Vehicles Of Belize: A Snapshot

Belize is a small country with a low population density, which makes for some beautiful nature and wildlife. However, this also means that tourists may find it difficult to navigate the backcountry roads. While many highways in Belize have been repaved in recent years, some city streets can be challenging to drive on.

If you're planning to drive in Belize, you'll be driving on the right-hand side of the road, and road signs are in English. There are only four major roads in Belize: the Philip Goldson Highway (formerly Northern), the George Price Highway (formerly Western), the Southern Highway, and the Hummingbird Highway. All are two-lane roads with speed bumps as they pass through towns and villages.

If you're visiting the Mountain Pine Ridge area of the Cayo District, or the Gallon Jug or Lamanai areas, you'll need a four-wheel-drive vehicle. However, if you're just visiting the major towns and cities, a standard sedan should suffice. That being said, a four-wheel-drive vehicle can be useful for the extra clearance and off-road ability, especially during the rainy season (June to mid-November).

When it comes to renting a car, you can expect to pay between BZ$120 and BZ$240 (US$60-US$120) per day for a late-model compact to a compact SUV, including insurance. It's recommended to rent from a reputable company and to be aware of the high cost of fuel in Belize.

Some important things to keep in mind when driving in Belize include being cautious of pedestrians and speed bumps, obeying speed limits, and not using a cell phone while driving unless it's hands-free. Driving at night is not recommended due to low visibility and the presence of pedestrians, bicycles, and loose animals on the road.

Overall, driving in Belize can be a safe and enjoyable way to explore the country, but it's important to be aware of the local driving laws and conditions to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience.

Driving in Belize: Is it scary?

Belize is a small, rural country with a low population density, meaning that outside of Belize City and larger towns like Belmopan, San Ignacio, and Dangriga, the roads are often empty. This makes driving in Belize relatively stress-free, despite the varying conditions of the roads.

Road Conditions

Belize's roads are a mix of paved and unpaved, with some roads, such as the Coastal Road, being mostly unpaved and impassable after rain. The Hummingbird Highway, Belize's most famous and scenic road, is entirely paved, as is the road between Belize City and Hopkins. The Northern Highway, Western Highway, and Southern Highway are also in good condition, having been repaved in recent years. However, other roads, such as the Old Northern Highway and the Hopkins Road, are in poor condition with multiple potholes.

Driving Practices

Belizeans drive on the right side of the road, and generally follow traffic rules, making driving in Belize similar to driving in the US or Europe. However, there are some unusual practices that foreign drivers should be aware of. When turning left on a two-lane road, drivers in Belize typically signal right, pull to the right, and wait for traffic to pass before making the turn. Additionally, slow-moving vehicles such as tractors and motorcycles are common, and drivers may pass on blind turns and hills at high speed.

Safety Considerations

While driving in Belize is generally safe, there are some things to keep in mind. The country has a high number of speed bumps, often unmarked, which can be dangerous if hit at high speed. Driving at night is not recommended due to poor lighting, making it difficult to spot pedestrians, potholes, and vehicles without working lights. Crime in Belize has also been increasing, with police checkpoints becoming more common. While tourists are usually waved through, they may be stopped and asked for their license and registration.

Vehicle Recommendations

For driving in Belize, it is recommended to rent a sturdy 4WD vehicle with good road clearance, such as an Isuzu Trooper, Toyota 4Runner, or Jeep Cherokee. These larger vehicles offer a smoother ride on rough roads and have larger fuel tanks, reducing the need to stop for gas frequently. It is also important to carefully inspect the vehicle before renting and to purchase a suitable insurance package, as rental cars in Belize are often high-mileage and lack safety features.

In conclusion, while driving in Belize can be intimidating due to varying road conditions and unusual local practices, it is generally safe and offers a great way to explore the country's beautiful nature and wildlife. With careful preparation and adherence to local driving laws and practices, tourists can enjoy a stress-free driving experience in Belize.

Renting a car in Belize

Rental Companies and Rates

Belize has several car rental companies, including well-known international brands such as Enterprise, Budget, Alamo, and Avis, as well as local companies like Crystal Auto Rental. The average daily rate for renting a car in Belize is around $109 per day, but rates can vary depending on the company and the type of vehicle.

Driving Requirements

To rent a car in Belize, you must be at least 21 years old, and some companies have a maximum age limit of 75. A valid driver's license from your home country is required, and an International Driving Permit (IDP) is necessary if you don't have a license. Keep in mind that there is a Young Driver Surcharge for drivers under 25, which will increase your rental costs.

Insurance and Collision Coverage

Motor vehicle insurance is mandatory in Belize, and it is the driver's responsibility to ensure the vehicle has valid registration, license, and insurance. Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) coverage is available through rental companies for an additional fee, typically $10 to $15 per day. However, it's worth checking if your credit card provider, such as American Express, offers this coverage.

Driving Conditions and Rules

Driving in Belize can be challenging, especially in urban areas like Belize City, where the streets are narrow and maze-like. The country has a low population density, so you may find yourself driving long stretches without encountering other vehicles. Be cautious when driving at night as most roads are poorly lit, and visibility can be reduced due to high beams from oncoming traffic.

Belizeans drive on the right side of the road, and the speed limit on highways is typically 55 mph, dropping to 25-40 mph in towns and cities. Remember that you must use your turn signal and pull to the right shoulder when making a left turn on a highway. Seat belts are mandatory for drivers and front-seat passengers, and it is illegal to use a cell phone while driving unless it is a hands-free device.

Fuel and Gas Stations

Unleaded gasoline is widely available in Belize, with prices around $5.06 per gallon. All gas stations offer full-service, and you are not expected to tip the attendant. Major credit cards are accepted at most stations, and you can pay in Belize Dollars or US Dollars.

Border Crossings

If you plan to cross the border into Guatemala, be aware that most rental companies restrict driving their vehicles outside of Belize. You will need to inform your rental agency in advance so they can coordinate with sister companies in Guatemala or provide you with the necessary documentation to cross the border with your rental car.

Popular Destinations

With your rental car, you can explore popular destinations in Belize, such as the Ambergris Caye, Secret Beach, the Great Blue Hole, and the ancient Maya sites of Caracol and Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave. The Hummingbird Highway is renowned for its beauty and offers a scenic drive through the country's natural wilderness.

In conclusion, renting a car in Belize provides the freedom to customize your itinerary and explore beyond the typical tourist routes. By following the local driving laws and staying vigilant on the roads, you can have a safe and enjoyable experience discovering all that Belize has to offer.

Gas prices and availability

Gas prices in Belize are high compared to other countries. As of May 2024, the price of octane-95 gasoline is 3.574 Belize Dollars per litre, or around US$7 per gallon. Unleaded gasoline is available at most gas stations and costs around US$5-US$7 per gallon. Premium unleaded is also available and costs around US$6 per gallon, while diesel is priced at US$4.81 per gallon.

Gas stations are relatively scarce in Belize. The country used to have around 50 Texaco, Shell, and Esso stations, but these were rebranded as Puma and Uno in 2012, and there are now fewer stations overall. However, gas is available at all hours from some stations, and many accept US dollars and credit cards as payment.

Driving rules and requirements

To drive in Belize, you must be 18 or older and have a valid driver's license from your home country or an international driving permit. Driving standards in Belize are generally low, with many drivers disregarding traffic laws and road safety regulations, so it's important to be cautious and defensive when driving. Here are some key rules and requirements to keep in mind:

• Drive on the right-hand side of the road.
• Overtaking is only permitted on the left-hand side.
• The speed limit on highways is typically 55 mph, while in urban areas, it's usually 25-40 mph, and in residential areas, it's around 15 mph.
• It is illegal to drive without a shirt, and honking your horn in urban areas is prohibited unless it's an emergency.
• At intersections, drivers are allowed to make a right-hand turn at a red light, but must use their turn signal and wait on the right-hand shoulder until traffic going both ways is clear before making a left-hand turn.
• All passengers in the car must wear seat belts.
• It is illegal to use a cell phone while driving unless it is a hands-free device.
• The blood alcohol content (BAC) limit for driving is 80mg.
• There are police checkpoints throughout the country where drivers will be asked to show their license and vehicle registration, and officers will check the windshield license sticker.
• In the event of a road accident, you must stop your vehicle, contact the police, exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver, and take photos of the damage. If there are any injuries, call for medical assistance.
• When driving, be aware of pedestrians and bikers, especially in rural and populated areas, and at bus stops.
• When parking, be mindful of parking regulations, which are strictly enforced, and look out for designated disabled parking spaces.
• When renting a car, check the mileage, tires, and ask about breakdown procedures and collision damage waiver coverage.

Road conditions

Roads in Belize vary depending on the region. In some areas, a four-wheel-drive (4WD) vehicle is recommended, while in other areas, the roads are paved and well-maintained. Highways and roads connecting major cities are generally in good condition, but rural roads can be bumpy and challenging to navigate. Here's what you need to know about road conditions in Belize:

• Highways and main roads connecting major cities are typically paved and well-maintained. These roads are usually two-lane highways with one lane in each direction.
• Watch out for animals and pedestrians on the highways, especially in rural areas.
• Some rural roads, such as those in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, are not paved and can be quite bumpy. It's best to take these roads slowly, especially after rainfall.
• Driving in cities and towns in Belize involves navigating narrower streets, heavier traffic, and more pedestrians. Stay alert and drive defensively.
• Driving in the cayes (islands) of Belize, such as Ambergris Caye, is mostly restricted to golf carts. You can rent golf carts from resorts or hotels.
• Gas stations can be scarce outside of cities, so fill up your tank before leaving urban areas.
• Road signs are in English, and speed limits and distances are measured in miles.
• Speed bumps and roundabouts are commonly used to control traffic flow, especially in cities.
• Always be cautious when turning left on highways, as you must wait on the right-hand shoulder until traffic in both directions is clear.
• Many roads in Belize have been resurfaced in recent years, improving driving conditions for visitors.
• Northern Highway (Phillip Goldson Highway): This two-lane, 85-mile highway from Belize City to Corozal Town is in good condition.
• Hummingbird Highway: Stretching for 56 miles, this highway offers breathtaking natural scenery, including the Belize Blue Hole. It was resurfaced in 2018 and is a must-visit for travellers.
• Old Northern Highway: This 41-mile road leads to the Altun Ha Maya Temple. The highway south of Maskal Village is in better condition, with the road to the north having many potholes and narrow sections. Overall, the road is fair.
• Coastal Highway: Also known as the Manatee Highway or the Shortcut, this 36-mile gravel road connects La Democracia with the Stann Creek Valley Road. It can be dusty during the dry season, making driving conditions more challenging.
• Western Highway (George Price Highway): This 77-mile road from Belize City to Hattieville has a high concentration of traffic bumps but is in fairly good condition. It also offers a variety of roadside attractions, including bars, restaurants, and lodges.
• Southern Highway: The Southern Highway is in very good condition and provides scenic views of the Maya Mountains.

Frequently asked questions