Exploring Belize: Renting A Car For Freedom And Adventure

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, gas prices in Belize are high, costing around $6 per gallon. Renting a car gives you the flexibility to move independently and avoid public transportation, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic. When deciding whether to rent a car or not, it is important to consider your itinerary. If you are planning to visit multiple locations across Belize, a rental car might be a good option. However, if you are staying in one place for most of your trip, private shuttles, taxis or domestic flights might be more cost-effective options.

Cost of renting a car in Belize

Renting a car in Belize isn't cheap. The average cost of a rental car in Belize is $109 per day. However, prices vary depending on the type of car and the rental company. Small cars can be rented for as little as $58 per day, while other cars may start at $72 per day. The cheapest rental cars in Belize City can be found at Alamo, Budget, and Hertz, with rates starting at $81 per day.

It is recommended to book your rental car in advance, as companies may be very busy upon your arrival in Belize. Additionally, booking in advance can help you secure a better deal. When renting a car in Belize, a credit card is typically required, and a deposit of around $1500 may be placed on hold. It is also important to note that liability insurance is mandatory in Belize and is usually included in the rental rate.

When choosing a rental car in Belize, consider opting for a compact SUV or a 4-wheel-drive vehicle. These vehicles offer better gas mileage and can handle the country's unpaved roads and varied terrain. Gas stations in Belize can be scarce, so it is important to keep your tank full. The average price of gas is nearly $10 BZ per gallon, or about $5 USD.

Overall, renting a car in Belize can provide you with flexibility and convenience as you explore the country's breathtaking beaches, Mayan ruins, and caves.

Pros and cons of renting a car in Belize

Renting a car in Belize can be a great way to explore the country, but there are some pros and cons to consider before making a decision.

Pros of Renting a Car in Belize:

• Independence and Flexibility: Having your own car allows you to create your own itinerary and explore Belize at your own pace without relying on public transportation or tour guides.
• Cost-Effective: Renting a car can be more affordable than taking private shuttles or domestic flights, especially if you plan to cover a lot of ground during your trip.
• Social Distancing: During the COVID-19 pandemic, renting a car can be a safer option than using public transportation or shared taxis.
• Convenience: With a rental car, you won't have to worry about coordinating with tour guides or scheduling trips in advance.
• Accessibility: A car can help you reach hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path destinations that might be difficult to access by other means of transportation.

Cons of Renting a Car in Belize:

• Cost: Renting a car in Belize can be expensive, with daily rates ranging from $60 to $120, excluding additional fees and insurance.
• Driving Conditions: Belize has a mix of paved highways and unpaved roads, and some areas may have potholes or speed bumps. Driving in cities like Belize City or San Ignacio can be stressful due to narrow streets and heavy traffic.
• Insurance and Deposits: Rental companies typically require a deposit, and liability insurance is mandatory in Belize. The cost of additional insurance can add up, and it's important to understand what your policy covers.
• Border Crossings: If you plan to drive to neighbouring countries like Guatemala or Mexico, you'll need to declare this to the rental company and purchase additional insurance.
• Left-Hand Turns: When turning left on highways, you must pull to the right shoulder and wait for oncoming and following traffic to clear, which can be confusing for those unfamiliar with this rule.
• Night Driving: Driving at night in Belize is not recommended due to poor lighting, wildlife crossings, and pedestrians.

Driving in Belize

Renting a car in Belize is a great way to explore the country, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Here are some tips and things to know about driving in Belize:

Rules and Regulations

Belize drives on the right side of the road, and all road signs are in English. The speed limit is generally 55 mph on highways and 25 mph in cities and villages. When turning left on a highway, drivers must pull onto the right shoulder and wait for oncoming and following traffic to clear before proceeding. It is also important to note that seatbelt use is mandatory in Belize.

Road Conditions

Belize has a few paved highways, but there are also many dirt and unpaved roads. Some of the roads, especially those leading to major attractions, can be in poor condition with potholes and speed bumps. Wildlife and pedestrians are also common on the roads, so it is important to drive with caution.

Rental Information

When renting a car in Belize, you will need a passport, a valid driver's license from your home country, and a credit card for the deposit. An international driver's license is not required, but you will need to have liability insurance, which is mandatory in Belize. The cost of renting a car can vary, but it is generally around $60-120 per day for a compact car or SUV. It is recommended to rent a 4WD vehicle if you plan to drive on unpaved roads or during the rainy season.

Navigation and Directions

While Google Maps and GPS can be useful, they may not always be accurate in Belize due to lack of street signs and road names. It is recommended to ask for directions from locals and allow extra time for navigation.

Driving at Night

Driving at night is not recommended in Belize due to poor visibility and the presence of wildlife and pedestrians. Highways and streets in smaller towns may also bepoorly lit, making it difficult to spot hazards.

Requirements for renting a car in Belize

To rent a car in Belize, you must be at least 21 years old and have a valid driver's license from your country. Renting a car is a great way to explore the country independently, but there are some important requirements and considerations to keep in mind.

Firstly, it is recommended to reserve a car in advance, especially during the high season, as the demand for rental cars can be high. You can book through international agencies such as Avis, Budget, Hertz, and Thrifty, or local companies like Crystal Auto Rental. The cost of renting a car in Belize is typically between $60 and $120 per day, depending on the vehicle type.

When picking up your rental car, carefully inspect the vehicle for any existing damage and point out even the tiniest scratches or dents to the rental company representative. This will help ensure that you are not held responsible for any pre-existing damage when you return the car.

It is also crucial to have valid insurance coverage. While your existing car insurance policy or credit card may provide some coverage, it is important to verify that it applies to rentals in Belize. If not, you may need to purchase additional liability insurance from the rental company. Be sure to understand the terms and conditions of any insurance coverage to know what is included and what is not.

In terms of driving in Belize, it's important to note that they drive on the right-hand side of the road, and seatbelt use is mandatory. The country has well-signed, paved two-lane highways with speed limits ranging from 55 mph on highways to 25 mph in towns and villages. Be mindful of unmarked speed bumps, especially when approaching towns and villages. Additionally, be cautious of pedestrians, cyclists, and farm equipment on the highways, and avoid driving at night due to poor lighting and hazards like loose animals.

When navigating, keep in mind that street signs are scarce in Belize, and GPS or Google Maps may not always provide accurate directions. Instead, rely on the free maps provided at the airport or ask locals for directions.

Lastly, if you plan to visit remote areas or travel during the rainy season, consider renting a four-wheel-drive vehicle. This will provide better clearance and off-road capability, which can be useful for unpaved roads or areas with heavy rainfall.

By following these requirements and tips, you can confidently rent a car in Belize and enjoy the freedom and flexibility it offers during your travels.

Recommended rental companies in Belize

Belize has agents from major international auto rental companies, as well as local companies. Recommended companies include:

• Alamo, which has offices at the international airport and in Belize City.
• AQ Auto Rental, with locations at the international airport, in Belize City, and in Placencia.
• Budget, with offices at the international airport, on the Goldson Highway in Belize City, and in Placencia.
• Crystal Auto Rental, the largest car rental company in Belize, with offices at the international airport and on the Goldson Highway in Belize City. Crystal is one of the few companies that allow their vehicles to be taken into Guatemala.
• Hertz, with offices at the international airport, in the Fort George area of Belize City, and in Placencia.

Other options include Avis, Thrifty, Enterprise, and Dollar.

Frequently asked questions