Where Is Belize on the Map?

Belize is a small country in Central America, on the Caribbean coast between Mexico and Guatemala, and the only one in the region with English as its official language.

Zoom out to see Belize in Central America. Borders are shown as drawn on OpenStreetMap.

RegionCentral America
NeighboursMexico, Guatemala
CapitalBelmopan
LanguageEnglish (official)

Belize in Central America

Belize sits on the south-eastern side of the Yucatán Peninsula. Mexico (the state of Quintana Roo) lies to the north, across the Río Hondo, and Guatemala to the west and south. To the east is the Caribbean Sea with the barrier reef, and to the south-east the Gulf of Honduras. It is roughly 280 km from north to south and about 110 km wide, making it one of the smallest countries on the American mainland.

Crossing to Mexico and Guatemala

  • Mexico: the main border is at Santa Elena near Corozal, opposite Chetumal. Buses run from Belize City to Chetumal and on to Cancún (about 9 to 10 hours in total). Boats also link Chetumal with San Pedro and Caye Caulker; see the water taxi map.
  • Guatemala: the main land border is at Benque Viejo, about 20 minutes from San Ignacio, on the road to Flores and Tikal. Boats from Punta Gorda sail to Puerto Barrios and Lívingston.
  • Honduras: occasional boats run from Placencia and Dangriga to Puerto Cortés.

Belize on the world map

Belize lies at about 16° to 18.5° north, the same latitude as Jamaica and southern Mexico. It is on Central Standard Time (UTC−6) all year. The nearest US gateways are Houston, Miami and Dallas, with direct flights to Belize City.

Plan Your Trip

🛕 Tikal from BelizeDay trips across the border

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Belize in Central America or the Caribbean?

Belize is on the Central American mainland, but its coast, cayes and culture also make it part of the Caribbean.

Which countries border Belize?

Mexico to the north and Guatemala to the west and south.

How do you get from Cancún to Belize?

By bus via Chetumal (about 9 to 10 hours to Belize City), by bus to Chetumal and water taxi to the cayes, or by a short flight.

Related Maps

Belize Districts MapThe six districts of Belize and their main towns.Belize Road MapThe four main highways and driving tips.BelmopanThe capital of Belize, with nearby caves and national parks.Belize Airports MapThe international airport and the domestic airstrips.