Unlocking Belize: The Cost Of Entry

Belize is a beautiful Central American country filled with jungles, ruins, wildlife, beaches, and friendly locals. However, it is known to be one of the more expensive places to travel in Central America or the Caribbean. The cost of a trip to Belize can vary depending on factors such as the time of year, accommodation type, transportation choices, food preferences, and activities.

For flights, prices can range from $300 to $800 round-trip, depending on the season and departure location. Budget hotels or hostels typically start at $30 per night, while luxury accommodations can cost up to $300 per night. Transportation within Belize is relatively affordable, with subway or train tickets costing around $1 to $5 one-way. Food expenses can vary, with budget restaurants charging $10 to $30 per person and mid-range restaurants costing $30 to $60.

For a week-long trip to Belize, budget travelers can expect to spend around $1,100 to $3,600, while mid-range travelers may spend $3,000 to $7,800. These estimates include costs for flights, hotels, food, transportation, activities, and other expenses.

While Belize may be pricier than neighbouring countries, it offers a unique blend of cultures, natural wonders, and biodiversity, making it a memorable destination for travellers seeking adventure and relaxation.

Flights: $300-$800 for a round-trip ticket

The cost of a flight ticket to Belize varies depending on the time of year, the origin airport, and the airline.

Round-trip tickets from mid-sized cities in the US range from $450 to $600 per person. Flights from larger cities like New York can be cheaper, with prices as low as $370 to $450 per person.

Using airline points can further reduce the cost of a flight to Belize. For example, flights booked with American Airlines points can be as low as 20,000 points per person, round-trip, plus taxes and fees (around $80 per person).

It is also worth noting that flights to Belize are generally cheaper during the rainy season (June to November), as this is a less popular time to visit.

• $300 from Washington Dulles International Airport
• $302 from Washington Dulles International Airport
• $126 from Belize City Municipal Airport to Caye Caulker
• $174 from Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport to Caye Caulker
• $175 from Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport to Caye Caulker
• $300 from Washington Dulles International Airport to Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport

Hotels: $30-$300 per night

Hotels in Belize: $30-$300 per night

The cost of hotels in Belize varies depending on location, amenities, and level of luxury. For those travelling on a budget, there are hostels and budget-friendly hotels available, while honeymooners or luxury travellers can find high-end resorts. Here is a breakdown of hotel prices in Belize, ranging from $30 to $300 per night.

Budget-Friendly Options:

• Funky Dodo Backpackers Hostel in Hopkins: $16 per person per night for dorms, and $45 for a private room.
• Yellow Belly Backpackers Hostel in San Ignacio: $25 per person for dorms, and $70 for a private room.
• Drift Inn in San Pedro: $15 per person for dorms, and $75 for a private room.
• Maya Mountain Lodge: A nature-filled lodge with small pool, lush gardens, hiking trails, spacious cabins and apartments, and Caribbean cuisine. Rooms start at $30 per night.
• Best Western Plus Belize Biltmore Plaza: A conveniently located hotel near the airport, with comfortable rooms, a well-kept pool, and various amenities. Rooms start at $30 per night.

Mid-Range Options:

• Hopkins Bay Resort in Hopkins: Starts at $175-250 per night for a 1-bedroom villa.
• San Ignacio Resort Hotel in San Ignacio: $260-300 per night for a deluxe room. Nestled in a rainforest, this hotel offers luxurious master suites, beautiful jungle views, and a Spanish-style lobby.
• SunBreeze Hotel in San Pedro: $209+ per night for a standard room. An ideal hotel for diving vacations, with an on-site dive shop, restaurant, pool, and beach access.
• Weezie's Ocean Front Hotel and Garden Cottages: Charming hotel with a stunning penthouse, clean rooms, and beautiful grounds. Beach access, restaurant, bar, and various activities are available. Rooms start at $150 per night.
• Mariposa Belize Beach Resort: Charming hotel nestled among beautiful grounds and a soft beach. Relax at the bar, pool, or loungers with ocean views. Spacious treehouse rooms offer privacy and serenity. Rooms start at $200 per night.

Luxury Options:

• Belizean Dreams in Hopkins: Starts at $674-700 per night (4-night minimum stay and all-inclusive).
• Sweet Songs Jungle Lodge in San Ignacio: $370-625 per night for a treehouse.
• Pelican Reef Villas in San Pedro: $324-389 per night for a 2-bedroom suite.
• Sirenian Bay Resort & Villas: Exceptional spa services in a cozy setting. Various tours are offered, along with golf cart rentals for easy exploration. Personalized concierge services are also available. Rooms start at $250 per night.
• Mahogany Bay Resort & Beach Club, Curio Collection by Hilton: Indulge in a beautiful private beach with clear, nature-filled views and delicious food and drinks. Spacious, home-like family cottages with private pools are available. Rooms start at $300 per night.

Transportation: $1-$5 for a one-way subway/train ticket

Transportation in Belize is quite affordable, with public transportation being inexpensive. Local buses are recommended over hiring a scooter or car for safety reasons and to save money. The distances are short, but travel days can be long and sweaty. Here are some examples of transportation costs:

• Bus from Cancun to Belize City: $66
• Bus from Belize City to San Ignacio: $10
• Return bus trip from San Ignacio to Xunantunich: $3
• Return ferry ticket from Belize City to Caye Caulker: $45
• One-way water taxi ticket: $21-31
• Taxi fares in Belize City and San Pedro: $5-7.50
• Golf cart rental in Caye Caulker: daily or weekly fees
• Rental car: $50-60 per day, plus gas, parking, etc.

In Belize, you can expect to pay around $1-$5 for a one-way subway/train ticket.

Food: $10-$60 per person at budget/mid-range restaurants

Belize is a beautiful country filled with jungles, ruins, wildlife, pretty beaches, and friendly locals. However, it can be quite expensive. As a small country that imports most of its goods, prices tend to be higher than in neighbouring countries like Mexico and Guatemala. Nevertheless, with careful planning, it is possible to find budget-friendly options.

When it comes to food, you can expect to pay around $10-$60 per person at budget/mid-range restaurants. Street food and fast-food joints offer the most affordable options, with meals costing around $2-$5. For a more casual dining experience at local restaurants, prices typically range from $5-$15. If you're looking for something more upscale, mid-range restaurants charge between $15-$30 per meal. High-end or luxury restaurants, on the other hand, can cost anywhere from $30-$100 or more per meal.

• Breakfast: $1 for a breakfast tamale from a cart
• Lunch: $10 for Belizean rice and beans
• Dinner: $40 for a lobster dinner and a couple of drinks

It's worth noting that drinks at bars will usually cost around $5-$7 per cocktail, but happy hour deals can sometimes get you 2-for-1. Additionally, beers purchased at stores are typically only $1-$2 each.

If you're looking to save money on food, consider eating at street stalls or food carts instead of sit-down meals at restaurants. A simple but filling meal of rice, beans, and protein from a street stall will cost you around $5-$7, while a Mexican-style tamale will set you back a couple of dollars.

With some careful planning and flexibility, you can enjoy the delights of Belizean cuisine without breaking the bank!

Activities: $5-$200 for sightseeing and tours

Belize has a range of activities and tours to offer, with prices varying depending on the type of experience you're seeking.

If you're interested in exploring ancient ruins, Belize has several options with affordable entrance fees. The Mayan Ruins of Xunantunich, for example, charge an entrance fee of $5, while the ruins of Cahal Pech cost just $5 to explore. These ruins offer a glimpse into the country's rich history and are definitely worth adding to your itinerary.

For those seeking outdoor adventures, Belize has plenty to offer as well. A popular choice is the Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave, also known as the ATM Cave. This full-day tour takes you through the jungle, where you'll swim through caves, ford a river, and learn about Mayan civilisation. The cost for this tour is typically around $120.

If you're looking for water-based activities, snorkelling at the Belize Barrier Reef is a great option, costing around $95. This is a chance to explore the second-largest coral reef system in the world and discover the diverse marine life that calls it home.

For those who enjoy sightseeing, a trip to The Great Blue Hole, a natural wonder and diver's paradise, is a must. Full-day diving trips to this iconic site can cost between $200 and $500.

Additionally, Belize offers various free or low-cost sightseeing options, such as exploring local markets, hiking through national parks, and visiting public beaches.

So, whether you're a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a water sports lover, Belize has activities to suit your interests and budget. With careful planning, you can create a memorable itinerary that fits within your financial plan.

Frequently asked questions