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Where is Belize Located and How to Get Here in 2023

By 12/29/2022 10 minutes  (1)


It's easy to travel to Belize. Belize has one international airport, several small airstrips and a well-managed system of local buses, taxis, and water transportation. You can plan your trip to and around Belize easily, especially if make your bookings on Belizing.com, where you will get the best rates and the most discounts on all your local transfers and excursions.

Where is Belize Located?

Where in the world is Belize on the map? Belize is in Central America. It's easy to miss on a world map, tucked between Mexico, Guatemala, and the Caribbean Sea. It is bordered by Mexico to the north and Guatemala to the east and south. The eastern coast of Belize is on the Caribbean Sea.




Episode 30
Belize is safe to visit and is gearing up to become a first-class tourism destination! Honorable Anthony Mahler, Minister of Tourism and Diaspora Relations in Belize, joins us for ... morea virtual recording session to discuss safety and the future of travel and tourism in Belize.
New
Belize is open for travel! On October 1st, 2020, the Belize International airport finally reopened for leisure travel. Tune in to learn more about the latest airport protocols and ... moretravel restrictions.

How to Get to Belize?

A plethora of commercial airlines from North America fly into Belize. You can find flights to Belize arriving daily at the Philip Goldson International Airport (BZE), just outside of Belize City.

You can fly into Belize in under 3 hours from Miami, Denver, Houston or Atlanta and under 5 hours from Canadian cities like Toronto and Calgary. Due to the close proximity to North America, you can often find cheap flights to Belize. On average, flights to Belize from Houston or Miami may range between $250 to $400 roundtrip per person. As usual, you should purchase your tickets far in advance to get the best deals. Flights are usually cheaper during the summer months, which is the low travel season in Belize. 

What airlines fly into Belize?

  • American Airlines - via Miami or Dallas, USA
  • Air Canada - via Toronto, Canada
  • Delta - via Atlanta and weekly from Los Angeles, USA
  • Southwest - via Houston or Denver, USA
  • SunCountry Airlines - via Minneapolis, USA
  • United Airlines - via Houston, USA
  • US Airways - via Charlotte, USA
  • Westjet - via Toronto or Calgary, Canada
  • Avianca Airlines - via El Salvador, San Salvador
  • Copa - via Panama City, Panama
  • Aero Mexico - via Mexico City, Mexico
Tropic Air, a local airline in Belize also offers direct flights to and from countries like Guatemala, Honduras, and Mexico.

Once you have arrived at the Belize International Airport, you can take a taxi, shuttle, or local flight with Tropic Air or Maya Island Air to your destination.

If you are visiting the islands of Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye then you will have to take a taxi from the airport to the water taxi terminals in Belize City. You can also take a local flight from Belize City or the Belize International Airport to Caye Caulker or Ambergris Caye.


Tip: Read our Transportation Blog for a comprehensive guide to transportation options in Belize.


Airports in Belize

Below is a list of airport codes for all destinations in Belize. International flights can only land at BZE/PGIA. Other airstrips are serviced by local airlines Tropic Air and Maya Island Air, or private flights.

  • Philip S.W. Goldson International (BZE/PGIA) – The only fully equipped modern airport that handles all international traffic to Belize
  • Belize City (TZA) – Handles some domestic flights to and from Belize City, the country’s largest urban area
  • Belmopan (BCV) – Service provided by Tropic Air for the country’s capital city
  • Caye Caulker (CUK) – Service provided by Tropic Air and Maya Island Air. This is a popular route from BZE/PGIA
  • Caye Chapel (CYC) – Service provided by Tropic Air and Maya Island Air
  • Corozal Town (CZH) – Service provided by Tropic Air and Maya Island Air
  • Dangriga (DGA) – Service provided by Tropic Air and Maya Island Air. This is a popular route from BZE/PGIA for locations in Hopkins Village.
  • Independence and Mango Creek (INB) – Charter flights only
  • Maya Flats (MYF) – Service provided by Tropic Air for San Ignacio Town/Benque Viejo and surrounding areas
  • Orange Walk (ORZ) – Service provided by Tropic Air and Maya Island Air
  • Placencia (PLJ) – Service provided by Tropic Air and Maya Island Air. This is a popular route from BZE/PGIA
  • Punta Gorda (ORZ) – Service provided by Tropic Air and Maya Island Air
  • San Pedro (SPR) – Service provided by Tropic Air and Maya Island Air. This is a popular route from BZE/PGIA
  • Sarteneja (SJX) – Charter flights only
  • Savannah (SVH) – Service provided by Maya Island Air


Arriving by boat or cruise ships

Many cruise ships make one-day or overnight stops in Belize. Find out if Belize is on the itinerary of your cruise. Once you're here, it's easy to get around to major tourist spots. If your ship stops at Harvest Caye, you can take a ferry to the charming beach town of Placencia.

You can also travel by private boat into Belize. Private boats must check in with the Belize Port Authority in either Belize City or Big Creek. For detailed information on the paperwork and clearances that you will need, check with the Belize Customs and Excise Department.

Arriving to Belize by land

You can cross into Belize from the border of either Guatemala (western border) or Mexico (northern border). You can drive or take one of the many bus lines that run from Guatemala City (Linea Dorada) or various cities in Mexico (ADO bus).

The ADO bus line has daily buses that travel in air-conditioned comfort from Merida, Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Chetumal into Belize City. Some people drive in from neighboring countries, and some adventurous backpackers make the crossing by foot.

What papers to bring?

Visitors from Canada, the U.K., the European Union, and the U.S. don't need a VISA to visit Belize. You do need a valid passport, a return airline ticket and enough money to last the length of your stay in Belize. Tourists are limited to 30-day stays.

For more information, you can visit the Belize Immigration Department website. 

Get the best Belize travel deals

Belizing.com pulls together Belize's best tour and transportation companies to give you the best experience at the best rates for your Belize trip.

We can help with all of your transportation needs into and around Belize. Whether you need help with part of your vacation or an entire start-to-finish Belize package, we will get it done. We can find you inexpensive beach lodging, arrange a one-day birding trip or set up a honeymoon package. Plan your perfect Belize vacation on Belizing.com.


What is the official language of Belize?
The official language of Belize is English. Spanish is also widely spoken throughout the country.
What country owns Belize?
Belize is an independent nation. It was formerly known as British Honduras, and gained independence from Great Britain in 1981. It is a commonwealth nation, and the British monarch remains its head of state.
Is it safe to go to Belize?
Yes! Belize is safe for everyone to visit. However, like many places, crime is a problem not to be ignored. Most of the crime in Belize is concentrated in Belize City, and rarely target visitors.
Is Belize a poor country?
Yes, Belize is a poor country with over 40% of its population living in poverty. The country has enormous foreign debt, and the infrastructure is not what you would find in a developed country.
Is Belize an island?
No, Belize is on the mainland of Central America but the entire eastern cost is on the Caribbean Sea and protected by the largest living barrier reef in the world. You can enjoy island life as well as jungle life in Belize.
Do you need a passport or visa to visit Belize?
All international visitors must hold a valid passport. Citizens of certain nations enjoy visa-free travel to Belize, while some require a visa before traveling. Citizens of the US and Canada do not need a visa, but will be given a 30-day permit upon arrival.
Learn More
Places to Stay
 (3)
Adult Only (16+)
Mangata Villas is an adult only (16+) luxury beach resort located in San Pedro, on the island of Ambergris Caye, Belize. Pool and beach are only steps away from your patio door! On ... moresite amenities include kayaks, paddle boards and bicycles, all provided for your enjoyment. Moon Bar serves excellent pizza and cocktails! Enjoy a fire pit at night under the moon. Villas and Casitas are all equipped with kitchens or if you prefer, there's an excellent restaurant located next door.
All guest rooms have air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with unlimited cchannels and movies, super comfortable beds, in room safe, full kitchens, access to pool and beach. Villas are ocean view and casitas are jungle view but only steps away from the ocean!
Gold Certified:
Yes
Area:
San Pedro
Region:
Northern Islands
 (3)
Private Riverside Villas
Aliana's is a vacation rental property located near San Ignacio, Cayo. Aliana's sits on a 50-acre farm and includes three private riverfront villas. ... more

Gold Standard Transportation is provided via Belize Ground Shuttle.
Relax on the banks of the Mopan river just outside your doorstep and enjoy bird watching or take a refreshing swim to cool off at your pleasure. We have canoes and floating tubes available. A popular guest activity is to float down the Mopan river from the village of Bullet Tree Falls. The float takes about two hours. You can spot monkeys and a variety of bird species along the river. We also have an outdoor grill and brick oven available for use by all guests.

Each unit includes air-conditioned bedrooms for your comfort. The property is filled with many tropical fruit trees that you can enjoy when in season, such as mangoes, breadfruit, plums, star fruit, and others. The property may be booked for private events subject to availability.
Gold Certified:
Yes
Area:
San Ignacio
Region:
Western Belize
 (3)
Characterized by its warm and friendly hospitality, Portofino is the epitome of barefoot luxury, unpretentious and relaxing. The resort is located on the beautiful island of Ambergris ... moreCaye, just six miles north of the charming town of San Pedro. Just a half mile off-shore is the 2nd largest barrier reef in the world so whether you're looking for spectacular diving, snorkeling, or fishing, or just looking for complete relaxation, we have you covered.

Portofino offers 17 beautifully appointed rooms, ranging from charming beach cabanas to spacious suites, dotted amidst swaying palm trees, all in a private setting with unmatched personal attention and the modern comforts of home. Each accommodation is just steps from the beach and pool and has a direct or partial view of the sea.
Phone Number:
+501-226-5096
Gold Certified:
Yes
Area:
San Pedro
Region:
Northern Islands
 (3)
Perched atop the magnificent Five-Sisters Waterfalls in Belize’s famed secluded Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, GAÏA Riverlodge, named aptly for the Greek goddess of Earth and ... morethe mother of life and all creation, will fulfill its promise to reconnect you to your most authentic and adventurous self.

An hour jeep ride from the more populous San Ignacio area, guests can recharge in their private and spacious cabanas to the waterfall’s sounds. Enjoy the rainforest’s intimacy with its native birds, butterflies, and remarkable flora, set amongst the pink and orange glow of the setting sun.

Remote, private and sustainable by design, we are a proudly Green Globe Award certified hotel. We operate on hydropower and offer an electric tram to transports guests from the lodge to the river. Most of our fruits and vegetables are also farmed on-site by local staff in our Mayan organic garden.
Phone Number:
011.501.834.4005
Gold Certified:
Yes
Area:
Cayo
Region:
Western Belize
Tours/Activities
$
55
-
$
200
/ Person
$
55
-
$
200
/ Adult
Type of Vehicle:
Full Size Van
 (16)
Shared Shuttle from International Airport to Placencia Luxury affordable daily shared shuttle service to Placencia. Drop off to any hotel along the Placencia peninsula.... more

This is a shared shuttle service and may have other passengers on board. Shared shuttle services can be subjected to schedule changes. We will always keep you updated via email or text.

Departs from the airport in the afternoon after all passengers are onboard. The drive to Placencia is about 2.5 hours, along the newly completed Coastal Highway, with an optional bathroom break and convenience store stop. Shuttle typically departs by 2:30pm, but may be sooner or later depending on pre-booked passengers. All passengers must be pre-booked.
Please contact us via WhatsApp at +501 671-6386 if you have any questions or concerns
$
65
-
$
385
/ Group
Type of Vehicle:
Full Size Van
 (5)
Private Shuttle Service by Belize Ground Shuttle Reliable shuttle service to or from BZE International Airport, catering to all destinations within Belize. Experience utmost comfort ... moreand reliability with our exclusive fleet of pristine and cozy 2019 Mercedes Benz Sprinter vans.

Our team of friendly and knowledgeable drivers is dedicated to ensuring exceptional experiences for all passengers. On top of that, we offer convenient onboard WiFi access. Our services are designed to accommodate groups of up to 16 passengers, with limited space for luggage.

Pay Only ONE Group Rate, plus additional per-passenger charges if you have more than 4 passengers. Passenger #5 to #16 will each pay the additional fee.

Please contact us via WhatsApp at +501 671-6390 if you have any questions or concerns.

For those planning to travel to the islands, we offer the flexibility to include water taxi tickets as part of your transfer package. These tickets can be redeemed at the San Pedro Belize Express Water Taxi terminal, ensuring a seamless transition to your island destination.
$
35
-
$
109
98
/ Person
Type of Vehicle:
Full Size Van
 (84)
Philip S.W Goldson International Airport (BZE) to San Ignacio Town One Way Shuttle from Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport (BZE) to San Ignacio Town. The shuttle departs promptly ... morefrom the airport arrivals terminal and arrives at Hode's Place in San Ignacio Town. All rides are on demand and subject to availability and flight schedules.

Hotel drop-off service is offered at an additional cost. To obtain information about the rates for different hotels in or near San Ignacio Town, please refer to the add-ons section.

All seats must be pre-booked. Daily Departures at: 12:00PM, 1:00PM, 2:45PM, 4:30PM, 5:30 PM 

This departure schedule is fluid. We may leave early as soon as all passengers are on board. Sometimes we may wait for passengers who may be delayed. We don't take walk-up passengers, so it is always possible to leave earlier than scheduled.

Please contact us via WhatsApp at +501 671-6390 if you have any questions or concerns.

Other important details:

Don't worry, we won't leave without you if your flight is delayed or arrives very close to the departure time. We try to accommodate all passengers and ask for some consideration if we need to wait a few minutes for other passengers. If you have a significant delay, we may switch you to the next departure if one is scheduled. The day's last departure will wait until all passengers are accounted for.

An optional hotel drop-off service is available to hotels and destinations within the town limits of San Ignacio and Santa Elena. Please select the appropriate add-on options when submitting your booking request. If you are not sure whether your hotel is within town limits, you may contact us to inquire or you may book the regular rate and book the additional service with the driver. We also offer service to destinations beyond town limits. The additional cost is usually determined by the distance from town. 

Hotels within our drop-off zone include, but are not limited to:

Ka'ana Resort

San Ignacio Resort Hotel

Cahal Pech Village Resort

Maya Mountain Lodge

Casa del Caballo Blanco

Western Guest House

Midas Resort 

Western Guest House

Bellas Backpackers

D's Hostel

Aliana's Airbnb

Lucina's Airbnb

Homehill Apartments

Casia Hill Resort

Rumor's Resort

Rolson's Hotel

If you are staying at Hode's Hotel, you do not need to pay the additional hotel drop-off fee since all drop off's are at Hode's Place. This is a nice outdoor restaurant to relax, grab some food, and wait for your in-town transport or local taxi.
New
In this episode we speak with Dorian Rivero, owner of Private Belize Adventure and tour guide of over 20 years, to discuss what activities are available to visitors in and around Belize ... moreCity. Take a virtual walk-through of cave tubing destination Nohoch Che’en as well as the Mayan ruins of Altun Ha.
Guest Name:
Dorian Rivero

Belizing Admin

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