To Rent Or Not To Rent: Exploring Belize's Transportation Options

Renting a car in Belize is a great way to explore the country's breathtaking beaches, Mayan ruins and caves. However, there are a few things to consider before renting a car in Belize. Firstly, renting a car can be expensive, with prices ranging from $60 to $120 per day for a basic car to an SUV. Additionally, fuel prices in Belize are high, costing around $6 per gallon. Renting a car gives travellers the flexibility to move independently and avoid public transportation, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic. When renting a car, a valid driver's license, passport and credit card for the deposit are usually required. While an International Driving Permit is not necessary, liability insurance is mandatory and included in the rental rate. Driving in Belize is generally safe, with well-connected main roads and rural areas with little to no traffic. However, there are speed bumps and unpaved roads in certain areas, and driving at night is not recommended due to poor visibility and wildlife crossings.

Cost: Renting a car in Belize is relatively expensive, with prices ranging from $60 to $120 per day

Renting a car in Belize can be relatively expensive, with prices ranging from $60 to $120 per day. The final cost depends on the type of vehicle, the length of the rental period, and when you book. For example, an economy car will be cheaper than a full-size 4x4 SUV.

The cheapest time to rent a car in Belize is during the low season, from May to November. In contrast, the most expensive time is during the high season, from December to April, with prices skyrocketing around Christmas and New Year.

When renting a car in Belize, there are some additional costs to consider, such as tolls, GPS rental, extra drivers, and insurance. The cost of gas in Belize is also relatively high, at around $6 per gallon as of January 2023.

When deciding whether to rent a car in Belize, it's important to weigh the benefits of having your own transportation against the added stress of driving and unpredictable expenses. If you plan to explore multiple destinations in Belize, renting a car can offer more independence and flexibility than relying on hotels and guides for transfers. However, renting a car may not be necessary if you're staying in one place for most of your trip or if you're mainly staying in a city with accessible public transportation.

Some things to keep in mind if you decide to rent a car in Belize:

• Most rental companies require a passport, a valid driver's license, and a credit card for the deposit.
• The minimum age to rent a car is typically 21 or 25, with a young driver surcharge for renters under 25.
• Belize drives on the right side of the road.
• Distances and speed limits are in miles, not kilometres.
• Police checkpoints are not common, but it's good to have your rental agreement and driver's license ready if you encounter one.
• Secondary roads are often unpaved, so renting a 4WD vehicle is recommended, especially if you plan to visit during the rainy season.
• Speed limits are generally 55 mph in rural areas and 25 mph in villages and towns.
• It's best to avoid driving at night due to hazards like pedestrians, bicycles, loose animals, potholes, and speed bumps.
• Street signs and GPS directions may be unreliable, so it's easy to get lost.

Convenience: Having a rental car provides more flexibility and independence, allowing you to explore the country at your own pace

Renting a car in Belize gives you the freedom to explore the country at your own pace. While there are benefits to relying on drivers and guides, having your own vehicle provides more flexibility and independence.

One of the main advantages of renting a car in Belize is the ability to travel at your leisure. You won't need to coordinate with tour guides or schedule trips in advance. Instead, you can simply hop in your car and explore any road that piques your interest. This is especially useful if you're looking to pack a lot of activities into a short time frame, as you won't be restricted by anyone else's schedule.

Renting a car can also be more cost-effective than other transportation options. While it may seem expensive, the cost of renting a car is often comparable to or cheaper than the cumulative expenses of private shuttles, taxis, and domestic flights. For example, a round-trip domestic flight from Belize City to Placencia can cost around $200 per person, while a private shuttle to the same location can range from $150 to $450 each way.

Additionally, renting a car allows you to reach off-the-beaten-path destinations that may not be included in guided tours. There are numerous hidden gems in Belize, and having your own vehicle is often the most convenient way to discover them. It's also an excellent way to experience Belize like a local, as you can easily access smaller towns and villages.

When renting a car in Belize, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, renting a car can be pricey, typically costing around $60 to $120 per day for an economy car or a full-size 4x4 SUV, respectively. Additionally, gas prices in Belize are high, with unleaded fuel costing around $6 per gallon as of 2023.

Another consideration is the condition of the roads. While some major highways are in good condition, many roads in Belize are unpaved and can vary in quality. A 4x4 vehicle is often recommended, especially if you plan to visit popular tourist sites that require driving on unpaved roads.

Despite these considerations, renting a car in Belize can provide a safe and convenient way to explore the country at your own pace. It offers flexibility, independence, and the opportunity to discover hidden gems that may be difficult to reach by other means.

Safety: Driving in Belize is considered safe, with well-connected main roads and comparable driving rules to the US and Europe

Driving in Belize is generally considered safe, with well-connected main roads and driving rules comparable to those in the US and Europe. All road signs are in English, and driving takes place on the right side of the road. Belize is a rural country, so outside of Belize City and larger towns like Belmopan, San Ignacio, and Dangriga, traffic is minimal, making driving relatively stress-free. Belizeans also tend to follow traffic rules, which helps improve safety on the roads.

However, it is important to note that the condition of many roads can be poor, with speed bumps, potholes, and unpaved sections. The cost of gas is also high in Belize, at around $6 per gallon. When renting a car, it is recommended to opt for a 4WD vehicle as many tourist sites require driving on unpaved roads.

• Be cautious of unmarked speed bumps, especially when entering towns and villages.
• Be aware of pedestrians, cyclists, and farm equipment on the highways.
• Take extra care when driving at night due to poor lighting, speed bumps, and the presence of pedestrians and cyclists without lights.
• Be prepared for potential vehicle breakdowns by carrying basic supplies such as water and a flashlight.
• Do not leave valuables in your car, and avoid picking up hitchhikers.
• Ensure you have valid registration, a license, and insurance when driving, as these are mandatory in Belize.

Insurance: Liability insurance is mandatory in Belize and is usually included in the rental cost. Additional insurance options are available but can be confusing and costly

Insurance for Renting a Car in Belize

Liability insurance is mandatory when renting a car in Belize and is usually included in the rental cost. However, it is essential to carefully review the rental agreement before driving away, as some companies may add it on separately. This basic insurance covers damage to the rental car in the event of a collision with another vehicle.

Additional insurance options are available but can be confusing and costly. For example, Crystal Auto Rental offers three types of additional insurance: zero deductible credit card excess, collision waiver (CDW), and zero deductible non-collision waiver. CDW insurance limits the amount you pay out of pocket for repairs in the event of a collision, usually to a maximum of $850. The zero-deductible options cover damage to windshields, tires, and keys, as well as providing additional liability coverage.

Before purchasing additional insurance from the rental company, check with your credit card company to see if they offer any coverage benefits. Some credit cards provide collision insurance as a benefit, but there may be exclusions for certain situations, such as driving on unpaved roads. It is also worth noting that credit card coverage typically serves as third-party insurance for collision damage, while the rental company's liability insurance is primary insurance.

When renting a car in Belize, it is important to understand the insurance options and ensure that you have adequate coverage. While the mandatory liability insurance is included in most rental rates, additional insurance may be offered and could provide valuable peace of mind, especially when navigating the country's varied terrain.

Driving Conditions: While most major highways are paved, there are many unpaved dirt roads leading to popular attractions, and speed bumps are common throughout the country

Driving in Belize can be a little challenging, especially when it comes to the roads leading to popular attractions. While most major highways are paved and in good condition, there are many unpaved dirt roads that can be tricky to navigate. Here are some detailed paragraphs on the driving conditions you can expect:

Paved Highways:

Most major highways in Belize are paved and in decent condition. The Northern Highway, connecting Belize City to Corozal Town, is a well-maintained two-lane highway. The Hummingbird Highway, renowned for its beauty, was resurfaced in 2018 and offers a smooth drive. The Western Highway and Southern Highway are also in fairly good shape, with some sections in excellent condition. However, be prepared for speed bumps, especially on the Western Highway, which has the highest concentration of them.

Unpaved Roads:

Belize has its fair share of unpaved roads, particularly those leading to popular attractions. The Coastal Highway, also known as the Manatee Highway or the Shortcut, is a 36-mile gravel road that can be challenging due to dust in the dry season. The road to the Cockscomb Basin Jaguar Reserve is unpaved and may require a 4WD vehicle, especially during the rainy season. The road to the Maya ruins of Caracol is notoriously difficult and is best navigated with an experienced driver. The Hopkins Road, leading to the village of Hopkins, is currently unpaved and in poor condition, so be prepared for a bumpy ride.

City Driving:

Driving in cities like Belize City and San Ignacio can be more stressful due to narrow streets, heavy traffic, and pedestrians. Belize City, in particular, has maze-like streets with one-way alleys that can be confusing for first-time visitors. San Ignacio also has narrow, crowded streets and can be challenging to navigate. It's recommended to avoid driving in cities whenever possible and opt for alternative transportation methods.

Speed Limits and Speed Bumps:

The speed limit on highways is generally 55 mph, while in towns and cities, it drops to 25-40 mph. However, be cautious of speed bumps, affectionately known as "sleeping policemen," which are abundant throughout the country. These speed bumps can be quite unforgiving, so it's essential to slow down when approaching them to avoid any damage to your rental car.

Driving Tips:

When driving in Belize, it's crucial to remember that distances and speed limits are in miles, not kilometres. Renting a 4WD vehicle is recommended, especially if you plan to venture off the main roads. Always be cautious of pedestrians, bicyclists, and wildlife crossing the roads. Driving at night is not advised due to low visibility and the presence of pedestrians and loose animals. Finally, while police checkpoints are rare, be prepared to show your rental agreement and driver's license if you encounter one.

Frequently asked questions