What you should know before you rent a car
Practical information
Where to rent a car in Belize?
Belize is located in Central America and shares borders with Guatemala and Mexico; and a coastline with the Caribbean Sea. Its capital city is Belmopan, while other cities in Belize include Belize City – the country's largest city – and San Pedro Town. Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport is one of the country's principle international airports, and serves Belize City. Visitors traveling to Belize by air are likely to touch down here. Belize does not have a rail network, so for those who wish to explore the country, traveling by bus or rental car and two of the only options. Car rental companies operating in Belize include Avis, Hertz and Budget Rent a Car. Visitors can rent a car from Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport in Belize City, or from locations in Belize City itself.
What are the driving rules in Belize?
As a former British colony, road signs in Belize are in English – making navigating a little easier! Visitors to Belize can rent a car with a valid US drivers license (although some car rental companies may charge an additional "young drivers surcharge" for drivers under the age of 25). Drive on the right hand side of the road and be sure to wear a seatbelt at all times when driving in Belize. Pay attention to speed limits in Belize, which tend to be 25mp on small, rural roads, and 55mph on major highways. Road conditions in Belize can vary, and visitors may wish to stick to driving during daylight hours so as to be able to see the state of the road ahead. Be sure to lock your car when parked, and pay attention to other drivers – who may not always stick to the rules of the road!
When it comes to parking in Belize, the best option is to seek out a secure parking lot in which to leave your rental car. Many travelers renting a car in Belize City may wish to explore the city itself using public transport, before picking up their rental car from the airport – or, if arriving in the city, leave your rental car in the airport's parking lot before heading into Belize City.
Road trips in Belize
Discover the beauty of Belize by rental car and travel around the country at your own pace, exploring ancient Mayan ruins and stunning natural areas and parks along the way.
Belize City
Belize City is the largest city in Belize, and boasts a number of interesting attractions both in the city and the surrounding areas. In Belize City itself, visit the Museum of Belize; Government House; and the Maritime Museum. Once you've explored Belize City, drive your rental car to one of the nearby Mayan archaeological sites. The Lamanai Mayan ruins are just over 75 miles away by car, while the ancient Mayan city of Caracol can be reached in just over three and a half hours by road from Belize City.
Belmopan
Belize's capital city of Belmopan is a small metropolis located in central Belize. A great base from which to explore the surrounding areas by rental car, Belmopan is close to a number of beautiful natural areas and interesting sights. Blue Hole National Park, for example, can be found just 15 miles away by road and is home to the beautiful St Herman's Cave and the Blue Hole. The area can be reached by the scenic Hummingbird Highway, which makes for a spectacular drive. Alternatively, Belize City itself is just under 50 miles away and can be reached in around one hour by rental car.
San Ignacio
Located in western Belize, San Ignacio is a vibrant town which welcomes a host of visitors and is known for its relaxed, eclectic feel. San Ignacio is surrounded by Mayan ruins and interesting attractions, such as the Rainforest Medicine Trail. Just over six miles by car stand the Mayan ruins of Xunantunich, which can be reached in just over half an hour from San Ignacio. An impressive archaeological site, it is home to Ancient Mayan ruins and makes for a brilliant day trip by rental car from San Ignacio.
Where would you like to pick-up your economy car hire in Belize?
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