Exploring Belize: Road Trip Essentials

Belize is a small country in Central America, with a well-planned highway and road system. The easiest and most popular way to get to Belize is by flying into the Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport (BZE) in Belize City. However, if you want to reach Belize by road, you can drive there from Mexico or Guatemala. The Philip Goldson Highway, commonly known as the Northern Highway, connects Belize City to the Mexican border at Chetumal. The George Price Highway, or the Western Highway, connects Belize City to the Guatemalan border at Benque Viejo del Carmen/Melchor de Mencos. These highways are completely paved, but other roads in Belize may be gravel or dirt and can be difficult to traverse without a four-wheel-drive vehicle. Buses are also available for travelling between Belize and its neighbouring countries, but they may be slow and infrequent.

Driving in Belize: car rental, road conditions, and safety

Car Rental

To rent a car in Belize, you must be 18 or older and have a valid driver's license. While U.S. licenses are accepted, an International Driving Permit is required if you do not have a license. It is recommended to rent a 4WD vehicle, especially if you plan to visit during the rainy season, as some roads become inaccessible without one.

Expect to pay a high price for car rental in Belize, with rates starting at around $60 per day. Some companies may also offer Collision Damage Waiver coverage for an additional cost of $10 to $15 per day, but this usually doesn't cover the initial cost of damage. Check with your credit card provider to see if they offer this service, as American Express and some others do.

When selecting a vehicle, be aware that some Japanese-made rental cars have speed and distance shown in kilometers, which can be confusing on local mile-denominated roads. It is also important to check the mileage, tires, and breakdown procedures before driving off.

Road Conditions

Belize has a vast network of roadways, thoroughfares, and streets that measure over 1,900 miles long. However, only approximately 350 miles are paved, with the rest being gravel or dirt roads. Even the biggest "highways" in Belize are two-lane roadways, and you will encounter speed bumps, potholes, and narrow roads.

The speed limit on highways is 55 mph, and 25 to 40 mph in towns and cities. Be cautious of pedestrians and animals, especially when driving at night, and be aware of the risks of drink-driving and reckless driving. Only take registered taxis with green license plates, and always ask for the fare in advance.

Safety

Belize has one of the highest per capita murder rates in the world, and other violent crimes are also a concern. While tourists are not usually the targets of gang violence, it is important to follow the advice of local authorities and be vigilant.

Theft of cash, credit cards, phones, and other valuables is common in tourist destinations, so it is important to take precautions such as using ATMs in well-lit areas, keeping valuables out of sight, and not wearing expensive jewelry.

When driving, do not pick up hitchhikers, as Belize has strict drug and gun laws, and you may be held responsible for any illegal substances found in your vehicle. Always carry your driver's license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance, as you may be asked to present them at police checkpoints.

In case of emergency, call 911 for the police, fire, or ambulance.

Highways and roads in Belize: a network of roadways

Belize has a vast network of roadways, thoroughfares, and streets that measure over 1,900 miles (3,000 kilometres) long. However, only about 350 miles (570 kilometres) are paved, with several gravel and dirt roadways currently being upgraded. Even the biggest "highways" in Belize are two-lane roadways. Here is a closer look at some of the major highways and roads in Belize:

Philip Goldson Highway (Northern Highway)

The Philip Goldson Highway, commonly known as the Northern Highway, is one of the three major thoroughfares in Belize. It connects Belize City to points north, including Orange Walk District, Orange Walk Town, Corozal Town, and the Mexican border town of Chetumal. The highway is approximately 95 miles (153 kilometres) long and is completely paved. It is named after Philip Stanley Wilberforce Goldson, a Belizean newspaper editor, politician, and activist.

George Price Highway (Western Highway)

The George Price Highway, also known as the Western Highway, is another of Belize's three major thoroughfares. It connects Belize City to points west, including the capital Belmopan, San Ignacio, and the Guatemalan border town of Benque Viejo del Carmen/Melchor de Mencos. This highway is approximately 81 miles (130 kilometres) long and is fully paved. It is named after George Cadle Price, the last head of state during the colonial era and Belize's first prime minister after independence.

Hummingbird Highway

The Hummingbird Highway is one of the most scenic routes in Belize, connecting Belmopan in central Belize to Dangriga on the southeastern coast. The highway, named after the abundance of hummingbirds in the area, is approximately 55 miles (89 kilometres) long and is fully paved. It is not a traditional highway, but rather a two-lane road similar to a county or provincial road. The Hummingbird Highway passes through villages, orchards, and several tourist attractions, making it a popular route for visitors to Belize.

Southern Highway

The Southern Highway begins at the southern terminus of the Hummingbird Highway in Dangriga and connects to points south, including Punta Gorda and ancient Maya sites. This highway is approximately 97 miles (156 kilometres) long and is completely paved. It serves as an important transportation corridor, providing easier access to rugged terrain, ancient sites, and traditional villages in the southern part of the country.

Coastal Highway (Manatee Highway)

The Coastal Highway, also known as the Manatee Highway or the Shortcut, is currently an unpaved, gravel roadway that is challenging to traverse without a four-wheel-drive vehicle. It connects an area west of Belize City to just north of Dangriga, measuring about 30 miles (48 kilometres) long. The government of Belize has committed to paving and upgrading this highway to improve its accessibility.

Hitchhiking in Belize: a common local custom

Hitchhiking in Belize is a common and popular method of transportation, with a simple highway system, tons of speed bumps, and an abundance of pickup trucks on the road. The country's small size means that hitchhikers can cover long distances quickly, and the friendly local population, many of whom work in the tourism industry, are proud of their country and happy to give rides to foreigners.

Tips for Hitchhiking in Belize

• Be an early bird: Many locals go to work early, and they usually have plenty of room in their cars.
• Look like a backpacker: Locals are curious about tourists, so highlighting that you are one and sharing your story can increase your chances of getting a ride.
• Hitchhike on weekends: Locals often go to rivers, waterfalls, and other travel destinations on weekends, so you may have better luck getting a ride.
• Travel with a partner: Couples tend to get picked up more often than solo males.
• Smile: Happiness is a universal language that can increase your chances of getting a ride.
• Be picky: It is advisable to be selective about who you get a ride with. While this depends on your comfort level, you may prefer to stick to families, couples, and other travellers, and avoid cars with tinted windows or groups of men.
• Know where you're going: It is helpful to have a map or use a guidebook to know your route. Google Maps can be loaded in advance and used outside of WiFi zones.
• Don't travel in the dark: It is generally safer to avoid travelling at night. Plan your trip to arrive at your destination before dark, and tack on an extra hour if needed.
• Chat with your driver: Hitchhiking is a great way to connect with locals, as they are often excited to learn about you and your travels and to practice their English. Take the opportunity to learn about the local culture and the best spots to visit.
• Trust your instincts: If you don't feel comfortable with a particular driver, it is better to wait for someone else.

Other Transportation Options in Belize

While hitchhiking is a common and viable option, there are also other ways to get around Belize. These include travelling by plane, bus, water taxi, boat, car, or even kayak. Buses are the cheapest and most efficient way to travel long distances within the country, with tickets costing as little as Bz$8-10 for shorter trips and up to Bz$25 for the longest trip in the country (Belize City to Punta Gorda). Taxis are also available and can be identified by their green license plates. Car rentals are another option, but be aware that many roads are unpaved and can be challenging to navigate without a four-wheel-drive vehicle.

Buses in Belize: how to navigate the bus system

Belize has a good bus system that is both inexpensive and reliable. This is how the locals get around, and it's a great way to immerse yourself in the culture of Belize. Buses can be caught at bus terminals or flagged down on the roadside. Major centres and destinations will typically have bus services to and from the area several times each day. Bus services to Belize's more remote villages and locations may only be available once or twice a day.

Buying Tickets

Tickets are purchased from the conductor on the bus and cost around BZ$25 for the longest trip in the country (Belize City to Punta Gorda). You don't need to worry about having exact change, as the conductor will have plenty.

Finding Schedules

There are currently no reliable online resources for bus schedules, but once you are in the country, you can ask locals or go to a bus station. All major stations have staff who can provide up-to-date information.

Boarding the Bus

If the station is busy, be prepared for a push to get on the bus, as there are no rules about queuing. Alternatively, you can try to find a staff member who might be willing to get on the bus and save you a seat for a small fee.

Luggage

Your large bag can be packed in the belly of the bus if you get on at a major station, otherwise, bring a bag that can be squished into the overhead storage. A small suitcase works, but a duffel bag or backpack is even better.

Bus Stops

Buses on the main highways will stop at towns' terminals, and they will also pick up and drop off passengers anywhere along the roadside. If you want the bus to stop, shout out to the driver when your stop is approaching.

Express Buses

Try to get an express bus if you can, as the local services can be very slow, stopping as often as every 100 feet.

Food and Drinks

You don't need to worry about packing food and drinks for the journey. At each major bus station stop, and some smaller ones, people will board the bus or sell you food and drinks through the windows.

Air Conditioning

Be aware that the buses are recycled US school buses, so they won't have air conditioning. Windows will be open, and the wind and dust will be whipping, so sunglasses are recommended on dry days.

Comfort

The bus seats may not be very comfortable, and you might have to squeeze in with other passengers.

Safety

Belize is generally a safe country, but always be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings. It's also a good idea to use the bathroom before boarding the bus, as there are no bathrooms on the vehicles themselves.

Water taxis and boats in Belize: transportation between the mainland and islands

Water taxis are the best mode of transportation to access Belize's numerous cayes. Water taxis are available in Belize City, Ambergris Caye, and Caye Caulker. Smaller, less frequently visited atolls and cayes may require a private boat charter.

There are two water taxi companies in Belize City, both offering daily departures. Tickets can be bought at the terminal, and it is recommended to buy a round-trip ticket to get a discount. Water taxis in Belize often have different prices for locals and tourists.

Belize City has water taxis to Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker, and St. George's Caye. A one-way ticket costs between $21 and $31. The ride from Belize City to Caye Caulker takes 45 minutes, and then another 30 minutes to San Pedro.

Dangriga has chartered boats to Tobacco Caye, Glover's Reef, and other Southern Cayes. Resorts on remote islands often have their own private boats.

The San Pedro Belize Express Water Taxi offers a daily service to Caye Caulker and San Pedro, and now also travels to Chetumal in Mexico every other day. The trip from Belize City to San Pedro takes around 90 minutes.

International Islander Ferries is another water taxi company that travels to Caye Caulker, San Pedro, and Chetumal.

Frequently asked questions