Damon Mcknight
Belize is a small Central American country with a population of approximately 400,000 people. Uber has not yet made its way to Belize, so if you're planning a trip there, you'll need to find alternative transportation. Thankfully, the country's small size means that getting around is relatively easy, and there are plenty of other options for getting from place to place.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Ride-sharing services in Belize | Dalla Vans, taxis, rental cars, golf carts, bicycles |
| Alternative to Uber in Belize | MiDriva app, Belize Shuttle by William, Belize Ground Shuttle, Ron's Belize Private Shuttle Service |
What You'll Learn
Belize's small size
Belize is a small country with a land area of 22,970 square kilometres (8,867 sq mi) and a population of 397,483 (2022). It is the least populated and least densely populated country in Central America, with a population density of about 35 people per square mile or 14 people per square kilometre. Its mainland is about 290 km (180 mi) long and 110 km (68 mi) wide.
In addition, Belize's small population and low population density have led to a high level of biodiversity. The country has a rich variety of wildlife and is home to the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, the only jaguar reserve in the world. Belize's low human population and approximately 22,970 square kilometres (8,867 sq mi) of undistributed land make it an ideal home for thousands of species of plants and animals.
Overall, while Belize's small size may be a disadvantage in some respects, it also brings many benefits, including cultural diversity, political stability, and a rich natural environment.
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Alternative ride-sharing apps
Belize does not have any ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft. However, there are several alternative transportation options available, including:
Shared Shuttles
Shared shuttle vans are a popular choice for travellers in Belize, offering a comfortable and cost-effective way to get around the country. These shuttles are easily found at most major tourist destinations and airports, providing convenient transportation options for visitors. They offer set schedules and fixed prices, allowing for a hassle-free journey.
Taxis
Taxis are readily available in Belize and can be identified by their green license plates. They are safe and easy to find at air and sea ports, and can also be arranged by your hotel concierge. While taxi fares are not regulated, the going rate from the airport to Belize City is US$25, and rates within city/town limits start at around US$8.
Public Buses
For budget travellers, taking the public bus in Belize is a cost-effective and culturally immersive option. The buses are affordable and reliable, providing convenient routes that connect major cities and towns. The 'James Bus Line' is the most popular choice, with frequent buses running daily from Belize City to Punta Gorda.
Golf Carts
Golf carts are a unique and popular mode of transportation in Belize, especially on the islands of San Pedro, Caye Caulker, and Placencia. They are readily available for rent and offer a fun, eco-friendly, and flexible way to explore the country's towns, villages, and beach communities.
Car Rental
Renting a car in Belize offers independence and autonomy for travellers who want to explore at their own pace. Major rental companies like Hertz, Avis, and Budget can be found at airports and cities like Belize City. Driving in Belize is on the right-hand side, and a valid driver's license from your home country is accepted. However, many roads in Belize are unpaved and can be challenging to navigate, so a good map or GPS is recommended.
Ride-Sharing Apps:
While Belize does not have Uber or Lyft, there are some local ride-sharing apps that offer similar services. Mi Dirva is a new app that provides car tracking and route monitoring features, although it is primarily limited to urban areas and requires cash payments.
In addition to these options, there are also transportation shuttle services offered by companies like Untame Belize and Belize Shuttle by William, which provide personalised and convenient travel experiences.
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Taxi services
Belize is a small Central American country with a population of approximately 400,000 people. While ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have not yet made their way to Belize, there are several alternative transportation options available, including taxi services.
Taxis are readily available in all destinations across Belize and can be easily identified by their green license plates. They are commonly found at air and sea ports, making it convenient for travellers to get around. Additionally, hotels and resorts often have trusted taxi drivers or groups that they work with and can arrange for pick-up or drop-off services for their guests.
The standard rate for an airport taxi in Belize is US$25 to Belize City, and rates within city/town limits typically start at around US$8, depending on the final destination. It is worth noting that taxi fares in Belize are independently owned but belong to a cooperative that estimates the price or fare, ensuring standard pricing.
For those seeking a more personalised experience, it is recommended to be friendly with the taxi drivers and perhaps find one that you connect with. This way, you may gain insider insights into Belize and develop a mutually beneficial relationship.
In addition to traditional taxis, there are also "Dolla" (or Dollar) Vans, which are shared transportation services with set routes that locals are familiar with. These vans are a very affordable option, with fares ranging from $1 to $3, but passengers are expected to know their destination and where to get off as they do not travel outside their operating area.
For those seeking an alternative to traditional taxis, there is the MiDriva app, which functions similarly to Uber and Lyft. The app enables users to easily find and request a taxi cab anywhere in Belize using their mobile phones. However, unlike Uber or Lyft, payment is made directly to the driver at the end of the ride, and there may be options to pay online.
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Shuttle services
While ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are not available in Belize, there are several shuttle services that can be booked for transportation within the country.
One such shuttle service is the Belize Shuttle by William, which offers tailored transportation based on the client's timing and destinations, with possible stops built-in. William's shuttle service has received positive reviews, with many customers requesting the same driver for their return trip.
Other shuttle companies include Belize Ground Shuttle, San Ignacio Shuttles, and Ron's Belize Private Shuttle Service, which also offer transportation from the Belize water taxi to San Ignacio Town.
Booking and Payment
Booking a shuttle in Belize differs from the ease of using an app for Uber or Lyft. Instead, you will need to fill out a contact form with your pick-up and drop-off information. Payment is typically made directly to the driver at the end of the ride, though some companies may offer online payment options.
Reviews
When choosing a shuttle service, it is essential to read reviews to ensure a safe and comfortable experience. While some companies have received positive feedback for their professionalism, punctuality, and reliability, others have been criticised for issues like overbooking, vehicle breakdowns, and delays.
Cost
The cost of shuttle services in Belize varies depending on the destination and the number of passengers. For example, the route from Belize City to San Ignacio is approximately $95 USD per person, while a transfer from the International Airport to Placencia or Hopkins Village is about $225 USD.
Other Transportation Options
In addition to shuttle services, other transportation options in Belize include renting a car, using taxis, or, for shorter distances within towns or villages, utilising the local "Dolla" vans.
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Renting a car
Belize is a small country, but if you want to get around independently, renting a car is a good option. There are several car rental companies in Belize, including Enterprise, Budget, Alamo, Avis, Crystal Auto Rental, and more. You can rent a car at the airport or in various locations across the country.
The standard cost of renting a car in Belize is $109 per day, although cheaper options are available. You can also rent a car for a week for $660 or a month for $2,829. If you're under 25, you'll have to pay a Young Driver Surcharge.
When driving in Belize, the speed limit on highways is 89 km/h (55 mph), 64 km/h (40 mph) in towns and cities, and 40 km/h (25 mph) in residential, school, and church zones. A liter of gas costs around 4 BZD (Belize dollars) or 2 USD, and a gallon is about 14 BZD (7 USD).
If you're looking for convenience and customization during your trip to Belize, renting a car is a great option.
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Frequently asked questions
Uber has not yet expanded to Belize, so the app won't work there.
There are several alternatives to Uber in Belize. In Belize City or Belmopan City, you can use a ride-sharing service called Dalla Vans, which follow set routes that locals are familiar with. In Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker, golf carts are a popular mode of transport.
Taxis are readily available in Belize and can be identified by their green license plates. They are easy to find at air and sea ports, and hotels can also arrange for their trusted group of cab drivers to pick you up or drop you off.
Yes, there are several shuttle services in Belize, such as William's Shuttle Service, Belize Ground Shuttle, San Ignacio Shuttles, and Ron's Belize Private Shuttle Service. These companies offer private or shared transport, which is ideal for long-distance travel.
Yes, there is an app called MiDriva, which enables you to easily find and request a taxi anywhere in Belize. The app works similarly to Uber and can be downloaded from the Google Play Store.
