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Getting Around Caye Caulker

Getting Around Caye Caulker

The Northern Cayes Belize Travel Guide

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 could be challenging for travelers with mobility impairments. Many establishments may additionally have limited accessibility features.

Navigating Efficiently

  • Embrace Walking: The main the small town 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 small electric vehicles, typically white with a "Taxi" sign. Hail on the street or ask hotels. Costs for rides within main village: $5 BZD ($2.50 USD) per person. Cash preferred.

Bicycle Rentals

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

Self-Drive Golf Carts

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

Water Transportation

Island Boat Taxis
  • Small boats shuttle across The Split northward 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 several 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 fundamental to the Caye Caulker experience, connecting straight to you towards 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 on-foot exploring is possible.

Cycling Infrastructure & Safety

  • No dedicated bicycle lanes; bicyclists share sandy roads with small electric vehicles and pedestrians.
  • Safety: Always be aware of your surroundings, especially golf buggies.
  • Use your 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.
  • This island is compact and safe enough for exploring on your own on foot.
  • Create your own tour, calling at shops, restaurants, and points of interest.
  • No-Go Areas: The entire accessible part of the island (developed South Side and North Side reachable by boat taxi) is open.
  • Swampy interior areas of undeveloped sections are not for pedestrian access.
  • Stick to established routes 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

Numerous lodgings are not fully accessible. Ask directly 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, especially for crossing its renowned 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) a single direction.
  • This short journey connects tourists to the less developed areas.

Tour Boats & Excursions

  • Tour boats are a central part of Caye Caulker's activities.
  • They transport guests 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 plentiful and eco-conscious. They provide a quiet, personal way of seeing the island.

Eco-Friendly Impact: Medium

Shared Transport

Opt for communal golf cart taxis rather as opposed to 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: Verify the price beforehand to prevent misunderstandings.
  • Bicycle Safety: Constantly be mindful of your surroundings, especially golf buggies. Have lights on 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 could 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 small electric vehicles and bikes sharing the paths.
  • Mobility Impairments: Limited infrastructure; asking directly with service 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 on 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.

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