Belize boasts an abundance of natural beauty – the world’s second-largest barrier reef, lush jungles, and ancient Mayan ruins are among its many treasures – which makes exploring all its riches essential. There are multiple transportation modes available to visitors to access all this wonder.
Public buses in Belize offer an authentic travel experience. As they’re unmetered, drivers often negotiate their rates.
Water Taxis
Belize has seen significant improvements in its transport options over recent years – robust bus routes operating 24/7 from early morning until well into the night, boats moving between Cayes throughout the day, and an accessible plane system bringing both land and sea destinations within reach of one another. But still, Belize presents some unique travel challenges that set it apart from other Caribbean vacation spots.
Public buses offer the most cost-effective and economical form of travel. Plying main highways at regular intervals throughout the day, public buses often feature renovated Bluebird school buses with brightly painted exteriors that remain mostly unchanged on the inside with worn benches for seating.
There are multiple competing bus companies operating between major towns and villages across the country, which keeps prices competitively low. If traveling over an extended distance, consider upgrading to an express bus for a small premium that runs more efficiently with only stoppages at designated stations along the route.
Taxis can also be an affordable choice, although hailing one may prove challenging as most don’t display an obvious identification; green number plates should serve as your guide. When discussing a fare, do it politely; negotiate it politely and have cash ready as many drivers don’t accept credit cards.
Many national airlines operate out of Belize City and provide direct flights to the most popular locations across the country. Private domestic flights may also be an option if necessary; these tend to be more costly and may require booking.
Biking is an eco-friendly and enjoyable way to discover Belizean cities, towns, and villages; rental bikes (typically costing BZ$15-25 per day) can increasingly be found for rent in places like San Ignacio and Placencia. Cyclists should keep in mind that traffic moves quickly on these roads; cyclists should wear helmets when biking during daylight hours only and only ride during traffic-free hours.
Hand-Cranked Ferries
Belize has long embraced ecotourism, and many of its transportation modes reflect this commitment to sustainable travel. From biking and sailing to using hand-cranked ferries, various unique ways allow visitors to discover its natural splendor.
Taxis are an increasingly convenient transportation option in Belize. Licensed drivers can usually be found at airports, bus and ferry terminals as well as major cities like Belize City and San Ignacio. Rates should always be discussed before boarding; most regular trips have set fares, but some journeys require you to negotiate your fare based on length.
Buses are another common mode of transport in Belize, offering passengers the chance to meet its people while also experiencing its bustling cities and villages. If traveling a longer distance, it is advised that tickets be purchased early to guarantee a seat; should this not be possible be sure that your luggage remains close while standing. Buses often stop periodically for passengers to get refreshments or use restroom facilities if needed.
Walking and bicycling are wonderful ways to explore Belize. Not only are these modes of travel enjoyable and relaxing, but they allow travelers to soak up all the sights, sounds, and scents that make up this cosmopolitan nation.
Renting a car in Belize is an increasingly popular trend, and each of the country’s four main highways are well-kept with two paved lanes that boast minimal traffic levels and English signs. Car rentals can be found at most airports, hotels, and major tourism spots like Placencia and San Ignacio.
If you prefer flying, several domestic airlines operate from Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport (PGIA). Depending on your itinerary, it may be easier to combine flight transportation with land or water modes for a complete trip experience in Belize.
Jungle Treks
Belize’s emphasis on ecotourism makes it an excellent destination for travelers interested in nature and local culture. From seeing how Maya people lived centuries ago to learning how Belize’s unique mix of Creole and Mayan influences can offer something to all travelers, Belize offers endless options.
One of the best ways to discover Belize’s natural beauty and rich biodiversity is by trekking through the rainforest. Various guided tours are offering guided hikes through this lush environment, providing insight into its flora and fauna – some more challenging than others, while some allow you to see it from an entirely new viewpoint – such as Monkey River Loop’s 1.1-kilometer hike along its bank; you might catch glimpses of manatees swimming through or lush vegetation lining its trail – perfect for viewing manatees swimming through or lush greenery or tropical flowers lining it.
Equestrian trails and exotic wildlife abound in Belize. You’ll have an unforgettable adventure on horseback with professional guides who use quarter horses and mixed breed mounts to show you around this tropical country’s jungle trails, ancient ruins, and exotic species from their unique perspective. If traveling independently, bring along plenty of water as well as an extra packed lunch and water bottles.
Domestic flights offer travelers who seek quick and affordable ways to quickly explore Belize. Being so small, travel times tend to be much shorter compared to other Caribbean destinations – in some cases even costing as little as BZ$50 depending on your chosen route.
Bus services provide reliable transportation for longer or more remote trips. Many major centers and cities feature several scheduled daily routes while buses to more rural villages may only run once or twice daily. When planning your trip, be sure to ask the hotel or travel agency about bus service to the destinations you intend on visiting; they should have recommendations. In addition, bus travel gives travelers the chance to interact with locals and learn more about Belizean culture!
Domestic Flights
Belize provides visitors with an idyllic mix of island scenery and marine life, rich culture and charming towns to discover. Thanks to its small size, navigating Belize is simple whether via bus, taxi, or shuttle boat – with some planning you could visit all its top attractions on a single visit!
Belize’s primary mode of transportation is the bus. Most major roads feature regular bus services with predictable schedules that run refurbished Blue Bird school buses from the US with fresh paint jobs and worn benches for seating; packed with locals who make for lively rides with plenty of opportunities to meet new people along the way. Hitchhiking may also be available; locals will offer lifts in exchange for tips. But be mindful that hitching may not always be safe; use caution.
If you want to travel quickly, renting a car in Belize is also an effective option. Road conditions are excellent, and traffic is relatively light compared to other Central American nations; drivers must wear seat belts when driving on the right side of the road and use only right turn signals; English is widely spoken along with Spanish and Creole.
One alternative to driving is taking to the air. Two Belizean airlines, Tropic Air and Maya Island Air, operate domestic flights within Belizean borders; Tropic serves most major towns while Maya Island Air provides service to some smaller islands and communities. Both airlines provide flights at relatively affordable rates with modern airport facilities in both cities.
When flying within Belize, be sure to pack a carry-on bag. Fares between Belize City and the main islands tend to be standard while other journeys may require negotiation; in general, though, flights tend to be much cheaper than they would be in the US, so it may pay to negotiate for the best price possible.
Bus and private transportation are the preferred modes of travel in Belize. It is advised to book transportation in advance to avoid delays, and keep in mind that weather in Belize can change rapidly; be prepared for all sorts of conditions!
