Getting Around Caye Caulker. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public & Unique Transportation

Caye Caulker does not have a formal public transit system like buses, metros, or trams. The island's small size and flat terrain make such systems unnecessary. The main modes of transport are casual and integrated into the island's relaxed pace.

You will not find route maps for public buses or trains, nor ticketing systems or fare options typical of urban transit. The absence of formal infrastructure like sidewalks or ramps may present challenges for travelers with mobility impairments. Many establishments may also have limited accessibility features.

Navigating Efficiently

Embrace Walking: The main village is very compact; most hotels, restaurants, and shops are within easy walking distance.
"Go Slow" Motto: No need to rush. Enjoy the walk, observe local life, and take your time.
Accessibility: Inquire directly with accommodations and tour operators about accessibility features if you have mobility needs.
Specialized Transport: No tour buses, hop-on-hop-off services, cable cars, or funiculars.

Golf Cart Taxis

Licensed taxis are golf carts, typically white with a "Taxi" sign. Hail on the street or ask hotels. Fares for rides within main village: $5 BZD ($2.50 USD) per person. Cash preferred.

Bicycle Rentals

Widely available from shops and accommodations. Cost: $5-$10 USD per day. A popular and practical way to explore the island's length. Requires cash deposit or ID.

Self-Drive Golf Carts

Available for rent for independence. Cost: $70-$100 USD for 24 hours. Valid driver's license from home country usually sufficient. Numerous local rental shops.

Water Transportation

Island Boat Taxis

Small boats shuttle across The Split to the North Side.
Cost: Usually $5 BZD ($2.50 USD) one way.
Helpful for North Side stays or Koko King beach club visits.

Tour Boats

Central to Caye Caulker activities.
Transport visitors for snorkeling, diving, fishing, and excursions.
Operated by various local tour companies.

Driving & Road Considerations

Driving Laws

Drive slowly; the "Go Slow" motto extends to vehicles. Watch for pedestrians, other golf carts, and bicycles.

Road Conditions

Roads are mostly unpaved, sandy, or gravel. They can be bumpy and may have puddles after rain.

Parking

No formal parking structures. Park responsibly along the side of the road or at hotel parking areas, avoiding path obstruction.

No Motorcycles

Motorcycle and scooter rentals are not available or permitted on the island.

Walking & Cycling on Caye Caulker

Walking and cycling are not just modes of transport; they are integral to the Caye Caulker experience, connecting you directly to the island's charm.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

The entire main village on the South Side is very pedestrian-friendly.
Most points of interest, restaurants, and hotels are easily accessible by walking.
Front Street, Middle Street, and Back Street serve as the main walking paths.
The compact nature of the island means extensive exploration on foot is possible.

Cycling Infrastructure & Safety

No dedicated bicycle lanes; bicyclists share sandy roads with golf carts and pedestrians.
Safety: Always be aware of your surroundings, especially golf carts.
Use lights if cycling at night, as some areas are dimly lit.
Ring your bell to alert pedestrians.

Walking Tour Options & Access Zones

No formal guided walking tours are commonly available.
The island is small and safe enough for independent exploration on foot.
Create your own tour, stopping at shops, restaurants, and points of interest.

No-Go Areas: The entire accessible part of the island (developed South Side and North Side accessible by boat taxi) is open.
Swampy interior areas of undeveloped sections are not for pedestrian access.
Stick to established paths for safety and environmental protection.

Accessibility on the Island

Uneven Paths

The island's sandy, uneven paths and lack of ramps present challenges for wheelchair users or those with significant mobility issues.

Accommodation Access

Many accommodations are not fully accessible. Inquire directly with hotels before booking.

Boat Transport

Reliance on boat transport may pose additional challenges for mobility-impaired travelers.

Local Transport & Navigating "The Split"

Beyond golf carts, water-based transport is an unique feature of Caye Caulker, specifically for crossing its famous channel.

Crossing "The Split"

Island Taxis: Small boats act as taxis for crossing "The Split" to the North Side.
Service available throughout the day for convenience.
Cost: Usually $5 BZD (or $2.50 USD) one way.
This short journey connects visitors to the less developed areas.

Tour Boats & Excursions

Tour boats are a central part of Caye Caulker's activities.
They transport visitors for snorkeling, diving, fishing, and other excursions.
Tours visit the nearby barrier reef and surrounding waters.
Various local tour companies operate these services.

Sustainable Choices for Getting Around

Walk More

The island's small footprint supports walking for most destinations, reducing carbon emissions.

Eco-Friendly Impact: Low

Bike Rentals

Bicycles are abundant and eco-conscious. They provide a quiet, personal way to explore the island.

Eco-Friendly Impact: Medium

Shared Transport

Opt for shared golf cart taxis rather than private tours when feasible. This limits fuel consumption.

Eco-Friendly Impact: High

Responsible Golf Cart Use

Driving Etiquette

Always drive slowly and yield to pedestrians and bicycles.
Be mindful of the island's "Go Slow" pace, even in vehicles.
Stick to established paths and avoid driving through sensitive natural areas.

Environmental Impact

Choose electric golf cart rentals when available to lessen environmental impact.
Proper disposal of waste and avoiding littering extends to vehicle use.

Safety Rules for Transport

Golf Cart Taxis: Confirm fare beforehand to prevent misunderstandings.
Bicycle Safety: Always be aware of your surroundings, especially golf carts. Use lights at night.
No-Go Zones: Stick to established paths. Swampy areas are not for pedestrian access.
Golf Cart Driving: Drive slowly on unpaved roads; they can be bumpy. Park responsibly.

Ride-Sharing: No apps like Uber/Lyft; golf cart taxis are the local equivalent.
Water Taxis: Pay attention to instructions from boat operators for safety.
Walking: Watch for golf carts and bikes sharing the paths.
Mobility Impairments: Limited infrastructure; direct inquiry with providers is wise.

Island Navigation Philosophy

Caye Caulker's charm is its simplicity and slow pace. Embrace walking and cycling as main modes of exploration, allowing you to connect authentically with the island's unique atmosphere.

For longer distances or luggage, golf cart taxis and rentals are readily available, maintaining the island's car-free environment.

Getting Around Caye Caulker