Uber Alternatives In Belize City: Exploring Transportation Options

There is no Uber in Belize City. However, there are a number of alternative ways to get around the city, including taxis, water taxis, shuttle services, local public buses, and local airlines.

Taxi alternatives to Uber in Belize City

Uber has not yet made its way to Belize, so you'll have to rely on other modes of transportation to get around Belize City and the rest of the country. Here are some alternatives to Uber or Lyft in Belize City:

Dalla Vans (Dolla Vans)

Known as "Dollar Vans" by locals, these ride-sharing vans operate in Belize City and Belmopan City. They have set routes that locals are familiar with and can take you from the centre of town to the outskirts. The fare typically ranges from $1 to $3, depending on the distance. However, passengers are expected to know their stop and where to get off as these vans do not travel outside their operating area.

Taxis

Taxis are readily available in Belize and are a good alternative, especially when travelling within cities, towns, or villages, as well as to and from major airports. Taxis in Belize are independently owned but belong to a cooperative that estimates the price or fare, so you can expect standard pricing. At the airport, the going rate for a taxi is US$25 to Belize City, and within city/town limits, rates start at about US$8. Keep in mind that some taxis may look like they were built or maintained using parts from other cars, which can be a unique experience in itself!

Golf Carts

On Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker, golf carts are the primary mode of transportation and can be considered the equivalent of Ubers on these islands. Many resorts also offer complimentary bicycles, as biking is a convenient way to get around without having to worry about parking.

Shuttle Services

Transportation shuttle services, such as Untame Belize, offer a convenient and affordable way to travel around Belize. These shuttles can be rented by the day or week and provide a comfortable and punctual travel experience. They are equipped with Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and child seats upon request. Shuttle services also offer the flexibility to make stops along your journey and can be tailored to your timing and destinations.

Car Rentals

Renting a car is another option for getting around Belize, especially if you want to explore the mainland independently. However, keep in mind that gas is expensive, and many roads in Belize are unpaved and unmarked, which can make navigation challenging. An SUV or an all-wheel vehicle is recommended for certain terrains, especially if you're heading to any jungle destinations.

MiDriva app: the Belize-Uber

When travelling, it's always useful to know what your options are for getting around. In Belize, there are no ridesharing services like Uber or Lyft, but there are other ways to get from A to B. One option is to use the MiDriva app, which works in a similar way to Uber.

MiDriva is an app-based service that allows you to request a taxi anywhere in Belize from your mobile phone. It works in the same way as Uber, so if you're familiar with that, you'll find it easy to use. You can download the app from the MiDriva website.

If you don't want to use MiDriva, there are other ways to get around Belize. These include:

• Taxis – These are affordable and easy to find in Belize City and other tourist destinations. Taxi fares typically range from BZ$10 to BZ$15 (approximately $5 to $7.50). However, regular taxis have no fixed meter rate or consistent look, so it's a good idea to agree on a price before getting in.
• Water taxis – These are a great way to get to the cayes from the mainland. In Belize City, water taxis go to Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker, and St. George's Caye. Dangriga also has chartered boats to Tobacco Caye, Glover's Reef, and other Southern Cayes.
• Local public buses – Buses are a cheap way to get around, but they can be slow and hard to navigate. They run on the major highways and will stop if you shout out your stop or if the driver sees you waiting by the roadside.
• Car rental – Renting a car can be a good option, but be aware that some roads in Belize are unpaved and unmarked, and gas is expensive. You'll also need an international driving permit.
• Transportation shuttle services – These can be a convenient and affordable option, especially if you're travelling as a group. They can be rented by the day or week and come with experienced local drivers who know the best routes.
• Local airlines – Flying is a fast and convenient way to get around, but it can be expensive.

Getting around Belize City without Uber

Belize City is a compact place, and it's easy to get from one spot to another within a few hours. However, it's worth noting that Belize City has a reputation for being unsafe for visitors, so it's best to stick to the busiest sections of downtown and tourist districts. If you do need to venture further, there are several ways to get around the city without using Uber.

Taxi

Taxis are a common way to get around Belize City and are identifiable by their green license plates. They are relatively inexpensive, with rides costing between BZ$6 and BZ$14 (US$3-US$7/£1.60-£3.70). Taxi drivers are generally friendly, but there is no standardised look for taxis in Belize City, and most are in some state of disrepair. Very few taxis use meters, so be sure to negotiate your fare in advance.

Walking

Walking is a good option for getting around the downtown hub of Belize City, including the Fort George neighbourhood and the compact business area south of the Swing Bridge. However, it is advised to stow any flashy jewellery and avoid making visible cash transactions while walking around. It is also not recommended to walk around Belize City at night.

Shuttle Service

Shuttle services are a great way to get around, especially if you want a guided experience. They are generally cheaper than taxis for longer rides, and some even have Wi-Fi.

Bus

Belize City does not have a metropolitan bus system, but local bus services are a good-value way to get to most major towns and villages. The bus experience in Belize is casual, and you can usually flag down a non-express bus anywhere along its route. The cost varies by distance but is usually only a few dollars.

Boat

Belize has nearly 200 miles of Caribbean coastline, and many Belizeans navigate these waters in their daily lives. Visitors typically use boat transport to visit the cayes or stay at resorts. The most common boat transport is the water taxi to and from Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker. The water taxi works like a ferry, shuttling guests on a regular schedule.

Bicycle

Bicycles are the primary mode of transportation on islands like San Pedro and Caye Caulker, and they are a great way to get around if you want to avoid taxis or shuttle services. Most resorts offer complimentary bicycles.

Car

Renting a car in Belize can be a good option if you want to visit harder-to-reach destinations or have more flexibility with your travel plans. However, be prepared to navigate potholes, random rainstorms, and the occasional Mennonite horse cart! Rental cars are usually not in the best condition, but there are plenty of options, including 4WDs.

Golf Cart

On Ambergris Caye, renting a golf cart is the way to go, as the island is too narrow to accommodate many cars and trucks. Golf carts can be rented all over the island, and they add a sense of charm to the commute.

Domestic Flights

There are two domestic airlines in Belize: Tropic Air and Maya Island Air. Flying is a memorable and relatively inexpensive way to get around, offering incredible views of the country.

Pros and cons of taxis in Belize City

Pros

• Taxis are available 24/7 and can be found near busy locations like tourist attractions and the port.
• Official taxis have green license plates, making them easy to identify and safe to use.
• They are a good option for travelling within the city, towns, or villages, as well as to and from the airport.
• They are independently owned but belong to a cooperative that estimates the price or fare, so you can expect standard pricing.
• They are a good option for groups, as the cost can be split between passengers.
• They are a good option for those who do not want to rent a car and deal with the challenges of driving in Belize, such as unpaved and unmarked roads.
• They are a convenient option for those who do not want to use public transportation, which can be inconvenient due to schedules and stops.
• They can be pre-booked for a competitive fixed fare, ensuring a stress-free arrival at the airport.
• They are regulated by the local taxi association to ensure that both locals and tourists aren't being overcharged.
• They are a good option for those who want the convenience of an on-demand transportation service.

Cons

• Taxis can be expensive, especially for longer trips or when travelling with a group.
• They may not always be readily available, and you may need to call one of the local operators for an on-demand taxi service.
• They do not use taximeters, so it is important to ask about the fare before getting into the taxi.
• They may stop along the way to pick up more passengers, which can increase the travel time.
• They may not be the best option for those who want the convenience of booking through an app.
• They may not be the most cost-effective option for long-distance travel, as there are other shuttle services available that offer competitive rates.
• They have been known to overcharge tourists, so it is important to be aware of the standard pricing and ask about the fare in advance.

Other ride-sharing services in Belize City

Belize does not have any ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft. However, there are a few local ride-sharing services in Belize City and Belmopan City known as Dalla (or Dollar) Vans. These vans have set routes that are well-known to locals and can take you from the centre of town to the outskirts. They are a good option if you are looking for a ride from the airport to your destination.

Another option is to take a taxi. Taxis are available in every destination and can be identified by their green license plates. They are safe and easy to find at air and sea ports. The going rate for an airport taxi is $25 to Belize City, and rates within city/town limits start at about $8, depending on the final destination.

If you are on the islands of San Pedro or Caye Caulker, you may want to rent a golf cart, which is the primary mode of transportation on both islands. Most resorts also offer complimentary bicycles, as biking is the easiest way to get around, regardless of your destination.

If you are on the mainland, you can rent a car and explore on your own. Belize only has four major highways, all with signage in English, making it almost impossible to get lost. However, if you are going to any jungle destinations, it is recommended to rent an SUV.

For longer distances, you can also use a shuttle service, such as Belize Shuttle by William, Belize Ground Shuttle, San Ignacio Shuttles, or Ron's Belize Private Shuttle Service. These companies offer shuttles from the Belize water taxi to San Ignacio Town, and you can arrange stops to see certain attractions along the way.

Frequently asked questions