Planning a trip to Belize comes with many questions, and one of the biggest is: how should I get around? Many travelers wonder if it’s worth renting a car or if it’s better to rely on public transportation. I recently hit the roads in Belize, and today I’m going to share my real experience, what to expect from the roads, and how to save money on your rental. Or watch my video with all the complete tips:
What is it like to drive in Belize as a tourist?
I’ll be direct: driving in Belize is, honestly, very easy and relaxed. Unlike some of its neighbors in Central or South America, Belize has a small population (around 600,000 people), which means there isn’t much traffic on the highways.
I drove from Belize City to San Ignacio, passed through the capital (Belmopan), and explored other surrounding areas. The overall feeling was total tranquility.
Road Conditions
The roads are simple, usually with one lane on each side, but they are in good condition and I didn’t encounter many potholes. What you will find in abundance, however, are giant speed bumps. They are everywhere, so stay alert so you don’t go airborne!
- Pro Tip: I don’t recommend driving inside Belize City itself, as the traffic there is much more chaotic. But for traveling between cities and exploring the mainland, a car is definitely the best choice.
Is it worth renting a car?
If you have the budget and don’t want to be held hostage by the limited schedules of public transport, renting a car is highly recommended. It gives you the freedom to stop at caves, Mayan ruins, and cenotes on your own schedule.
However, be prepared: Belize is an expensive place to rent a car.
How to save money and avoid rental traps
If you search through the big aggregators and famous rental agencies (like Avis, Budget, or Hertz), you will find very steep prices. Here are my tips for not spending more than necessary:
- Look for local rental companies: Go to Google Maps, search around the Belize Airport, and look for local businesses. The cars are usually a bit older, but the prices are more competitive.
- Watch out for the 3-day rule: Many rental companies require a minimum of 2 or 3 days. If you only need a car for a single day, it might be hard to find a provider, or the price will be disproportionately high.
- Pay attention to insurance: Even if your credit card offers rental car insurance, many companies in Belize will try to push theirs as mandatory. Read the fine print of the contract before signing so you don’t have surprises when it’s time to pay.
Conclusion: My Final Take
If you are short on time and want to explore the best of Belize with peace and comfort, renting a car is well worth it, despite the high cost. The ease of driving makes up for the investment, especially given the lack of stress on the roads.
What about you? Would you brave the roads in Belize or do you prefer local transport? If you have any questions about the itinerary or rental companies, leave them in the comments below and I’ll try to help!
