Broke Backpacking In Belize: The Ultimate Guide

Smack in the middle of the Caribbean, Belize tempts the broke backpacker with turquoise waters, lush jungles, and Mayan ruins. This Central American beauty of a nation offers a timeless adventure at wallet-friendly prices. From snorkeling along the world’s largest barrier reef to exploring vibrant markets, Belize seamlessly melds relaxation with excitement.
You will love Belize because here, you get super affordable accommodations to fit your tight budget, delicious street food, and welcoming locals. Island-hop, cave tube, or just steep yourself in the Caribbean vibe; Belize simply promises an unforgettable experience.
In this ultimate guide, we plunge into the secrets of broke backpacking Belize, revealing hidden pearls, budget-friendly tips, and insider knowledge that will make your adventure unforgettable.

How to get there:

From Guatemala

Option 1: Shuttle and Boat

  1. From Antigua or Guatemala City, take a shuttle to Puerto Barrios ($10-$20).
  2. From Puerto Barrios, catch the ferry to Punta Gorda, Belize ($20-$30).
  3. Duration: 6-8 hours.

Option 2: Bus

  1. From Guatemala City, take a bus to the Belize-Guatemala border ($5-$10).
  2. Cross the border and take a Belizean bus to Belize City or other destinations ($5-$10).
  3. Duration: 8-10 hours.

From Mexico

Option 1: Bus

  1. From Cancun or Tulum, take a bus to Chetumal ($20-$30).
  2. From Chetumal, cross the border and take a Belizean bus to Belize City or other destinations ($5-$10).
  3. Duration: 6-8 hours.

Option 2: Shuttle

  1. From Tulum or Playa del Carmen, take a shuttle to Belize City ($30-$50).
  2. Duration: 4-6 hours.

From Honduras

Option 1: Bus

  1. From San Pedro Sula or La Ceiba, take a bus to the Guatemala-Honduras border ($10-$20).
  2. From the border, take a Guatemalan bus to Puerto Barrios ($10-$20).
  3. From Puerto Barrios, catch the ferry to Punta Gorda, Belize ($20-$30).
  4. Duration: 12-14 hours.

Budget Breakdown

  • Guatemala to Belize: $20-$50
  • Mexico to Belize: $30-$60
  • Honduras to Belize: $40-$80

Happy travels!

When to go:

Dry Season (December to May)

Pros:

  • Clear skies and dry weather
  • Easier travel and outdoor activities
  • Peak tourist season, vibrant atmosphere

Cons:

  • Higher prices for accommodations and tours
  • Larger crowds

Wet Season (June to November)

Pros:

  • Lower prices and discounts
  • Lush landscapes and fewer tourists
  • Better snorkeling and diving conditions

Cons:

  • Rainy days and potential flooding
  • Some attractions and roads may be closed

Shoulder Season (April to May and September to November)

Pros:

  • Balances prices and weather
  • Fewer crowds, more relaxed atmosphere
  • Ideal for outdoor activities

Cons:

  • Occasional rain showers

Best Times for Specific Activities:

  • Snorkeling and diving: March to May and September to November (calm seas)
  • Fishing: June to August (peak fishing season)
  • Caving: December to May (drier conditions)
  • Culture and festivals: February (Belize City Carnival), September (Independence Day)

Events and Festivals:

  • Belize City Carnival (February): Vibrant parades and music
  • Chocolate Festival (May): Cacao-themed celebrations
  • Lobster Fest (June): Seafood extravaganza
  • Independence Day (September 21): Cultural events and patriotism

Best Itineraries:

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Belize City

  • Explore Belize City’s historic center
  • Visit the Belize Museum
  • Stay at a hostel

Day 2: Caye Caulker

  • Take a ferry to Caye Caulker
  • Snorkel or dive the Belize Barrier Reef
  • Enjoy beachside vibes
  • Explore Caye Caulker’s laid-back town

Day 3: Belize City

  • Return to Belize City
  • Visit the Altun Ha Mayan Ruins
  • Explore the Belize City Market
  • Depart Belize

1-Week Itinerary

Day 1-2: Belize City and Caye Caulker

  • Explore Belize City’s historic center
  • Ferry to Caye Caulker
  • Snorkel or dive the Belize Barrier Reef
  • Enjoy beachside vibes

Day 3-4: San Ignacio

  • Bus to San Ignacio
  • Explore Xunantunich and Cahal Pech Mayan ruins
  • Visit Barton Creek Cave
  • Wander San Ignacio’s charming streets

Day 5-6: Placencia

  • Bus to Placencia
  • Relax on beaches
  • Optional: fishing, snorkeling or kayaking
  • Explore Placencia Village

Day 7: Departure

  • Return to Belize City
  • Depart Belize

2-Week Itinerary

Day 1-3: Belize City, Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye

  • Explore Belize City’s historic center
  • Ferry to Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye
  • Snorkel or dive the Belize Barrier Reef
  • Explore Caye Caulker’s town

Day 4-6: San Ignacio and Actun Tunichil Muknal

  • Bus to San Ignacio
  • Explore Xunantunich, Cahal Pech and Caracol Mayan ruins
  • ATM cave tour
  • Wander San Ignacio’s streets

Day 7-8: Placencia

  • Bus to Placencia
  • Relax on beaches
  • Optional: fishing, snorkeling or kayaking
  • Explore Placencia Village

Day 9-10: Hopkins

  • Bus to Hopkins
  • Explore Garifuna culture
  • Beach relaxation
  • Optional: fishing or snorkeling

Day 11-14: Return to Belize City

  • Explore city attractions
  • Visit the Belize Zoo
  • Last-minute shopping
  • Departure

1-Month Itinerary

Week 1: Belize City, Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye

  • Explore Belize City’s historic center
  • Ferry to Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye
  • Snorkel or dive the Belize Barrier Reef
  • Explore Caye Caulker’s town

Week 2: San Ignacio and Actun Tunichil Muknal

  • Bus to San Ignacio
  • Explore Xunantunich, Cahal Pech, Caracol and Tikal Mayan ruins
  • ATM cave tour
  • Wander San Ignacio’s streets

Week 3: Placencia, Hopkins and Dangriga

  • Bus to Placencia
  • Relax on beaches
  • Optional: fishing, snorkeling or kayaking
  • Explore Placencia Village
  • Visit Hopkins and Dangriga

Week 4: Return to Belize City, explore nearby attractions

  • Altun Ha Mayan Ruins
  • Baboon Sanctuary
  • Belize Zoo
  • Last-minute shopping
  • Departure

Transportation:

Belize offers an efficient and affordable public transportation system, making it easy to explore the country without breaking the bank.

Types of Public Transportation

  1. Buses: Main mode of transportation, connecting major towns and cities.
  2. Shuttles: Private services connecting tourist destinations.
  3. Taxis: Available in cities and towns.
  4. Water Taxis: Connecting islands and coastal towns.
  5. Ferries: Connecting islands and mainland.

Bus Network

  • Northern Highway: Connects Belize City to Corozal and Mexico.
  • Western Highway: Connects Belize City to San Ignacio and Guatemala.
  • Southern Highway: Connects Belize City to Punta Gorda.

Bus Operators

  • Belize Bus Service: Connects major towns.
  • Chalien Bus: Connects Belize City to San Ignacio.
  • Ritchie’s Bus: Connects Belize City to Punta Gorda.

Bus Fares

  • Local routes: $1-$5
  • Long-distance routes: $10-$30

Shuttle Services

  • Caye Caulker Shuttle: Connects Belize City to Caye Caulker.
  • Ambergris Caye Shuttle: Connects Belize City to Ambergris Caye.
  • Placencia Shuttle: Connects Belize City to Placencia.

Taxi Services

  • Belize City Taxis: Available at airports and city centers.
  • Rural Taxis: Connects villages.

Water Taxi Services

  • Caye Caulker Water Taxi: Connects Belize City to Caye Caulker.
  • Ambergris Caye Water Taxi: Connects Belize City to Ambergris Caye.
  • Placencia Water Taxi: Connects Placencia to nearby islands.

Ferry Services

  • Caye Caulker Ferry: Connects Belize City to Caye Caulker.
  • Ambergris Caye Ferry: Connects Belize City to Ambergris Caye.

Top things to do:

Belize City

  1. Explore historic center (free)
  2. Belize Museum ($5)
  3. Altun Ha Mayan Ruins ($10)
  4. Belize City Market (free)
  5. Waterfront promenade (free)
  6. St. John’s Cathedral (free)
  7. Government House (free)
  8. Belize City Zoo ($10)

Caye Caulker

  1. Snorkel or dive Belize Barrier Reef ($30-$50)
  2. Explore Caye Caulker’s laid-back town (free)
  3. Visit Caye Caulker Marine Reserve ($10)
  4. Beach relaxation (free)
  5. Sunset cruises ($20-$30)
  6. Caye Caulker Beach (free)
  7. The Split (free)
  8. Caye Caulker Island Tour ($30-$50)

Ambergris Caye

  1. Explore San Pedro Town (free)
  2. Snorkel or dive Hol Chan Marine Reserve ($30-$50)
  3. Visit Shark Ray Alley ($20-$30)
  4. Beach relaxation (free)
  5. Fishing tours ($50-$100)
  6. Secret Beach (free)
  7. Ambergris Caye Beach (free)
  8. Bacalar Chico National Park ($10)

San Ignacio

  1. Explore Mayan ruins (Xunantunich, Cahal Pech, $10-$20)
  2. Visit Barton Creek Cave ($20-$30)
  3. Wander San Ignacio’s charming streets (free)
  4. Visit the San Ignacio Market (free)
  5. ATV tours ($50-$100)
  6. Cahal Pech Mayan Ruins ($10)
  7. Iguana Conservation Project ($10)
  8. Macal River (free)

Placencia

  1. Relax on beaches (free)
  2. Fishing tours ($50-$100)
  3. Snorkeling or diving ($30-$50)
  4. Explore Placencia Village (free)
  5. Visit nearby Mayan ruins (free)
  6. Placencia Beach (free)
  7. Silk Caye Marine Reserve ($30-$50)
  8. Monkey River Tour ($30-$50)

Hopkins

  1. Explore Garifuna culture (free)
  2. Beach relaxation (free)
  3. Fishing tours ($50-$100)
  4. Visit nearby Mayan ruins (free)
  5. Kayaking or paddleboarding ($20-$30)
  6. Hopkins Beach (free)
  7. Garifuna Cultural Center (free)
  8. Mayflower Bocawina National Park ($10)

Actun Tunichil Muknal

  1. ATM cave tour ($80)
  2. Explore nearby Mayan ruins (free)
  3. Swimming in nearby rivers (free)
  4. ATM Cave (free)
  5. Jungle trekking (free)

Dangriga

  1. Explore Garifuna culture (free)
  2. Visit nearby Mayan ruins (free)
  3. Beach relaxation (free)
  4. Fishing tours ($50-$100)
  5. Kayaking or paddleboarding ($20-$30)
  6. Dangriga Beach (free)
  7. Garifuna Cultural Center (free)
  8. Gulisi Garifuna Museum ($10)

Punta Gorda

  1. Explore Mayan ruins (free)
  2. Visit nearby fishing villages (free)
  3. Beach relaxation (free)
  4. Snorkeling or diving ($30-$50)
  5. Garifuna cultural experiences (free)
  6. Punta Gorda Market (free)
  7. Lubaantun Mayan Ruins ($10)
  8. Living Maya Experience ($20-$30)

Corozal

  1. Explore Corozal Town (free)
  2. Visit nearby Mayan ruins (free)
  3. Beach relaxation (free)
  4. Fishing tours ($50-$100)
  5. Corozal Museum ($10)
  6. Santa Rita Archaeological Site ($10)
  7. Corozal Bay (free)
  8. Sarteneja Island ($30-$50)

Orange Walk

  1. Cuello Mayan Ruins ($10)
  2. Explore Orange Walk Town (free)
  3. Visit nearby Mayan ruins (free)
  4. Beach relaxation (free)
  5. Fishing tours ($50-$100)
  6. Lamanai Mayan Ruins ($10)
  7. New River Safari ($30-$50)

Food:

Belizean food is no exception to the rich cultural heritage of the country, which tantalizingly mixes flavors from the Caribbean with Latin American and African. As one walks through bustling markets or quaint towns, this smell of mouth-watering dishes wafts through the air, beckoning your taste buds. Indeed, Belizean cuisine must have been influenced by its strategic location, from the Caribbean Sea with fresh seafood to the lush jungles bringing an exotic spice into the dishes.
Traditional Belizean cuisine focuses on simple ingredients like rice, beans, chicken, and seafood, which are innovatively combined into delectable creations. Examples include rice and beans with steaming stewed chicken, usually accompanying fried plantains or boiled cassava. Another favorite is succulent sea snails which have been prepared in a conch fritter. These are staple comfort foods for many Belizeans.
Seafood is the staple in the coastal areas, with the fresh catches of lobsters, shrimps, and fish being turned into mouth-watering dishes. Grilled seafood with spicy marinades and spices are served at each and every barbecue on the beaches. The aroma of steaming seafood fills the air, craving the passers-by. Inland areas mostly have stew-type meat dishes and soups that are cooked for hours until tender.
Gastronomically speaking, Belize is deepened by Garifuna cuisine, a representation of African and Caribbean influences. Hudut is a stew prepared with coconut milk, while other staple foods are bread made of cassava, fried fish, and plantains to satiate one’s craving. The rich cultural heritage of the Garifuna people reflects their food also.
Street food abounds: tacos, empanadas, and Belizean-style BBQ are affordable pleasures. Markets burst with color, fruits, crisp vegetables, and handicrafts galore. Fresh coconut water and sugarcane juice slake your thirst. Colorful local vendors press their wares on you.
International cuisine is also talked about in Belize, as Chinese, Indian, and Italian restaurants dot the urban centers. It’s the genuine Belizean cuisine that still remains a true treasure, reflecting the nation’s warm hospitality. From family-owned eateries to beachside shacks, every establishment brings taste into Belizean culture.
Local bakeries pump out sweet stuff, like rum cake, coconut pie, and authentic Garifuna bread. Belizean chocolate-made from cacao beans-satisfies the sweet-toothed; every piece is made with attention by chocolatiers. Traditional event staples include cochinita pibil, or slow-roasted pork marinated in citrus and spices, and relleno, or stuffed bell peppers. Family gatherings are centered around long, extensive feasts.
Enjoy traditional cuisine, visit markets, and socialize with warm-hearted food vendors as you find your way through Belize. Every single bite will involve great stories about the rich heritage of Belize, so why not taste this fascinating Caribbean jewel?.
The Belizean cuisine is representative of its history, geography, and people. Each delicious bite unfolds the warm spirit of the nation with its resilience. Take a moment to taste Belize’s food as a takeaway memory of unforgettable flavors.

Culture:

Belizean culture is the integrated, varied tapestry of Maya, Garifuna, Creole, Spanish, and African influences. This unique integration created a nation with a particular identity, and the traditions and customs here are really bound up with everyday life. The country of Belize is nestled between two large countries of Spanish influence-Mexico and Guatemala-and that strategic location has made cultural exchange easier.
The Maya Civilization left their legacy in various architectural ruins, vibrant textiles, and still-lived spirituality. Their descendants have survived and continue up to this date with various practices such as the Jade plant since time immemorial and ceremonial dancing. While the Garifuna come from African and Caribbean ancestry manifested through lively music, flavored food, and strong community spirit.
The historic center of Belize City represents the heart of Creole culture, born from interactions with African and European parentage. Varicolored colonial architecture stands beside modern streets. The most common evidences of Spanish influence are the language and food and the gay festivals such as Dia de los Muertos. The rhythms and traditions of Africa have left their inerasable mark.
Music and dance are deep parts of Belizean life, inextricably linked to the nation’s identity. Punta rock sends its infectious beats through villages, Garifuna drumming resounds, and traditional Maya dances pay homage to ancestral spirits. A very active arts scene brings together talented painters, sculptors, and craftsmen.
The family and community ties are very close, and elders and traditions receive much respect. Sundays are reserved for family time, feasting, and taking it easy. On a national level, Belizeans are proud of celebrating Independence Day and Garifuna Settlement Day.
Language is representative of Belize’s cultural diversity, with various dialects of English, Spanish, Maya, and Garifuna being spoken throughout the country. The official language, Kriol, is derived from the influences of Africa, Europe, and the indigenous.
The food in Belize is as varied and rich as the cultures that make up this country. National favorites include rice and beans, conch fritters, and hudut stew. Ancient cooking styles, such as baking in a clay oven, are still common today.
Traditional Affairs: Colorful costumes, music, and dance characterize traditional festivals such as Costa Maya and Belize City Carnival. Smaller villages may hold less dramatic but equally important celebrations that honor their patron saints. All these reflect Belize’s famous hospitality and communal sense.
It’s so important that, as Belize evolves, its culture be preserved. Preservation of Maya ruins, Garifuna traditions, and the support of local artisans will help the nation’s heritage to continue. Belize’s history is protected in educational programs and cultural centers.
In Belize, culture is not a lingering vestige of the past, but a pulsating reality that takes in every breath of daily life. Smell the warm spirits, taste the rich tradition, and get infected with the energy-your experience, your reason may be why Belize is still the luscious gem in Central America’s crown.
Cultural diversity in Belize extends beyond borders to influence neighbors. In fact, the country has forged strong international bonds especially because of their resilience and adaptability.
From busting markets to great ruins, Belize’s cultural scene is dying to be investigated: meet friendly locals, enjoy great food, and become part of traditions that stand the test of time.
As dusk settles in, the turquoise waters of Belize are painted with tangerine hues, while the sounds of laughter, music, and drumming fill the air to remind visitors that this nation shall always endure. Each thread interlaces with the other to form one overwhelming experience that continues to weave into the tapestry that is Belize.

Accommodations:

Ditch fancy resorts and posh hotels for any other breed of traveler besides the broke backpacker seeking an experience in Belize. Throw down the duffel bag, heave open creaky doors, or push aside some dusty tarp, and dive headlong into the quaint, unpredictable world of hostels on broke budgets. Ready to unleash unparalleled escapades, unforgettable encounters, and essential immersion into Belize’s irrepressible carefree spirit, here are some retreats that just won’t say no.
And then there are the cheapest options-often leading to the most unique, crazy, and amazing experiences. No fancy facilities or lavish amenities, just character, camaraderie, and a healthy dose of chaos in these hostels. Budget hostels in Belize are places where strangers turn into instant companions, sharing tales of adventure and mischief.
Cozy dorms and lounges build a scene of shared discovery. Fellow travelers swap tips on gems not found in guidebooks, secret beaches, and excursions off the beaten track. Sometimes enthusiastic and sometimes knowledgeable, inside locals, the local staff let travelers in on insider secrets to Belize’s lively culture.

Life in the hostels of Belize means spontaneity. Impromptu jam sessions, bonfires on the beach, and road trips at the drop of a hat are a way of life. Uncertainty fuels the adventure and cements memories for ages.
Budget hostels in Belize are a decent representation of the amalgamation of cultures this country encompasses. Rooms, common areas-all aspects of hostel life-are infused with bright colors and Caribbean beats, not to mention delectable Creole dishes. Every space has a story to narrate, from boisterous common rooms to makeshift kitchens.
One could say that to experience Belize hostel culture truly, one should let serendipity take over. Go ahead and book that suspiciously low-priced dorm bed or quirky private room. The returns will be immeasurable.
The line between traveler and local blurs in the budget hostels of Belize. Guests cook together, share stories of their adventure, and laugh into the wee hours of the morning. It is not just a place to stay, but an immersive cultural experience.
Fellow travelers instantly become family to one another, offering encouragement and support throughout Belize’s untamed landscapes. Take a peek together at ancient Mayan ruins or snorkel crystal-clear waters; take a hike through lush jungles.
Budget hostels stir up creativity and resourcefulness in people: share meals, inform fellow tourists of travel tips, and share in making spontaneous adventures. In Belize, the concept of hostels is like that of nowhere near constraint but all about freedom and flexibility. There is nobody to force you to stick to strict agendas or costly packages for touring. Make your own way.

Lying at the heart of Belize’s lush jungles, turquoise waters, and pulsating markets, this budget hostel stands as a guardian of real experiences, inviting the brave, the inquisitive, and the economical to indulge in Belize’s raw spirit.

Nightlife:

The nightlife of Belize represents this unique fusion of Caribbean and Central American vibes, wherein a diverse range of experiences greets the tastes and preferences of anyone. As the sun dips into crystal-clear waters, Belize changes into a country that is buzzing with activities, ranging from laid-back beach bars to pulsating dance clubs.
The atmosphere is casual on the whole, as most Belizeans are warm people who enjoy making one feel at home. Locals and tourists alike head to waterfront hot spots for cool cocktails, good local food, and a generally laid-back atmosphere. As the sun sets, so do the lights, reggae and soca blast their rhythms, along with tropical beats, inviting them to dance the night away.
The larger towns in Belize, like Belize City and San Pedro, have a very vibrant and dynamic nightlife, with bars and clubs open deep into the night. Teeming with energy, these communities draw in those party people seeking a lively atmosphere, where the ability to engage with locals and other travelers is readily available. Smaller villages and beach towns are more low-key, often restraining activities to small groups of people gathering together and moonlight walks along the water’s edge.
From Garifuna drumming to the strumming of a Creole guitar, live music performances are scattered throughout Belize, creating the very flesh and blood of the culture. These impromptu concerts occur in every place from beachside bars and community centers and really allow for visitors to engage in the culture. The sounds of laughter and music intermingle with the smell of savory street food and salty sea air.
The influence of Belize’s neighbors, especially Mexico and Guatemala, also trickles down to the nightlife, where tequila bars and Latin-inspired dance events have their fair share of contribution to the melting pot. Additionally, the growing expat community contributes to a diverse and inclusive atmosphere, making it rather easy for visitors to find their niche and feel welcome. This constitutes a unique nightlife that is genuinely Belizean.
Travelers can enjoy beach bonfires under starry skies or board a catamaran for a sunset cruise complete with live music and dancing. For some, the best experience would be cuddling up in a hammock at the sea and watching the stars light up, while others will join an impromptu beach party and dance into the night. Not only does each night offer countless choices, but every single night in Belize is bound to be one of memory.
For the adventurers, there are plenty of opportunities to explore Belize’s vibrant culture through nighttime activities like drumming circles, cultural performances, or by visiting the local markets. Visitors can take rum distillery tours across highly-acclaimed distilleries of the country or sample Belizean cuisine from midnight food stalls.
But Belize’s laid-back attitude somehow makes nightlife approachable and fun. From relaxing to excitement, the country’s warm hospitality allows travelers to delve into its magic evening landscape. By morning, the night sounds dissolve into gentle wave lapping on the shores.
The nightlife of Belize represents, in real earnest, the pulse of the country: warm, welcoming, and mind-bogglingly diverse. Each and every evening can be used to experience new things: music, food, dancing, or people. Indeed, Belize’s nights merit being called truly unforgettable, weaving memories that linger long past the rising sun.

Backpacking Belize costs:

Daily Budget

  • Accommodation: $5-15 USD (hostel dorm or camping)
  • Food: $3-10 USD (street food or groceries)
  • Transportation: $1-5 USD (local buses)
  • Activities: free or $5-10 USD (beaches, markets)
  • Other: $1-5 USD (miscellaneous)

Total: $10-30 USD

Weekly Budget

  • Accommodation: $35-105 USD
  • Food: $21-70 USD
  • Transportation: $7-35 USD
  • Activities: $0-70 USD
  • Other: $7-35 USD

Total: $70-315 USD

Conclusion:

From the motley landscapes to the complete cultural amalgamation and warm-hearted hospitality, Belize is one place that no vagabond-who’s strapped for cash-can resist. With some careful planning and flexibility, one is bound to take in its vivacious atmosphere without breaking the bank.
By embracing affordable accommodations, street food, and local transportation, the backpackers can really make the most of their highly limited budget and find those off-the-beaten-track places. In Belize, one can enter most of the attractions freely, from pristine beaches to lively markets.
While financial restrictions may prohibit the feeling of luxury, genuine warmth and beauty of nature in Belize make for a memorable trip. In Belize, which is a tropical paradise for any broke-budget backpacker, every dollar goes further to create ways to connect authentically and make lifelong memories.
Travel light, travel slow, and soak up the easy-going Belizean vibe-and your wallet might be thin, but the adventure will be rich!