Getting to Belize
How to Get to Belize
Planning your trip to Belize is easier than ever. With a growing number of direct international flights, efficient domestic connections, and convenient transportation options, getting to Belize has never been more accessible.
It doesn’t matter if you’re arriving for a relaxing island escape, an inland adventure, or a multi-destination vacation, this guide will help you understand the best ways to reach Belize and continue your journey once you arrive.
Flying to Belize
For most international visitors, flying is the quickest and most convenient way to reach Belize.
The country’s main international gateway is Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport (BZE), located approximately 25 minutes from Belize City.
The airport serves travelers from across North America, Central America, and beyond, with direct flights from many major cities.
Direct Flights to Belize
Belize continues to expand its international air connections, making it easier than ever to visit.
Major airlines offering direct service include:
- American Airlines
- United Airlines
- Delta Air Lines
- Southwest Airlines
- Alaska Airlines
- Air Canada
- Copa Airlines
Popular nonstop routes include:
- Miami
- Dallas
- Houston
- Atlanta
- Charlotte
- Denver
- Chicago
- Los Angeles (seasonal)
- San Francisco (seasonal)
- Toronto
- Calgary
- Panama City
quick facts on belize's international airports
The Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport (PGIA) is Belize’s only international airport, with a total of 7 departure gates with international and domestic terminals. The PGIA is roughly the size of a regional airport in the U.S.A.
On arrival, travelers deplane via stairway directly onto the tarmac before being guided into the PGIA. Inside, travelers move quickly into immigration and customs before awaiting luggage at only two baggage carousels.
Note that you are NOT landing in Belize City, which means you will need ground transportation to get to Belize City. Domestic flights are available at the Belize International Airport for transfers to major tourism destinations. Domestic flights are also available at the Sir Barry Bowen Municipal Airport (TZA) in Belize City.
Terminal 1
- 1.TAG
- 2.Sun Country
- 3.Maya Island Air
- 4.Tropic Air
Terminal 2
- 1.Delta Airlines
- 2.United Airlines
- 3.American Airlines
Domestic Airports & Airfields in Belize
Once in Belize, there are numerous daily flights operated by the country’s two airlines, Maya Island Air and Tropic Air. Domestic airports and airfields in Belize include:
- Sir Barry Bowen (Belize City Municipal Airport) – Belize City – (TZA)
- Belmopan – (BCV)
- Caye Caulker – (CUK)
- Caye Chapel – (CYC)
- Corozal Town – (CZH)
- Dangriga – (DGA)
- Maya Flats – serving San Ignacio and Benque Viejo – (MYF)
- Orange Walk – (ORZ)
- Placencia – (PLJ)
- Punta Gorda – (PND)
- San Pedro (Ambergris Caye) – (SPR)
Arriving by Land
While most visitors arrive by air, Belize is also accessible by road from neighboring Mexico and Guatemala. Traveling overland is a popular option for visitors exploring multiple countries in Central America.
From Mexico
Travelers can enter Belize through the Santa Elena Border Crossing, located between Chetumal, Mexico, and Corozal, Belize. This is the country’s busiest land border and is frequently used by visitors traveling between Mexico’s Riviera Maya and northern Belize.
From Guatemala
Belize’s primary western border crossing is at Benque Viejo del Carmen, near Melchor de Mencos, Guatemala. This route is popular with travelers visiting the Maya archaeological sites of western Belize or combining Belize with Guatemala’s Petén region.
Arriving by Sea
Belize welcomes visitors arriving by private yacht, sailing vessel, and cruise ship.
Private Boats and Yachts
Boaters entering Belize must clear Customs and Immigration at an approved Port of Entry before continuing their journey. Several coastal locations offer official clearance facilities for international arrivals.
Belize’s spectacular barrier reef, protected anchorages, and island destinations make it a popular stop for sailors exploring the western Caribbean.
Cruise Visitors
Belize is a well-established cruise destination in the western Caribbean. Cruise passengers typically arrive at the Belize City Cruise Port and can explore the mainland or join excursions to nearby islands, Maya sites, caves, wildlife reserves, and cultural attractions.
Many visitors return later for a longer land-based vacation after experiencing Belize on a cruise.
