Belize Trip Cost: CRAZY $90.00 Per Day Budget (2024) (2024)

Planning a trip but wondering what to expect for your Belize trip cost? Well, luckily I have been there and kept track of all my expenses to figure out how much it really costs to travel Belize.

Thinking of exploring the Central American gem that is Belize? With incredible beaches, friendly locals, and some amazing sights, it’s well worth checking out.

It’s no secret that Belize is a super expensive country to backpack, especially compared to neighboring Mexico and Guatemala. This can make it a bit daunting for backpackers wanting to travel Belize on a budget.

I have been able to explore Belize twice, proving it won’t leave you completely broke. This first trip was a solo backpacking Belize adventure which is where I recorded my travel costs and budget, then the second trip was an expensive diving trip which we won’t get into for the sake of my wallet.

Nevertheless, let’s get into all you need to know about Belize trip costs. This includes real prices for food, accommodation, transport, and more so you know exactly what your cost to travel Belize may be!

🚗 How I Book Ferries & Shuttles In Belize: GuateGo

Seasonal Price Differences In Belize

Before you book your trip to Belize, it’s important to understand the seasonal price differences with the cost to travel Belize. Prices for accommodations, activities, and flights can vary a lot throughout the year.

Typically during the high season when there is a lot more demand prices will skyrocket in touristy destinations such as Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye.

But hey, if you plan your visit during the off-peak season (usually from May to November), you can get not only lower prices but also a more peaceful and less crowded experience.

That means you can explore popular tourist spots and enjoy thrilling activities without feeling overwhelmed by crowds.

And you know what? The off-peak season also gives you a chance to immerse yourself in the local culture and connect with friendly locals on a deeper level.

Mainland vs. Islands: Price Differences in Belize

On the mainland, finding cozy and wallet-friendly guesthouses is a piece of cake, allowing you to fully embrace the local culture while keeping your expenses in check.

And let’s not forget about the array of affordable local eateries where you can relish delicious cuisine without breaking the bank. And when it comes to transportation, there are plenty of cost-effective options, so getting around is a breeze.

Now, let’s talk about the islands! With their pristine beaches and mesmerizing turquoise waters, they have an undeniable allure.

Sure, the islands can be a bit pricier, but fear not, there are ways to enjoy them without emptying your pockets.

Instead of splurging on luxury resorts, why not opt for affordable guesthouses or hostels? You can still soak up the island paradise experience without breaking the bank.

And when it’s time to eat, treat yourself to the mouthwatering offerings of the local street food scene. You can savor authentic flavors while keeping your expenses in check.

Accommodation Costs in Belize

Finding budget-friendly accommodations in Belize is easier than you might think.

Whether you’re a backpacker seeking cozy hostels nestled in vibrant communities or a traveler on a tight budget looking for affordable guesthouses with stunning views, there are plenty of options available to suit your preferences and make your stay memorable.

I have written the following accommodation guides for my stays:

• Best hostels in Caye Caulker
• Best hostels in Ambergris Caye
• Best hostels in San Ignacio
• The absolute best hostels for backpackers in Belize

Embrace the charming local hospitality and explore the diverse landscapes of Belize while knowing that you’re getting the best value for your money.

When it comes to the cost of accommodations, Belize offers a wide range of options that can cater to almost any budget.

For budget-conscious travelers, there are affordable choices such as hostels and guesthouses, where you can expect to pay around $20 to $40 per night. These budget accommodations provide a comfortable and convenient stay without breaking the bank.

If you are looking for a bit more comfort and amenities, mid-range hotels are available at prices ranging from $50 to $100 per night. These hotels strike a good balance between affordability and additional comforts, ensuring a pleasant stay without stretching your budget too much.

🚗 How I Book Ferries & Shuttles In Belize: GuateGo

Food Prices in Belize

When you explore a new country, you’ve gotta try the local food. From tasty beachfront BBQs to fresh produce at local markets, there are so many delicious meals that won’t break the bank.

Belizean food is a mix of different cultures, and it’s super diverse and tasty.

Streetfood in Belize

Belizean street food is a must-try for foodies. The food scene in Belize is as diverse as its culture. From fruit vendors to food trucks, there are plenty of options to choose from.

Here are some popular street food options in Belize:

Pupusas: A traditional Salvadoran dish made of thick corn tortillas stuffed with cheese, beans, and meat. They are usually priced between $1 to $2.

Breakfast tacos: A popular breakfast item in Belize. They are made of flour tortillas filled with scrambled eggs, refried beans, cheese, and meat. They are usually priced between $1 to $2.

Grilled meat: Grilled meat is a popular street food in Belize. You can find vendors selling grilled chicken, pork, and beef on the streets.

Fry Jacks: Fry jacks are a popular Belizean breakfast bread consisting of golden fried dough that is characterized by puffing up and floating when placed in hot oil. They are usually served with savory accompaniments such as refried beans, eggs, or bacon, but can also be topped with jam or honey. Fry jacks are priced between $1 to $2.

Restaurants in Belize

The average cost of a meal at a restaurant is around $15.00 to $28.00 per person in Belize. However, prices can vary depending on the restaurant and the type of food you order.

Typically I found the cheaper restaurants to be found in more backpacker locations of Caye Caulker and San Ignacio.

🚗 How I Book Ferries & Shuttles In Belize: GuateGo

Transportation Costs in Belize

Getting around doesn’t have to break the bank and destroy your Belize trip cost. Let’s break down all the transportation options available, from buses and taxis to water taxis.

So get ready to hit the road (or water) in style!

Buses In Belize

Buses are a hit among locals and tourists alike. They’re cheap, reliable, and give you a chance to mingle with the locals.

You’ll find buses in all major cities and towns, making it super easy to get around.

Bus tickets cost anywhere from $0.50 to $2, depending on how far you’re going.

Shuttle Buses In Belize

Luckily enough Belize isn’t too large of a country so shuttle buses in Belize are generally short distance and relatively affordable. Especially considering the price of other things here!

I only ended up taking 1 shuttle bus in Belize from Belize City to San Ignacio which cost me $20.00 with Atlanta Express. They operate out of the San Pedro Express Water Taxi Belize terminal, perfect if you are coming to or from the islands.

If you are interested in using Atlanta Express message Mohammad on Whats App at +501 652 6565.

I originally got their details when I was in Mexico, and once I arrived in Belize it turned out to be one of the most popular transport operators for backpackers.

Flying in Belize

If you’re looking to fly, Tropic Air is the number one airline for domestic flights between all major destinations in Belize. A flight from the Philip Goldson International Airport to San Pedro only takes about fifteen minutes.

The price for a San Pedro flight is around $90.00.

Water Taxis In Belize

Now, let’s talk about water taxis. They’re not only fun but also provide scenic rides between islands in Belize.

You can hop on one to travel between the mainland and popular destinations like Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye.

Water taxi tickets cost around $20, but totally worth it for the experience. Plus, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the Belizean coastline during your ride.

My Total Belize Trip Cost

Here you will find a breakdown of my actual Belize trip cost during my 1 week in Belize.

To keep it on the shorter side I have added up all my food and accommodation expenses, however everything else is listed individually.

🚗 How I Book Ferries & Shuttles In Belize: GuateGo

Budgeted VS Actual Belize Travel Budget

I ended up budgeting $543.00 or $90.50 for my Belize travel budget. This would be me backpacking, staying in hostels, cooking some meals, and doing activities.

So there is no hiding the fact that my total spend went over budget by $72.18, but how is that if my cost per day was actually less than budgeted? Well, this is simply due to the fact I spent longer backpacking Belize than originally planned, but only by one day.

I also ended up doing both a snorkeling tour from Caye Caulker and another one from San Pedro, just because it was so incredible. Obviously, this isn’t something everyone would do, but I am such a water lover I couldn’t say no!

Also in San Ignacio, I did do the ATM Cave tour which was also quite pricey and not something everyone would be interested in.

Nevertheless, I ended up spending $270.00 or 43% of my budget on activities alone so you can definitely see it is possible to decrease your cost to travel Belize by not doing such things – however, they were pretty damn awesome.

I will say I did offset these costs a lot of the time by cooking in the hostel kitchens, or when this wasn’t possible by ordering a meal and eating half for a late breakfast / early lunch and half for dinner.

All in all, I wasn’t mad about my total Belize trip cost, especially considering I ended up staying a day longer than planned. Considering the amount of things I did, I think I did a pretty good job of staying on budget.

Money-Saving Tips to Decrease Your Cost to Travel Belize

Of course, we are also going to look at some of my best money saving tips. That way you can make your money last longer when exploring on your Belize itinerary:

Travel during the low tourist season: The best time to visit Belize on a budget is during the months of May and November (before Thanksgiving). During this time, you can get the best prices on flights, accommodations, and tours. Additionally, the weather is ideal during these months.

Prioritize your expenses: Before you go, decide what you want to prioritize. You might opt for luxurious accommodations, nice dinners, or extravagant tours. It might be challenging to do a low-budget trip if you’re trying to do it all. So, prioritize your expenses and plan accordingly,

Book cheap flights: You can save a lot of money by booking cheap flights and doing so in advance.

Stay in budget-friendly accommodations: Accommodations can be expensive in Belize. However, you can save money by staying in budget-friendly accommodations like hostels in Belize, guesthouses, or vacation rentals.

Booking Activities in Advance: If you have a specific activity or tour in mind, it’s always a good idea to book ahead of time. Many tour companies offer discounts for booking online or in advance, so be sure to take advantage of these deals.

Eat like a local: Eating out can be expensive in Belize. However, you can save money by eating like a local. Try street food or local restaurants instead of fancy restaurants. You can also buy groceries and cook your own meals.

Use local transportation: Taxis and rental cars can be expensive. However, you can save money by using local transportation like buses or water taxis. They are cheaper and can take you to most destinations in Belize.

Take advantage of free activities: Belize has many free activities that you can enjoy. You can go hiking, swimming, or visit the beach. You can also visit museums or attend events.

Don’t Be Afraid to Negotiate: When exploring local markets or souvenir shops, don’t be afraid to negotiate prices. It’s a common practice in Belize, and you’ll often find that vendors are willing to offer discounts if you ask politely. Just remember to keep it friendly and respectful.

Take Advantage of Happy Hour Deals: Many restaurants and bars in Belize offer happy hour deals with discounted food and drinks. This is a great way to enjoy a meal or drink without breaking your budget. So be on the lookout for these specials and plan your meals accordingly.

FAQs About The Cost To Travel Belize

🚗 How I Book Ferries & Shuttles In Belize: GuateGo

Wrap Up: My $90.00 Per Day Crazy Belize Trip Cost

Well, now you know my exact trip cost of approximately $90.00 per day to backpack Belize. I know this may seem like quite a lot of money, however, Belize is generally a pricy country to explore.

I also got to experience some once-in-a-lifetime activities which I do not regret in the slightest.

Nevertheless, if this Belize trip budget is a little bit out of your price range no need to fear. It can easily be decreased by shopping around for the best tour prices, cooking all meals, and traveling using the public bus system.

Any Questions? Let me know in the comments!

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