About the ride from Belize City to Flores
Belize City is the largest metropolis in Belize and, unsurprisingly, the country’s leading center of commerce. With fascinating museums, plenty of mouth-watering eats, and the chance of manatee sightings, this coastal city should be on every itinerary!
Once you’ve explored this former capital and seen Belize’s highlights, it’s time to keep moving forward — and across the border to Guatemala!
Next up is Flores, a charming town in the Peten region that serves as a gateway point to majestic Mayan ruins. You’ll want this stop on your itinerary.
The distance between Belize City and Flores is 136 miles (219 km), and the main transport options are bus and minivan. Journeys take around five hours.
But which ride is right for you?
Scroll down to learn how to get from Belize City to Flores without a hitch.
Five unique things to do and see in Flores
Flores is a popular destination on the Central American backpacking circuit for a reason: it offers ancient wonders, lakeside views, and nonstop adventure.
Don’t set yourself up for FOMO — make a note of the five best things to do in Flores:
Tikal National Park: The Tikal ruins are one of the largest examples of a pre-Columbian Maya civilization and have been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979. If you do one thing in Flores, make it a day trip to this impressive site.
Jorge’s Rope Swing: This private spot is a popular spot to chill, sunbathe, sip beers, and enjoy the lake. You’ll have to pay to enter, but it’s worth it for the vibes and views.
El Remate: Want to see another side of lake life? Spend a day at El Remate, a remote village on the east side of Lake Peten Itza (Flores is on the southwest side). It takes around 40 minutes to reach this tranquil town via car.
Flores Cathedral: Flores’ cathedral (Catedral Nuestra Senora de Los Remedios y San Pablo Itza) is one of the oldest churches in the country and was built on an original Maya temple.
Isla de Flores: Flores is a delightful small town on the bank of Lake Peten Itza, but don’t forget Isla de Flores, a tiny island within the lake. It’s connected to the town via the Malecon Miguel Hidalgo road.
Once here, you can wander the colorful, cobblestone streets and admire stunning lake views. You can also spend an afternoon enjoying the warm ambiance and embracing the slow bar and cafe culture. Or shop for souvenirs at the many authentic craft shops.
How to get from Belize City to Flores
Hold up! Before seeing the Mayan ruins, you must get from Belize City to Flores.
Buses and minivans are your main options. Learn the key differences between them below.
Note that this route includes an international border crossing. You’ll need your passport and relevant visa requirements. Read the Guatemala-Belize land border crossing guide here.
By bus
Buses from Belize City to Flores are a popular way to travel between countries. Prices start at $30 per ticket, and the average journey time is four to five hours.
Most buses leave from Marlin Espadas Belize City and arrive at Hotel y Restaurante Las Gardenias or Green Monkey Hostel. Before you travel, make a note of where you’ll arrive.
Typically, buses cross the Aduana Melchor de Mencos border crossing. Keep your passport and documents in your hand luggage, ready for border control.
Amenities available on buses include A/C, individual seats, and a large luggage allowance (around 55 lbs/25 kg per person).
Pro tip: Use the WC facilities before you board. There’s no guarantee of toilet stops on the way!
By minivan
Minivans are another popular way to get to Flores.
Often, you’ll get the van to yourself, especially if you’re in a large group. However, these aren’t private transfers, so there’s no guarantee you won’t have to share!
The cheapest minivans cost around $16 per person, making them an affordable way to travel.
The journey takes around five hours, but delays at the Melchor de Mencos border can affect this time. Double-check your travel documents before you leave to ensure you are prepared!
Most minivan journeys offer amenities such as large luggage space (up to 50 lbs or 23 kg each) and A/C.
Minivans depart from San Pedro Belize Express Water Taxi or Atlanta Express Office and arrive at Yo Amo Peten or Ramada by Wyndham Tikal Isla de Flores.
More details about the trip from Belize City to Flores
The journey from Belize City to Flores spans 219 km (136 miles) and takes you from the east of Belize to northern Guatemala.
Most buses and minivans will follow the George Price Highway, which directly connects to the Aduana Melchor de Mencos border crossing. It’s a very safe route for people of all ages, genders, and nationalities. Hundreds of international tourists cross it every day.
You will have to pay a departure tax when leaving Belize. This costs BZN 40 (approximately $20). Have cash ready before you leave.
There’s no entry fee for Guatemala. But you might have to pay $25 for a tourist visa, depending on the country you are from.
A few words of Spanish might help you on this journey but don’t worry if you don’t speak the language. Drivers and bus station staff usually have basic English proficiency — don’t be afraid to ask for help!
The best time to travel from Belize City to Flores
Travel to Flores from December to April for warm weather and dry skies. Temperatures range from 28 to 33°C (82 to 91°F).
There’s a higher chance of rain from April to November. June to September sees the most rain, with 7.8 to 11.8 inches (200 to 300 mm) falling per month. Bring an umbrella or waterproof jacket!
Flores is hot all year round, but the hottest months coincide with the wettest ones. In June, July, and August, temperatures can reach as high as 36°C/96°F.
Whenever you visit, make sure you have a big supply of SPF and lightweight clothes!
Where to visit after Flores?
Guatemala is stellar for stunning natural views and incredible outdoor experiences.
After Flores, make your way to River Dulce to explore a unique lake and river system by sailboat. You won’t forget seeing Lake Izabal in person! Flores to Rio Dulce takes four to five hours by minivan.
