessary travel documents when crossing the border. This includes a passport with minimum six months of validity and at least two empty pages, proof of accommodation, and proof of a negative COVID-19 test if required. Additionally, be prepared to pay the border fees in cash, preferably in the local currency.

When exiting Mexico, you may be asked if you have already paid the tourism tax. It is legal and you must show proof of payment. If you flew into Mexico, this tax was likely included in your airfare, and you can show your itemized flight receipt as proof.

At the Belize border, you will need to fill out a departure form and pay the exit fee. After getting your passport stamped, you can proceed to the Mexican immigration building. Here, you will be granted entry into Mexico and may need to pay the Mexican entry tax, depending on the length of your stay.

Keep in mind that there may be additional requirements or changes to the border crossing process, so it is always best to check for the most up-to-date information before your trip.

Driving in Mexico

Yes, it is possible to drive from Riviera Maya to Belize. The distance between the two is 273 miles and the drive time is approximately 6 hours and 39 minutes. However, there are some important considerations and requirements to keep in mind when planning such a trip. Here are some detailed instructions and information about driving in Mexico:

• Identification and Driver's License: American citizens need a valid passport or passport card for identification. Either an American driver's license or an international driving permit is accepted in Mexico.
• Mexican Immigration Card: All foreign citizens visiting Mexico for tourism or a short stay of less than 180 days must fill out an Official Entry Immigration Form (FMM) before their arrival. This can be done online, saving time at the border. However, this requirement is being phased out in Cancun.
• Car Insurance: It is mandatory to have Mexican car insurance when driving in Mexico. The minimum required coverage is civil liability insurance, which protects you in case of injury or damage to another driver or vehicle.
• Proof of Registration: You will need to provide proof of registration for your vehicle when entering Mexico.
• Temporary Vehicle Importation Permit: To drive outside the border area, you must obtain this permit, which can be purchased online or at the border. It costs around $21 and must be paid with a credit card. Keep it displayed on your windshield during your stay in Mexico.
• Rental Cars: If you plan to rent a car in Mexico, you must be at least 25 years old and have held a valid US driver's license for a minimum of two years. Some rental companies may require a minimum of five years. A valid credit card is also needed to reserve the rental and cover incidental costs.
• Tolls and Gas: Tolls can be expensive when driving across Mexico, so it is advisable to check the toll estimator for your route. Gas is priced around 21 to 24 pesos per liter, which is over $4.50 USD per gallon.
• Driving Habits and Road Conditions: Mexican drivers tend to be more casual and flexible in their driving habits, which may seem extreme to US citizens. It is important to be cautious and avoid taking unnecessary risks. Large cities like Mexico City can be navigated with similar difficulty to other major US cities like Phoenix or Atlanta during rush hour. However, there are areas to avoid, such as the Toluca Highway (Carretera Nacional 134) in Guerrero, known for bandit encounters.
• Driving at Night: It is highly recommended to avoid driving at night in Mexico. Road fatalities increase significantly after dark due to various hazards, including animals, pedestrians, vehicles without taillights, and a lack of overhead lighting on many roads.
• Breakdowns: If your vehicle breaks down during the day, you can call Los Ángeles Verdes (The Green Angels) for assistance. They are a government-paid bilingual crew that patrols 206 Mexican roads and provides tools, spare parts, and assistance to stranded motorists. If you break down at night in a remote area, it is generally safe to stay in your vehicle and wait until morning.
• Passing and Turn Signals: Mexican drivers use turn signals to indicate that it is clear for the driver behind them to pass. However, turn signals may also be used to indicate an actual turn, so be cautious and watch for intersections.
• Shoulder Driving and Passing: It is common and expected for drivers to use the shoulder to accommodate oncoming traffic trying to pass. Passing on the right shoulder is also done but should be done quickly as Mexican drivers tend to use all available space to keep traffic flowing.
• Police Interactions: Do not offer bribes to police officers if you are pulled over. Instead, ask to speak to the jefe (chief) if you believe the officer is demanding money from you.
• Border Crossing: When crossing the border, ensure all your paperwork is in order, including your Mexico vehicle permit and tourist card. Customs officials may ask questions or search your vehicle. Declare any gifts or new merchandise to avoid issues with resale suspicions.

Frequently asked questions