How to Get to Belize: Flights, Border Crossings & Travel Tips

September 16, 2025
by Larry Waight +

Getting to Belize is easier than ever, especially if you’re flying. The main point of entry is the Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport (BZE), located just outside Belize City. For travelers from the U.S., there are numerous direct flight options from Miami, Houston, Dallas, Atlanta, Los Angeles, Denver, and New York. Carriers such as American Airlines, Delta, United, JetBlue, Alaska Airlines, and Southwest operate routes year-round, with increased frequency during Belize’s high season between November and April.

Canadian travelers also have solid options, with seasonal nonstop flights from Toronto via WestJet and Air Canada. Starting in December 2025, Air Canada is expected to resume its direct winter route from Montreal (YUL) to Belize City (BZE), offering an easier escape from Quebec’s winter without needing to transit through the U.S. Belize’s growing popularity has also improved connections for European travelers. While there are no nonstop flights from Europe, visitors can easily connect through Miami, Houston, or Toronto when traveling from cities like London, Frankfurt, or Madrid.

Once you land, Belize Hub Tours can arrange your airport pickup and organize all your transfers to inland destinations like San Ignacio, jungle lodges, or even coastal getaways like Placencia and Hopkins.

Overland Entry from Mexico and Guatemala

Many travelers exploring Central America enter Belize via land, particularly from Mexico and Guatemala. If you’re coming from Mexico, the most popular border crossing is at Santa Elena, near Chetumal. From there, it’s a smooth entry into Belize’s northern districts like Corozal and Orange Walk. Belize Hub Tours can provide comfortable private transfers or shared shuttle services from the northern border directly to Belize City or San Ignacio.

From Guatemala, the border crossing at Benque Viejo del Carmen is the main entry point. It’s the route most commonly used by those visiting or returning from Tikal, Flores, or Lake Petén Itzá. The border process is simple—visitors will go through Belize immigration and customs, pay a small exit fee when leaving, and may need to show proof of onward travel depending on nationality. Belize Hub Tours regularly arranges day tours to Tikal and can handle all the border logistics for you, including pre-clearing entry fees and paperwork.

Travelers doing a cross-border journey should have passports valid for at least six months and may be required to show proof of accommodation or departure, especially at smaller posts. For most nationalities, no visa is needed for short stays in Belize, but always verify your personal requirements before you travel.

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Smart Travel Tips Once You’re in Belize

Upon arrival, getting around the country is simple thanks to Belize’s small size and well-connected tourism infrastructure. Domestic airlines Tropic Air and Maya Island Air offer fast connections between Belize City and destinations like San Pedro, Caye Caulker, and Placencia. But for those who want to enjoy the countryside and make a few scenic stops, Belize Hub Tours offers private shuttles and transfers with friendly, knowledgeable drivers.

Taxis, buses, and water taxis are also common, though private tours offer the most flexibility and comfort. Belize uses the Belize dollar, pegged at 2:1 to the U.S. dollar, which is widely accepted. ATMs are available in towns and cities, but having some cash on hand is useful, especially in rural areas.

Whether you fly in, drive in, or cross by land, Belize is ready to welcome you with open arms—and Belize Hub Tours is here to make your entire journey smooth, safe, and unforgettable.