On The
Move
From 12-seater bush planes to hand-painted local buses, navigate Belize with confidence.
The Flying Bush Taxi
For those looking to maximize their time in Belize, domestic aviation is the gold standard. The country is served by two main carriers—Tropic Air and Maya Island Air—that operate a network of flights connecting Belize International (BZE) to every major destination in the country. A trip that takes four hours by road can often be completed in 15 minutes by air.
In this 2,000-word logistical breakdown, we cover everything from baggage restrictions on Cessna Caravans to the cultural etiquette of riding a Belizean "Chicken Bus."
The Private Edge
Safety, A/C, and Local Knowledge
Private Shuttles: Stress-Free Transit
For families and small groups, private shuttles are the most popular way to move between Belize City and the Western or Southern districts. Unlike public transport, shuttles offer door-to-door service and the flexibility to stop at roadside attractions like the Belize Zoo or local artisan shops.
Cost vs. Convenience
A shuttle to San Ignacio typically costs $150-$200 for a group of 4. While more expensive than a bus, the time saved and the comfort level are substantial ROI for shorter vacations.
Border Transfers
If you're heading to Tikal (Guatemala), specialized shuttles can handle the border paperwork and insurance for you, making an international crossing quite simple.
The "Chicken Bus" Masterclass
Belize's public bus system is made up of retired American school buses, brightly painted and often pumping regional music. While they rarely carry actual chickens these days, they remain the lifeblood of the country's transportation network.
The Rules of the Road: You don't buy tickets at a booth. You simply board the bus, find a seat, and a "conductor" will come to you to collect payment. Fares are remarkably low (roughly $2-$5 USD for major routes).
"Regular" buses stop for anyone on the roadside. "Express" buses skip the villages for a faster journey.
Large luggage goes in the back or on the roof. Be prepared to keep your valuables on your lap.
Infrastructure Evolution: The Three Highways
Belize is fundamentally defined by three primary arteries: The Philip Goldson Highway (Northern), the George Price Highway (Western), and the Southern Highway. The George Price Highway is your gateway to San Ignacio and the Mayan ruins of the interior. Over the last decade, the Belizean government, with international support, has significantly paved and improved these routes. However, once you leave the main highway to reach sites like Caracol or the ATM Cave, you are quickly reminded of the power of the jungle. Roads turn to unpaved limestone tracks (locally called "marl"), which can wash out during heavy tropical downpours.
Domestic Aviation: The Cessna 208 Caravan
The workhorse of Belizean skies is the Cessna 208 Caravan. These single-engine turboprops are legendary for their reliability and ability to land on short, unpaved runways. Flying in Belize is as much a scenic tour as it is transportation. On a clear day, the flight from Belize City to San Pedro or Placencia offers a bird's-eye view of the Great Blue Hole and the barrier reef that is simply unmatched. Logistics Tip: If you're connecting from an international flight, give yourself at least 90 minutes to clear immigration and customs before your domestic takeoff.
The Water Taxi Network: San Pedro Express vs Ocean Ferry
To reach the Cayes (Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye), thousands of travelers use the high-speed water taxi network. Departing from the Belize City terminals, these massive outboard-powered vessels cut through the Caribbean waters in about 60-90 minutes. It's affordable, efficient, and provides a refreshing ocean breeze. We recommend the "San Pedro Belize Express" for its frequency and reliability. Note: You will check your large bags just like an airline, so keep your electronics and travel documents in a small carry-on.
Renting a Car: Is it Worth It?
Renting a 4WD vehicle in Belize offers the ultimate freedom, but it comes with caveats. Police checkpoints are common (have your license ready), and gas price is significantly higher than in North America. Driving at night is strongly discouraged due to unlit roads, stray livestock, and pedestrian traffic on the road shoulders. However, if your plan involves exploring the remote areas of the Mountain Pine Ridge or the deep south, a rental is your best bet for independence.
Need a
Secure Transfer?
We partner with the best licensed shuttle operators in Belize to ensure your journey is safe and seamless.