How to Get from Cancún to Belize — Your Complete Guide with Belize With Alvin
If you’re planning a trip to Belize, chances are you’ll fly into Cancún, Mexico — one of the busiest airports in the region. Cancún serves as a major gateway with many international flights, often offering cheaper and more frequent connections than flying directly into Belize City.
Traveling from Cancún to Belize is straightforward but offers several options depending on your budget, time, and comfort preferences. Whether you prefer the scenic bus route, a quick flight, or private transport, this guide covers everything you need to know — plus how Belize With Alvin can help arrange your journey smoothly from arrival to adventure.
Travel Options from Cancún to Belize
Here’s an overview of how to get from Cancún to Belize:
| Travel Method | Approx. Duration | Cost Estimate | Key Pros | Key Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bus (ADO Express) | 10–12 hours | US$75–85 | Affordable, scenic, comfortable | Long journey, border crossing wait |
| Flight (Tropic Air) | 1.5 hours | US$300–400+ | Fastest, hassle-free | Costly, limited luggage |
| Private Shuttle | 6–7 hours | US$400+ (per vehicle) | Convenient, door-to-door | Expensive for solo travelers |
| Rental Car | 6–7 hours | Varies | Flexibility, privacy | Complex border paperwork |
Taking the Bus: Affordable, But Not Always Simple
The ADO Express Bus has long been seen as the budget way to get from Cancún or Playa del Carmen into Belize City. Tickets usually cost US$75–85 per person, and the trip takes 10–12 hours, including the border crossing.
But there are important realities to know before planning around this route:
Seasonal and demand-based – Although often listed as a daily service, in practice ADO only runs this line during higher travel demand, typically November through March (sometimes into summer). In Belize’s low season, the bus may not run at all. There is no advance announcement when service pauses or resumes.- Booking issues – Belize frequently does not appear as a destination on the ADO website, especially from outside Mexico. Sometimes the Spanish-only ADO app allows booking, but most travelers purchase tickets directly at the ADO terminals in Cancún or Playa del Carmen.
- Overnight travel – When operating, the most common run is an overnight departure from Cancún, arriving in Belize City early morning. Daytime options have existed in the past but are less reliable.
Seasonal and demand-based – Although often listed as a daily service, in practice ADO only runs this line during higher travel demand, typically November through March (sometimes into summer). In Belize’s low season, the bus may not run at all. There is no advance announcement when service pauses or resumes.
Booking issues – Belize frequently does not appear as a destination on the ADO website, especially from outside Mexico. Sometimes the Spanish-only ADO app allows booking, but most travelers purchase tickets directly at the ADO terminals in Cancún or Playa del Carmen.
Overnight travel – When operating, the most common run is an overnight Traveler Reality Check
Several travelers have reported that when the direct ADO bus is unavailable, the trip becomes a patchwork journey:
- Take a Belizean bus north to the Mexican border.
- Walk through customs with your luggage and pay the Belize exit fee.
- Hire a Mexican taxi to cross into Chetumal, wait while you process paperwork, then continue to the ADO station.
This route can take a full day of travel and may be stressful if you don’t speak Spanish. While it’s cheaper than flying, it’s not always the most comfortable option — especially for families or those on a tight schedule.
Tip
If the ADO service isn’t running, an easier option is to fly directly into Belize or book a private shuttle. The land route can still be an adventure for budget travelers, but it’s not for everyone.
Flying from Cancún to Belize: Fast and Convenient
If time is tight, the fastest option is to fly with Tropic Air, which operates one daily direct flight from Cancún to Belize City. The flight takes about 1.5 hours on a small Cessna Caravan.
Cost: Approximately US$300–400 one-way.
Important Details:
- Flights depart from the Cancún FBO terminal, not the main airport terminals, so allow extra time for shuttle transfers.
- Luggage is strictly limited (usually around 22 lbs per passenger).
- Booking early can secure better fares.
Private Shuttle or Transfer Services
Many travelers prefer private shuttles or shared vans for comfort and convenience. These door-to-door services pick you up from your hotel or airport in Cancún and take you directly to Belize City or other destinations.
Cost: Approximately US$400 or more per vehicle.
Pros:
- No need to worry about border paperwork — your driver handles it.
- Comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles.
- Flexible stops and direct hotel drop-off.
Cons:
- More expensive than bus or flight, especially if traveling solo.
- Schedules may be limited depending on operator availability.
Driving Yourself: What You Need to Know
Renting a car and driving across the Mexico-Belize border can give you flexibility but comes with significant challenges.
- Most Mexican rental companies do not permit vehicles to cross into Belize.
- You’ll need to cancel Mexican vehicle import permits and get temporary import approval for Belize.
- Road taxes and departure fees apply in Belize.
- You must carry all vehicle and personal documents and be prepared for strict inspections.
Due to the complexity and potential extra costs, renting and driving yourself is generally not recommended for most travelers.
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Crossing the Border: Entry Requirements
Travelers crossing from Mexico into Belize must carry a valid passport and may require a tourist visa depending on nationality (most North Americans and Europeans do not need one for short stays). You will go through immigration and customs on both sides.
When entering Mexico by land, a tourist permit (FMM) is required, typically issued at the border. Belize issues a free Tourist Card upon arrival. Departure taxes from Belize are around BZD 40 (~US$20).
Arrival in Belize: Pickup and Tours with Belize With Alvin
At Belize With Alvin, we specialize in making your arrival and transfer seamless. We offer:
- Pickup services either at the northern border or directly at Belize International Airport (BZE).
- Assistance with arranging Tropic Air flights for travelers who want to fly from Cancún.
- Personalized guidance from arrival to your first Belize adventure, whether it’s exploring Maya ruins, cave tubing, or relaxing by the reef.
Let us take care of the logistics so you can focus on enjoying the beauty and culture of Belize.
✈️ A Better Alternative to the Long Bus Ride from Cancún
For many years, Canadians and Europeans heading to Belize would fly into Cancún, then take the 8–10-hour bus ride across the Yucatán and through the border at Chetumal. It worked — but it was long, hot, and unpredictable.
With Air Canada and WestJet now offering direct flights from Montréal, Toronto, and Calgary to Belize City, that detour through Mexico is no longer necessary.
Flying straight into Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport (BZE) saves an entire day of travel, avoids border delays, and lets you start your Belize adventure rested — not recovering from the road.
For travelers who once saw Cancún as the “closest airport to Belize,” this new nonstop route changes everything. Belize is finally within easy reach, and your vacation begins the moment you land.
FAQs
Most visitors from the U.S., Canada, and EU do not require a visa for stays up to 30 days. Always check the latest entry requirements before travel.
The express bus takes about 10–12 hours, depending on border wait times.
Yes, but there are strict weight and size limits (usually one carry-on per passenger around 22 lbs). Check with Tropic Air for details.
It’s best to carry some U.S. dollars or Belize dollars in cash for fees and small purchases; not all places accept cards.
Plan Your Trip with Belize With Alvin
Traveling from Cancún to Belize is easier than ever with multiple options tailored to your needs. Whether you want the scenic bus journey, a quick flight, or private transfer, Belize With Alvin is here to help you every step of the way.
Contact us today to arrange your pickup, book Tropic Air flights, or plan your perfect Belize adventure.
This guide is regularly updated to reflect current schedules and travel requirements. Always check official sources before booking.