Bacalar To Caye Caulker: The ULTIMATE Travel Guide 2025

Find out how exactly to travel from Bacalar to Caye Caulker the easiest way possible by water and by road. This includes the border crossing, transport options, what to expect, and so much more!

Keen to continue your adventure backpacking down Central America from Mexico? Well, traveling from Bacalar to Caye Caulker is honestly the perfect option.

These are two main places on the typical gringo backpacking trail, and you’ll find plenty of transport options connecting them.

Though with the border crossing, especially dealing with the Mexican side, it can def be a bit complicated, and there’s things worth knowing so you don’t get ripped off.

I’ve been lucky enough to make multiple trips to Belize and Mexico, and done the border crossing quite a few times. This corner of the world is beautiful and 100% worth the effort.

For the most straightforward option, definitely book a bus to Chetumal and then jump on a ferry to Caye Caulker. This is a popular way, but it’s pricey at $80.00 per person.

🚗 How I Book Transport In Mexico & Belize: GuateGo 🚗

The Distance Between Bacalar And Caye Caulker

So, if you want to know the distance, if you basically travel in a straight line, it’ll be around 165 kilometers / 103 miles between Bacalar and Caye Caulker.

Yes, this definitely sounds pretty damn short, though, since you’ll need to hit both the road and the water, it does take a bit longer.

Luckily enough, there’s plenty of transport options available.

How Long Is It From Bacalar To Caye Caulker?

So strap in, cause you’ll be here a while. Traveling to Caye Caulker from Bacalar generally takes 5 to 6 hours.

Though keep in mind there may be traffic on the roads, the road conditions in Belize are pretty poor, and no doubt you’ll have some border crossing holdups.

Also, if you book a shuttle or bus, you may multiple these border crossing delays x6 or more, cause it’ll affect a bunch of people. Whether that’s a visa issue, or someone isn’t prepared for the infamous Mexican Tourist Tax.

1. Bus To Chetumal & Ferry To Caye Caulker *EASIEST*

Okay, our first option is to take a bus to Chetumal and from there a ferry over the border to Caye Caulker.

This will be your most straightforward option, and you’ll see plenty other tourists doing the same.

Take The Bus From Bacalar To Chetumal

So, first off, you’ll start by taking a bus to Chetumal. Being only an hour or so, this service runs throughout the day, so you’ll have no issues finding a bus.

Generally, it’ll cost around $4.00, which will be the cheapest part of today’s journey.

Alternatively, you could also take a colectivo or a taxi. Though keep in mind both have downsides, since with a colectivo you’ll be stuck picking up and dropping off people, and of course taxi can be pretty damn pricey.

Anyway, when you get to Chetumal, make your way to the Water Taxi Terminal.

If you traveled here by bus or colectivo, you’ll need a taxi. Luckily, it’s a short drive, taking just a few minutes and costing a couple of dollars.

Ferry To Caye Caulker

Okay, so next step you’ll need to get from Chetumal to Caye Caulker, and it’s time for the ferry!

You’ve 2 main ferry companies that operate out of Chetumal Water Taxi Terminal to Belize:

• San Pedro Belize Express Water Taxi
• Water Jets International

Now there’s some incorrect info out there that these companies alternate days they operate. However, due to demand, San Pedro Belize Express now runs daily in the high season (end of December to June).

They’re def the most popular ferry company for travelers here, and the one I mainly used.

Seriously, for me, the trips were always smooth, comfortable, and on time (which doesn’t happen much around here).

This was even during Easter, when it seemed like they put on ferries the entire day, regardless of the schedule.

Now, this is the longest portion of the journey, taking around 3 to 3.5 hours, with a lil stop in San Pedro for immigration.

How To Buy Ferry Tickets To Caye Caulker

Okay, so I’m gonna need you to mentally prepare yourself…

The prices for ferries keep going up here in Belize!

I literally left the country for a month, and when I came back, the price had increased twice!

So, even though I have the prices here, I recommend heading to their website in case of recent changes.

Nevertheless, at the time of writing:

Water Jets International charges $81.00 for a one way ticket to Caye Caulker

San Pedro Belize Express charges $80.00 for a one way ticket to Caye Caulker

Remember to book in advance since this is such a popular route, especially in the high season. If you don’t, you might just find yourself having to take the long way via Belize City.

Last off, even though their websites say you have to book 24 hours in advance, they won’t turn you down on the day if there’s spare seats.

Crossing The Border Via Ferry

Okay, so we unfortunately can’t just jump on a ferry from Chetumal to Caye Caulker and go. No, instead, you’ll find yourself having to stop in San Pedro in Belize for immigration.

It’s a bit strange since you’re probably just used to land border crossings, rather than an island one.

However, it’s no stress, with the ferry staff guiding you through each step.

There is a $2.00 Belize port fee you’ll need to pay, but the main tourist fee is paid when you leave Belize, such as from San Ignacio to Flores if you are continuing overland in Central America.

Okay, here’s a rough idea of what going on the ferry will be like:

1:30 PM: Try to get to the Chetumal ferry spot at least a couple of hours before we leave.

1:30 PM – 3:30 PM: Complete customs paperwork and officially depart Mexico. During this time, you’ll wait in line for immigration to get your passport stamped. You could end up paying the Mexico tourism fee if you haven’t already, but more on this below.

3:30 PM: Hop on the ferry and take off to San Pedro in Ambergris Caye.

5:00 PM: Get to San Pedro, go through Belize immigration to officially enter the country. They’ll stamp your passport, and you’ll pay the port fee.

5:45 PM: Arrive in Caye Caulker.

2. Head To Chetumal Airport And Fly To Caye Caulker

Okay, our 2nd option is flying from Bacalar to Belize City, though it’s a lot more complicated than it sounds.

To do this, first you’ll need to take a taxi to Chetumal airport. Once there, you can catch a flight to Belize City, but unfortunately, there are no direct options.

This means you’ll have to make stopovers, and with multiple flights, prices do add up A LOT.

Since this is seriously such a hassle, it isn’t an option I’d personally recommend. There’s much better options on this list.

3. Bus To Belize City & Ferry To Caye Caulker *CHEAPEST*

Okay, for my budget travelers, this one’s for you, taking a bus and ferry combo to Caye Caulker.

My fav, ADO bus travels from Bacalar to Belize City daily in 4.5 hours, which really isn’t too bad, just add on another hour for the ferry.

• Tickets cost $25.00.
• Departs at 12:00 pm and arrives at 4.35 pm.

No doubt this is the most popular bus service in Mexico for travelers, and I’ve used it so many times! Even for multiple overnight journeys.

Honestly, the only downside is the possible wait time at the border. Though most bus companies have staff to help usher everyone through.

The last ferry to Caye Caulker from Belize City leaves at 5.30 pm (you’ll have just 55 minutes to get there and purchase your tickets).

Now, this timing may be a bit tight if you take the ADO bus, especially if delays are experienced at the border.

Ferry Timetable from Belize City to Caye Caulker

Bus Companies Operating This Route

Now, I know I’ve only mentioned ADO so far as the main bus operator, but really, you have 2 different options, and the other does have better timing.

ADO Buses

• Departs Bacalar at 12 pm
• Arrives in Belize City at 4.35 pm.
• The drop-off point is at the  Novelo’s Bus Terminal, a 5 minute taxi or 15 minute walk from the water taxi terminal
• Costs 468 pesos / $27.00

Marlin Espadas *TOURIST SHUTTLE*

• Leave Bacalar at 7 am
• Reaches Belize City at 12 pm
• Drops passengers off at the water taxi terminal.
• Costs $35.00
• Book Here

If you’d prefer to book this entire journey to Caye Caulker online, you can do so with Marlin Espanadas on GotToGo. However, this is for a tourist shuttle rather than the ADO bus, so it’s a bit more on the pricey side.

🚗 How I Book Transport In Mexico & Belize: GuateGo 🚗

4. Book Shared Shuttle / Taxi To Belize City & Ferry To Caye Caulker

Taking a taxi or shared shuttle is my least favorite option to Caye Caulker. They’re quite similar to the bus but with more downsides.

You’ll need to stop at immigration and physically swap vehicles, including all your bags, which is such a hassle. Then, once you get to Belize City, you’ll need to jump on a ferry heading to Caye Caulker.

Seriously, this is the less popular option for travelers. Instead, the majority seem to book the ADO bus or get the ferry from Chetumal.

Pros:

• More of a private journey
• Fewer people to cross the border alongside

Cons:

• A long day spent in vehicles
• Time at the border, so swap cars/vans
• More Pricey

Crossing The Land Border

So whether you decide to take the bus or ignore my advice about a shared shuttle, you’ll need to cross the border from Mexico to Belize.

Just a heads-up, have your stuff ready! Passport, where you’re staying, any fees you gotta pay, the whole deal. Try have this all sorted before you get there, and you’ll be all sweet.

Honestly, the worst part of this was on the Mexico side, which I’ll get into below. The Belize side was very chill and relaxed, with no hassles whatsoever. The perfect intro to this new country.

Exit Mexico

Once you arrive at the border, head to the Mexican immigration office. Here, you’ll need to get an exit stamp to say you’ve officially left.

Now, prepare your mental and physical health, because chances are you WILL be asked to pay your Mexican tourist taxi. And if you’ve arrived by plane, chances are you already have, but they won’t let you know that.

Entering Belize

After exiting Mexico, you’ll drive a short distance to the Belize immigration office.

Depending on where you’re from, you may need a visa. Luckily, if you are from the USA, Canada, the EU, and plenty more countries (including Kiwis and Aussies), you can enter Belize visa-free for up to 30 days.

On arrival, you’ll need to fill out an immigration and customs form before your passport is officially stamped. Just remember to bring a pen along for this, as there’s nothing worse than being THAT person.

Seriously, immigration here is super straightforward, and the locals are always pretty damn chill, from my experience.

Caye Caulker Travel Tips

So now you know how to get to Caye Caulker, let’s get into all the info you may want to know for when you arrive.

Where To Stay In Caye Caulker

Now there are plenty of accommodation options on the island. However, they aren’t super luxe unless you’re willing to pay big bucks.

Hostel options are also a bit limited, though the two main ones are Bella’s Backpackers Hostel (party) and Tropical Oasis (homely vibes).

I stayed over at Bella’s Backpackers and can def confirm its party reputation. Though because of this, if you’re traveling solo you’ll meet plenty of people!

One thing to keep in mind is it does get mixed reviews online, mainly due to it not being “modern” enough. Though after my stay, they renovated, so there are now more options for air-conditioned dorms, which is a must!

Bellas Backpackers Caye Caulker The most popular hostel on the islands. Rooms start from $14.00 for a dorm and make sure to upgrade if you want air-con. BOOK NOW	Tropical Oasis The best hostel in Caye Caulker, and a popular choice for travelers. Dorms start from $21.00 per night. BOOK NOW
Sea And Sun Guesthouse A comfortable stay for travelers who want a private room. The rooms here start from $40.00 per night. BOOK NOW	Blue Wave Guesthouse Caye Caulker An excellent choice if you want a bit more privacy. Fan-cooled rooms here start from $30.00 per night. BOOK NOW

Things To Do In Caye Caulker

Now you could just sit beachside, but Caye Caulker has plenty of things to do.

Snorkeling and Diving

Now the Belize Barrier Reef is actually the 2nd largest reef in the world, which is pretty dam crazy!

It’s just a super quick boat ride from Caye Caulker, and you’re out exploring!

Make sure to book a tour to Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley. This is where you can snorkel alongside nurse sharks and stingrays, and it’s seriously the best I’ve ever done.

The Split

If you’re keen on a chill day, head down over to The Split. This is the spot where a hurricane came through and ripped the island in half.

Though nowadays it’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying drinks at the Lazy Lizard bar.

Eat Fresh Seafood

Okay, truth be told, and if you’ve read a few of my articles, it’s no secret I’m a vegetarian, so I’m not speaking from experience here.

Though if you’re an absolute seafood lover, you’ll be in heaven in Caye Caulker.

Just walking along the streets, you’ll see plenty of restaurants and street BBQs serving up grilled lobster, conch fritters, and ceviche.

Caye Caulker Marine Reserve

Next, we have Caye Caulker Marine Reserve, which is different again from the snorkeling spots mentioned earlier.

Instead, here in this protected area, you’ll find some pretty unique marine life. Yup, that’s the famous manatees, which are such a drawcard to the island.

Chances of seeing them may not be 100%, but you’ll also be able to see plenty of other things while snorkel. Seriously, life underwater here is just thriving!

Check Out the Island on Two Wheels

Caye Caulker’s motto is Go Slow, and that def fits how people get around by bike!

It’s super easy to find places to rent a bicycle. Riding one is the best way to see all the lil local shops, chill cafes, and sweet beaches at your own speed.

🚗 How I Book Transport In Mexico & Belize: GuateGo 🚗

Wrap Up: How To Travel From Bacalar To Caye Caulker

So hopefully you now know traveling from Bacalar to Caye Caulker and crossing the Mexico-Belize border isn’t as complicated as it sounds.

If you’re keen to save time, simply book the direct ferry from Chetumal. However, if you’re on a budget, it may be the bus and ferry route via Belize City, which is the better option.

No matter what you decide, just make sure you’ve a solid plan and book your transport in advance. The ferry tickets from Belize City are easy to buy on the day, but the bus and ferry from Chetumal are where you’ll have issues.

No doubt, once you arrive in Caye Caulker, that ice-cold beer will be very well deserved.