Transport in Belize

Transport by Bus

In Belize, a staggering percentage of travelers use the bus service, which is extremely popular, even among the locals. If you do not plan to go to the most remote places in the forests of Belize, then you can safely travel by bus across the whole country. They are not necessarily the most comfortable choice, but the music playing in many of them creates a relaxed atmosphere. The bus is also an ideal form of entry into the country, especially when coming from the north. The journey from the Mexican city of Chetumal to Corozal in Belize is relatively quick and very cheap.

Most buses in Belize run approximately every hour, and even more frequently during peak hours. In remote parts of the country, however, the bus might only go twice a day. Don’t put too much faith in the posted timetables; it’s probably a better idea to ask the locals. If you have any luggage, then you can store it in the overhead bins during the journey. Also, don’t worry about paying when you first get on the bus. The conductor will come to you during the trip and collect the appropriate amount of money based on your route.

Buses in Belize are divided into two types: regular and express. The regular bus may stop anywhere along the way, when someone waves down the bus driver, while the express bus only stops in larger cities. From Belize City, you can get almost anywhere in the country by bus, and it can be a unique and inexpensive way to mix with the locals, see the countryside, and get outside of your comfort zone for a bit of adventure.

Bus transport in Belize

Transport by Car

Another way to travel around Belize is by renting a car. The greater freedom of an automobile is balanced out by the significantly higher price of renting a car, as well as the impossibility of traveling outside the country. In 2012, only one company allowed visitors to drive cars out of Belize to Guatemala or Mexico, but you were required to pay a significantly higher amount for insurance. It is actually better to rent a car from Mexico, where the car rental companies are more flexible with their restrictions and the prices are consistently fair. Keep in mind that when it starts to rain in Belize, you will definitely need a 4WD, so plan accordingly. However, if you are only planning to travel between the islands and bigger cities, with a possible side trip to Tikal or Caracol thrown in, then a car is not necessary. If that is your general plan for your trip, then hiring a car will eliminate your time waiting for the bus. On the other hand, renting a car means that you miss out on the authentic adventure of a bus journey. Car rentals are available in Corozal, Belize City, San Ignacio, or Placencia. Locals will always guide you in the right direction, so don’t be afraid to ask!

Transport by Plane

One major airport is available in Belize. Across the country are scattered several small airports, which operate domestic flights. Direct flights from American cities and neighboring Central American countries fly to the international airport in Belize City – Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport.

Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport

In Belize, you can also fly to popular tourist resorts, such as the island of Ambergris Caye. A wonderful day trip for nature lovers is a sightseeing flight over the Mayan mountains or the Great Blue Hole. Ask about some of these excursions in the Central Farm village near San Ignacio or in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye.

Transport by Boat

Marine transport is also commonly used, especially between Belize City and the islands of Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker. Marine stations in the capital city are guarded by security, but even so, you should always keep an eye your luggage. Motorboats run by Caye Caulker Water Taxi hold over 30 people and travel to the islands several times a day (in 2012 – six times/day). Do not expect it to be a comfortable ride when the weather turns bad, because the boat will swing and sway in the water a bit. During the high season, it is useful to make a reservation a day in advance, so you can avoid spending half a day waiting at the station for your boat.

If you want to go to a specific island where the boats normally don’t go, you will find plenty of people who will offer to take you, but you will definitely pay extra money. Shopping around with a few different people is wise so you don’t get scammed or overcharged by too much. Furthermore, you will often use motorboats when traveling to dive sites, such as the Great Blue Hole. Taking a motorboat is also a quick and easy way to get from Corozal to the remains of Cerros.

Travelling by speedboat in the Corozal Bay

Transport by Bycicle

If you are in a good shape and have an adventurous spirit, then you can legitimately ride a bicycle across the country without any problems. There are not many large bicycle rental companies in the country, but you can normally find them for rent in all the tourist destinations. With a little persuasion, there is usually no problem renting a bike for a slightly longer time when you put down a deposit. On a bicycle, you can get almost everywhere, certainly to more hidden away places than by car, bus, or boat. For example, you can ride to the Xunantunich Maya site near the Guatemalan border or head south and check out the peaceful Toledo District, which used to be called the “End of the World“. That being said, be very careful on the roads! Belizean drivers do not rank among the best ones on earth, so try not to ride your bike after dark and stay alert at all times to reduce your risk of an accident.