Car Rental in Belize

Car Rental

Belize City and the international airport in Ladyville have most major carrental agencies, as well as several local operators. Prices vary from company to company, but all are high by U.S. standards (BZ$120-BZ$275 per day). A small four-wheel-drive Suzuki, with unlimited mileage from Budget, for instance, costs about BZ$150 per day, though weekly rates are cheaper (about BZ$900). Off-season, rates are a little lower. Some hotels have all-terrain vehicles with guides for about BZ$400 per day. A few resorts have rental cars for about BZ$150-BZ$180 per day.

For serious safaris, a four-wheel-drive vehicle is invaluable. But since unpaved roads, mudslides in rainy season, and a general off-the-beaten-path landscape are status quo here, all drivers will be comforted with a four-wheel-drive vehicle.

Insurance

In Belize, unless covered by your credit card or personal insurance policy, Collision Damage Waiver insurance costs BZ$20 to BZ$40 a day, and you may still be liable for the first BZ$1,000-BZ$4,000 in damages.

Requirements & Restrictions

In Belize, rental car companies routinely accept driver's licenses from the United States, Canada, and most other countries without question. Most car-rental agencies require a major credit card for a deposit, and some require you be over 25.

Most Belize agencies do not permit their vehicles to be taken into Guatemala or Mexico. Crystal in Belize City does permit its vehicles to be taken into Guatemala, although without any insurance coverage.

Surcharges

In Belize, some rental agencies with their own pumps actually charge less for gas than you'd pay at service stations, so ask for fill-ups.