Traveling from Belize City (BZE) to Placencia offers several options, each catering to different preferences and budgets. Here are four ways to reach Placencia Peninsula from Belize City International Airport:
Domestic Flights
Flying is the quickest and most convenient method. Domestic airlines such as Tropic Air and Maya Island Air operate multiple flights daily from Belize City to Placencia. The flight takes about 40-45 minutes and provides stunning views of the coastline. Prices typically range from $93 to $150 USD one-way, depending on the season and availability
Car Rental
If you prefer flexibility, renting a car is a great option. From BZE, follow these directions:
Start at Belize International Airport (BZE): Exit the airport and take a left onto the Philip Goldson Highway (Northern Highway) towards Belize City.
Turn onto John Smith Road: After about 5 minutes, turn right onto John Smith Road (a shortcut to bypass Belize City traffic). Continue straight for about 8 miles.
Merge onto George Price Highway (Western Highway): At the end of John Smith Road, turn right onto the George Price Highway. Drive for about 31 miles until you reach La Democracia Village, near the Belize Zoo.
Turn onto the Coastal Plain Highway: At La Democracia, turn left onto the Coastal Plain Highway. This scenic, recently upgraded road will take you south for approximately 36 miles.
Merge onto Hummingbird Highway: The Coastal Plain Highway connects to the Hummingbird Highway near Hope Creek Village. At the roundabout, take a left to continue.
Join the Southern Highway (Thomas Vincent Ramos Highway): After about 5 minutes, the Hummingbird Highway merges into the Southern Highway near Mile 6, just past the Shell Gas Station. Turn right to stay on the Southern Highway.
Turn onto Placencia Road: After approximately 21 miles, turn left onto Placencia Road at the Placencia Junction. This road leads directly to the Placencia Peninsula.
Arrive in Placencia: Continue for about 19 miles on Placencia Road, passing through Caribbean Way, Maya Beach, and Seine Bight, until you reach Placencia Village.
The drive should take around 3 to 3.5 hours, depending on traffic and stops. Enjoy the scenic countryside as you make your way to Placencia!
By Public Transport
This is the most budget-friendly route from Belize City to Placencia Peninsula, offering both advantages and drawbacks. Taking the public bus lets you experience local life, but it can get crowded, and the trip takes considerably longer due to frequent stops. Additionally, you'll need to switch buses in Dangriga to reach Placencia Village. The bus ride from Belize City to Dangriga takes about three hours. From Dangriga, three buses run daily to Placencia. The first departs at 11:00 am, the second at 2:30 pm, and the last at 5:30 pm, with the journey to Placencia taking about 1.5 hours.
Ground Shuttle Service
For a safe, scenic, and comfortable journey from Belize City to Placencia Village or Maya Beach, Julian Transfers offers private shuttles from Belize International Airport or the Belize City Water Taxi terminal. The shuttle ride takes about three hours, and you can request stops along the way at restaurants or restrooms to stretch your legs. It's a great alternative to driving, as the shuttle route passes through some of the most diverse and beautiful wildlife areas in Belize, making the trip even more enjoyable.
Traveling to Placencia Belize
Choose your travel method based on your budget and time constraints. Flying is best for speed, while driving offers flexibility and adventure. Buses are cost-effective but time-consuming, and taxis/shuttles provide convenience at a higher price point. No matter how you choose to travel, the journey to Placencia promises beautiful scenery and a taste of Belizean culture along the way!
