Exploring Belize: Placencia's Distance From The City

Belize is a small Central American country, bordered by Mexico, Guatemala, and the Caribbean Sea. The distance between Belize City and Placencia, a village in Belize, is approximately 81 miles, while the road distance is 143.7 miles. There are several ways to travel between the two places, including plane, bus, car, shuttle, or taxi. The fastest way to travel between the two places is by plane, which takes 40-48 minutes and costs $100-$250. The cheapest way to travel between the two places is by bus, which costs $7 and takes 4 hours and 30 minutes.

Flying from Belize City to Placencia

Airlines

Maya Island Air and Tropic Air are the two main domestic airlines offering flights between Belize City and Placencia. Maya Island Air offers more flights per month, with 595 flights compared to Tropic Air's 152. Both airlines operate out of the Philip Goldson International Airport and the Sir Barry Bowen Airport, also known as the Belize Municipal Airport, in Belize City.

Flight Prices

Flight prices can vary depending on the time of booking, availability, and the airline. Generally, one-way flights start from $47, and round-trip flights can be found from $95. It is worth noting that last-minute bookings may result in higher prices, and it is recommended to book in advance to secure the best deals.

Other Options

While flying is a quick option, there are other ways to get from Belize City to Placencia. These include:

• Taking a bus, which is a more budget-friendly option, with tickets costing around $7 one-way. However, the journey takes approximately 4.5 hours.
• Driving or taking a shuttle, which offers flexibility and the ability to enjoy the scenery. The drive is approximately 143 miles, and shuttle services are available for around $49.

Driving from Belize City to Placencia

First, head west on the George Price Highway. This stretch of road is fairly boring, but you could stop at the Belize Zoo if you wish. After around 50 miles, you'll reach the turn-off to Belmopan and the Hummingbird Highway. Follow the signs to the Hummingbird Highway and Placencia. This is a very scenic part of the journey, so take your time and enjoy the views.

After about an hour, you'll come to the Dangriga turn-off. Follow the road to the right to stay on the Hummingbird Highway. If you want to, you can turn left and take a detour to Dangriga.

Stay on the Hummingbird Highway, and you'll soon reach Placencia. On the way, you'll pass the turn-off to Hopkins, which you can also visit if you wish.

An alternative route is to take the Coastal Highway, which runs from the George Price Highway to the Hummingbird Highway near Dangriga. However, this road is not paved, and there is nothing to see except trees and dust. It can be impassable in very wet conditions, and some rental companies do not allow their vehicles on this road.

If you are driving in Belize, be aware of unmarked speed bumps near towns and villages, and take care when driving at night, as road lighting is poor and pedestrians and cyclists may be on the road without lights or reflectors. Also, watch out for speeding buses.

If you are heading to Placencia from the airport, turn left out of the airport towards Orange Walk and Mexico. After about 5 miles, turn left onto the Burrell Boom Road, which intersects with the George Price Highway. Turn right onto the George Price Highway and follow it to Belmopan.

Taking a bus from Belize City to Placencia

The distance between Belize City and Placencia is approximately 81 miles, and the road distance is about 143 miles. Taking the bus is a great option if you're seeking an affordable and immersive travel experience.

The Bus Station

The journey begins at the main bus station in Belize City, which is easily accessible. From here, you can purchase your ticket and board the bus to Placencia.

Bus Schedule and Frequency

The bus service from Belize City to Placencia is operated by Dalmon Ritchie, with buses departing twice daily. The bus typically leaves Belize City at 3:30 pm, making brief stops in Belmopan and Dangriga before arriving in Placencia. It's important to note that the journey takes approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes to complete.

Cost of the Bus Ticket

The bus is the most economical way to travel between Belize City and Placencia, with tickets costing around $7 to $15 for a one-way trip. This makes it a great option for budget-conscious travellers.

Advantages of Taking the Bus

Taking the bus offers a unique opportunity to connect with the local way of life and appreciate the diverse scenery of Belize. As you travel through vibrant landscapes, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the country and its people. The bus is also a great way to meet fellow travellers and share stories along the way.

Other Transport Options

While the bus is a great option, there are alternative ways to get to Placencia. These include flying, with several daily flights available, as well as shuttle services, private transfers, car rentals, and taxis. Each option offers its own advantages in terms of cost, convenience, and travel time, so you can choose the one that best suits your preferences and budget.

Shuttle services from Belize City to Placencia

There are several shuttle services available from Belize City to Placencia, with prices ranging from $49 to $275. The drive time is approximately three to four hours, and the shuttle will take you on two of Belize's major highways, crossing many rivers, hills, and valleys.

One option is Barefoot Services, which offers shuttle services for $49 per person. They provide a convenient and affordable way to get from Belize City to Placencia, with the added benefit of being able to connect with other travellers. Barefoot Services also offers private transfer services for a more personalised experience, with a cost of $74 per person for groups of up to four individuals.

Another option is Untame Belize, which offers a shared-ride airport shuttle service for $275 for 1 to 3 persons, with each additional person after 3 costing $25 until the van limit of 14. They recommend booking in advance to save money and secure your seat.

Additionally, Nelson Maya Adventures provides shuttle services from Belize City to Placencia, including one-way or round-trip transfers to hotels, resorts, Airbnbs, and beachfront cabanas on the Peninsula. The travel time is roughly three hours, and you can request stops at well-known sites along the way.

Belize Shuttles and Transfers is another shuttle service provider that receives great reviews for its timeliness, friendliness, and responsiveness. They offer online reservations and chat functions on their website, making it easy for customers to book their transfers.

When travelling from Belize City to Placencia, it is recommended to book your transportation in advance to ensure a worry-free and enjoyable journey.

Private transfer services from Belize City to Placencia

The distance between Belize City and Placencia is approximately 81 miles, with a road distance of 143.7 miles. If you're looking for a private transfer service to get you from Belize City to Placencia, there are a few options to consider:

Barefoot Services

Barefoot Services is a well-known company that offers private transfers from Belize International Airport to Placencia. The cost for a group of up to four individuals is USD $74 per person, ensuring a private and comfortable journey. They also offer shuttle services for USD $49 per person, which is a more economical option.

William's Shuttle Service

William's Shuttle Service provides private and shared transfers from Belize City to Placencia. They are known for their excellent customer service and knowledgeable drivers. The cost of a private transfer is typically between $260 and $300 for one to four passengers.

Chabil Mar Resort

The Chabil Mar luxury resort in Placencia offers transportation services for its guests, including private transfers from Belize City to the resort. They can help you arrange the best option based on your budget and travel goals.

These private transfer services can provide a seamless and personalised travel experience, ensuring that your journey to Placencia is as enjoyable as the destination itself.

Frequently asked questions