Exploring Belize Cayes: Travel Options To The Islands

Belize is reachable in about two hours from US cities like Miami and Houston. The Belize Cayes are a series of islands off the coast of Belize, and Ambergris Caye is the largest of these islands. San Pedro Town is the only town on Ambergris Caye, and it is the most-visited destination in Belize. There are two main ways to get to Ambergris Caye from Belize City: by boat or by plane. The flight from Belize City to San Pedro takes about 15–20 minutes and costs $67–$125 round-trip. Flying in and out of Belize City’s municipal airport is much cheaper (US$25 each way), although you’ll need to catch a taxi from the international airport to get there. The ferry ride is about 75 minutes one way from Belize City to San Pedro and costs $9.50–$20 one-way.

Flying to Belize Cayes: 20-minute flight, costs $125-$128 USD

Flying to Belize Cayes is a quick and convenient option, taking just 20 minutes to arrive at your destination. The flight offers stunning views of the Caribbean Ocean and the Belize Barrier Reef, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The reef is the largest reef complex in the Atlantic-Caribbean region and the second-largest reef system in the world.

There are two airlines that service the route from Belize City to San Pedro Airport: Maya Island Air and Tropic Air. Maya Island Air operates daily scheduled flights to San Pedro, as well as other destinations in Belize, including Caye Caulker and Caye Chapel. Tropic Air also offers frequent flights to San Pedro, departing every hour at 40 minutes past the hour.

The cost of the flight is between $67 and $128 USD for a single fare. The price can vary depending on the airline and the time of booking. It is recommended to book with Tropic Air if you are looking for more flights and nicer stations for departure. Maya Island Air may be a better option if you are looking for a more budget-friendly choice.

When booking your flight, consider that the planes are small, and you may feel cramped, especially if you are claustrophobic. However, the amazing scenery during the flight can take your mind off any discomfort.

If you are travelling as a family or a large group, it might be more cost-effective to fly from the Belize Municipal Airport instead of the international airport. For example, for four adults, the cost from the international airport is $631 USD, while it is $384 USD from the municipal airport, including the connecting taxi fare.

Water taxi from Belize City: 75-minute ride, costs $14.50-$20 USD

Water Taxi from Belize City:

Taking a water taxi from Belize City to Ambergris Caye is a great option if you're looking for a scenic and budget-friendly way to get to the island. Here's everything you need to know about this option:

Getting to the Water Taxi Terminal:

The water taxi terminal is located in downtown Belize City, less than 10 miles from the airport. You can easily get there by taking a taxi from the airport, which should cost around $25-30 USD. The drive usually takes around 20 minutes with no traffic but can take up to 45 minutes during rush hour or in the late afternoon.

Water Taxi Schedule and Fares:

Once you arrive at the water taxi terminal, you can purchase your tickets for the ride to Ambergris Caye. There are two water taxi companies operating in Belize City: Ocean Ferry and San Pedro Belize Express Water Taxi. The latter offers more frequent departures, making it a more convenient choice. The fare for the water taxi ride is typically $14.50-$20 USD one-way, and the journey takes about 75 minutes. The water taxis usually run from 8 am to 5:30 pm, with extra boats available on weekends and holidays. It's always a good idea to check the schedule before planning your trip.

Onboard Experience:

The water taxis are typically open speedboats with powerful engines, carrying around 20 to 30 passengers. They offer beautiful views of the Caribbean water and islands, making for a scenic journey. However, if it rains, the crew may close the windows, which can make the ride a bit hot and stuffy. Most water taxis provide free Wi-Fi on board, and some even offer refreshments and music.

Local vs. Tourist Pricing:

It's important to note that water taxis in Belize often have different prices for locals and tourists. This is because water taxis are a form of public transportation for locals, and the tourist price helps subsidize the cost and keep fares affordable for those who rely on them daily. The price difference is generally not significant, and it helps support the local community.

Total Travel Time and Cost:

Taking the water taxi from Belize City to Ambergris Caye adds some travel time to your trip. The total time, including the taxi ride from the airport and the water taxi ride, can be around 2 hours or more, depending on traffic and wait times. The total one-way price for one person, including the taxi and water taxi fares, is approximately $42.50 USD. For two people, it would be $60 USD, and the cost per person decreases for larger groups.

Advantages and Disadvantages:

Taking the water taxi is a budget-friendly option, especially for larger groups. However, it does add travel time, and if you're prone to motion sickness or arriving late in the afternoon, the plane might be a better choice. Additionally, the water taxi ride can get stuffy if the windows are closed due to rain. On the plus side, the water taxi offers a slow and scenic journey, and you can enjoy the beautiful views of the Caribbean along the way.

Taxi from airport to water taxi terminal: 20-45 minutes, fixed price of $25-$30 USD

To get to the water taxi terminal from the airport, you can take a taxi. The taxi ride will cost you a fixed price of $25 to $30 USD. The taxi rank is located in front of the main terminal as you exit the arrivals hall, so it will be easy to find a taxi. The journey will take around 20 minutes with no traffic, and up to 45 minutes during rush hour in the late afternoon.

The water taxi terminal is less than 10 miles from the airport, in downtown Belize City. The taxi will take you directly to the terminal, so you won't have to worry about navigating the city streets.

Once you arrive at the water taxi terminal, you can purchase your ticket for the water taxi. The water taxis run frequently throughout the day, so you won't have to wait long to board. The water taxi ride to Ambergris Caye will take about 75 minutes one way.

Taking a taxi from the airport to the water taxi terminal is a convenient and straightforward option if you're travelling to Ambergris Caye.

Tropic Ferry: 40-person water taxi, costs $75-$125 USD

Tropic Ferry is a premium water taxi service that takes you from the international airport near Belize City to your resort on Ambergris Caye. A ferry representative will meet you at the airport and take you on a short 5-minute ride to the dock in Ladyville. From there, it's around a 75-minute trip to your destination on Ambergris Caye. The ferry can accommodate up to 40 passengers and the trip costs between $75 and $125 USD.

The Tropic Ferry service is ideal for those who want a comfortable and convenient way to get to Ambergris Caye. The ferry is spacious and provides a smooth ride, making it a good option for those who want to avoid the cramped conditions of some of the other water taxis. Additionally, the ferry representative will ensure that you are guided through the process, from the airport to the dock, making it a stress-free experience.

The cost of the Tropic Ferry service is higher than some other water taxis, but it offers a more premium experience. The ferry is well-maintained and the staff are professional and accommodating. They will even drop you off at the dock closest to your villa, saving you the trouble of having to arrange additional transportation upon arrival.

If you are looking for a comfortable, convenient, and efficient way to get to Ambergris Caye, Tropic Ferry is a great option. With a capacity of 40 passengers, ample legroom, and a complimentary rum punch en route, it is a pleasant way to travel to your destination.

Maya Island Air: One of two airlines flying to San Pedro Airport, the other is Tropic Air

Maya Island Air and Tropic Air are the two airlines that fly from Belize City's Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport (BZE) to San Pedro Airport (SPR). Maya Island Air is Belize's most experienced airline, offering daily scheduled flights to San Pedro and other destinations, including Dangriga (Hopkins) and Placencia. Maya Island Air also provides access to the islands of Caye Caulker and Caye Chapel and the seaside towns of Corozal and Punta Gorda.

Maya Island Air's website highlights the convenience of their flights to various destinations in Belize, including the country's pristine beaches, lush jungles, and historic Mayan temples. They also offer tours of the Great Blue Hole, where passengers can enjoy aerial views of the Turneffe Atoll, the Great Barrier Reef, and the majestic Blue Hole, where the turquoise sea turns a deep navy.

Tropic Air, the other airline serving San Pedro Airport, is also a popular choice for travellers. They have been recognised for their commitment to safety and sustainability, investing in renewable energy sources to reduce their carbon footprint. Tropic Air has a strong presence in San Pedro, with headquarters in the town, and they serve various destinations in Belize and beyond, including San Pedro Sula in Honduras.

Both airlines offer stunning views of the islands and turquoise waters of Belize during the 20-minute flight from Belize City to San Pedro. The cost of a round trip for two adults ranges from $192 to $315, with similar pricing between the two airlines. Maya Island Air offers a 10% discount for cash walk-ins, but it must be requested.

Travellers have reported positive experiences with both airlines, noting that the views alone are worth the price of admission. Maya Island Air has been mentioned as a good option for those seeking a quieter experience, while Tropic Air has more flights and nicer departure stations.

Frequently asked questions