Episode 45: How to Get Around Belize — Transportation Guide

Once you're in Belize, how do you actually get around? Today we're covering all your transportation options.

Getting Into Belize:

Main airport: Philip S.W. Goldson International (BZE) — outside Belize City

Direct flights from Houston, Dallas, Miami, Atlanta, Denver, LA, Charlotte, and more.

Domestic airlines: Tropic Air, Maya Island Air (small Cessnas, 12-15 seats)

Getting to Your Destination:

To the Islands (San Pedro, Caye Caulker):

• Domestic flight: 20 min, $75-150 each way
• Water taxi: 90 min, $25-35 each way (slower but scenic)

To Placencia:

• Domestic flight: 45 min
• Drive: 3-4 hours via Hummingbird Highway (beautiful drive)

To San Ignacio: Drive 2 hours on Western Highway

To Corozal: Drive 2 hours north

Myth of the Week:

"I need a car to get around Belize." — Depends entirely on where you are.

Don't need a car: San Pedro (golf cart island), Caye Caulker (walk/bike), Placencia Village, Hopkins

Car helpful: Cayo/San Ignacio, Corozal, rural areas

Taxis:

• Not metered — negotiate price before getting in
• Licensed taxis have green plates — only use those
• Short trips: $5-10 BZD
• Airport to Belize City: $50-75 BZD

Buses:

• Retired US school buses ("chicken buses")
• Very cheap — a few dollars for long trips
• Frequent on main routes
• Not ideal for tourists with luggage

Golf Carts (San Pedro):

• Rental: $50-100/day
• Buying: Used $5,000-15,000, New $15,000-22,000
• Part of the island lifestyle

Island Hopping:

• Water taxis connect San Pedro and Caye Caulker
• Domestic flights connect coastal destinations (San Pedro to Placencia: 30 min)

Neighboring Countries:

• Mexico: Drive north to Corozal, cross to Chetumal (~3 hours from Belize City)
• Guatemala: Cross at Benque Viejo near San Ignacio — easy Tikal day trips

Tips:

• Book domestic flights in advance during peak season
• Morning flights more reliable (weather builds in afternoon)
• Cash helpful for taxis and buses
• Download offline maps — cell service spotty in some areas

Connect:

📧 [email protected] for transportation tips specific to your trip
🏠 RE/MAX 1st Choice Belize]]>