Travel Guide: Getting To Belize

Belize is easy to get to from most places in the world, especially the United States, which is its primary market. Flying is the most popular way to get to Belize, with all international flights landing at the Phillip Goldson International Airport (BZE) in Ladyville, near Belize City. Major operators include American, Continental, Delta, and US Airways. However, it is usually cheaper to fly to southern Mexico and take a bus into Belize. You can also enter Belize by land from Guatemala, or by boat from Guatemala and Honduras.

Getting to Belize by plane

Belize is a small country in Central America, just south of Mexico and east of Guatemala. The easiest and most popular way to get to Belize is by plane, with all international flights landing at Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport (BZE) in Ladyville, just outside Belize City. This is the only international airport in Belize.

Flying to Belize is straightforward, with direct flights from several major US and Canadian cities. The airport is served by five major US airlines and five other airlines, with daily flights from cities across North America.

Airlines and Routes

The main US carriers are United, Delta, and American Airlines, with flights from New York, Miami, Houston, Atlanta, Los Angeles, and Chicago. Other US airlines include:

• US Airways, via Charlotte, NC
• Southwest Airlines, via Houston, TX, or Denver, CO
• Sun Country Airlines, via Houston, Chicago, Newark, Denver, and Los Angeles

For travellers from Canada, WestJet and Air Canada offer direct flights to Belize during the country's high season (November to April). These flights operate on a weekly basis.

For those travelling from Europe, Africa, Australia, and New Zealand, flight connections are necessary. Passengers from Central and South America can fly with Avianca, usually stopping in El Salvador.

Flight Times and Costs

An average nonstop flight from the US to Belize takes around 6 hours and 14 minutes, covering a distance of 1649 miles. The most popular route is Newark to Belize City, with an average flight time of 4 hours and 38 minutes.

The cheapest ticket to Belize from the US found in the last 72 hours was $139 one-way and $262 round-trip. However, flights to Belize from the US are generally not cheap.

Airports in Belize

Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport is the main hub for local airlines Tropic Air and Maya Island Air. In addition to the international airport, there are several small airports located in each of Belize's districts, making it convenient to travel around the country by air.

The two districts north of Belize City are served by Corozal Airport (CZH) and Orange Walk Airport (ORZ). The central districts of Cayo and Stann Creek are served by Matthew Spain Airport (SQS) in San Ignacio, Placencia Airport (PLJ), and Silver Creek Airport (SVK).

The district of Toledo in southern Belize is served by Punta Gorda Airport (PND), offering access to the beaches of Amatique Bay.

Getting to Belize by car

Belize is a small country, and it is possible to get from one spot to another within a few hours. The country has only three major highways: the Northern, Western, and Southern. However, the majority of the country is well-served by public transport. If you plan to drive to Belize, here are some things to keep in mind:

• Renting a Car: Renting a car in Belize is a great way to visit harder-to-reach destinations and have more flexibility with your itinerary. Most car rentals are available at the airport, with several global brands and local favourites like Crystal Auto Rental. Expect to pay around BZ$120 to BZ$240 (US$60-US$120) per day for a late-model compact car or compact SUV, including insurance.
• Driving Conditions: Be prepared for potholes, random rainstorms, and the occasional Mennonite horse cart. Driving at night is not recommended due to poor road conditions, speed bumps ("sleeping policemen"), and limited street lighting.
• Fuel and Services: Unleaded gasoline is widely available in Belize, but prices are high, at about US$7 per gallon (BZ$14). Service stations can be found in all major towns, but skilled mechanics are scarce. It is recommended to have a four-wheel-drive vehicle if you plan to venture off the main roads or during the rainy season (June to mid-November).
• Insurance and Regulations: Motor vehicle insurance is mandatory in Belize, and you should ensure that your rental car has valid registration, a license, and insurance. Driving laws and regulations, such as speed limits and seatbelt requirements, are similar to those in the United States. Driving after drinking is common, and local drivers may employ unusual turning practices, so stay alert.
• Border Crossings: If you are driving to Belize from a neighbouring country, research the specific border crossing requirements and have your vehicle documents ready.
• Safety: Crime and drug laws in Belize are strict, and it is important to comply with local laws and avoid leaving valuables in your vehicle.

Getting to Belize by taxi

Taking a taxi in Belize is a convenient way to get around the country, especially for shorter distances. Taxis are widespread throughout Belize and are easy to identify with their green license plates. They can be found parked at bus stations, water taxi terminals, and downtown areas.

Fares and Payment

Taxi rates in Belize are relatively inexpensive and should be negotiated with the driver before getting into the vehicle. Fares typically range from BZ$6 to BZ$15 (approximately US$3 to US$7.50 or £1.60 to £3.70). Please note that regular taxis do not have fixed meter rates or a consistent look, so it is important to agree on a price beforehand. Taxis will accept both US and Belizean currency.

Finding a Taxi

In Belize, taxi cabs are more prevalent than buses, and it is not difficult to flag one down in Belize City and other areas. If you prefer, you can also call a cab or ask your hotel or a local travel agent for recommendations. Some reliable taxi services in Belize City include Cinderella Plaza Taxi Stand, Taxi Garage Services, and Majestic Taxi.

Water Taxis

Belize also has water taxis, which are an essential mode of transportation to access the numerous cayes (small islands) off the coast. Water taxis are the most affordable way to travel to popular destinations such as Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker, and St. George's Caye. Belize City has water taxi terminals with regular departures to these destinations.

Safety Considerations

While taking a taxi in Belize can be a convenient option, it is important to be cautious and aware of your surroundings. Belize City, in particular, has a reputation for being unsafe for visitors, so it is recommended to stick to the busiest sections of downtown and obvious tourist districts. When walking, it is advisable to avoid wearing flashy jewellery or handling cash visibly. Additionally, it is not recommended to walk alone at night, except in well-lit and busy areas.

Getting to Belize by shuttle

Shuttle services are a popular way to get to and around Belize. Shuttle companies offer transportation from the airport to hotels, resorts, and even AirBnBs. They can also take you to see specific attractions, such as Mayan sites and museums.

Shuttle Companies

Belize Shuttle Services include:

• Belize Airport Shuttle Service, which offers shared, private, and group shuttle services.
• Belize Shuttles and Transfers, which offers transportation to and from the airport, as well as tours.
• Untame Belize, which operates a regular shuttle service from the Philip Goldson International Airport and provides transportation to towns and villages across Belize.
• William's Belize Airport Shuttle, which offers private, combined, and shared shuttle services and has been certified for the Gold Standard in COVID-19 safety by the Belize Tourism Board.

Shuttle Destinations

Shuttle services in Belize can take you to many destinations across the country, including:

• Belize City
• San Ignacio
• Belmopan
• Dangriga
• Hopkins
• Placencia
• Corozal
• Orange Walk

Shuttle Types

Shuttle companies in Belize typically offer a range of vehicle options, including sedans, SUVs, and vans. Some companies, like Untame Belize, provide modern vehicles with air conditioning, wireless internet, and plenty of room for passengers and luggage.

Shuttle Reviews

Reviews for shuttle services in Belize are generally positive, with many people commenting on the convenience, comfort, and safety of the vehicles. However, there are also some negative reviews, with some people mentioning issues with timing and vehicle quality. It is always a good idea to read reviews before booking any shuttle service.

Getting to Belize by bus

Travelling to Belize by bus is a great way to save money and experience the local culture. In fact, bus travel is the cheapest way to get to and around Belize. However, buses are often jam-packed and slow.

If you are travelling from the US or Canada, you can fly into Cancun, Mexico, and catch the overnight ADO Bus to Belize City. This bus leaves once a day at 10:15 pm from the ADO bus terminal in Cancun. The journey takes around eight and a half hours, including two quick stops at Corozal and Orange Walk. Tickets cost $48 USD and can be purchased at the ADO bus terminal.

Alternatively, you can take a bus from Chetumal, Mexico, to Belize. First, take the ADO bus from Cancun or Playa del Carmen to Chetumal. From there, you can catch a water taxi to San Pedro or Caye Caulker in Belize. There are two Belizean water taxi companies that depart daily at 3 pm from Chetumal's Muelle Fiscal (Municipal Pier). The water taxi ride takes about two hours and costs $30 USD.

Once you are in Belize, you can travel around the country by bus. Buses run on major highways and will stop whenever passengers shout that they are near their stop or when the driver sees someone on the roadside who wants to be picked up. Tickets are purchased on the bus from the conductor, and the buses are usually retired, repainted North American school buses. The main towns are served by fast and comfortable express buses, which only stop at the towns' terminals. For villages off the main highways, you will need to rely on slower local services, which may only run once a day from Monday to Saturday. The most frequent bus services operate along the Western and Northern highways, usually from very early in the morning to mid-evening.

When taking the bus in Belize, it is important to ask lots of questions. Ask at the bus station for the most up-to-date information, including which gate to wait at and what time to line up. If the station is busy, be prepared for a push to get on the bus, as there are no rules about who gets on first. It is recommended to use the bathroom right before getting on the bus, as there are no bathrooms on board, and you don't want to lose your seat during a break. Also, keep in mind that these buses are usually old school buses with open windows, so they won't have air conditioning. Food and drinks are sold at major bus station stops and through the windows by vendors, so you don't need to worry about packing your own. Finally, always try to get an express bus, as the non-express buses can stop very frequently!

Frequently asked questions