Road Trips in Belize

Belize City is one of the country’s greatest attractions in itself. It’s even more interesting thanks to the presence of unique architecture with beautiful colonial houses, extensive parks, and lively entertainment venues that bustle with life almost around the clock. From Belize City, it is possible to travel to such pearls of Central Belize as Belmopan, which is the country’s capital, Xunantunich, and Dangriga.

Northern Belize is known for its flat farmland and idyllic atmosphere. With such towns as Altun Ha, Corozal, and Orange Walk Town, you’ll familiarise yourself with traditional local architecture and delicious street-food cuisine based on fresh seafood and fish. The northern regions are also full of interesting landmarks ranging from old ruins to intriguing museums and tall clock towers.

The towns of Hattieville, Punta Gorda, and Placencia are Southern Belize at its best. All three of these coastal resorts enjoy a scenic location and can boast sandy beaches ideal for long strolls in the sunset. They will become perfect starting points for the exploration of the Chiquibul National Park, a real treat for those who enjoy spending their time close to Mother Nature.

Suggested Road Trips in Belize

• The Southern Highway: The Southern Highway is a scenic road trip that takes you from the capital city of Belmopan to the popular tourist destination of Placencia. This journey takes you through lush jungles, rolling hills, and quaint villages, and offers opportunities to spot wildlife, visit Mayan ruins, and sample local cuisine.

• The Western Highway: The Western Highway is a popular road trip that takes you from Belize City to the ancient Mayan city of San Ignacio. This journey takes you through lush tropical forests, past towering waterfalls, and along the scenic Macal River. Along the way, you can visit the impressive Xunantunich Mayan ruins, take a cave tubing excursion, and enjoy the vibrant local culture.

• The Northern Highway: The Northern Highway is a road trip that takes you from Belize City to the picturesque town of Orange Walk. This journey takes you through rolling hills, past sugarcane fields, and through the beautiful Rio Bravo Conservation and Management Area. Along the way, you can visit the Lamanai Mayan ruins, go birdwatching, and explore the vibrant local culture.

These road trips offer a unique opportunity to explore Belize's diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and abundant natural wonders, making them some of the best road trips in the country.

A variety of travelling options are waiting for the tourists who choose Belize as their holiday destination. The greatest freedom will be guaranteed by a hired car. This option is available at the airport or in major cities. It will give you maximum independence and provide you with an opportunity to reach a variety of destinations located off the beaten path. The country can boast as many as four asphalt-paved two-lane roads. Other roads are mostly unpaved, but this is where the fun starts, right?

When taking a road trip in Belize, it is important to keep a few things in mind:

• Prepare for the weather: Belize has a tropical climate, so it is important to bring light, breathable clothing and plenty of sunscreen. It is also a good idea to bring rain gear, as the country experiences frequent rain showers, particularly during the rainy season from June to November.

• Rent a reliable vehicle: Belize has well-maintained roads, but it is important to rent a reliable vehicle, such as a four-wheel drive, for exploring the country's more remote areas.

• Plan your route: Belize is a small country, but it is filled with diverse landscapes, cultural heritage sites, and natural wonders. It is a good idea to plan your route in advance, taking into account the attractions you want to see and the length of your trip.

• Pack supplies: Belize is a rural country, and it is a good idea to pack plenty of food and water for your trip, especially if you plan to explore remote areas.

• Be aware of road conditions: Belize has well-maintained roads, but it is important to be aware of road conditions, particularly in rural areas, where roads can be narrow and winding.

By following these tips, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable road trip in Belize.

The best time of year to take a road trip in Belize is from December to May, during the dry season. During this time, the roads are generally in good condition, the weather is sunny and warm, and there is less risk of rain-related road closures. Additionally, many of Belize's natural attractions, such as its lush jungles, tropical forests, and pristine beaches, are at their best during the dry season.

However, it is important to note that even during the dry season, rain showers can occur, particularly in the afternoons. As such, it is a good idea to plan your road trip around the weather and bring rain gear, just in case.

Overall, the dry season is the best time to take a road trip in Belize, offering the best combination of good weather, road conditions, and attractive natural scenery.

Taking a road trip through Belize can be an affordable way to explore the country and experience its unique culture.

The cost of a road trip in Belize can vary depending on the traveler's budget and itinerary. On average, a budget traveler can expect to spend around $40-50 USD per day, which includes accommodation, food, and transportation. Mid-range travelers can expect to spend around $70-80 USD per day, while luxury travelers can spend upwards of $150 USD per day.

Renting a car in Belize is a popular option for road trippers, and the cost can range from $50-100 USD per day, depending on the type of vehicle and rental company. However, it's important to note that roads in Belize can be rough, and some areas may require a 4-wheel drive vehicle.

In addition to car rental, there are other transportation options available in Belize, such as buses and taxis. Buses are a cheap option, with fares starting at around $1 USD, but they can be crowded and unreliable. Taxis are more expensive, with fares starting at around $10 USD for short trips.

When budgeting for a road trip in Belize, it's important to consider the cost of activities and attractions. Some of the must-see destinations in Belize include the Belize Barrier Reef, Maya ruins such as Caracol and Xunantunich, and national parks like Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary and Jaguar Preserve. Entrance fees for these attractions can range from $5-25 USD per person.

Overall, a road trip in Belize can be an affordable way to experience the country's unique culture and natural beauty. By budgeting wisely and taking advantage of cheaper transportation options, travelers can explore the best of Belize without breaking the bank.

There are a few great guidebooks and road maps available for those planning a road trip in Belize. Here are a few recommendations:

• "Moon Belize" by Lebawit Lily Girma: This comprehensive guidebook covers all aspects of traveling in Belize, including road trip itineraries, accommodations, and attractions.

• "Belize Road Atlas" by Lan Sluder: This detailed road map of Belize includes information on all major highways, as well as smaller roads and backcountry routes.

• "Lonely Planet Belize" by Alex Egerton and Paul Harding: This popular guidebook includes in-depth coverage of Belize's attractions, history, and culture, as well as practical information on road tripping in the country.

• "Belize Adventure Set" by MapEasy: This map and guidebook combo includes a detailed map of Belize as well as information on the country's top attractions, activities, and accommodations.

• "Belize & Northern Guatemala Travel Reference Map" by ITM: This fold-out map includes detailed information on Belize's highways and secondary roads, as well as topography, national parks, and other points of interest.