As a tourist, the best way to get around Belize is by plane, taxi (this includes water taxis), shuttles, and car rental. A popular choice is booking tours or vacation packages at all-inclusive resorts that include ground transfers since they typical include a private shuttle service by a hotel or tour operator.
Transportation in Belize
Since Belize only has one international airport, anyone flying into the country must fly into the Philip Goldson International Airport (BZE) near Belize City. From there you’ll need to either take a domestic flight to your destination within Belize or catch ground transportation, which can be a taxi, shuttle, or car rental.
To get to the cayes from the mainland by water, a taxi or shuttle must be taken to a water taxi terminal. Belize City has water taxis to Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker, and St. George’s Caye. Dangriga has chartered boats to Tobacco Caye, Glover’s Reef, and other Southern Cayes. Resorts on remote islands have their own private boats.
In Belize, buses run on major highways and stop whenever passengers shout that they are near their stop or when bus drivers see someone on the roadside that wants to be picked up. Catching the bus is cheap but it takes a long time to get around.
Local Flights
Local airlines fly small Cessna aircraft (puddle-jumpers) to the major towns in the six districts of Belize. This is the fastest and most convenient way to get around Belize — albeit it can be a bit expensive. Some airlines also offer regional flights to places in Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras.
Private Shuttles & Car Rentals
An easy and comfortable way to get around Belize is by renting a car or taking a private transfer. It’s not inexpensive but it is cheaper than local flights. A benefit of doing this is that you can arrange stops to see certain attractions along your journey.
Water Taxis
Water Taxis are the most affordable way to travel to the popular destinations of Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker, as well as to St. George’s Caye. There are two water taxi companies in Belize City, both have daily departures from Belize City. You can also take Water Taxis in Placencia and Dangriga to popular secluded cayes such as Tobacco Caye and Glovers Reef.
Taxi Cab
In Belize, taxi cabs are an affordable transit option and are more prevalent than buses. You can find them parked at bus stations, water taxi terminals, and downtowns throughout Belize. Don’t be scared if you hear multiple people shouting “WANT A TAXI” at you. And yes, golf carts can be taxis on the islands.
Buses
In Belize, traveling by bus is a great way to save money and experience the local culture. In fact, bus travel is the cheapest way to get around Belize. However, the downside of using the bus system is that often buses are jam-packed and slow.
