Buses are the primary mode of transportation for Belizeans and routes run on regular schedules throughout the country, with most buses stopping to pick up and drop off passengers at most any location along the way. Every bus has a driver and a “conductor” who collects fares and sometimes assists passengers load their baggage which often includes vegetables and chickens destined for the nearest market. On work days buses start runs at 5am and go up to 9pm.
The bus system equipment in Belize is mostly based on derelict American school buses with the most popular brand being the Blue Bird Bus. With a wild system of issuing licenses based on political patronage, there is little organization and structure and bus schedules have a way of shifting by the month. But this is changing.
A new entrant in Belize’s public transportation sector is Floriala. The company began operating in 2021 and currently services southern western and central Belize with all new first world standard diesel buses imported from China.
Floralia uses Yutong buses which are luxury coach inter-city buses. They come equipped with comfortable seating, AC, visual entertainment, USB chargers, a bathroom and even cupholders. YuTong buses in Belize are diesel powered and similar to those used in public and travel industry transportation in neighbouring Mexico and Guatemala.
Types Of Buses Used In Belize
Bus companies offer two types of services: “Regular” buses and “Express” buses. Regular buses stop for passengers anywhere along the route, while Express (or non-stop) buses only stop at main towns. The final destination of each bus is displayed in its front window.
The express bus is the top-of-the-line bus in Belize. These buses have an Express sign and do not normally stop to pick up passengers on the road. These are favored by employees who commute and need to get to their job spot on time. Service is acceptable and generally reliable and if you are lucky the air conditioning may actually work. The regular bus is luck of the draw. Usually ancient American school buses with a lick of paint and maybe upgraded upholstery on thin foam seats that will make you feel every pothole on the road.
Buses tend to be crowded. The best advice is to arrive an hour before your intended departure. Some buses sell tickets. Most do not. The practice is to arrive early and just get on the bus that is about to leave. After the journey has begun the conductor will start to walk the aisle to collect the fare. If you are stopping between points, tell the conductor, or simply shout “Bus Stop” as you approach where you want to be let off.
Always keep your luggage on you or within view. Belize buses have little space for luggage. Do not allow anyone to put your luggage away as that may be the last you will ever see of it. Passengers and conductors tend to use the emergency back door to enter and leave the bus, so never ever put your luggage at the back of the bus.