Crossing the Border Mexico Belize Guatemala: My Honest Experience

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Crossing the Border Mexico Belize Guatemala: My Honest Experience

Crossing borders in Central America is always an adventure, but the Mexico–Belize border crossing stands out as one of the most confusing and, honestly, the most hassle-filled I’ve done. I’ve crossed from Mexico to Belize twice now, and each time brought its own set of surprises, paperwork, and, yes, a few “extra” fees. If you’re planning to travel overland from Mexico to Belize, or continue on to Guatemala, here’s exactly how it went for me-plus what I wish I’d known before I set out.

Mexico to Belize Border Crossing – My First Attempt

My first Mexico–Belize border crossing was a bit of a mess, mostly because I needed to get drone import permission at the Belize airport and was only planning to stay in Belize for a day. I decided to make the journey on my own, using local vans to reach the border. Here’s where things got tricky: there are actually two border points in the Chetumal area-one for entering Mexico, and one for exiting. The entry point is right in the city, while the exit is a larger post on the highway, and you’ll need a car or shuttle to get there. I learned this the hard way, walking to the wrong spot and having to backtrack.If you want to avoid this confusion, I highly recommend booking with a company like Marlin Espadas, which runs buses and minivans from Chetumal or Bacalar all the way to Belize City, San Ignacio, and even Flores, Guatemala. They know the process and will get you to the correct border post.

The Mexican Tourist Tax “Scam”

At the Mexican border, be prepared for the infamous tourist tax, officially known as the Derecho de No Inmigrante (DNI). It’s around $35 USD (575 pesos), and even if your plane ticket already included this fee, border agents might still ask you to pay again. I saw travelers being pulled into a small room, one by one, and coming out saying they had to pay, even after showing proof. In my case, I explained that I was only in Mexico for a day and working, not a tourist, and managed to avoid paying. Others weren’t so lucky-one couple had to return by taxi to pay the tax and get their passport stamped, missing their bus in the process.

Entering Belize

Once you’re through the Mexican side, the Belize border is much more straightforward. You’ll fill out a form, show your passport, and that’s it. If you’re traveling with Marlin Espadas, they’ll wait for you on the Belize side, but they won’t hold up the bus if you get delayed at customs, so move quickly if you’re on your own.

Belize to Mexico – The Return Journey

On my return from Belize to Mexico, things were smoother but not without their own quirks. Even though I’d only been in Belize for a day, I still had to pay the Belize exit tax. This fee is clearly posted at customs, but online sources claim you can avoid it if your stay is short-don’t count on it. The staff always seem to find a reason to charge you.Re-entering Mexico was easy. I filled out the entry form, presented my ticket showing my previous entry date, and was waved through. This ticket is important, as it can help avoid paying the tourist tax again if you’re returning within a week.

Mexico to Belize Border Crossing – The Second Time

The second time I crossed the Mexico–Belize border, I booked directly with Marlin Espadas from Chetumal to San Ignacio, Belize. This was much simpler. The bus took us to the correct border post, and everyone was surprised by the tourist tax-again. This time, I didn’t have to pay since my entry form showed I’d been in Mexico less than a week. For most other travelers, though, it left a bad taste as their last experience in Mexico.

Entering Belize was smooth, though I had to show my drone paperwork this time. After that, I continued my trip in Belize for a few weeks.

Crossing from Belize to Guatemala

After exploring Belize, I took the Marlin Espadas bus from Belize City to Flores, Guatemala. The Belize exit process is simple, but you’ll pay another exit tax. The Guatemala entry is even easier-just show your passport, get a stamp, and you’re in. No forms, no fuss. From there, you hop on another Marlin Espadas van to continue your journey.
Entering Belize was smooth, though I had to show my drone paperwork this time. After that, I continued my trip in Belize for a few weeks.

Do You Need to Use Marlin Espadas?

You don’t have to use Marlin Espadas, but they’ve made a business out of helping travelers cross from Mexico to Belize and on to Guatemala quickly and with less stress. If you want to do it all in one day, they’re a solid option. Just remember: you’ll pay exit taxes in both Mexico and Belize, and the Mexico–Belize border is the trickiest part because of the extra fees and confusing layout.

Final Thoughts and Tips for Border Crossings

Plan for extra time. Border crossings can be slow, especially if you hit a snag with paperwork or fees.
Bring cash (USD or pesos). You’ll need it for exit taxes and, sometimes, for “surprise” fees.
Keep all your entry forms and receipts. They can save you from paying the tourist tax twice.
Be polite but persistent. If you think you’re being unfairly charged, explain your situation, but don’t expect miracles.
Check for the latest info. Border rules can change, so ask around or check recent travel blogs before you go.

Crossing the Border Mexico Belize Guatemala can be a bit of a hassle, but with some patience and preparation, it’s totally doable. Hope this helps make your trip smoother!

If you goal is to visit some of the most beautiful maya site across those three countries, don't make those border stop you !

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I'm Hugo, a traveler driven by curiosity and a passion for discovering the world's hidden corners. After exploring over 30 countries across Latin America and Southeast Asia, I've learned that every adventure shapes who we become. I'm here to share those lessons and inspire your next great journey.

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