Public Transportation: Belize City

"Chicken Buses" & Routes

The main form of public transport within and between towns across Belize is the "chicken bus" system. These are repurposed US school buses. Within Belize City, these buses move on various main roads, but tourists often use them more for intercity travel rather than city commuting.

There is no formal, published route map system easy for tourists to get to. Routes are generally known by locals. You might need to ask for specific directions.

Bus System Overview

No metro or trams; "chicken buses" are the main public transport.
No formal city route maps; ask locals for guidance.
Main intercity hub: West Collet Canal Street bus terminal.
Fares: Very cheap, paid in cash to the conductor (BZD 1-2 for city ride).

Hours of Operation

Generally runs from early morning (5 AM) to early evening (7-8 PM). Frequency varies.

Accessibility

Public buses are not wheelchair accessible, with high steps and narrow aisles.

Navigating Tips

Ask locals, hotel staff, or conductors for route help. Have small BZD bills. Watch belongings.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Licensed Taxis

Recognize them by green license plates and "TAXI" sign.
Hail on street, find at stands, or call for one.
Always agree on fare beforehand; no meters.

Fares and Ride-Sharing

Short city rides: BZD 8-20 (USD 4-10). Airport to city: BZD 50-60 (USD 25-30).
Payment: Cash (BZD or USD). Drivers may prefer BZD for small fares.
Uber/Lyft are not in Belize City.

Safety and Taxi Arrangements

Safety: Licensed Taxis

Green plate taxis are generally safe. Avoid unlicensed cars.

Night Travel

Always use taxis after dark, especially outside main tourist zones.

Airport Pick-up

Taxis wait outside BZE terminal. Official rates are posted.

Terminals

Taxis are ready at bus and marine terminals for onward travel.

Rental Options

Renting a car offers freedom for exploring Belize. Knowing the rules makes the process smoother.

Car Rental

Companies: Avis, Budget, Hertz at BZE and in Belize City. Also local choices.
Requirements: Valid national driver's license (IDP suggested), passport, major credit card for deposit.
Insurance: Get full coverage. Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) is often a good choice.
Driving side: Drive on the right side of the road.

Other Vehicle Types

Motorcycle/Scooter: Less common in city, more in tourist areas outside.
Bicycle: No city-wide sharing. Some hotels may rent. Not a main city transport.
Specialty Vehicles: No tuk-tuks, jeepneys, or similar public transport.
Consider DiscoverCars.com for rental car bookings.

Road Conditions & Safety

Main highways are paved and in good condition.
City roads can be narrow, busy, and have potholes.
Unmarked speed bumps ("sleeping policemen") are common.

Road signs may be limited.
Night driving is not good due to poor lighting and obstacles.
Avoid leaving valuables visible in parked cars.

Parking & Laws

Parking

Street parking can be limited. Many hotels have parking for guests.

Driving Laws

Drive on the right. Seatbelts are for all occupants. Follow speed limits.

Vehicle Security

Carjackings/theft can happen in isolated areas or specific city parts.

Walking & Cycling

Walk and explore in pedestrian-friendly areas. Know where to go and where not to go for safety.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Fort George Area: Most pedestrian-friendly, includes waterfront, Tourism Village.
Swing Bridge Area: Walk across and explore the nearby Northside and Southside.
Daytime: Walking in well-trafficked tourist zones is generally safe.
Walking Tours: Guided tours focus on history and culture. Self-guided walks are simple.

Cycling & Restricted Zones

Cycling Infrastructure: Lacks dedicated bike lanes. City traffic makes cycling risky.
No-Go Areas: Southside neighborhoods with higher crime (Jane Usher Blvd, Port Loyola, George St, Kraal Rd).
Nighttime: Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas. Use taxis for evening movement.
These areas are not tourist zones and have safety issues.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses

Used by cruise lines and private tour operators for outside-city excursions (Mayan ruins, Belize Zoo).

No standard hop-on-hop-off city service.

Boat Taxis

Main specialized transport to Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye from Marine Terminal.

Frequent, comfy, scenic services.

River Tours

Private tours on Belize River for wildlife viewing or as part of organized trips to Lamanai Mayan site.

Typically full-day excursion packages.

Unique Transport & Accessibility

Special Transport

Belize City has no cable cars, funiculars, or unique mechanical transport.
Its flat land and city density do not need such structures.
Accessibility is a challenge for travelers with mobility limits.

Mobility Challenges

Sidewalks are often uneven, narrow, or missing. Ramps are few.
Many historical buildings have stairs, limiting access.
Fort Street Tourism Village is generally more accessible.

Planning for Accessibility

Plan thoroughly with hotels and tour operators about needs.
Think about hiring private, accessible transport where possible.
Look for hotels that clearly state they have accessible rooms.
Public buses are not set up for wheelchairs.

Taxis may or may not fit wheelchairs, based on car type.
Uneven sidewalks and lack of ramps make walking hard.
Expect challenges; pre-booking help is a good idea.
Focus on tour-specific accessibility, as general city access is limited.

Final Transport Tip

Belize City's transport reflects its local character. Embrace the "chicken buses" for a local feel, or rely on taxis for ease.

Planning ahead for longer journeys and being ready for local refinements will make your movement around the city smooth.

Public Transportation