Belize Airport To San Ignacio: BEST Ways To Travel

Find out exactly how to have a seamless journey from Belize Airport to San Ignacio, using my expert advice and insider tips. From pricing, safety, and distances to the best travel methods, make your first touch down in Belize as straightforward as possible!

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Touching down at Belize Airport (Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport) and eager to begin your adventure exploring the rich culture and natural wonders of Belize? Well if you are looking for how to travel from Belize Airport to San Ignacio you have landed in the right place

Navigating the route from Belize Airport to San Ignacio can feel overwhelming, with questions about transportation options, travel logistics, and navigating a foreign country, especially if you have never been here before!

Well lucky enough this is a journey I have done before during my travels in Belize, as well as having met plenty of other travelers who have done it as well.

So whether you’re a solo adventurer seeking excitement, a couple in search of a jungle getaway, or a family craving a memorable vacation, this guide caters to travelers of all kinds. From budget-conscious backpackers to luxury seekers, everyone can find the best way for them to travel from Belize Airport to San Ignacio.

It may not be as straightforward as heading to the islands, or as quick. However Belize is a small English-speaking country with friendly locals, so trust me when I say you have nothing to worry about.

Nevertheless, let’s get into all you need to know about traveling from Belize Airport to San Ignacio. This includes distances, timing, best travel methods, how to book tickets, and more!

	Time	Cost	Highlight
Tourist Shuttle	2 hours	from $20	Comfortable journey
Bus	3 hours	from $3	Adventurous
Taxi	1.5hours	from $100	Easy and stress-free
Fly	N/A	N/A	N/A
Car Rental	1.5 hours	from $60	Freedom

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🚗 How I Book Ferries & Shuttles In Belize: GuateGo

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Belize Airport To San Ignacio Distance

The distance from Belize City’s airport to San Ignacio is approximately 114 kilometers / 71 miles. This is a relatively short distance, however, in terms of traveling around Belize, this is actually considered one of the longer travel days!

If you have come from Mexico or Guatemala these short drives are a nice break from the full travel days which you will be used to.

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Belize Airport To San Ignacio Travel Time

The travel time from Belize Airport to San Ignacio typically ranges between 2 to 2.5 hours when driving.

This duration can vary based on the chosen mode of transportation and current traffic conditions. I booked a shared shuttle and even though it is a short journey we did stop for a food/bathroom break about 30 minutes out of San Ignacio since the majority of people in the van were going through to Guatemala.

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Arriving At Belize Airport

Arriving at Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport in Belize can be quite a surprising experience, at least it was in my case as it was absolutely dead. Nevertheless, I arrived off a flight from Roatan to Belize with 2 other travelers, so I wasn’t expecting a huge welcome party.

Anyway, you will find Belize Airport located about 10 miles / 16 kilometers from the City. As the main international gateway to the country, the airport is the main entry point for travelers visiting the region.

On disembarking your plane, travelers are greeted by a modest but efficiently organized terminal. The process of going through immigration and customs is typically straightforward, with English-speaking staff helping to ensure a smooth transition from air to land.

Once you’ve collected your baggage and passed through customs, you’ll enter a small arrival hall where a mix of tour operators, shuttle services, and rental car desks are ready to assist you with your travel needs. However, depending on where you are flying from and what time of day you arrive you may find things to be a bit abandoned, so organising your transport in advance isn’t a bad idea.

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Fly From Belize Airport To San Ignacio

Unfortunately flying from Belize Airport to San Ignacio is not an option, as no airport in San Ignacio accommodates regular commercial flights.

Instead, most travelers opt for ground transportation methods such as driving, shuttle services, or buses due to the absence of a direct flight route to San Ignacio.

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🚗 How I Book Ferries & Shuttles In Belize: GuateGo

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Bus From Belize Airport To San Ignacio

Taking a bus from Belize Airport to San Ignacio is a popular and budget-friendly option for travelers. However, it’s important to note that there is no direct bus service from the airport itself to San Ignacio. Travelers will need to make their way to Belize City to catch a bus to San Ignacio.

Upon arriving at Belize Airport, you’ll need to get to Belize City, where the main bus terminal is located. You can take a taxi from the airport to the bus terminal. This ride typically takes about 30 minutes depending on traffic and costs around $25.00.

Once at the Belize City bus terminal, look for buses heading to San Ignacio. These buses usually run frequently throughout the day, with departures every 30-60 minutes. The buses operating on this route are usually old school buses, which are commonly used for public transportation in Belize.

The bus journey from Belize City to San Ignacio takes approximately 2.5 hours, depending on traffic and the number of stops made along the way. The fare is very affordable at $3.00 to $7.00 depending on the company, making this a great option for budget-conscious travelers.

The bus will drop you off at the San Ignacio bus terminal, which is centrally located. From there, you can easily walk to many hotels and guesthouses, or take a taxi if you have heavy luggage or if your accommodation is farther away.

One thing to note is the buses in Belize are generally safe, however, Belize Bus Terminal is known for its petty crime, and is somewhere most travelers avoid.

I hate to be that person but I would second guess this option if you are a solo female traveler in Belize, but if you are a group you should be fine. I even met a female traveler who hitchhiked (successfully) from the airport to San Ignacio with a local to avoid heading to the bus station.

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Taxi From Belize Airport To San Ignacio

Taking a taxi is one of the most convenient and direct methods of transport between Belize Airport and San Ignacio. It’s a particularly good option if you’re looking for comfort, efficiency, and a hassle-free start to your visit.

Taxis from Belize Airport generally offer fixed rates to San Ignacio. The cost typically ranges from $100.00 to $150.00 depending on the time of day and the number of passengers. You can book your taxi online or on the same day of travel. Personally, I recommend pre-booking as this way, a driver will be waiting for you at the airport, often with a sign bearing your name, saving a lot of hassle.

The travel time by taxi from Belize Airport to San Ignacio is usually 2 hours and the most common route taken is along the Western Highway, which is well-paved and offers scenic views.

The main bonus of this method is that you can schedule the taxi for any time that suits your itinerary, which is particularly beneficial if you arrive late at night or early in the morning when other forms of transport might not be operating.

If you decide not to prebook a taxi and instead wing it once you arrive, remember it’s important to discuss and agree on the fare with your driver at the airport before departing. Most taxis operate with fixed rates, but it’s always wise to get confirmation.

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Shared Shuttle From Belize Airport To San Ignacio

Using a shared shuttle service from Belize Airport to San Ignacio is a popular choice among travelers who want a balance between cost, comfort, and convenience. They offer a more economical option compared to private taxis while still providing a direct and comfortable journey to your destination.

The main thing to note is shuttles don’t depart from the airport, so like taking a bus you will need to make your way into the city, this time to the water taxi terminal. As I said before a taxi here from the airport will cost you around $25.00, however, you shouldn’t have any issues finding someone to split this fare with as the majority of international travelers will head here.

Once here you can go to the meeting point at the Atlanta Store where the shuttle picks up passengers. Be advised this isn’t just for travelers heading to San Ignacio, it is also for those going further on to Flores and Antigua in Guatemala as well.

It is advisable to book your shuttle in advance, especially during the peak tourist season, to ensure availability. A lot of my readers have booked on Get Your Guide which is shown above. This is the same service I used and yes it can sometimes be a little late, but it’s a short drive overall and they have daily departures which is super handy.

Most shuttles are well-maintained and air-conditioned, providing a comfortable ride. The bonus here is that they provide door-to-door service, dropping passengers directly at the main hotels or hostels in San Ignacio.

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🚗 How I Book Ferries & Shuttles In Belize: GuateGo

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San Ignacio Travel Tips

Now you know how exactly to travel from Belize Airport to San Ignacio lets get into some travel tips you may find useful when you arrive.

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Where To Stay In San Ignacio

San Ignacio is a great pick for budget travelers looking to soak up the natural beauty and cultural vibes of Belize. The town has plenty of affordable places to crash, from funky hostels and cozy guesthouses to cool campsites and eco-lodges.

I ended up at Bellas Backpackers, mostly because I had such a blast at their Caye Caulker branch and made a bunch of new friends. I was looking forward to a similar vibe in San Ignacio, but it turned out to be much quieter than the island.

I was actually the only one in my dorm for all three nights of my stay, and the place was pretty empty, with just about 4 to 6 folks around each night. Even though it was quiet, the vibe was super homey.

At night, we’d all hang out in the kitchen, swap travel stories, and whip up some really good food together.

If you’re hunting for a place with more buzz, Old House Hostel is where it’s at for backpackers in San Ignacio. I met a few travelers who were staying there, and they said it was packed and lively—the total opposite of my chill stay at Bellas.

Bellas Backpackers A chill family-style hostel in the center of town. Dorms start at $12.00 per night. BOOK NOW	The Old House Hostel The most popular hostel in the town. Dorm rooms start from $12.00 per night. BOOK NOW
Yellow Belly Backpackers Another lovely hostel in a great central location. Dorms here start for around $12.00 per night. BOOK NOW	Nabitunich A beautiful countryside farm stay for a unique experience. Private rooms here start at $60.00 per night. BOOK NOW

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Things To Do In San Ignacio

San Ignacio is packed with activities that showcase the country’s rich natural and cultural heritage.

Here’s a rundown of some top things to do in San Ignacio:

Explore the Xunantunich Ruins: Dive into the history of the Maya at these ancient ruins, which date back to the 7th century AD. Climb up the El Castillo pyramid, the second tallest structure in Belize, for breathtaking views over the jungle and river.

Adventure through the ATM Cave (Actun Tunichil Muknal): For the thrill-seekers, the ATM Cave is a must-visit. This sacred Maya site, known for its historical rituals and sacrifices, houses ancient pottery, bones, and the famed crystal skeleton. Prepare for a physical challenge, as reaching the cave involves hiking, swimming, and crawling.

Stroll along the Macal River: The tranquil Macal River offers a peaceful escape with its stunning forest and wildlife views. Walk along the riverbank, rent a canoe or kayak for a gentle paddle, or join a tubing tour for a relaxing day on the water.

Visit the Green Iguana Conservation Project: Located at the San Ignacio Resort Hotel, this conservation initiative focuses on protecting the endangered green iguana. Learn about these fascinating creatures and their environment, and even get a chance to feed them.

Check out the Cahal Pech Archaeological Reserve: Perched on a hill above San Ignacio, Cahal Pech, or “Place of Ticks” in Maya, dates back to 1200 BC. Explore ancient temples, palaces, and plazas, and visit the onsite museum to see artifacts and learn about the site’s history.

Take a day trip to Tikal Mayan Ruins: Just a two-hour drive from San Ignacio, Tikal in Guatemala is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most significant Maya archaeological sites. Tour the vast complex of pyramids, temples, and palaces and spot diverse wildlife in the surrounding jungle.

Experience the San Ignacio Market: Every Saturday, the heart of San Ignacio comes alive at its vibrant market. Browse a colorful array of fresh produce, crafts, and clothing, and taste local flavors like rice and beans, tamales, and pupusas.

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FAQs About Traveling To San Ignacio From Belize Airport

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🚗 How I Book Ferries & Shuttles In Belize: GuateGo

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Wrap Up: How To Travel From Belize Airport To San Ignacio

Overall, traveling from Belize Airport to San Ignacio can be a straightforward experience thanks to the various modes of transportation available for a range of preferences and budgets.

Whether you opt for the efficiency and comfort of a private taxi, the affordability of a bus, or the shared experience of a shuttle, each option offers a unique window into the stunning landscapes and vibrant culture of Belize.

By planning your journey in advance and selecting the right mode of transport, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip, starting your adventure in San Ignacio on the right note.

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Any Questions? Let Me Know In The Comments!

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Photo credit: “San Ignacio, Belize” (CC BY 2.0) by Rebecca Wilson . “DSC_0001” (CC BY 2.0) by Esmée Winnubst .

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Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. So, if you click on it and purchase something, I get a small percentage at no extra cost to you. As always all opinions are my own and your support is much appreciated.

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