Welcome to Belize: Complete Philip Goldson Airport Arrival Guide (2026)
Everything you need to know for your arrival at Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport (BZE). Transportation, tips, and recommendations for a smooth arrival in Belize.
Contents
Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport (BZE)
Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport is Belize's main international gateway, located in Ladyville, approximately 16 kilometers northwest of Belize City. Named after a prominent Belizean politician and national hero, this airport serves as the primary entry point for travelers exploring Belize's incredible barrier reef, ancient Mayan ruins, and lush rainforests.
While smaller than other Central American airports, Goldson provides efficient service and easy connections to Belize's top destinations, from the cayes to the jungle interior.
What to Expect Upon Arrival
Immigration Process
Belize's immigration process is friendly and efficient:
- Complete the immigration form (usually distributed on the plane)
- Immigration line - Present passport and completed form
- Baggage claim - Small but efficient carousel area
- Customs declaration - Random selection for bag inspection
Tip: Immigration officers are known for being welcoming - "Welcome to Belize!" is a common greeting.
Visa Requirements
Belize has visitor-friendly entry requirements. Citizens from the US, Canada, UK, EU, Australia, and most Commonwealth countries can enter without a visa for stays up to 30 days (extendable). Requirements:
- Valid passport with 6+ months validity
- Proof of onward travel
- Proof of sufficient funds ($75 USD per day recommended)
- Accommodation details
Note: Visa extensions available at Immigration Office in Belize City ($50 BZD per month).
Transportation from the Airport
Private Transfer (Recommended)
The most convenient option, especially for island or jungle destinations.
- To Belize City: $25-35 USD
- To San Ignacio (Cayo): $150-180 USD
- To Water Taxi Terminal (for Cayes): $30-40 USD
Book in advance through your hotel, resort, or services like Belize Transfers.
Taxis
Licensed taxis wait outside the arrivals area. Rates are generally fixed by destination.
- To Belize City Center: $25-30 USD
- To Water Taxi Terminal: $25-35 USD
- To Belize City hotels: $25-30 USD
Always confirm the fare before departing. Taxis accept USD and Belize Dollars.
Rental Cars
Several agencies operate at the airport:
- Budget, Hertz, Crystal Auto Rental (local)
- Useful for exploring the mainland (Cayo, Placencia)
- 4WD recommended for unpaved roads
- Drive on the RIGHT side (unlike other Commonwealth countries)
- International license accepted
Shuttle Services
Some resorts and tour operators offer shared shuttles:
- Cayo shuttle services to San Ignacio
- Usually need advance booking
- More economical for solo travelers
Connecting to the Cayes
Most visitors to Belize head to the islands. Here's how to get there:
To Ambergris Caye & San Pedro
Option 1: Domestic Flight (Recommended)
- Tropic Air and Maya Island Air operate from the international terminal
- Flight time: 15-20 minutes
- Cost: $100-150 USD round trip
- Multiple daily departures
Option 2: Water Taxi
- Taxi to Marine Terminal in Belize City ($25-35 USD)
- Water taxi to San Pedro: 1.5 hours
- Cost: $50-60 BZD ($25-30 USD) round trip
- San Pedro Belize Express and Ocean Ferry operate hourly
Explore our Ambergris Caye hotels guide and discover diving the Belize Barrier Reef.
To Caye Caulker
Similar options as Ambergris Caye:
- Domestic flight: 10 minutes
- Water taxi: 45 minutes from Belize City
Connecting to Mainland Destinations
To San Ignacio & Cayo District (2-2.5 hours)
The Cayo District offers jungle adventures, Mayan ruins (Caracol, Xunantunich), and cave exploration.
Best option: Private transfer, rental car, or shared shuttle
Explore our San Ignacio jungle lodges guide.
To Placencia (3.5-4 hours by road or 40 min flight)
A beach peninsula on the mainland's southern coast.
Best option: Domestic flight (Tropic Air) or scenic drive
To Hopkins (2.5-3 hours)
A Garifuna village known for culture and beaches.
Best option: Private transfer or rental car
Practical Tips for Your Arrival
Currency Exchange
- Local currency: Belize Dollar (BZD)
- Exchange rate: Fixed at $2 BZD = $1 USD
- USD widely accepted everywhere (change given in BZD)
- ATMs available at airport and in Belize City
- No need to exchange - USD works fine
SIM Cards and Connectivity
Stay connected in Belize:
- Digi (BTL) is the main carrier with airport kiosk
- Tourist SIM: $20-30 BZD for data package
- Coverage good on cayes and main towns
- Spotty in remote jungle areas
- Most hotels have WiFi
Safety Considerations
Belize is generally safe for tourists, but take precautions:
- Use official transportation from the airport
- Avoid walking in Belize City at night
- Keep valuables secure, especially in transit
- The cayes and jungle areas are very safe
- Use hotel safes for passports and valuables
Weather Preparation
Belize has a tropical climate:
- Dry season (December-May): 24-30°C (75-86°F), best weather
- Rainy season (June-November): 26-32°C (79-90°F), afternoon showers
- Hurricane season: June-November (rare direct hits)
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen (required by law)
- Light, breathable clothing recommended
Domestic Flights
Belize has excellent domestic air connections:
Airlines: Tropic Air, Maya Island Air
Destinations from BZE:
- San Pedro (Ambergris Caye) - 15 min
- Caye Caulker - 10 min
- Dangriga - 20 min
- Placencia - 40 min
- Punta Gorda - 50 min
Domestic terminal is adjacent to international arrivals.
Municipal Airport Alternative
Belize City Municipal Airport (TZA) is closer to the city center and often used for domestic flights:
- Located in Belize City proper
- Shorter taxi ride to water taxis
- Domestic flights slightly cheaper from here
- No international flights
Departure Information
When leaving Belize from BZE:
- Arrive 2-3 hours before international flights
- Departure tax: $55.50 BZD ($27.75 USD) - usually included in ticket
- PACT Conservation Fee: $40 BZD ($20 USD) - often included
- Small duty-free shop available
- Limited food options - eat before arriving
- Exchange leftover BZD before departure
Conclusion
Arriving at Philip Goldson International Airport is your gateway to one of Central America's most diverse destinations. From the world's second-largest barrier reef to ancient Mayan temples hidden in the jungle, Belize offers incredible experiences in a compact, English-speaking country.
Explore our complete Belize hotels guide to plan your perfect stay, whether you're seeking island relaxation or jungle adventure.
Welcome to Belize - where the adventure begins!
