Travel Guide: Cancun To Belize Adventure

There are several ways to get from Cancun to Belize, including by plane, bus, car, or shuttle. Flying is the fastest option, taking around 2 hours and costing between $250 and $700. The cheapest way to travel between the two places is by bus, which costs between $35 and $140 and takes around 9 hours. A direct bus service between the two locations was reinstated in December 2023, but it is also possible to take a bus to Chetumal and then take a taxi to the border before getting another bus to Belize City.

Flying from Cancun to Belize

Flying is the fastest way to travel from Cancun, Mexico, to Belize. The journey by plane takes around 2 hours, while travelling by bus and shuttle takes over 9 hours.

Airlines

Airlines that fly directly from Cancun to Belize include:

• Tropic Air
• Copa
• United
• American Airlines
• Delta
• Alaska Airlines
• Hahn Air Systems

Price

Prices for flights vary depending on the airline and time of booking. Generally, one-way flights start from $224, and round trips from $445.

Booking

It is recommended to book your flight from Cancun to Belize in advance, as this route is becoming increasingly popular. Booking 28-35 days ahead for domestic flights and 3-4 months ahead for international flights is advised to get the best deals.

Alternatives to Flying

If you do not wish to fly, there are other ways to travel from Cancun to Belize. The journey by bus and shuttle takes over 9 hours and costs between $27 and $110. Driving is another option, with the distance between the two locations being 328 miles.

Driving from Cancun to Belize

The drive from Cancun to Belize City is about 303 miles (487 km) and should take about 6 hours and 26 minutes in normal traffic. Here are some tips to help you get from Cancun to Belize by car.

Renting a Car

If you're renting a car, make sure you rent from a company that allows you to take the rental vehicle into Belize. They can provide you with a letter of permission to take the car into Belize. Some companies may require additional documentation if you plan on taking the car into Guatemala, so be sure to check before you go.

Gas Stations

Be aware of gas pump scams where the attendant may claim you gave them a smaller note than you actually did. For example, if you need 450 pesos of fuel, pay in 100 notes instead of 500. Also, keep an eye on the pump when the attendant resets it.

Border Crossing

When you arrive at the border, you will need to get your vehicle fumigated before you can move on to the Belize border. This will cost $5 USD or $10 BZ.

Belize Auto Insurance

Your rental company should make it clear that you will need to buy Belize auto insurance if you take the car into Belize. It will cost $29 BZ for one week and is only for third-party liability, so it is recommended that you put your entire rental cost on a good credit card that provides collision coverage. There is an insurance company called Atlantic Insurance in the transition zone.

Belize Border

When you approach the Belize border, there is a parking lot where you can park your car and take your luggage to the customs desk. There are attendants there who will porter your luggage and take you to Customs. It is recommended that you tip them as per normal porter rates.

Declaring Your Rental Vehicle

Make sure you declare your rental vehicle, and they will give you paperwork which will be required when you exit Belize.

Returning to Mexico

Going back into Mexico is straightforward.

Driving in Belize and Mexico

Driving in both countries is easy. Roads are better on Highway 307 in Mexico. Belize is a small country, but most roads have slower speeds and speed bumps in towns. Allow yourself an average of 50 kph to cover distances. Enjoy the Hummingbird Highway... it is awesome. Belize does not have a lot of roads, so fill your tank and leave plenty of time.

Taking the ADO bus from Cancun to Belize

Buying Tickets for the ADO Bus from Cancun to Belize

You can purchase tickets for the ADO bus online from the ADO website (www.ado.com.mx), although you may need to use Google Translate if you don't understand Mexican Spanish. Tickets can also be booked over the phone or bought in person at the Cancun bus station.

ADO Bus Schedule from Cancun to Belize

The ADO bus from Cancun to Belize departs daily at 10:15 pm from the Cancun Bus Terminal, arriving in Belize City around 6:30 am. There is also a daytime option, with the bus leaving Cancun around 6:10 am and arriving in Belize City around 4:35 pm. However, this schedule may change, so it is recommended to check the ADO website for the latest information.

ADO Bus Route from Cancun to Belize

The ADO bus from Cancun to Belize makes several stops along the way. After leaving Cancun, the bus stops at Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Bacalar, Corozal Town, Orange Walk Town, and finally, Belize City. Passengers must present valid passports before boarding the bus as it crosses an international border.

Tips for Taking the ADO Bus from Cancun to Belize

• The air conditioning on the bus can be quite cold, so it is recommended to bring warm clothes or a jacket.
• The border crossing between Mexico and Belize is smooth and straightforward. You will need to get off the bus to go through immigration for exiting Mexico and entering Belize, which usually takes less than an hour.
• The ADO bus from Cancun to Belize is a safe and comfortable option for travel between the two countries. However, the bus station in Belize City is located in a sketchy neighbourhood, so it is advised to take a taxi if arriving after dark.
• The ADO bus allows for a luggage allowance of a large backpack or suitcase and a smaller item.
• Food and drinks are not provided on the bus, so it is recommended to bring your own snacks and water for the journey.

Taking a ferry from Cancun to Belize

Step 1: Get to Chetumal, Mexico

First, you'll need to get yourself to Chetumal, Mexico. This can be done by taking a bus or flying into Cancun and then taking a couple of bus rides. If you choose the bus option, there are a few different routes you can take. One option is to take a bus from the Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen, and then another bus from there to Chetumal. The bus from the airport to Playa del Carmen is only $10 USD and takes about an hour. You can find hotels in Playa del Carmen for around $40-60 USD, so it's a great option if you want to stay overnight in Mexico.

Alternatively, you can take a bus directly from the Cancun Airport to Chetumal, with a couple of stops in between. This option will take longer and may be less comfortable, but it's a more affordable choice.

Step 2: Take the Ferry from Chetumal to San Pedro, Belize

Once you're in Chetumal, you can take a ferry to San Pedro, Belize. Two companies operate this route on alternate days: Water Jets International and San Pedro Belize Express. Water Jets International operates daily except Thursdays and Sundays, departing from Chetumal's Fiscal Dock at 10 am and arriving in San Pedro after 90 minutes. The price for a one-way ticket is around $63 USD for adults and $53 USD for children aged 4-9.

Please note that you'll need a valid passport (and visa, if applicable) to take this ferry, and it's recommended to arrive at the dock 30 minutes early. There are also customs fees and taxes that apply, so be sure to factor those into your budget.

Step 3: Continue to Caye Caulker or Belize City

If your final destination is Caye Caulker or Belize City, you can continue your journey from San Pedro. There are water taxis and ferries that operate between these destinations, so you can easily complete your trip.

Taking the ferry from Cancun to Belize is a great option if you want to enjoy the scenery and take your time. It's also a more affordable choice compared to flying, although it will take longer. So, if you're not in a hurry and want to make the most of your trip, this is a great option!

Shuttle from Cancun to Belize

There are several ways to get from Cancun to Belize, including by plane, bus, ferry, and car. Here is some information on taking a shuttle or bus from Cancun to Belize.

ADO Bus

The ADO bus company provides daily express bus services from Cancun to Belize City. The ADO bus is known for its luxurious first-class and executive-class buses, with air conditioning, comfortable seats, an onboard restroom, and TV screens. The journey takes approximately ten hours and costs around $65-$69 one way.

The ADO bus schedule offers two different options: an overnight bus that leaves Cancun around 10:15 pm and arrives in Belize around 6:30 am, and a daytime bus that leaves at 6:10 am and arrives at 4:35 pm. The bus makes seven stops along the way, including Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Bacalar, and Chetumal.

Tickets for the ADO bus can be purchased online, by calling their phone number, or in person at the bus station in Cancun. It is recommended to have your ticket ready before boarding, as well as a valid passport for the border crossing.

Alternative Bus Options

If you prefer to break up the trip, you can take separate buses from Cancun to Chetumal and then from Corozal to Belize City. This option may require purchasing tickets at the bus stations or on board, and you will need to cross the border by taxi.

Shuttle Services

In addition to bus services, there are private shuttle services that can be arranged to transport you from Cancun to Belize. These shuttles offer a more comfortable and direct journey, often with air conditioning and scenic views. Prices for these shuttles can vary, but they typically range from $100 to $200.

One recommended shuttle service is offered by Cahal Pech Belize Resort, which provides transportation from Cancun to their resort in Belize. They offer pre-reserved, courtesy transport to meet you at the airport if you fly directly, or they can arrange for staff to drive you from Cancun to the resort in a private, air-conditioned shuttle.

Border Crossing Information

When travelling from Cancun to Belize by bus or shuttle, you will need to cross the border between Mexico and Belize. This process is generally smooth and straightforward, but it is important to have your passport ready and any necessary travel documents. There may be fees associated with exiting Mexico and entering Belize, so be prepared to pay these charges.

Shuttling from Cancun to Belize offers a convenient and scenic way to travel between these two countries. Whether you choose the ADO bus, alternative bus options, or a private shuttle service, you can expect a safe and enjoyable journey. Remember to plan your trip in advance, have your travel documents ready, and enjoy the beautiful landscapes along the way!

Frequently asked questions