Bacalar And Belize: A Quick Jump To Paradise

The distance between Bacalar, Mexico and Belize City is 83 miles, or approximately 133 kilometres. There are several ways to travel between the two, including by bus, car, shuttle, ferry, and taxi. The quickest way to travel between the two is by car, which takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes. However, it is also possible to take a bus or shuttle, which takes between 4 and 5 hours. When travelling between Bacalar and Belize, it is important to note that there may be border crossings and customs checks, which can add time to the journey.

Travel by bus and car

The distance between Bacalar and Belize City is 83 miles. The road distance is 114 miles. Here is some information on how to travel between the two places by bus and car.

By Bus

There are direct buses from Bacalar to Belize City, which depart once daily and take approximately 4 hours. The bus company is called Mundo Maya Travels (MayanOz) and tickets cost $40-$60.

By Car

It is possible to drive from Bacalar to Belize City. The driving distance is 114 miles and the journey takes approximately 2 hours and 46 minutes.

By Bus and Car

It is also possible to take a combination of bus and car. One option is to drive from Bacalar to Corozal and then take the bus from Corozal to Belize City. The other option is to do the same journey in reverse: take the bus from Bacalar to Corozal and then drive from Corozal to Belize City. This journey is the cheapest option and takes 2 hours and 15 minutes.

Travel by shuttle

The distance between Belize City and Bacalar is 83 miles, or approximately 133 kilometres. There are four ways to get from Belize City to Bacalar: by bus, car, shuttle, or minivan.

Shuttle services are available from Belize City to Bacalar. Marlin Espadas operates a shared minivan service that can accommodate up to 15 passengers. The shuttle departs from the San Pedro Belize Express Water Taxi station on North Front Street in Belize City and arrives at the Oficina Marlin Espada in Bacalar. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and costs $49 per person.

Another shuttle option is provided by Mundo Maya Travels (MayanOz). This shuttle service takes approximately 5 hours and 25 minutes and costs $25, making it a more affordable choice.

When travelling by shuttle, it is important to arrive at the meeting point at least 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time. Additionally, keep in mind that Bacalar is one hour ahead of Belize City in terms of time zones.

Shuttle services offer a convenient and direct way to travel between Belize City and Bacalar, providing a comfortable and stress-free journey for visitors.

Travel by minivan

The distance between Bacalar and Belize City is 83 miles or approximately 133 kilometres.

There are two minivan companies operating on this route: Marlin Espadas and Adrenalina Tours. Marlin Espadas is based in Chetumal, Mexico, and provides transfer services in Bacalar, Chetumal, Corozal, Belize City, Tikal, and Flores, Guatemala. Adrenalina Tours is based in Guatemala City and provides shared and private car and minivan services across Guatemala.

There are two departures per day or 14 per week. The only travel class available is Standard. Each minivan ticket offers an individual seat with basic passenger necessities. Conditions and amenities vary by provider. The fastest way to travel is by minivan, which takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes.

Border Crossing

Please note that there are some border closures in place for Belize due to COVID-19. Most travel to this country is restricted. You can check the official page for Belize for the latest travel status.

Travel by ferry

The simplest way to get from Bacalar to Caye Caulker is by ferry. Take the 5:50 am bus from Bacalar to Chetumal, then get a taxi to the San Pedro Water Jets International office on the main pier (El Muelle Fiscal). From there, you can take the 10 am ferry to Caye Caulker. This ferry only departs on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays and includes a stop at the Migrations Office at San Pedro.

Booking directly with the ferry company at least 24 hours in advance is recommended, and you should arrive at 8 am for check-in. The journey will cost you $72 USD one-way, and you will arrive at Caye Caulker at 12:15 pm.

Another option is to take a shuttle transfer from the Green Monkey Hostel in Bacalar to the Belize City Docks, including a return ferry to Caye Caulker. You will be picked up between 7:30 and 8 am, and the shuttle will take you to Chetumal, where you will change to an air-conditioned minibus. This bus will guide you through customs and immigration checkpoints, and you will pay the departure tax for Mexico if it is not included in your air ticket.

After passing through Belizean immigration, you will continue to the docks and catch the 1:30 pm ferry, arriving in Caye Caulker in time for happy hour! This journey costs $90 for two people, including the return ferry.

If you are travelling from Caye Caulker to Bacalar, you can take a water taxi to Chetumal and then continue to Bacalar by taxi, bus, or colectivo. Alternatively, you can take a cheaper water taxi to Belize City and then continue by bus.

Travel by taxi

Taking a taxi from Bacalar to Belize City is another option for your journey. You can easily find taxi drivers in Bacalar who will be happy to take you to the border. From there, you can catch another taxi to Belize City. This option may be more expensive than taking a bus or shuttle, but it can be more convenient if you want a private ride.

• Agree on a price with the taxi driver before getting in to avoid any surprises or haggling at the end of the trip.
• Be prepared to pay a fee for leaving Mexico at the border. Have some cash in Mexican pesos ready to cover this cost.
• Ensure you have all the necessary travel documents, such as your passport and visa, before reaching the border.
• The average duration of the journey is around 4 hours, depending on traffic, customs, and weather conditions.
• If you're travelling with others, consider sharing the taxi to split the cost.
• Some recommended taxi services include:
• Venancio: +501-603-6711
• Alberto the BZ Transporter: +501-630-2700
• George from Get Transfer: +501-604-5789
• Jesus Catizm: +501-620-6653

Travelling by taxi can be a convenient and flexible option, especially if you're looking for a door-to-door service. Remember to be cautious, stay aware of your surroundings, and always prioritise your safety when travelling.

Frequently asked questions