Can I use contactless or card to pay for public transport in Belize?

The buses in Belize are part of the experience. I caught one from Belmopan to Hopkins for just a few Belize dollars, paying cash directly to the conductor. The ride was slow but friendly, with locals chatting and reggae playing. Don’t expect modern card systems here, but the fares are so cheap it doesn’t matter. ATMs from Heritage Bank in Belmopan worked for me. I always carried small BZD bills and had zero issues.

Honestly, Belize’s bus system felt disorganized compared to other countries. In Belize City, I tried to take a bus to Orange Walk but the driver only accepted cash in BZD. I didn’t have change and had to run to a Scotiabank ATM to break a bigger bill. No cards, no apps, not even tickets - just cash handed over. Tourists should definitely not rely on credit or debit cards for transport.

I stayed in Caye Caulker and took the ferry back to Belize City, then hopped on a “chicken bus” to San Ignacio. The conductor literally shouted the route from the bus window and collected BZD cash once we were moving. I tried offering a US $20 bill, and he refused, saying he needed Belize dollars. No card readers anywhere. I pulled cash earlier at Atlantic Bank in downtown Belize City, which worked fine with my Mastercard. Honestly, the buses were chaotic but fun once you got used to it.

Public transport in Belize is almost entirely cash-based. The “chicken buses” (old American school buses) run from Belize City to places like San Ignacio, Belmopan, and Dangriga. Fares are paid in Belize dollars (BZD), directly to the conductor who walks down the aisle. Cards aren’t accepted on buses at all. ATMs from Scotiabank and Atlantic Bank are easy to find in Belize City and San Pedro. Always carry small bills, as drivers don’t like breaking $50 BZD notes.