Fly To Paradise: Belize's Palencia

If you're looking to fly to Palencia, Belize, you'll be pleased to know that there are several options available. The closest airport to Palencia is Placencia Airport (PLJ), which is just a 40-minute flight from Belize City with Maya Island Air. Alternatively, you can fly into Belize City and take a shuttle, taxi, bus, or private transfer to Palencia, which is approximately 160 miles away. If you're looking for a cheap flight, you can find deals for as low as $47 one-way and $106 round trip.

Flying from Belize City to Placencia

Flight Information

Flights from Belize City to Placencia are available daily, with a flight time of around 25 minutes. The distance between the two airports is only 68-70 miles.

Airlines

Maya Island Air and Tropic Air both fly direct from Belize City to Placencia. Maya Island Air operates 595-703 flights per month, while Tropic Air operates 134-152 flights per month.

Prices

Prices for flights between these two destinations vary. The cheapest one-way flight is $95, while the cheapest round trip is $190.

Booking Tips

According to Travelocity data from 2021, the cheapest days to fly are earlier in the week, with Monday being the cheapest, followed by Tuesday. Saturday departures are the most expensive. It's also best to book 0-2 weeks in advance, though you can book up to 12 months ahead of time.

Taking a shuttle

Shuttle services are a great choice if you're looking for affordability without compromising on comfort. The three-hour drive from Belize City to Palencia is covered by two running shuttles, and you'll get to enjoy beautiful scenery along the way. This means you can sit back, relax, and take in the sights as you make your way to your vacation destination.

When it comes to booking a shuttle, you have the option of door-to-door services, one-way trips, round trips, or multiple legs. Companies like William's Belize Airport Shuttle offer a range of options to suit your needs. They have an excellent reputation, with countless positive reviews on TripAdvisor and other travel forums, and their drivers are known for their friendly and knowledgeable service.

If you're travelling with a group, shuttles can also be a great way to save money. The larger your group, the more you can potentially save compared to other transportation options. So, if you're travelling with family or friends, a shuttle service is definitely worth considering.

Overall, taking a shuttle to Palencia, Belize, is a great choice if you're looking for a balance of affordability, comfort, and convenience. With a range of reputable companies to choose from, you can sit back, relax, and let them take care of the logistics while you enjoy the journey.

Getting a taxi

Taxis are a convenient and readily available option for getting from Belize City to Placencia. They offer door-to-door service and can be found easily after landing at the airport. However, they come with a relatively higher cost compared to other transportation methods. It is recommended to negotiate the fare with the driver before embarking on your journey.

To ensure a safe and secure journey, only use licensed taxis, which can be identified by their distinctive green license plates. These licensed cabs adhere to regulations and will provide a comfortable ride to your destination.

The distance between Belize City and Placencia is approximately 160 miles, and the drive typically takes around three to four hours. This ground transportation option is ideal for those who want to get to their destination expeditiously and don't mind paying a premium price for the convenience and comfort of a taxi.

If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, there are other alternatives such as public buses, shuttle services, and domestic flights. These choices offer varying levels of affordability and convenience, allowing you to choose the one that best aligns with your travel preferences and budget.

Renting a car

There are several car rental companies operating in Belize, including international brands such as Enterprise and Budget, as well as local companies like Crystal Auto Rental. You can find rental car locations at the airport and in Placencia, as well as in other popular tourist destinations across the country.

When renting a car in Belize, it's important to keep a few things in mind. First, while a valid driver's license from your home country is sufficient to rent and drive a car in Belize, the minimum age to rent a car is typically 21, and there may be a maximum age limit of 75. Additionally, young drivers under 25 years of age will need to pay a daily Young Driver Surcharge. It's also worth noting that rental cars in Belize can be expensive, with average daily rates of around $75 to $109 per day. However, you can find cheaper rates by booking in advance or choosing an off-airport rental location.

Another consideration when renting a car in Belize is the unique driving conditions you may encounter. Roads in Belize are often poorly lit, especially outside the central business district, which can make it difficult to read traffic signs and warnings. It's recommended to plan for daytime driving to avoid these challenges. Additionally, jaywalking is common on major roads, and overlapping during rush hour is a regular occurrence. Vigilance and defensive driving are key to navigating these conditions safely.

Finally, if you plan to cross the border into Guatemala, keep in mind that most rental car companies in Belize restrict driving their vehicles outside the country. You will need to coordinate with your rental agency, who may be able to provide an alternative vehicle or the necessary documentation to cross the border with your Belize rental car.

Taking a bus

If you're looking for an affordable and immersive way to get from Belize City to Palencia, then taking the public bus is a great option. It offers a chance to connect with the local way of life and enjoy the diverse scenery along the way.

The bus journey takes approximately five hours and costs around $15 USD one-way. You can catch the bus from the main bus station in the heart of Belize City. While it's a budget-friendly choice, be prepared for a busy ride, as the buses tend to be quite full.

If you're coming from the airport, you'll need to take a taxi to the bus terminal in Belize City, which will cost around BZ$50. It's important to note that licensed taxis have green license plates, so be sure to look out for that to ensure a safe journey.

The bus ride offers a unique and authentic travel experience. You'll get to witness the vibrant landscapes and connect with the local culture during the journey. It's a great choice for budget-conscious travellers who want to explore Belize beyond the typical tourist path.

Keep in mind that the bus schedule may vary, so it's always a good idea to check the latest information before planning your trip. Additionally, if you miss a bus, there's usually another one not too far behind, or you can opt to stay overnight in Belize City and explore some of the local sites before continuing your journey to Palencia the next day.

Frequently asked questions