Exploring Belize: Is Uber Available For Tourists?

Belize is a small Central American country with a population of approximately 400,000 people. It is bordered by Mexico, Guatemala, and the Caribbean Sea. While Uber has not yet made its way to Belize, there are several alternative transportation options available. These include taxis, water taxis, transportation shuttles, local public buses, and local airlines. In this paragraph, we will explore the different ways to get around Belize and how they compare to the convenience of ride-sharing apps like Uber.

Getting to and from Belize City's airports

Belize does not have ridesharing services like Uber or Lyft. The best way to get to and from Belize City's airports is by taxi, car, or shuttle bus.

Taxis

Taxis are affordable and easy to flag down in Belize City. Fares typically range from BZ$10-15 (US$5-7.50). However, regular taxis have no fixed meter rate or consistent look. It is recommended that you agree on a price before getting into the taxi.

Rental Cars

Rental cars are easy to come by near the city's two major airports, but you will need to acquire an international driving permit to drive in Belize. Consider renting a four-wheel-drive vehicle, as some roads leading to major sites are rustic, and rainy weather can make for challenging driving conditions.

Shuttle Buses

Shuttle buses are a convenient and affordable option for getting to and from the airport. You can book a shuttle bus ahead of time to ensure a smooth arrival or departure.

Water Taxis

Water taxis are another option for getting around Belize, especially for accessing the numerous cayes. However, they are not a direct option for getting to and from the airport.

Water taxis

The San Pedro Belize Express Water Taxi is one of the most popular water taxi services in Belize. It offers daily shuttle services between Belize City, Caye Caulker, and Ambergris Caye (San Pedro). The trip from Belize City to San Pedro takes around 75 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on weather conditions. The boats are generally open with outboard motors and seat up to 35 people. Tickets can be purchased online or at the terminal, and one-way tickets cost between $21 and $31. Luggage can be checked and claimed at the destination.

Another water taxi service is the San Pedro Water Jets Express, which also operates between Belize City and San Pedro. Thunderbolt Water Taxi offers a service between San Pedro and Corozal, departing at 7 am and 3 pm from both locations. Coastal Xpress is a private water taxi service that can be chartered for personalised trips.

Local public buses

Belize does not have ridesharing services like Uber or Lyft. However, there are local public buses that are the primary mode of transportation for Belizeans. These buses run on regular schedules throughout the country, with most buses stopping to pick up and drop off passengers at most locations along the way. The bus system in Belize is mostly based on old American school buses, with the Blue Bird Bus being the most popular.

There are two types of buses: "Regular" buses and "Express" buses. Regular buses will stop for passengers anywhere along the route, while Express buses only stop at the main towns. The final destination of each bus is displayed in its front window. The Express bus is more reliable and comfortable than the Regular bus, which tends to be an old school bus with thin foam seats.

Buses tend to be crowded, so it is recommended to arrive early to secure a seat. Most buses do not sell tickets, so you just need to get on and then pay the conductor when they come around to collect the fare. Always keep your luggage with you or within view, as passengers often use the rear emergency door to enter and exit the bus.

• Northern Zone (Belize City to Corozal): Albion's, Belize Bus Owners Cooperative (BBOC), Cabrera's, Chell's, Frazer, Joshua's, Morales, Tillett's, T-Line, and Valencia.
• Western Zone (Belize City to Benque Viejo Del Carmen): BBOC, D and E, Guerra's Bus Service, Middleton's, Shaw Bus Service, and Westline.
• Southern Zone (Belize City to Dangriga/Placencia/Punta Gorda): James Bus Line, G-Line Service, Ritchie's Bus Service, and Usher Bus Line.

Renting a car

Firstly, an international driving permit is not required in Belize if you have a valid driver's license. However, the minimum age limit to rent a car is typically 21 years, and young drivers under 25 years often have to pay extra fees. Additionally, most rental companies have a maximum age limit of 75 years.

Secondly, driving conditions in Belize can be unique and challenging. For example, overlapping during rush hour is common, and jaywalking on major roads passing through residential districts is frequent. Poor lighting on most roads outside the central business district can make it difficult to read traffic signs and warnings, especially at night. It is recommended that you plan your trips during the day to avoid these issues.

Thirdly, gas is expensive in Belize, and renting a car can cost around $102 per day on average. However, compact cars are cheaper, and booking at least a day in advance can help you get a better price. Rental cars can be found near the city's two major airports, and companies like Enterprise, Budget, Alamo, and Dollar provide this service.

Finally, if you plan to bring children on your trip, note that Belize does not have specific laws for child safety in cars. It is your responsibility to ensure your child is safely seated, and you may need to fit your rental car with a child safety seat, which most companies provide for a fee.

Shuttle services

Belize does not have ridesharing services like Uber or Lyft. However, shuttle services are a popular way to get around the country. Shuttle services in Belize offer transportation to and from the airport, as well as to popular destinations within the country and even to nearby locations in Mexico.

BZ Shuttle Service, for example, offers transportation from the airport to hotels, resorts, Airbnbs, and condos. They provide private transportation for up to eight people, group transportation for up to 16 people, and shared transportation. They also offer transportation to different attractions in Belize, such as museums and archaeological sites.

Another shuttle service provider, Untame Belize, offers transportation all over Belize, including airports, water taxi pickups, bus depots, and major towns and cities. They also provide transportation to key spots in nearby Mexico, such as Cancun and Playa del Carmen. Their shuttles are equipped with Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and child seats upon request.

Frequently asked questions