Driving to Toledo
Driving to Toledo from the Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport (BZE) is a scenic and flexible way to explore southern Belize. Car rental services are conveniently located just outside the airport, and you can make reservations in advance for an easy pickup upon arrival. Once on the road, you’ll have two primary routes to choose from—each with its own unique charm and travel time.
Route Options
Coastal Highway
- Distance to Toledo: Approximately 147 miles (238 km)
- Duration: About 3.5 hours
This newly upgraded route offers a shorter, faster drive through flat coastal terrain. It’s an excellent choice for a quicker arrival to Toledo while still enjoying beautiful views.
Hummingbird Highway
- Distance to Toledo: Approximately 193 miles (310.6 km)
- Duration: About 4 hours and 15 minutes
This route takes you through Belmopan and the lush Hummingbird Highway, renowned for its breathtaking mountain views, citrus orchards, and small, charming villages. It’s a more scenic drive and a favorite among travelers.
Recommendation:
Whichever route you choose, a stop at the Belize Zoo is highly recommended—it’s a fun and educational detour, perfect for stretching your legs and enjoying Belize’s incredible wildlife.

View of the Hummingbird Highway, Belize
Driving Tips for Belize
Drive on the Right:
In Belize, traffic flows on the right-hand side of the road.
Left Turn Rule on Highways:
When turning left off a highway, you must first pull onto the right shoulder, allowing both oncoming and trailing traffic to pass before completing your turn. This rule does not apply in cities and towns.
Watch for Road Conditions:
Belize’s highways are generally in good shape, but you should still watch out for potholes, chipped pavement edges, road debris, and occasional road works. Road works are usually marked by cones and warning signs, with personnel on site, but it’s still important to stay alert and slow down in those areas.
Unmarked Speed Bumps:
There are many speed bumps throughout the country, especially near villages and towns. Some of these may be unmarked, so always drive cautiously and keep an eye out for them.
Pedestrians and Cyclists:
Drivers should be especially cautious around towns and villages, where people often walk or ride bicycles along the side of the highway. Always slow down and give space where possible.
Roundabouts:
Expect to encounter several roundabouts, particularly when driving through towns/cities or at major intersections. Yield to traffic already in the roundabout, and be sure to use your turn signals to indicate your exit.
Avoid Night Driving:
It’s best to reach your destination before dark. Belize’s highways, though beautiful in the daytime, can be poorly lit and unmarked, which makes driving at night more difficult and potentially unsafe.

Speed bumps are common along Belize’s highways
Featured Car Rentals

Pearleen's Restaurant
Belizean cooking doesn’t get any more authentic than Pearleen’s Restaurant. Formerly known as Coleman’s Café, this beloved eatery in Big Falls Village has been serving home-cooked meals since 1993.

Jungle View
Jungle View is a family-friendly bar, restaurant, and adventure retreat in Yemeri Grove, Toledo, offering delicious local cuisine, handcrafted drinks, and immersive nature experiences in a stunning jungle setting.

Uxbenka
Uxbenka is an ancient site featuring carved stelae and ceremonial structures that offer insight into the region’s rich pre-Columbian history.
Chocolate-Making
Toledo is the heart of Belize’s chocolate-making tradition, where visitors can tour cacao farms, meet local Maya chocolatiers, and experience the artisanal process of transforming cacao into rich, handcrafted chocolate.


Orang Utan Show

Riding With Elephant

Photo With Animal
Stories from Toledo
Delve into the rich tapestry of Toledo’s people and history through captivating stories that celebrate its culture, heritage, and traditions.
A PG Man’s Day in Shipyard
On a routine trip from Toledo to Shipyard for vehicle maintenance, a surprise radiator leak
The White Bucket
An unassuming plastic bucket on James Bus Line in Belize - once a vital tool
Explore Toledo
From ancient Maya ruins to breathtaking waterfalls, Toledo is a land of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. Discover charming villages, lush rainforests, and vibrant traditions that make southern Belize truly unique. Whether you’re exploring caves, tasting local cuisine, or immersing yourself in rich cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone.