Due to tourism, and its small size, traveling the country by car has become a thing in itself, however, the road conditions of Belize are as diverse as its beauty. Think rocky roads to smooth cross-country highways.
Of course, poorly kept highways and roads aren’t a strange site in Belize, but it also has safe roads with excellent conditions, especially going to tourist spots.
Can You Drive in Belize?
You can drive in Belize, however, it can be challenging, and relatively new for foreigners. Traffic rules and pedestrian behavior can differ from country to country, much more around Latin America.
If you’re planning on navigating the country at your own pace, and itinerary, you can rent a car. Touristy towns and Belize City are abundant with car rental companies. However, make sure you have an international driver’s license before coming.
How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Car in Belize?
Renting a car in Belize costs an average of 71 USD per day. Fees differ from rental companies and vehicle types. For convenience, you can rent right out of the rental companies just outside the airport in Belize City. However, one thing in common among rental companies, and renting a car in Belize in general is that it’s never cheap.
It’s going to be a challenge looking for reputable rental companies that costs less than 60 USD a day. Several global car rental chains are in Belize City, like Crystal, and Budget. Rental fees range from 61 to 79 USD per day.
Do You Need an International Driver’s License in Belize?
Visitors planning to drive and explore Belize have to be 18 years old or older and must have a valid international driver’s license, or permit to rent and operate a car legally. If you’re from the US and have a valid driver’s license, it will be considered valid in Belize, as well.
Is It Safe to Rent a Car and Drive in Belize?
Belize isn’t exactly the smoothest driving experience you’ll ever have on this side of Latin America. However, you’ll only have to be worried about pedestrian conduct, and road hazards in the country because they vary greatly from country to country.
Road signs in Belize are in English, and you drive on the right side of the road unless you’re from the UK, Australia, and New Zealand, which takes away part of the difficulty. Rural roads, just like in any country, are a breeze with little to no traffic at all. Although, Belize City can get pretty hectic.
If you’re driving around cross-country highways, chances are, they could get sketchy. For one, you can get stopped by police with roadblocks, however, they will easily let you pass. Many highways have speed bumps, and many of the bridges you’ll cross are one-way only, so make sure to slow down and assess the road conditions first.
What Are the Roads Like in Belize?
Roads in Belize can be tricky and unpredictable so it’s best to drive with caution. Many of the country’s highways can be curvy, and in poor condition, several speed bumps are also present, especially around the Northern Highway.
Roads and Highways east of Belmopan are in excellent condition, but there isn’t much to look at as you drive along. West of Belmopan, however, is a different story. They can be difficult and are in fair conditions, traffic is heavier, and due to its hilly terrain, it has several sweeping curves.
The southern Highway has an excellent condition, with a flat highway kept in good condition, and you can even see many smaller villages along the way. The road to Placencia is also in excellent condition, probably well-maintained for the wealthy expats.
Do They Drive on the Left in Belize?
Despite the country being a former British colony, Belize drives on the right side of the road. Travelers from the USA, the largest tourist demographic of the country, will find this easier to explore Belize’s beauty.
How Much Does Gas Cost in Belize?
Currently, Belize’s gasoline prices cost about 1.29 USD or 2.61 Belize dollars, which can be expensive for those renting a car. On top of expensive rental fees, gas prices can further injure your budget. It’s best to plan ahead, and budget wisely.
How Much Is a Gallon of Gas in Belize?
A gallon of gas in Belize costs up to 4.90 USD or 9.89 BZD (Belize dollars)
Do I Need a Car in Belize?
Belize is a small country, with a width of 113 km or 70 miles, and a length of 402 km or 250 miles, you can easily explore the country by car. However, it isn’t a necessity, especially if you’re a backpacker or a budget traveler.
Gas prices and rental fees can hurt the budget you’ve been saving off for traveling. There are still plenty of ways to get around Belize, like buses and taxis, and even water taxis to the off-shore cayes.
However, if you plan to travel to the many beautiful towns on the mainland that dot the entire country, then you should rent a car, given that you have the budget for it.
