The Mexico Border Crossing into Belize
Crossing the border from Mexico to Belize is an exciting transition that takes you from the vibrant culture and bustling energy of Mexico to the laid-back charm of Belize. The journey typically begins at one of the main border crossing points, such as the Corozal or Chetumal border, where you’ll experience a shift in landscapes and cultures. As you pass through immigration and customs, you’ll notice the language change, with English becoming more prevalent in Belize, and a shift in currency to the Belizean dollar. The landscape also transforms from the arid plains of northern Mexico to the lush, tropical environment of Belize. The border crossing is relatively straightforward, with friendly officials assisting travellers, and often marked by a distinctive change in architecture and signage. Once you’ve cleared the border, you’re greeted by Belize’s welcoming atmosphere, where Caribbean influences blend with a rich history and natural beauty, setting the stage for an unforgettable adventure in this vibrant country.
Border crossings always bring a hint of anxiety when I'm on a solo travel journey, so I decided to share my experience with you. Maybe you've encountered tales - some intriguing, some chilling - about crossing borders. Please make this your go-to manual for navigating the Mexico to Belize border as you can. Crossing the border from Mexico to Belize is a straightforward process but requires some preparation, Most of the other travellers that I met on my journey were heading to the Belize Islands of San Pedro or Caye Caulker.
The most commonly chosen method by many travellers to navigate the border is from Chetumal to Santa Elena (Corozal). This bustling crossing is positioned in the northern region of Belize. However, if your destination is the islands such as Caye Caulker, I suggest opting for the route from Chetumal to San Pedro. Though slightly pricier, this route offers a straightforward and distinctive border-crossing experience.
Mexico - Belize Border Crossing
The Mexican Border crossing into Belize
How to get to Chetumal
Depending on your location within Mexico, travelling to Chetumal is generally quite straightforward. Opting to board an ADO bus from Cancun, Tulum, or Bacalar proves to be the most cost-effective and secure mode of transport for this journey.
Cancun to Chetumal involves a direct bus journey that lasts approximately 6.5 hours and is priced at about AUD 50 or USD 37.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/9Fx1ha4jqW3VhkPF6 (Cancun ADO bus terminal)
Travelling from Tulum to Chetumal on a direct bus takes around 4 hours and costs roughly AUD 41 or USD 26.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/knm17XEXuTKWoXeD7 (Tulum ADO bus terminal)
For a shorter trip, consider the 50-minute bus ride from Bacalar to Chetumal, with a fare of around AUD 10 or USD 7.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/tMzsWBRvXXaS33sR8 (Bacalar ADO bus terminal)
As a solo female traveller, I can confidently share that my time travelling on ADO buses was reassuringly secure and hassle-free. Upon stowing your luggage beneath the bus, remember to collect a bag ticket for added peace of mind. When settling in for a nap during the journey, it’s advisable to keep your smaller bag within reach rather than placing it in the overhead compartment. For those seeking extra assurance regarding their larger belongings stored below, opting for a seat on the right side of the bus by the window provides visual proximity to your possessions whenever the bus makes a stop.
The Mexico border crossing into Belize
The Mexican Border crossing into Belize
Once you arrive in Chetumal
Depending on your travel plans after arriving at the bus station in Chetumal, whether to catch a ferry into Belize or take a shuttle to Belize City, you'll need to figure out your next steps. In Chetumal, Uber isn't an option, so taxis are the way to go. If you opt for a shuttle, you might have to grab a taxi to Chetumal airport, a quick 6-minute ride costing around AUD 12 or USD 8. On the other hand, if you're heading for the ferry, a taxi ride to the harbour is necessary. This journey typically takes about 10 minutes and prices around AUD 20 or USD 13.
The Mexican Border crossing into Belize
Chetumal to Belize City
There are a few options available for travelling from Chetumal to Belize City, allowing you to choose based on your budget and preferred mode of transportation. For solo female travellers, opting for a tourist shuttle bus is often the most advisable choice, providing not only safety but also the opportunity to connect with fellow travellers during the journey to your destination. Here are a few options to help you decide:
Chicken Bus: Aka public buses, this is the cheapest way to travel but also the longest and more riskier way to travel. Catching a chicken bus will cost you AUD 15 or USD 10 and the journey takes around 8/9 hours plus border wait times.
Taxi: If you have a group of people it might be an option to just take a taxi straight from Chetumal to Belize City, this will cost you around AUD 250 or USD 170 but it is the quickest option as it takes around 3 hours of travel.
Tourist Shuttle: This is my recommendation for crossing the border from Mexico to Belize, this takes around 4 hours of travel and depending on which company you book with the rough price is 50 AUD or 33 USD. I recommend travelling with https://www.marvelustravel.com/routes/mexico/chetumal-to-belize-city/ or
Belize Water Taxi - Mexico Border crossing
Belize Water Taxi - Mexico Border crossing
San Pedro, Belize Immigration
The Mexican Border crossing into Belize
Chetumal to San Pedro/ Caye Caulker, Belize
Travelling from Chetumal to San Pedro or Caye Caulker is a convenient and efficient journey, offering a smooth transition from Mexico to Belize, especially if you have your sights set on exploring the charming islands of San Pedro or Caye Caulker.
Making your way from the ADO bus station to the Belize water taxi terminal is a 10-minute taxi ride and sometimes you might find other travellers needing transport too so you can split the fare among you. The taxi will pull up straight out the front of the water taxi office and someone from the ferry will collect your bag.
There is only one water taxi per day and it is at 3:30 pm, it takes 3 hours and 15 minutes to Caye Caulker arriving at 5:45 pm (Belize is 1 hour behind) or 2 hours and 30 minutes to San Pedro, arriving at 5 pm.
https://belizewatertaxi.com Is the only company that runs this service from Cheutmal to Belize islands, they help with everything and are amazing. The water taxi is currently costing 77 USD or 117 AUD.
I think you should bring some snacks with you since there are no nearby places to purchase food or beverages while you wait or while you are aboard the water taxi. Could you consider packing some light refreshments to enjoy without hunger or thirst affecting your trip? your journey to ensure you have a pleasant experience.
Before leaving on the water taxi you do have to exit Mexico, this is pretty straightforward and quick if you have the right documents. When checking in for the ferry they will give you two forms to fill out for your departure from Mexico, do this first up so you don’t have to wait longer once you go through immigration.
I was told that you need an exit fee out of Mexico, this will most likely have been paid already if you flew into Mexico so make sure that you have your flight receipt handy. I didn’t need to pay anything going through this border crossing but I know a lot of people had to pay it again when doing the land crossing.
I honestly think it depends on the day and who you deal with at the checkpoint. The San Pedro, Belize immigration was the easiest checkpoint I have been to. It took about 20 seconds and you are in, as long as you have a passport you don’t need a particular visa.
The Mexican Border crossing into Belize
Once you have crossed the border into Belize
Upon crossing the border from Mexico into Belize, you're immediately greeted by a variety of captivating destinations to explore. Start your adventure in Corozal or head straight to the Caye islands, Corozal is a charming town known for its relaxed vibe and proximity to the stunning Caribbean coast. From Corozal, you can venture south to the lively city of Belize City, where you can delve into local culture, visit the Belize Museum, and explore the nearby Belize Zoo.
Caye Caulker, Belize, is a picturesque island paradise known for its laid-back atmosphere, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life, offering visitors a tranquil escape with its charming, car-free streets, colourful local eateries, and a range of activities from snorkelling and diving in the nearby barrier reef to enjoying stunning sunsets from the famous Split, making it a quintessential destination for relaxation and adventure in the Caribbean. A short boat ride from Belize City takes you to the picturesque island of Ambergris Caye, renowned for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and a host of water activities such as snorkelling and diving. Alternatively, journey inland to the lush rainforest of San Ignacio, a gateway to the fascinating Mayan ruins of Xunantunich and Cahal Pech, as well as the natural wonder of the nearby ATM Cave. Each destination offers a unique glimpse into Belize’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage, ensuring a memorable and varied experience as you traverse this beautiful country.
Take a look at my blog about things to do in Caye Caulker - Click the link here - Things to do in Caye Caulker
Quick Tips - The Mexico border crossing into Belize:
You can either cross the border by sea from Chetumal to San Pedro/ Caye Caulker, Belize via
https://belizewatertaxi.com; or take the land crossing from Chetumal to Santa Elena, Corozal District, Belize.Make sure you have an entry stamp into Mexico for a smooth transition on your exit out of Mexico.
Even if you have flown into Mexico and paid an exit fee on entry, it’s good to have 27 USD or 500 Mexican pesos ready to go in case they make you pay it again.
Entry into Belize is pretty easy and no need to stress, enjoy this part!
If you are a solo female traveller, try to cross the borders only during the hours of daylight.