Navigating From Hopkins To Golson: The Ultimate Guide

If you're planning a trip to Hopkins in Belize, you'll likely arrive at Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport, just outside Belize City. From there, you have several options to get to Hopkins. You can take a bus, which is the most economical but also the slowest option, or a taxi, which is straightforward but pricier. You could also take a short commuter flight to Dangriga, followed by a shuttle or taxi to Hopkins. Alternatively, you can rent a car and drive yourself, which gives you the freedom to explore the surrounding areas. The drive from Belize City to Hopkins takes around 2.5 to 3 hours and offers a scenic view of rolling hills, valleys, and orange orchards.

Travel by shuttle

Shuttles are a convenient and cost-effective way to get from Hopkins, Belize, to Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport. The journey takes approximately 2.5 hours one way and offers a scenic drive through the beautiful inland areas of Belize.

There are several shuttle services available, such as BZ Shuttle Service, which has been operating in Belize for over 30 years. Their vehicles operate 24/7, making early and late pickups possible. They offer shared and private shuttle services to popular destinations, including the airport. You can book with confidence, knowing that they monitor your flight and can accommodate any delays.

Another option is William's Belize Shuttle Service, which provides private and shared shuttle transfers to and from Hopkins. They offer a comfortable and enjoyable journey, taking you through small villages and scenic routes. William's team is dedicated to making your transfer a fun part of your trip.

When booking a shuttle, you can expect AC vehicles that are fully insured and authorised by the Belize Airport Authorities. The shuttle will pick you up from your hotel, resort, or Airbnb in Hopkins and drop you off directly at the airport. Restroom breaks can be requested, but there are usually no other stops along the way.

The route from Hopkins to the airport takes you through several parts of inland Belize, including Belmopan, the Hummingbird Highway, and the Southern Highway. You will experience the diverse terrain, including hills, streams, rivers, mountains, and valleys. The entire journey is a beautiful drive, providing sightseeing opportunities from beginning to end.

Shuttles are a great choice for those seeking a comfortable, scenic, and hassle-free travel option to the airport. With experienced drivers and flexible services, you can rest assured that you will arrive at the airport safely and on time for your departing flight.

Travel by bus

Belize has an extensive network of inter-city buses, making it a great option for budget-conscious travellers. To get from Hopkins, Belize, to the Philip S. W. Goldson Airport, you'll first need to take a bus to Dangriga on the southeast coast. Buses from Belize City to Dangriga typically take around three hours and cost just a few dollars. Be prepared for crowding and multiple stops along the way.

Once you arrive in Dangriga, you'll need to switch to a bus heading to Hopkins. There are only two buses that run directly from Dangriga to Hopkins each day, departing at 12 noon and 5:00 p.m. The bus from Dangriga to Hopkins is also quite affordable, but it will be crowded and make several stops.

If you're travelling from the airport to Hopkins, the process is similar, but in reverse. First, take a bus from the airport to Belize City, and then transfer to a bus to Dangriga. Finally, switch to the bus to Hopkins in Dangriga.

It's important to note that the bus schedule in Belize can be a bit unpredictable, and buses may not always depart on time. It's always a good idea to build some flexibility into your travel plans when relying on bus transportation in the country.

Additionally, when taking the bus, it's essential to keep an eye on your belongings at all times, especially in crowded markets or bus stations.

The bus journey from Hopkins, Belize, to the Philip S. W. Goldson Airport is quite lengthy and can take up to four or five hours, including transfers. However, it is a great way to see the country and interact with the local people.

Travel by car

The drive from Belize City to Hopkins Village is approximately 112 miles and takes around 2 hours 45 minutes. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to get from Hopkins, Belize, to the Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport (BZE) in Ladyville by car:

• Start your journey in Hopkins Village, located on the coast of the Stann Creek District in Belize.
• Head north on the Hopkins Road towards the Southern Highway.
• Turn left onto the Southern Highway and drive towards Dangriga.
• In Dangriga, you will transition to the Hummingbird Highway, also known as the George Price Highway or the Western Highway.
• Continue on the Hummingbird Highway towards Belmopan.
• From Belmopan, take the George Price Highway (Western Highway) towards Belize City. This section of the journey constitutes about 52 miles.
• Follow the highway until you reach the airport exit, located just nine miles north of Belize City.
• Turn off the highway and follow the signs to the airport terminal.

Please note that while some digital maps may suggest the Coastal Highway route, the route via Belmopan is a more scenic option, celebrated as the country's most scenic highway. Additionally, the Coastal Highway route is not actually along the coast.

Rental Car Options

If you do not have your own vehicle, rental cars are available at the airport and in Hopkins Village. The estimated cost of renting a vehicle is $80-90 USD per day or $650-800 per week.

Travel by plane

If you're travelling to Hopkins, Belize, you'll likely enter the country via Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport in Ladyville, just nine miles north of Belize City.

From there, you have a few options. You could take a commuter flight to the Dangriga Airstrip, which takes around 15-20 minutes. Once you arrive in Dangriga, you can take a shuttle or taxi to Hopkins, which takes around 30-40 minutes.

Alternatively, you can book a private transfer from the airport to Hopkins with companies such as Julian Shuttles or William Shuttle Service. This option takes around 2.5 hours and offers a more scenic journey through the country's diverse wildlife.

If you're looking for a more luxurious experience, the Muy'Ono Explorer offers a round trip transfer for $150 USD per person. This includes an air-conditioned van, a local tour guide, and refreshment and bathroom stops along the way.

Keep in mind that the last flight to Dangriga departs at 5:00 pm, so it's recommended to arrive at Belize City no later than 3:45 pm to make this connection.

Travel by taxi

Taking a taxi from Philip SW Goldson International Airport to Hopkins is a convenient and straightforward option. The journey will take approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Recognizing Licensed Taxis

Licensed taxis in Belize have distinctive green license plates, making them easy to identify. You can simply wave one down or book a taxi service in advance for added convenience.

Taxi Fares

Fares for the taxi ride from the airport to Hopkins can vary. Some sources suggest a range of $200 to $300 for a full shuttle load, while others mention a $40 to $50 charge for a one-way trip from Dangriga to Hopkins, which is closer to the final destination.

The Journey

The route from the airport to Hopkins takes you through some of Belize's diverse landscapes and attractions. You'll pass by small villages, scenic highways, and the country's capital, Belmopan. The journey also includes crossing streams, rivers, mountains, and valleys.

Alternative Options

While taxis offer a direct and flexible travel option, there are other means of transportation to consider as well. These include traveling by bus, rental car, shuttle service, or even a combination of air and ground transportation. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of cost, travel time, and convenience.

Frequently asked questions