The Coastal Commute: Navigating The Distance Between Chetumal, Mexico And Placencia, Belize

Belize is a small Central American country, bordered by Mexico, Guatemala and the Caribbean Sea. It is approximately 160 miles from Belize City to the captivating destination of Placencia.

There are several ways to get from Chetumal, Mexico to Placencia, Belize. The most popular way is to cross the border by bus, shuttle, or taxi. The bus is the cheapest option, but it is also the longest journey, taking around five hours. The shuttle is a more comfortable option and can be booked in advance. A private taxi is the quickest and most expensive option.

If you are looking for a more scenic route, you can also fly from Chetumal to Placencia. Tropic Air and Maya Island Air are the two major domestic airlines in Belize, offering daily flights between the two destinations. This is the fastest way to travel but also the most expensive.

Alternatively, you can rent a car and drive from Chetumal to Placencia. This option gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, but it is important to note that the roads can be dangerous, with fast and impatient drivers.

Whichever way you choose to travel, the journey from Chetumal, Mexico to Placencia, Belize offers a unique and memorable experience.

Travel by plane from Belize City to Placencia

The distance between Belize City and Placencia is 81 miles. The flight distance from Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport (BZE) to Placencia Airport (PLJ) is just 68 miles. The fastest way to get from Belize City to Placencia is to fly, which takes 47 minutes and costs $100 - $250.

There are several airlines that fly from Belize City to Placencia. Maya Island Air and Tropic Air fly from Belize City Goldson International Airport (BZE) to Placencia (PLJ) hourly. Maya Island Air offers 595 flights on this route every month, while Tropic Air operates 134 flights a month between Ladyville and Placencia.

The shortest flight from Belize City to Placencia can take as little as 10 minutes. Flights from Belize City to Placencia offer the perfect escape. Not only does exploring Placencia provide the chance to make magical memories, sample delicious dishes, and tour the local landmarks, but the cheap airfare means you won't blow your budget.

You can bag a cheap flight from Belize City to Placencia for as little as $47 one-way and $106 round trip. However, prices and availability are subject to change.

Travel by bus from Belize City to Placencia

Travelling by bus from Belize City to Placencia is a great option if you're on a budget or don't fancy the small planes that also service this route. The bus is the cheapest way to travel between the two destinations and takes around 4 hours and 30 minutes.

Bus schedule

There are two buses a day that go directly from Belize City to Placencia, operated by Dalmon Ritchie. These buses depart from Belize City station at 7:45 am and 3:30 pm, arriving in Placencia at 12:45 pm and sometime in the early evening, respectively.

Alternative routes

If you don't mind changing, there are a few alternative routes you can take. You can take a bus to Independence Village and then get a taxi to Mango Creek, from where you can take the Hokey Pokey Water Taxi across the Placencia Lagoon to Placencia Village.

Alternatively, you can take a bus to Dangriga and then change to a bus to Placencia.

Travel by car from Belize City to Placencia

The drive from Belize City to Placencia is approximately 143 miles and takes around 3.5 to 4 hours. Here is a detailed guide on how to travel by car from Belize City to Placencia:

Getting Started

First, you will need to rent a car. There are car rental companies located near the Belize City airport, making it convenient for travellers arriving by plane.

Route Overview

The route from Belize City to Placencia is straightforward, and the major roadways leading to Placencia Village are well-marked and paved. The highways are generally safe, but it is important to be cautious of unmarked speed bumps, pedestrians, and cyclists. The recommended route is via the Western Highway (George Price Highway), the Hummingbird Highway, and the Southern Highway.

Step-by-Step Directions

• Head west on the George Price Highway (formerly known as the Western Highway) from Belize City. This stretch can be a bit boring, but it provides an opportunity to adjust to driving conditions in Belize.
• Around Mile 50, you will reach the turn-off to Belmopan and the Hummingbird Highway. Take this turn and follow the signs to the Hummingbird Highway and Placencia. This portion of the drive is quite scenic, so take your time and enjoy the views.
• After about an hour on the Hummingbird Highway, you will reach the Dangriga turn-off. Follow the curve to the right, which will put you on the Southern Highway.
• Continue on the Southern Highway, following signs to Placencia. Along the way, you will pass the turn-off to Hopkins, which can be a worthwhile side trip if you have the time.
• Once you reach Placencia, you can explore the village and the surrounding areas at your leisure.

Additional Tips

• It is not recommended to drive after dark in Belize, so plan your trip accordingly.
• The Coastal Highway is an alternative route, but it is not advisable as it is an unpaved gravel road with little to see and limited services.
• If you wish to stop along the way, there are several attractions, including the Belize Zoo, Lamanai Chocolate, and the Marie Sharp's factory.
• Having a car in Placencia can be convenient, especially if you plan to explore the peninsula or visit nearby attractions like the Jaguar Reserve and Barton Creek.

Overall, the drive from Belize City to Placencia is a scenic and enjoyable journey that offers travellers the flexibility to make stops along the way and take in the beauty of Belize.

Travel by taxi from Belize City to Placencia

When travelling from Belize City to Placencia, you have several options, including plane, bus, car, and taxi. The distance between the two is 81 miles, with a road distance of 144 miles. The fastest way to travel is by plane, which takes 47 minutes and costs $100-$250. However, if you're looking for a door-to-door service and don't mind a relatively higher cost, travelling by taxi is a convenient choice.

Taxi Travel:

Licensed taxis in Belize are distinguished by their green license plates, so be sure to look out for this when choosing a taxi. While taxi drivers are readily available and can be found at the airport or in Belize City, it's recommended that you negotiate the fare with the driver before embarking on your journey. The drive from Belize City to Placencia takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours.

Other Options:

If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, the public bus is a great choice. With a one-way ticket costing approximately $15, you can travel from Belize City to Placencia in about 5 hours. The bus departs twice daily and offers a scenic journey where you can witness the diverse landscapes of Belize.

For those seeking a faster option, domestic flights are available. Maya Island Air and Tropic Air offer hourly flights from Belize City to Placencia, with the journey taking about 40 minutes. However, this convenience comes at a higher cost, with prices ranging from $100-$250.

Alternatively, if you prefer to travel by car, you can rent one and drive yourself to Placencia. All you need is a valid driver's license from your home country. This option gives you the freedom to explore Belize at your own pace and create your own itinerary.

Travel by shuttle from Belize City to Placencia

Shuttle services are a convenient and affordable way to travel from Belize City to Placencia, offering a hassle-free and comfortable journey. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you plan your trip:

Choosing a Shuttle Service

When selecting a shuttle service, it is essential to consider your budget, the number of travellers in your group, and your desired level of comfort. Several companies offer shuttle services between Belize City and Placencia, including:

• Belize Shuttles and Transfers
• William's Shuttle Service
• Barefoot Services

These companies provide shared and private shuttle options, with rates ranging from USD $49 to $74 per person. They also offer online booking and responsive customer service to make your travel experience as smooth as possible.

Journey Time and Stops

The road trip from Belize City to Placencia covers approximately 143 miles, and the journey typically takes around 3.5 to 4 hours. During the trip, your driver may make stops along the way for breaks or to allow you to explore local attractions. These stops can include places to get ice cream or other local treats, providing a great opportunity to stretch your legs and experience Belize's culture and cuisine.

Advantages of Shuttle Services

Shuttle services offer several advantages over other transportation methods:

• Affordability: Shuttle services are often more economical than private taxi or car rental options.
• Convenience: With shuttle services, you can avoid the hassle of navigating public transportation or driving yourself, especially if you are unfamiliar with the area.
• Social Experience: Travelling with fellow adventurers in a shuttle can be a great way to meet new people and forge connections.
• Reliability: Shuttle services typically have a good track record of timely departures and arrivals, ensuring that you reach your destination without delays.

Booking Your Shuttle

To secure your seat on a shuttle, it is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. You can usually book your shuttle online or through a travel agent. When booking, provide your travel details, including the number of passengers, your desired date and time of travel, and any specific requirements or requests.

Other Transportation Options

While shuttle services are a popular choice, there are alternative ways to travel between Belize City and Placencia:

• Public Bus: Taking the public bus is an economical option, with tickets costing around $15 one-way. However, the journey can be lengthy, taking about five hours, and the buses tend to be busy.
• Domestic Flights: Tropic Air and Maya Island Air offer domestic flights between Belize City and Placencia, providing a swift travel option. However, this convenience comes at a higher cost.
• Taxi: Taxis are readily available and convenient but can be more expensive. Licensed taxis are recommended for safety and typically have green license plates.
• Car Rental: Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, but you will need a valid driver's license from your home country.

Whether you choose a shuttle or another transportation option, always remember to negotiate rates in advance and ask any questions you may have to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey to Placencia.

Frequently asked questions