Getting from Belize City to San Ignacio: What You Need to Know

So you’ve just landed at the Belize City airport and want to get to San Ignacio.

NOW WHAT?!?!

Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! In this guide, I’m going to lay out the best ways to get from Belize City to the heart of the Cayo District — San Ignacio.

Having made the trip from Belize City to San Ignacio myself and spent a week there, I’ve collected a bunch of insider tips to ensure your trip is as smooth as possible.

Whether you’re thinking about flying, renting a car, or hopping on a chicken bus, this article will cover everything you need to know.

By the end of this guide, you’ll be all set to make the journey just like a pro!

When planning your trip, think about the best time to visit. The right timing can really make or break your experience. For tips on when to visit Belize to get the most out of your trip, check out our guide on The Best Time to Visit Belize.

Why Visit San Ignacio?

San Ignacio is the ultimate base for some of the best jungle adventures in mainland Belize.

This lively town is the heart of the Cayo District, offering a perfect mix of culture and excitement. In San Ignacio, you’ll find a buzzing farmers market with amazing street food, plenty of shops, restaurants, and friendly locals. It’s the perfect place to experience the true Belizean culture.

San Ignacio is packed with awesome things to do. You can explore ancient Maya ruins like Xunantunich and Cahal Pech, which give you a glimpse into Belize’s fascinating history. For a unique experience, visit the Green Iguana Project, where you can even snuggle with iguanas.

If you want a more thrilling adventure try cave tubing, zip-lining, or explore the famous ATM cave, known for its human sacrifices.

Theres also lots of great hiking trails in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve and several beautiful waterfalls in the area. Big Rock is my favorite!

Whether you’re into history, adventure, or just enjoying the local scene, San Ignacio is a must-visit!

After soaking in the sights and sounds of San Ignacio, why not continue your adventure? Belize is brimming with unique experiences that you won’t want to miss. For inspiration on what to do next, take a look at our blog post on Things to do in Belize.

Belize City To San Ignacio: What You Need to Know

Getting from Belize City to San Ignacio is easier than you might think, and you have few options to choose from.

Whether you’re on a budget or looking for the fastest route, here’s what you need to know to choose the best way to travel and make your trip easy peasy.

Where Is Belize City International Airport Located?

Belize City International Airport, officially known as Philip Goldson International Airport (BZE), is where you’ll most likely start your journey. It’s the only international airport in the country, so if you’re flying in from abroad, this is your landing spot.

The airport is located about 10 miles outside of Belize City. It’s easy to reach and has plenty of transportation options to get you to San Ignacio.

Whether you’re catching a bus, shuttle, or rental car, you’ll find what you need right at the Belize airport.

Main Transportation Options To And From San Ignacio Town

Here are all the transportation options for getting to and from San Ignacio town, from chicken buses to private transfers. You’ll find the one that best suits your travel plans.

Are There Flights from Belize City to San Ignacio?

Currently, there aren’t any airlines that fly directly into San Ignacio. You’ll have to opt for ground transportation options.

Renting a Car from Belize City to San Ignacio

Personally, renting a car is my top choice for getting from Belize City to San Ignacio.

It gives you a ton of flexibility, allowing you to explore at your own pace and make spontaneous stops along the way. But keep in mind that your rental car will need to be returned to where you picked it up, which can be a hassle if you’re leaving from a different city.

I recommend renting your car from the airport. You’ll find several rental companies lined up across the parking lot as soon as you exit the airport.

If you plan to go off the main roads, you’ll definitely want to get a 4-wheel drive vehicle. The roads in rural Belize are rough! We learned this when trying to find some waterfalls and almost got stuck in some ruts.

You can expect to pay around $70-$100 per day, depending on what car you get. Also, be sure to book early, especially during peak travel times!

Pro Tip: If you’re planning to cross the Guatemalan border, Crystal Rental Cars is the only company that lets you drive a rental car across the border. This is super handy if you’re planning a day trip to Tikal. But just a heads up, there are extra fees, and Crystal needs a 48-hour notice for border permits.

Budget-Friendly Ways to Get to San Ignacio, Cayo District

If you’re watching your wallet, there are a few budget-friendly ways to reach San
Ignacio. Or, if you simply want to kick back and let someone else take the wheel, that’s
an option, too. Let’s take a look.

Taxi From Belize City To San Ignacio

Taking a taxi is a convenient option if you’re not planning to explore far from San Ignacio Town. The cost is around $100-150 USD for the trip, which might seem steep at first. But compared to the cost of renting a car for more than two days, it can actually save you money.

Getting a taxi is super easy. You can find them right outside the airport, or ask your hotel to arrange one for you. The pros of taking a taxi include not having to worry about navigating unfamiliar roads or dealing with the hassle of returning a rental car. However, it does limit your ability to explore the areas around San Ignacio.

Pro Tip: Always agree on a set price before you get in the taxi and carry cash in smaller bills. Taxis don’t accept credit cards and often have trouble breaking large bills.

Tourist Shuttle From Belize City To San Ignacio

For about $75 USD per person (one way), you can book a shuttle online and get delivered right to your hotel door in San Ignacio.

If you’re traveling with a group, you should definitely consider booking a private shuttle. You’ll get a much better rate per person, and the shuttle can typically hold between 8-16 people, allowing you to share the cost.

Pro Tip: Book your shuttle in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability and secure the best rates.

Chicken Bus From Belize City To San Ignacio

Taking a chicken bus from Belize City to San Ignacio is the cheapest transportation option, costing about $4 BZD or $2 USD.

Despite the name, you won’t be sitting next to an actual chicken. Locals don’t usually transport chickens anymore.

There are a few downsides to taking the bus, though. It can be quite unreliable, with frequent delays and multiple stops along the way taking a long time to get to San Ignacio.

From the airport, you’ll need to get to the bus station, which is about 10 miles away. A taxi ride to the station will cost you around $25 USD.

Once there, wait at the stop for your destination. Buses are labeled, so just hop on the right one. Be sure to have the correct cash ready, as an attendant will come by to collect it.

There’s no need to book ahead or buy a ticket.

Pro Tip: Bring a small bag with snacks and water, as the journey can be long and unpredictable. Also, keep an eye on your belongings, as the buses can get crowded, and pickpocketing can happen.

Belize City To San Ignacio Travel Time

Travel time from Belize City to San Ignacio can vary depending on how you travel.

To help you out, here’s a chart that shows the travel times, costs, and other details for each option. This will make it easy for you to pick the best way to get to San Ignacio based on what works for you.

Driving In Belize

First, let’s talk about the roads… and the speed bumps! These little devils will keep you driving the speed limit, whether you like it or not.

Joking aside, Belize has been working hard on its roads, especially in rural areas. But some roads, especially off the beaten path, are still rough and unpaved, and the potholes can sneak up on you.

The good news is that some roads, like the must-see Hummingbird Highway, are some of the best two-lane paved roads in Belize.

Also, be aware of security check stops along the way. It’s nerve-racking for sure, but if stopped, the police will ask where you are heading or coming from, check your license or car rental paperwork, and then wave you on your way. They are mainly looking for people trafficking illegal items.

One more thing! Watch out for pedestrians and cyclists on the side of the road. They will cross without waiting for traffic. So stay alert!

Tips for Getting to San Ignacio

Whether you’re traveling by bus, shuttle, taxi, or rental car, a little preparation goes a long way. Here are some insider tips that will make getting to San Ignacio easy, peasy, lemon squeezy!

💵 Cash is King:

Make sure you have enough cash, especially smaller bills. If you’re heading to Guatemala, have some local currency ready which you can get from an ATM at the border.

📄 Have Your Paperwork Ready:

Don’t forget to keep all your important paperwork with you, like your itinerary, passport, driver’s license, hotel booking info, car rental paperwork, and proof of car insurance.

🚙 Rent The Right Car:

If you’re planning to drive to Guatemala from Belize, make sure to rent from Crystal Car Rental Company. They are the only company that allows their rental cars to cross the border. Also, don’t forget to get car insurance that covers Guatemala to ensure you’re fully protected.

🗣️ They Speak English:

The official language in Belize is English, so understanding everyone and reading road signs is quite
easy.

🗺️ Download Maps Ahead of Time:

Roads and cell service can be a bit tricky around Belize. Maps and GPS are lifesavers for
getting around so make sure to download them on your phone ahead of time.

Best Stops Between San Ignacio And Belize City

There are some great spots to check out on your drive between Belize City and San Ignacio. These stops will not only break up the drive but also add some fun and adventure to your trip.

Belize Zoo: You can stop at the Belize Zoo along the way. It’s a nice way to break up the drive and support their wildlife conservation efforts.

Cahal Pech Archaeological Reserve: Cahal Pech is an ancient Maya site that’s a fun stop on your way to San Ignacio. Explore the ruins and learn about Belize’s rich history.

Caracol: Caracol is another incredible Maya site to visit. It’s a bit off the main road, but it’s worth the detour for the stunning ruins and amazing views.

Getting Around San Ignacio Town

San Ignacio is fairly easy to explore on foot. The main streets in downtown San Ignacio have shops, restaurants, and markets all close together. However, it’s hilly and can get pretty hot, so plan your route and take breaks for a cool drink.

Having your own car makes getting around even better. You can visit nearby attractions like Maya ruins, waterfalls, and nature reserves at your own pace. Renting a car is easy, and driving around is straightforward.

Many San Ignacio tours also offer hotel pickup and dropoff, making it really easy to do the best activities without worrying about transportation.

Whether you’re walking, driving, or taking a tour, getting around San Ignacio is a breeze.

Visiting San Ignacio involves a mix of activities, from exploring ancient ruins to hiking through lush jungles and cave tubing. To make sure you’re well-prepared, check out our detailed Belize Packing List for all the must-have items for your trip.

Is San Ignacio and The Cayo District Worth Visiting?

Yes, absolutely!

The Cayo District is bursting with rich history and adventures that’ll keep you busy for days. From ancient Maya ruins to exciting cave tours and human sacrifices, you’ll find an adventure with your name on it.

The locals are incredibly friendly, and the town offers an authentic experience you won’t find in more touristy areas.

San Ignacio also has several beautiful jungle lodges and even treehouses, giving you a unique place to stay.

And don’t forget, San Ignacio is your gateway to Tikal in neighboring Guatemala. It’s perfect for a day trip to explore some of the most stunning Maya sites you’ll ever see.

After exploring the wonders of San Ignacio, you might want to experience other parts of Belize. Whether it’s a beachside resort or a jungle lodge, Belize offers a range of accommodations to suit every traveler. For more information on the best places to stay, check out our guide on Best Places to Stay in Belize.

FAQs About Traveling from Belize City To San Ignacio

Here are the answers to some common questions about traveling from Belize City to San Ignacio:

How much is a taxi from Belize City Airport to San Ignacio?

A taxi will cost you between $100-$150 USD depending upon time of day and
number of passengers. It is important to discuss and agree on the fare with your driver before departing. Most taxis operate with fixed rates, but it’s always wise to get confirmation

How much is the bus from San Ignacio to Belize City?

This is your cheapest form of transportation and will cost you under $10 (USD).

How long is the bus ride from Belize City to San Ignacio?

It depends on how many stops it makes and if it doesn’t overheat and break down, but generally about three hours.

Are there Ubers in Belize?

Sorry, there are no Ubers in Belize or San Ignacio. You’ll need to rely on taxis, buses, and shuttles for transfers.

Do I need a car for San Ignacio?

Not if you’re staying in town, but if you want to make the most out of your trip, having a car is recommended. It allows you to explore the surrounding area and sites at your own pace.

Is it easy to drive from Belize City to San Ignacio?

Yes, it is! Once you get out of Belize City, which is a little crazy, the George
Price Highway is a well-marked, two-lane road with plenty of gas stations and
small stores along the way to grab a snack or cold beverage.

Can you walk around San Ignacio?

The town is approximately 2.5 square miles, so it is entirely walkable. It does get
hot, though, so be sure to take lots of water and stop to rest.

San Ignacio is just one of Belize’s many incredible destinations. If you have time, consider visiting the stunning islands of San Pedro and Caye Caulker. Our detailed guide on Getting from Belize City to San Pedro and Caye Caulker will help you plan your island getaway with ease.

That’s a Wrap: Getting From Belize City to San Ignacio

There you have it. I’ve given you every mode of transportation to get you here, there, and everywhere. (I sound like Dr. Seuss).

Seriously though, I hope that this guide helped you choose which option works best for you to make getting from Belize City to San Ignacio a breeze.

San Ignacio is a really fun town and definitely worth visiting. You’ll have a blast!

Talk to ya later.