Belize Transportation Reality Check

Transportation in Belize isn’t complicated — but it is different.

And the costs depend heavily on where you live and how flexible you are.

Here’s the real breakdown, with numbers people actually want to know.

 

Cars: Freedom (Especially on the Mainland)

If you live inland — Corozal (link), San Ignacio (Cayo link), Punta Gorda(link), or Independence Village(link) — a car is often worth it.

Typical costs:

·         Used vehicle (imported): often more expensive than expected

·         Import duties: can be 30–60%+ of the vehicle’s value

·         Fuel: roughly $6–$7 USD per gallon

·         Basic maintenance: affordable, but parts may take time

 

Bottom line:

A car gives freedom, but it’s the most expensive transportation option long-term. It makes sense inland, less so on the islands.

 

Buses: The Cheapest Way to Get Around

Belize buses aren’t fancy, but they’re reliable if you’re patient.

Typical costs:

·         Short trips: $1–$3 USD

·         Long cross-country trips: $5–$10 USD

No reservations. No tight schedules. Just show up, pay, and go.

 

Bottom line:

If budget matters more than speed, buses are unbeatable.

 

Boats (Water Taxis): Island Reality

If you live on a caye, boats are part of life.

Typical costs:

·         Island ↔ mainland water taxi: $15–$35 USD one way

·         Monthly commuters often buy passes for discounts

They’re efficient, but weather decides everything. Rough seas = delays or cancellations.

 

Bottom line:

Water taxis are affordable, but not always convenient — especially in bad weather.

 

Golf Carts: Fun, Practical, Not Cheap

Golf carts feel inexpensive… until you own one.

Typical costs:

·         Used cart: $3,000–$6,000 USD

·         New cart: $8,000–$12,000+ USD

·         Maintenance & batteries: ongoing

Great for short errands and beach cruising. Not great in rain, emergencies, or for hauling groceries.

 

Bottom line:

They’re a lifestyle choice, not a budget hack.

 

Small Planes: Fast, Surprisingly Reasonable

This one shocks people.

Domestic flights connect islands and mainland towns in minutes.

Typical costs:

·         Short domestic flight: $50–$120 USD one way

·         Flight time: often 15–25 minutes

Most long-term expats don’t fly weekly — but when time, comfort, or medical needs matter, flying beats boats.

 

Bottom line:

Planes cost more upfront, but save time, energy, and stress.

 

The Real Takeaway

Belize transportation is about matching tools to lifestyle:

·         Mainland living(link) → cars + buses

·         Island living(link) → boats + golf carts + occasional flights

·         Trying to force U.S. convenience into Belize reality = frustration

Belize works beautifully when you stop fighting the system.

 

If Belize is more than a vacation idea for you(link), this is daily-life knowledge worth having before you move.

Explore the full guides, click here.

Written by Cedric Williams