Navigating Belize: Your Ultimate Guide to Exploring the Jewel's Transport System

Planning a Belizean Adventure? Get Ready for an Amazing Ride! Experience the thrill of cruising through the scenic hills, catching the fresh breeze on a bus ride, or soaking in the breathtaking views from a puddle jumper flight. This article breaks down the various ways to get around Belize. Discover how to enter the country, navigate its transportation options, and reach the captivating Ambergris Caye. From costs and timing to convenience, we’ve got you covered.

Arrive by Flying

In 2023, multiple airlines are flying to Belize’s international airport. These include Alaska Airlines, Air Canada, American Airlines, Copa Airlines, Delta, Southwest, Sun Country Airlines, TAG Airlines, United Airlines, and Westjet. If you’re a cardholder with any of these airlines, you’re in luck! If not, it might be time to consider getting a travel card for your next adventure.

Sail into Belize (and Ambergris Caye)

Belize boasts four entry ports, with San Pedro being one of them. If you’ve got the green light to sail your yacht, you’ll need to make a direct trip within 24 hours of entering local waters. Prepare four copies of all documents for everyone on board and present them to a customs official. After getting permission, you can anchor your yacht and enjoy Belize’s waters for up to 90 days.

Hit the Road to Belize

There are just two road entry points into Belize. One is the Northern Highway from Mexico, and the other is the Western Highway from Guatemala. Regardless of the entry point, the process is similar. Before reaching immigration and customs, your vehicle will need to be fumigated, a quick $11.00 Belize procedure taking about 5 minutes. With the receipt in hand, proceed to the Immigration office, where your passport will be stamped, and you’ll be asked about your vehicle. Then, provide your original title and registration.

Next, a stamp will be placed on your passport indicating that you’ve brought a vehicle into the country. This stamp essentially means that you won’t rent out or sell your vehicle in Belize. It also signifies that if you leave the country, your vehicle must accompany you. Keep in mind that if you possess this stamp and attempt to depart the country by air, you won’t be permitted to do so. While there are ways around this, they’re not the main focus of this article. Regardless, leaving the country without your vehicle will require careful consideration.

Furthermore, you’ll receive a Temporary Vehicle Importation Permit, valid for 30 days. You can renew this permit each time you extend your passport, allowing for a total extension of up to 90 days. Once the 90-day mark is reached, you’ll need to pay duty on the vehicle, after which you’ll be eligible to acquire a Belizean license plate.

Embark on a Caribbean Cruise

Caribbean cruises are a popular way to sample the delights of the region, although they offer only a brief glimpse of Belize. Cruise ships usually dock at either Belize City or a private island near Placencia. Once ashore, you have the option to explore Maya sites, experience cave tubing, or partake in diving and snorkeling tours to discover the wonders of the Belize Barrier Reef. These activities offer a taste of Belize’s beauty before you return to the cruise ship.

In essence, exploring Belize’s transportation options is an exciting journey in itself. From flying in or sailing along its coasts to hitting the road or even experiencing a Caribbean cruise, the ways to discover this captivating country are as diverse as its landscapes. Whether you’re seeking a thrilling road trip or a taste of Belize during a cruise stop, each mode of transport opens up unique adventures that contribute to the vibrant tapestry of your Belizean experience.