Last updated on August 2, 2025 by Shannon
Given how popular this border crossing is, and the sheer lack of information, below I’ve outlined precise details on how to manage this crossing in the wake of Covid restrictions. The pandemic changed the entire process of crossing from the Chetumal/ Santa Elena border to destinations in Belize.
Covid restrictions are long gone, but the legacy remains. Don’t assume information you find online or in a guidebook is accurate unless it’s been updated in 2025. The only thing that remains true: You still must show proof you’ve paid the Mexico tourism tax, or you’re forced to pay it again
A smooth border crossing relies on knowledge—the right paperwork and a plan for getting to and from the Chetumal border on each side. Direct from shuttle drivers and dozens of readers who leave comments every week, here’s a synopsis of your options crossing the Mexico and Belize border at Chetumal/Santa Elena in 2025.
Transportation Options in Belize in 2025
The Northern Border, which includes the Chetumal/Santa Elena crossing, is open to foreign tourists from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm. All sea ports operate from 6:00 am to 4:00 pm.
Ferries
Two ferries run from Corozal. There is also a ferry from Chetumal to the Belizean islands. I have confirmed with shuttle drivers and other travelers that—although they don’t always answer the phone—the San Pedro Water Jet from Chetumal to/from San Pedro & Caye Caulker is running. Book online or in person.
Boats run from Corozal to San Pedro via Thunderbolt and Belize Sea Shuttle. Using the ferry is convenient, but doesn’t save you much money compared to taking a shuttle or the bus. The ferry from Corozal is the best option for solo travelers, otherwise head to Belize City and ferry from there to save money. Check the Facebook pages for these services for the latest schedules.
Chicken Bus
The chicken bus is still running in 2025. The chicken bus to Belize City costs around $8 USD. You’ll face a longer travel day on the bus, but it’s totally viable and runs roughly every hour from Corozal to Belize City. This is the option I have personally used. You can also catch a chicken bus from Chetumal, and it generally waits for you at the border crossing, so long as you face no snags in getting stamped out of Mexico and into Belize.
Taxi
A private taxi from the Chetumal border to Belize City costs US $150. It costs less to travel to Corozal, around $20. For this reason, it’s really way more economical to book a shuttle if you want something faster than the chicken bus.
Safe solo female travel
If you’re a solo female traveler concerned about getting to Belize or the the islands safelty, Alberto (listed below) has a female taxi driver that can pick you up in Playa if you need a ride for $3,000 pesos each way.
Shuttles and Transfer Services
Six people can share a shuttle to Belize City for US $150 (less if you’re going as far as Corozal). If you aren’t traveling in a large group, the taxi drivers help travelers who are crossing at the same time share the cost of a shuttle/van transfer.
Shuttles run every single day from both Bacalar and Chetumal. (Lots of travelers prefer to stay in Bacalar).
Below are also contact numbers for safe, affordable taxi or shuttle transfer—these are reliable options for crossing either way (from Belize into Mexico, or vice versa).
Each driver speaks English, has contacts on both sides of the border, and can help you with advice on how to get to your ultimate destination (be it Corozal, the islands, Guatemala and Tikal, or back into Mexico). Spread the love around to each as I highly recommended each one based on extensive use and reviews from many travelers who have come before you.
Call or WhatsApp them via these numbers:
- Venancio (has a van ideal for larger groups): +501-603-6711
- Alberto the BZ Transporter: +501-630-2700
- George from Get Transfer: +501-604-5789
- Jesus Catizm (also has a van for larger groups): +501-620-6653
Call a couple if you’re looking to save money—ask if they have travelers scheduled who are willing to share the transfer. Each driver will also hook you up with a trusted contact on the Mexican side of the border if needed, so you’re not ripped off on the short trip.
If you’re keen to just book it all online, book a shuttle from Chetumal to Belize City.
How to Cross the Border at Chetumal
This process is outlined by one of the shuttle drivers, and cribbed from detailed comments from those who have crossed recently. Note that you should have all of the cash you need on you.
That also means carrying some pesos when heading out of Mexico in case they try to make your crossing hard in exchange for a little “payment” of $200-$300 pesos. This is how the trip goes from Cancun to Belize City.
Consider taking the comfortable bus down from Cancun and stay overnight in Chetumal or Bacalar. In Chetumal, I recommend Hotel Urban 101 in the city center for about$30 a night. In Bacalar, consider Hotel Xa’an for a budget backpacker spot, or Villas Ecotucan for good vibes and just a bit more money. In Chetumal, have the hotel to call a taxi in the morning to take you to the bus station/border, or arrange through trusted drivers above. Leave early—between 7:30 am and 9 am is a good bet. Book somewhere to stay in Chetumal or stay in Bacalar.
1. Get to Chetumal from Bacalar OR Get a Taxi in Chetumal to the New Border OR Catch the Chicken Bus
Your taxi will know which border you need for the crossing—it’s the new border, not the old one. They are very near each other, but some guide books and blog posts will tell you to visit the old one.
You can stay in Bacalar as well, and from there catch a shared taxi (opposite the ADO bus station), which takes you to Chetumal. From there you can take a chicken bus to Belize City. Only if customs and immigration don’t take too long will the chicken bus wait for you on the other side of the border, so don’t pay in advance.
Your Most Budget Border Crossing Option
If you have some level of Spanish and are in Chetumal and opting for the absolute cheapest option, then go to the ‘New Market’ bus station and ask for the chicken bus heading to Corozal, Belize.
You’ll probably have to wait for a while, but the bus will take you to the Mexican border.
Then be prepared with your documents (if you’ve flown in and/or have stayed in Mexico for less than seven days) to prove you do not need to pay the tax.
Then the bus or taxi will take you to the Belize border.
Note: You are not allowed to walk through the “no man’s land” between the two borders.
Once at the Belizean border, take your luggage off the bus with you, get your stamps, and then the bus will take you to your destination. It costs $5USD per person to travel from Chetumal to Corozal.
2. Have Your Travel Documents Handy for Both Border Checks
When exiting Mexico, 90% of the time you will be asked if you have already paid the tourism tax. This is a soft scam—it’s legal and the border officials ask for the proof, so you must show them your reciept.
But if you flew into the country, it was included in your airfare. Download your itemized receipt from the airline that shows this fee already paid—then screenshot it and show it to them.
Many people pay this “fee” even though they already paid it when they flew into Mexico. Be prepared ahead of time and you can avoid being charged twice! It continues to be an issue for about 15 years now. This will save you 570 Mexican pesos ($30-35 USD).
Next, your taxi will cross the bridge to the Belize Customs Control area. This is where you will say goodbye to your Mexican taxi driver and pay him. You’ll pay 250-500 Mexican pesos, unless you’ve booked a shuttle that takes you through the entire process stress free.
3. Prepare for the Belize Border Process
You’ll pass through Belize Customs.
To Corozal from Chetumal, a taxi charges roughly $35 USD per taxi, from there to San Pedro you can take water taxi at 7 AM for $50 USD or a plane at 9:30 AM or 5 PM for ~$70 USD, but the latter only during the week which, however, is not confirmed as so far travelers have opted for the boat.
4. Finish Up the Belize Border Process
The driver waits for you on the other side for you to finish the entire immigration process. From there you are free to head into Belize!
Update April 2025
Read through the comments at the end for the latest additional details on this border crossing. Travelers weigh in weekly on the state of the border and offer tips on getting across without issue. Information below this box is not fact-checked for accuracy.
Border Crossing Story Prior to the Pandemic (information below is not accurate for 2025 border crossings)
Dear Lonely Planet,
Why have you lead me astray? You disappointed me this past week at the Mexican/Belizean border crossing. To be fair, this is the first time you’ve been so incredibly misguided, dear Lonely Planet: Central America —you have helped me confidently navigate uncharted waters, until now.
I love you, I nurture you, I pull you out of the depths of my bag when I’m in a pinch, yet you disappoint me at the weirdest times. You have ten different hostel accommodations for random pueblitos, but yet a mere paragraph about the fairly confusing border crossing between Mexico and Belize via Chetumal.
But also, you know, thank you. You made me realize that travel is about more than a guidebook. Without the right information, I was forced to get creative. And over the years, I’ve realized there’s always a local nearby willing to impart the information you so coyly keep to yourself. I’m learning to rely on you less and less LP, and that’s probably a good thing.
With lukewarm love,
~Shannon
My Border Crossing Debacle
The whole guidebook debate crops up on travel blogs every now and again, and I’ve always been on team “tote a guidebook around.” I nearly always have one somewhere in my backpack, and it often provides key information at opportune times—it helps me unlock a different side to a place that I might not have found without it.
But on the other hand, guidebooks also give travelers a false sense of security as well as take out some of the adventure—and hey, travel, after all, is fundamentally about the adventure and interpersonal connections, right?
Here’s the deal, when I arrived at Chetumal, Mexico, I expected the border crossing to be straightforward, like my guidebook indicated. But I arrived after 4pm and first class busses no longer left the terminal for the border.
There was also no information about what to do at that point.
Picture me now frantically flipping through the Chetumal section of my guidebook. Hmm. The barest mention of another bus terminal.
Perplexed, I looked at the accommodation section of the guidebook with two other Americans who were in the same boat—they stood nearby with the exact same guidebook.
Fast forward a few minutes and were dividing and conquering, each of us hunting down locals and taxi drivers for tips. We came up with nothing. One taxi driver (naturally) wanted us to cab to the border for US $20—instead we asked about the elusive second bus station, he gave us a noncommittal shrug and told use to walk “a couple kilometers in that direction.” And being a fairly rural town, all of these exchanges took place in Spanish, upping the stakes considerably—thankfully my high school Spanish trickled back!
We actually had a grand mini adventure asking locals for more directions along the way. Rather than just following instructions mapped out in a guidebook, we were forced to hunt down a way to cross the border into Belize. Locals always kept us walking the right way, pointing us the “bus station,” and when we arrived at the indicated lot, there was one single, lone, green school bus sitting forlornly in the lot.
We glanced toward it, wondering if this could possibly be the elusive second bus station. As the bus began moving out of the parking lot, our instincts kicked in and we began running across the lot just as the driver leaned out the window to holler at us. “Belize?!” he asked in a quick and questioning manner. As we frantically nodded yes, he rumbled to a stop so we could jog to the doors and haul ourselves onto the last bus of the day crossing the border.
Is this the biggest adventure of my life? No. But it sure was a lot of fun once we had we hunkered down into the seats, high-fived each other, and then jostled with the motion of the school bus all the way to the border. Once there, cash changed hands (there’s a controversial and possibly scammy Mexican exit tax if you’re not prepared), and I have a couple of new stamps in my good ‘ole passport. Twenty minutes later, we had reached our destination and we confidently made our way into Belize without even a second glance at our guidebooks.
I’m still carrying my guidebook, and I know there are times when I will be so glad it’s nearby as I make my way across Central America. In fact, it’s likely that I won’t go guidebook free anytime in the near future, but this reminded me of how fun and freeing it is to just wing it. The world is not so scary a place that every move needs scripting and planning beforehand, sometimes figuring it out along the way is the real adventure.
Quick Tips: Border Crossing from Chetumal, Mexico into Belize
Let me clarify this border crossing for anyone following the same path—as of 2019 there are three bus stations in Chetumal: the new bus station for ADO and first class buses, the old ADO bus station, and a smaller one that has been essentially bypassed by new bus routing in 2017, El Nuevo Mercado Lazaro Cardinez. This smaller one was a small market with an open lot in front that held the chicken buses, but unless things change, it’s been effectively handicapped by the re-routing.
If you arrive late into Chetumal and you’re heading into Belize, back in 2009, the only non-taxi transport was a local chicken buses from the market to take you across the border. These buses go all the way to Belize City and stop at smaller towns along the way (we got off in Corozal so that we could head to San Pedro/Caye Cualker in the morning). In the years since my first Central American backpacking adventure, things have changed, and they are likely to change even faster than internet information can keep up since it’s a small border crossing. So, go prepared with information on both bus stations and be prepared to solicit information directly from the bus stations. Taxi drivers will selectively share information so you’re seemingly left with no choice but a taxi to the border.
Bus Stops in Chetumal
- NEW ADO terminal: Located on Av. Insugentes at Calle Palermo (close to Plaza Las Americas). This is the main ADO bus terminal for services to other destinations in Mexico, including Cancún, Campeche, Mérida, Valladolid, Xcalak, and more. You will likely arrive here and need to head to the Old ADO terminal.
- OLD ADO terminal: Salvador Novo street near Av. Insurgentes and Av. Belice. Buses into Belize leave from here until at least 5:30 pm, possibly later. Buses to Corozal, Belize City, Orange Walk, and also into Guatemala.
- El Nuevo Mercado Lazaro Cardinez: As of 2017, this market no longer has buses operating services into Belize. If a taxi driver takes you here and tells you that buses are finished for the day, make your way to the Old Ado terminal.
Updated travel advice
This basic wordpress site shares what has to be the most updated information about bus travel in Belize, including frequently updated information about this border crossing right here—he even updated it during the Coronavirus pandemic. The guy who updates it is also very active in the Lonely Planet Thorntree forum discussions about all things Belize. And Rome2Rio shows regularly updated transportation advice for this passage as well.
Ferry Options to Caye Caulker or San Pedro: If you’re up for it, there is a great water taxi transfer from Chetumal to Caye Caulker or San Pedro. You’ll have to arrive and catch the last one by 3pm, so if you do arrive in time, it’s a great option.
Paying the FMM / Mexican Exit Fee: I have read that there is now a bit of a shakedown at this border, at times. If you arrived by air and are leaving by land, paying this fee gets complicated. Here is the best rundown you’ll find online, and this blogger shares their experience in 2014—note that their bus information is wrong, but their advice on the FMM is good to know.
Onward from the border. Stay the night in Corozal, the closest town to the border, if you’ve made one of the last crossings of the day (this is what I did and then headed by water taxi to San Pedro). Alternately, head to the main bus station (if your bus is not one already heading to Belize city). Southbound buses to Belize City take about four hours and depart from Corozal roughly every half hour from 3 am to 7:15 pm.
If you’re heading through Belize into Guatemala, I wrote an extensive guide to exploring Tikal, and my Guatemala Travel Guide offers free online advice on the best things to do, see, eat, and insider tips on how to navigate the country.
Tikal, Guatemala Travel Guide
The Mayan ruins of Tikal are a bus ride or shuttle away over the border into Tikal. Here’s how to make the most of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
I fully can recommend Venancio as driver. Trustful, friendly, on time and helpful at the border controls. Thank you Venancio!
Alex & Marina
I highly recommend reaching out to Venancio on WhatsApp! I contacted him in July 2023 and along with his Mum (Carmen) and Dad (Jesus) found them perfectly reliable, trustworthy and a pleasure to interact with. They all speak English and provided patient and personal help with knowledge only locals have about the border. If you are crossing this border call Venancio! ( +5017036711 )
“Ferry Options to Caye Caulker or San Pedro: If you’re up for it, there is a great water taxi transfer from Chetumal to Caye Caulker or San Pedro. You’ll have to arrive and catch the last one by 3pm, so if you do arrive in time, it’s a great option.”
Heads up per the People at the office in Caye Caulker this is no longer running as of January 2023, so be aware that land is your only option at this time!
TinyWanderer
January 2023
Jan 3, 2023: I highly recommend using Venancio ( +501-603-6711) for crossing at the border. We used him in December 2022 and he went above and beyond to help us get through. We got stuck at the Mexico border point with our dog. We would not have gotten across without the help of Venancio. He is very knowledgable and willing to help in any way needed. He has a variety of vehicles including a large van (15 passenger I think..) and a smaller mini van as well. You can whatsapp him with the number above and he is quick to respond.
We 10/10 recommend Jesus’ shuttle service.
After staying in Chetumal and taking the ferry to Caye Caulker in Belize we found out we forgot an item (with a lot of personal value) at our hotel in Chetumal.
We contacted Jesus regarding our problem and he proactively suggested to fetch it for us (saving us the hassle of going back and forth to Chetumal from Belize).
He was amazing since the very beginning. Really understanding of our problem and extremely responsive (he responds on whatsapp within only a few seconds). He is very professional, fluent in English and super punctual.
We can’t thank Jesus enough for his help!
Hey~
I traveled to Belize to visit the ancient Mayan ruins for research, to visit a cousin, and to just take a short break. I’ve heard going via the border was cheaper than flying, so I thought, “Why Not?”
After purchasing my bus tickets I found this site. And it was here that I learned about the uncouth going-ons that could happen to a traveler crossing over.
Thankfully, also on this site, I came across info for Venancio’s Shuttle Service (Watsapp: +5016036711) I called him rigjt away.
He responded to my inquiries and let me know what to look out for; and kept in touch with me from the time I got on the bus, to the moment he met me.
And he safely got me to my destination. He even checked the area to make sure there wasn’t anyone tresspassing and he didn’t leave until he saw I was safely inside. He is a gentleman and I highly recommend his service.
He won’t scam you.
He is legit, protective, and a lot of fun to talk with.
Again, it’s: Venancio Shuttle Service – Watsapp: +5016036711
You won’t ve disappointed.
Hey everyone, two brits here who crossed the border in mid December 22. We read a lot of things online and in reality it really is quite simple. If you want to take the stress out of it, get a shuttle with one of the recommended services. If you have some level of Spanish and are in Chetumal then go to the ‘New Market’ bus station and ask for the bus heading to Belize, in our case it was Corozal. You’ll probably have to wait for a while but the bus will take you to the Mexican border, then be prepared with your documents (if you’ve flown in and/or have stayed in Mexico for less than 7 days) to prove you do not need to pay the tax. Then the bus will take you to the Belize border – at this point you need to get your luggage off, get your stamp in and then the bus will take you to your destination. It cost us $5USD per person from Chetumal to Corozal.
The shuttle will be easier and quicker but you’ll pay a slight premium for the convenience.
Hi Dan, don’t suppose you have any intel on how early buses leave from Chetumal? Did you travel on to Belize City from Chetumal via chicken bus? Thanks
We travelled from Cancun to Chetumal on Dec 12, 2022 on the ADO bus, then used Venancio’s services to get from Chetumal to Corozal.
The most confusing part was making sure we got on the right bus in Cancun!
Venancio’s services made the border crossing incredibly smooth. He communicated exactly what would happen via WhatApp and was very quick to respond to any questions.
Venancio had a taxi pick us up at the Chetumal station and bring us to the border crossing where Venancio met us with paperwork ready to fill out.
The Mexican border official was very friendly and helpful. I had our flight receipt on my phone showing the tourism tax and that was sufficient to not pay it again. The fellows ahead of us didn’t have any receipts from their flight so had to pay it.
The Belize border crossing was smooth as well.
I’d highly recommend Venancio if you need transportation across the border or within Belize. For the short trip we had he shared a lot of knowledge about Belize and Corozal.
We’re heading back up to Cancun later this week and will be using Venancio again!
We used Venancio Shuttle Service to cross the boarder from Belize to Mexico and it was super easy and comfortable for us. We recommend his service.
We would definitely recommend Venancio, we booked a transfer with him in November 2022, and while the border officer was trying to scam us, he managed to navigate the situation with us so we got our money back. Beyond being a nice guy, he very much cares about you not being scammed, which is what you want when you cross this border.
For those interested: last week we booked transport from Bacalar to Caye Caulker using Atlanta Express. The total cost per person was 51 USD, which included pickup from our hotel and (one way) ferry ticket to the island. Your (Whatsapp) contact will be Mohammed, a very helpful and friendly guy who will answer your questions almost immediately. He (and the company) is located in Belize City, literally at the docks.
Mohammed will arrange a taxi for you which will bring you to the Belize border. There you will be guided by multiple people, the whole border crossing went very smooth. In case you arrived by plane in Mexico, make sure to print out your ticket which lists the Mexican Tourist tax so you won’t have to pay again (the tax needs to be listed in your costs, just a ticket without specifications won’t be enough). Once we got our exit stamp we were guided to a shuttle bus, where you will probably join other travelers.
The shuttle bus then dropped us off at Belize City docks, where we finally met Mohammed. This is also where you pay (you can pay by card) so there are no other payments along the way besides perhaps a tourist tax. Note that Mohammed accepts different currencies so this was a nice way for us to get rid of our Mexican pesos.
All in all we were very happy with the service provided with Mohammed and Atlanta Express. We therefore booked our next tickets from Caye Caulker to San Ignacio at Atlanta Express as well.
Mohammed’s number: +501 652-6565
John 1 thing he didn’t help you save up money on the scam at the Mexican border if you travel with venancio Shuttle Service we make you save and we do stops at atm and to buy a sim if my coustomer need to any stops along the way we organize trips any where in Mexico to any where in belize to book +5016036711
Hey there,
We just crossed the border from Mexico to belize in a rental car today.
There are 4 stops:
1) at Mexico, get an exit stamp from the small booth in the middle of the road. If the window is closed, park and get out and queue. Ask the guards if you can’t find it.
If you’ve gone over the river crossing and don’t have a stamp, you’ve gone too far.
2) quarantine office. Looks like a car wash on the right hand side and get a certificate.
3) Belize border. Make sure to bring all your car documentation here – rental car documentation, rental car certificate to cross to Belize, quarantine certificate etc.
4) insurance office. Even if you have a rental, you need it. It’s just after the border on the right hand side before the road curves to the left.
We did not need to take any covid tests. $5 USD/per person for the quarantine and $30 USD for 1 week car insurance.
We used Venancio for travelling from Bacalar to the Belize City ferry terminal to go to Caye Caulker in November 2022. It may sound weird messaging a number on WhatsApp but trust me it works! Venancio was super helpful and we only booked two days before. The journey was smooth and Venancio is great, good to chat to to pass the journey time. And got us to Belize City in great time. He also helped us to navigate the Mexico – Belize border. Would highly recommend him!
Just want to add another endorsement for Venancio shuttle service!
My girlfriend and I used him in Nov 22 to go from Chetumal to Belize City. Got his number from here and dropped him a WhatsApp. I’ll admit I was a bit hesitant at first but its honestly so easy. Venancio let us know what information we’d need at the border crossing (proof of departure tax etc.) And how the crossing works.
He organised a taxi to pick us up from Chetumal bus station to bring us to him, and when we got to Belize City he helped us find our right bus for our trip onwards.
Venancio also helped us with a bunch of recommendations for Mexico and Belize, and was able to tell us so much about Belizian and Mexico history. It’s a two hour drive from the border to Belize City and having someone as interesting as Venancio to talk to made the time fly by!
Couldn’t recommend enough!
Mike, 29, UK
We would highly recommend Venancio’a shuttle service- he was recommended by friends and helped us out asap when we were in a pickle with the mexico- Belize border. He even went out of his way to arrange overnight accommodation in Cozumel as the bank at the border was closed at night. We felt very safe and Venancio was very punctual and a pleasure to chat to.
Travelled with Venancio in November 2022. He told me no worries I will make the border super easy for you and he did just that. He can even provide a photo of the tourist tax written on a flight booking that I used to avoid being scammed at the Mexican border, exactly what he said he would do. Don’t bother searching around, just use Venancio, it was an absolute pleasure chatting with him and he made my life very easy too. Bon voyage
Hello,
I would like to know how to go to Chetumal Mexico from Belize City, Belize. I do not want to fly to Cancun. What is the best option? Any tip or hint will be helpful
Hi Paula send me a chat +5016036711 I can assist you traveling I can guide you
I recommend Venancio Shuttle Service.
It seems a bit strange booking via Whatsapp but surprisingly it was completely legit and exactly how the reviews here describe it.
Picked up from Bacalar and dropped off at Belize City for 50USD.
Speaking with Venancio was not only the highlight of my trip, but of my entire life.
I am a cemac passport holder resident in the UAE.
I just obtain a Belizean e-visa for for a planed trip in December.
I have plans to navigate to cancune as some friends will leave us to cancune mexico so will.like to.meet up.
Do i need a mexican visa to cross the lannd boaders. From belize.
Thanks
Hey leo
How are you doing today
Please can you share me your contact number
Whatsap or email or even both
Thanks
We used Venancio in Oct 2022. It would have been $50usd per person if there had been other people in the shuttle but there was no one else that needed to go when we needed to, so we paid $150usd for 2 people from Chetumal airport to the Belize City ferry. It was worth it for how easy it was. Venancio arranged a taxi to pick us up from the airport and bring us to him near the border and the border crossings were a breeze. Would recommend using him!
Venancio organized our trip from Bacalar to Flores. Everything went super smooth! Highly recommended!
Hi friends!
Me and my girlfriend are taking the shuttle bus to Belize city this Friday Oct 7. We are taking a shuttle bus at 12 PM and we have more seats avail if anyone wants to share the trip text me at +52 5538856719 WhatsApp
Anyone wanna share a shuttle from Chetumal to Belize city around 7-8 of October? We are two persons. Contact me on whatsapp if interested +4528189949
Hi friends!
Me and my girlfriend are taking the shuttle bus to Belize city on Friday Oct 7 the at 12 PM, anyone who wants to share the trip text me at +52 5538856719 WhatsApp
We went with Venancio from Bacalar to the ferry in Belize City. He was really helpful with the border crossing which made the whole journey so easy! We didn’t have to pay the tourism tax because they knew we were with Venancio. He runs a very organised shuttle and I’d highly recommend!
26th September 2022 Hi guys having a shuttle moving tomorrow morning to caye caulker san pedro san Ignacio Guatemala for more information contact #+5016036711 Venancio Shuttle Service BZ MEX
603-6711
https://maps.app.goo.gl/3Gj4wJTsZFgYDyJM9. Are you Planing your next trip to visit belize or heading to the airport or coming into the country well don’t wait no more you can do your Booking 1 day before chetumal ado,cancun, playa del carmen ,tulum, bacalar , Guatemala flores, and any where in our beautiful country of Belize 🇧🇿📲🚖💯❤✌
Definitely recommend venancio for this journey, we went from chetumal to belize city on 21st sept 2022 – we were picked up from the hostel then got through the boarder quickly and on to belize city to make the 10:30 ferry to caye caulker.
Have heard you can also get a chicken bus from chetumal to belize city, but only at certain times and it takes a long time so definitely recommend Venancio to make it really easy!
The price was $50 usd per person for venancio, I would recommend paying the visitax (tourist tax) online beforehand (c.10usd pp) otherwise they scam you at the border and charge you about 30 usd to leave mexico. There was no belize entry fee.
do you have a link you could share to prepay the visitax (tourist tax) online beforehand? TIA!
I can really recommend venancio shuttle services from corozal. He organized mexican taxis to pick us up at ADO terminal chetumal and take us to Belize boarder where he was waiting for us to guide us through customs and then take us all the way to san ignacio, me my wife 3 kids and luggage for 400usd all included. On the way he shared useful and interesting insights on the country with us and we arrived at our destination as planned without any issues. Considering that I had just googled and texted him the day before it almost seemed like a miracle :) thank you venancio!
(22nd September 2022 )Good night my fellow travelers venancio Shuttle Service have a Shuttle moving tomorrow at 7am early in the morning to go to ferry port to go to caye caulker san pedro belize San Ignacio Guatemala flores and returning at 12:30pm to go to ado chetumla bacalar if any person intresting contact me via WhatsApp +5016036711 and don’t get stranded at the border or at the airport or at the ado in chetumal I work 24/7 can get you any where from mexico or belize very trust worthy 4:20frindlyzone
Really recommend Jesus shuttle service. Took shuttle from Bacalar to Belize city. Everything on time with no issues at all.
From reading this blog, we contacted Alberto to help us cross the border from Mexico to Belize. Out of everyone we contacted, Alberto gave us the best price at 50 USD.
His colleague, Mario, collected us from Chetumal in Mexico and drove us to the border. Once we got through, Mario passed us over to Alberto for a direct handover. From there, we were taken to Corozal for our ferry crossing.
He was on time, responsive and gave clear instructions. I’d recommend him highly.
Anybody wana share a shuttle on the 9th of September 2022 moving at 7 in the morning contact #5016036711
Any person wana save on traveling to caye caulker or san pedro the boats that leave from chetumal is too expensive it’s 1 person can still save coming on a shuttle do the math if you don’t wana wast all your day traveling contact me so I make your life easy 1st September 2022 +5016036711
Venancio organised a very last minute pick up for us and gave us some great tips for crossing the border which made it a total breeze. He was waiting for us when we came out of immigration and took us all the way to Belize City. He couldn’t have been friendlier and gave us lots of info about Belize on the way. Couldn’t recommend enough!
Hi travelers,
There is a Chicken Bus from Chetumal to Belize City for 12 USD. Ask at Chetumal Bus Station for the local bus to BC. The bus brings you to the Border and waits for you until you are finished (10 min). The Bus is easy, safe and cheap so I am glad that I took this Option.
If you are looking for a Taxi/Shuttle, Venancio and Jesus are fine as well but if course much more expensive if you are just one or two.
Hi Rodger, do you have any info on what times they leave from Chetumal and how long the trip takes before you arrive in Belize City? Thanks
Without the help of Venancio I would not have known how to get to Flores. He helped me out A lot and Made me feel save during the travel!
We hired Venancio to shuttle our large family from Chetumal across the border and back to Mexico. He was helpful not only as a taxi driver but also as a guide and translator.
Hi everyone,
if you are planning to cross the land border from Mexico to Belize, I can fully recommend you the Venancio Shuttle Service, +5016036711.
They helped me a lot in the whole process. They will bring you from the Mexican border over the Belizean border straight to your home no matter where you live in Belize. They also know the people from the border so your stuff will not be searched a lot. At least that what happened in my case
I recommend travelling across the border with venancio (number +5016036711)! He arranged for me to be collected from where I was staying in Chetumal and made sure I got across the border in time for my boat from Corozal pier! He was extremely helpful despite me needing collecting in the early hours of the morning!
We used Venancio, who has a van ideal for larger groups: +501-603-6711
He was great – helped us at border crossing and with things to know about border crossing and told us a lot about the country – definetely recommended.
Much easier than trying to get ferry from chetumal (that’s a scam with bad customer service).
Venancio helped us a short notice and meant we had a smooth journey down to belize city fwrry terminal and a much nicer and shorter ferry ride to caye caulker (or sand pedro) – thanks!
Love these guys!!
We contacted Venancio at 10pm with a request to get from Bacalar Mexico to Caye Caulker, through Belize City. He came back with an option within 5 mins! We shared a shuttle with another couple, Jesus met us at the border and guided us through the process, which was easy because Venancio had given us the heads up about border tax, etc.
I HIGHLY recommend these guys!
On August 23 /2022 having a shuttle moving at very soon rougly at 6am from chetumal or bacalar heading to Corozal,Orange walk, Belize city, ferry port, to San pedro or caye caulker or a next shuttle moving at 12:30am from Belize city straight to San Ignacio or Guatemala Flores tikal Don’t stress wasting long lines or all day traveling on a bus when you can make it express with venancio Shuttle Service We offer service 24/7 very trust Worthy venancio # +5016036711 (4:20)friendly zone
On August 23 /2022 having a shuttle moving at very soon rougly at 6am from chetumal or bacalar heading to Corozal,Orange walk, Belize city, ferry port, to San pedro or caye caulker or a next shuttle moving at 12:30am from Belize city straight to San Ignacio or Guatemala Flores tikal Don’t stress wasting long lines or all day traveling on a bus when you can make it express with venancio Shuttle Service We offer service 25/7 very trust Worthy venancio # +5016036711 (4:20)friendly zone
Jesus Shuttle Service has a shuttle running tomorrow August 18th. The shuttle will be from Bacalar to Belize or from Bacalar to Flores. If anyone is interested please feel free to contact me @+501-6206653 WhatsApp is available. Have a Blessed Wednesday.
We are 2 people travelling from Chetumal to Belize City on August 17th. We are interesting in sharing a taxi. We are looking for 2 more people. We already have the contact with taxi driver Venancio. Please contact us on whatsapp if you are interested (0034663633748)
Bless morning my bagpackers friends don’t stress wana get from baclar to belize city belmopan Cayo,caye caulker,San pedro,San ignacio, Guatemala flores any where in the country of Belize Venancio Shuttle Service have the solution for your travel safe and reliable contact us at +5016036711 WhatsApp available shuttle service 24/7 hours (Friendly Zone 4:20🍁)
Good day Travelers 🧳 Jesus Shuttle service will have a shuttle available from Bacalar to Belize City on August 14th leaving at 8:00 a.m. If anyone would like to join please feel free to contact us @ +501-6206653. WhatsApp is available. We look forward to hear from you.. God bless!
Hi,
I see that there are also no buses going from Mexico to Belize anymore? Is that correct? I cannot find anything on the ADO website?
Contact me so I can guide you +5016036711 venancio
August 6th, 2022. We booked with Jesus on Whats app +501 620-6653. $180 from the Ado bus station in Chetumal. He arranged our taxi to the Mexico border, met us there and took us through the whole border process stress free. Took approx 25 minutes. At this time Belize has removed all restrictions, no Vax proof, no health fee. We provided receipt of Mexico fee already paid when we arrived in Cancun. Jesus and his wife were amazing and knowledgeable and we were so happy to have found this blog. Thank you. 1000% worth every penny and piece of mind to get to out destination in Belize City.
4th August 2022 at 8oclock have a shuttle moving from chetumal to ferry port in belize city or to san Ignacio Guatemala flores for more information #+5016036711
Hello my travelers 🧳
Jesus Shuttle Service will be having a shuttle service for the 5th of August from Bacalar to Belize or to Guatemala 🇬🇹. Contact us at +501-6206653. WhatsApp is available.
Crossed the border twice in July with the help of Venancio – he’s flexible, friendly and affordable.
Highly recommended.
We are attempting to get from Cozumel, Mexico to San Pedro, Belize tomorrow 25th of July 2022. We can not figure out if there’s a straight ferry, and if they help with border crossings? Can anyone help with suggestions?
Recommend Venancio Shuttle service. Picked up from hotel door in Chetumal and dropped at ferry terminal to Caye Caulker and San Pedro Send a WhatsApp ( number in thread) and he will respond.
No bother with health insurance or proff of vaccination at border and did not need to pay any departure tax ( just showed passport with Mexican arrival card inside). Very straightforward. Things are gradually getting back to normal. Hurrah!
The article says you need a reservation to enter Belize. What if you want to cross into Belize and immediately cross back into Mexico (due to expiring FMM)? Has anyone done this successfully?
We just returned from Belize where we stayed one night in Corozal, one night in San Pedro and 4 nights in Caye Caulker. There were 9 of us (2 families) who drove from Mexico to the Belize border. We contacted a few of the recommended taxi drivers on this blog and Jesus got back to us within seconds. He and his wife, Carmen, met us on the Mexican side and guided us step by step through the process. It made things so much easier and faster as they work with the border management team and do this on a regular basis. Jesus explained that their country has been in a recession in the past two years since tourism came to a halt. Upon returning from Caye Caulker to Corozal, he and Carmen were at the dock waiting for us and took us back to our vehicles at the border. I highly recommend Jesus shuttle service to anyone wanting to drive to Belize from Mexico!!
Thank you truly appreciate your feedback God bless 🙏🏾
We went from Bacalar to Belize City (and right after to Caye Caulker – in total it took 4 hours) with Venancio (+5016036711) and we were so happy that we did it! Even though the border crossing was surprisingly easy and quick we were happy to have less stress with the transportation. Venancio is really fun and tells a lot of his stories on the drive!
Concerning the crossing: we did not have to show any vaccinations or pcr tests actually – i don’t know if that was due to our officers. We also didn’t have to pay the exit fee, even though we didn’t have a detailed bill. We just showed that we payed taxes on our flight but didn’t have detailled information (normally they want to see something with “Mexican Tax”). But I guess that was just luck cause the officer was nice. I feel like speaking spanish helps too. So all in all I would definitely recommend it!
Will have a shuttle moving tomorrow from bacalar or chetumal to go directly to belize city to go to caye caulker or san ignacio or Guatemala flores for more information feel happy to ask +5016036711 Venancio Shuttle Service
Just wanted to say the Venancio was absolutely amazing! We got the ADO bus from Tulum to Chetumal and then Venancio organised a taxi for us from the bus station to the border and then he collected us from there and brought us to the ferry to Caye Caulkner. It couldn’t have been smoother and he is such a nice guy and shares lots of interesting information. Thanks so much Venancio :) Also the border control is very straight forward and the people working were really friendly.
Side note : we originally were going to get the ferry directly from chetumal but it seems to only come once everyday and we wouldn’t have made it on time. It also seemed to work out cheaper to do it our way!
What ferry company was it with? Chetumel to San Pedro? We are still trying to sort out options out!
Thanks!
Water jets international cross from chetumal to San Pedro and caye caulker!
Hi everyone,
Thanks so much for all the advice! I’m just a bit confused, it looks like we can get a ferry from chetumal to Caye caulkner directly but then I’m confused as to where we would go through the border? We’re currently in Tulum and we were planning on getting the ADO bus to Chetumal and then the ferry but do we have to go to Belize city and get the ferry from there because of the border?Any help would be greatly appreciated!
Contact me so give you guide
I’m in Caye Caulker and the ferry to Chetumal seems to have restarted.
We crossed the border today and we didn’t need a pre-booked driver at all. At the border we made a deal with one of the local drivers to bring us to Corozal for 25 USD. There we catched the 11:45 bus to San Ignacio (which took about 5 hours), which passes through Belize City as well.
Btw; the mandatory Belize health insurance isn’t needed as well since today. What a luck!
Hi,
I am so happy I have found this page, the comments have been great. What is the best option to visit San Pedro from Chetumal. Is the water taxi a good option from there and what is the customs situation arriving by boat into Belize.
Thanks
James
Hi did you got tru +5016036711
I haven’t been yet, I am planning to go on the water taxi on the 22nd of August.
Hello!
I am taking the shuttle with Jesus on Friday morning 15.07.2022. If anyone else wants to join please let me know ( WhatsApp: +4915120745791)
:))
19th July 2022 bless day just letting all travelers know that for that date we have two persons intresting in a straight ride coming from San ignacio and looking for 2 more persons to share cost price can be vise versa Mexico to San ignacio or to Guatemala belize aswell to chetumal or bacalar contact us for more information +5016036711 Friendly zone 4:20 📲🚖🇲🇽🇧🇿💯
Hi me and my boyfriend travel the 27th of july from Bacalar to Belize city. If people want to join, send a message to venancio (number is stated above). Greetings
We recommend Venancio’s shuttle service for border crossing. He is very reliable and made the whole process very easy for us. +5016036711
I agree, we used him Oct 22 and he was reliable and informative
We travelled the border in July 2022 with Jesus (+501 620-6653). One can reach him easily via WhatsApp and he is super responsive and helpful.
A driver picked us up at our hostel in Bacalar, helped us to find an ATM on the way, brought us to the border where Jesus was waiting and helping us with all the administration and even provided the needed forms. Afterwards, we were driven to Orange Walk, however also Corozal and Belize City are options.
All in all a very smooth boarder crossing I can recommend!
Administration at the border included:
– paying a Mexican exit fee. However, if you can proof that you travelled with Aeromexico this is already included in the flight price and you don’t have to pay
– Covid administration only included checking of proof of vaccination. The health insurance we bought online upfront didn’t have to be shown
– Entering form in Belize (no cost involved)
My friend and I were traveling from Belize to Tulum and are so thankful that we found this blog! We took the ferry from San Pedro to corazol and Venancio picked us up from the ferry station and drove us across the border to the Chetumal ADO bus station. He was so kind and helpful throughout the trip by telling us what to expect during the immigration / border process and then even helping us figure out what bus to take to Tulum. A perk is that he is a dual citizen of both belize and mexico, meaning he will be there with you throughout the whole border process.
Would definitely book Venancio again :)
I literally just cross from Chetumal-Belize-Chetumal these last couple of days.
I organzied my trip with JESUS who was amazing since the very beggining! Very professional, always on time, he guided me through all the border steps, total stress free!!! He even organzine my accomodation in Belize side and always gave me tips and advice based on his 13+ years of experience!
Seriously, contact Jesus! He knows how to deliver an excelent service!!
8th and 9th July 2022 having a shuttle moving from bacalar or chetumal to belize city Port in belize city or to San Ignacio or Guatemala flores contact +5016036711 4:20 friendly zone https://www.facebook.com/venancio.domingueztaxi make your border crossing easy cheesy
I would like to recommend Jesus’ shuttle service. It makes the whole border crossing a piece of cake. He arranged a taxi at our hotel in Bacalar and we got dropped of all the way at the Belize City Harbor. He made us feel safe during the border crossing and made sure everyone arrived safely. The price is also very fair.
I just went from chetumal to Belize city today and took a cab at8am to the border for 200 pesos I did have to pay the exit fee (638 pesos) for Mexico since I had lost my receipt along my travels. When I got to the Belize side there was no COVID testing they only asked to see my shots (I only have 2) asked where I was staying and how long I’ll be in the country but they didn’t mention anything about having travel insurance at all.once I got through customs I took a small shuttle van for $2us to corazale and it dropped off right at the bus station where the bus to Belize city was which was $6us
Hi Adam, did you book your shuttle van in advance to Corazale? How did you find out information about this in advance?