If you’re heading from Belize International Airport (BZE) to Orange Walk Town, you’re traveling deep into the heart of northern Belize—an area famous for its Maya history, its Mestizo culture, and the incredible Lamanai Archaeological Site. Many travelers pass right through Belize City and never experience the north, but Orange Walk is one of Belize’s most historically rich regions.
Whether you’re visiting for adventure, archaeology, wildlife, community-based tourism, or simply heading to a lodge near the New River, this guide walks you through everything you need to know about getting from the airport to Orange Walk easily and safely.
Throughout this guide, you’ll see natural interlinks to our main transfer hub and blog center:
How Far Is Orange Walk From Belize Airport?
The drive from BZE to Orange Walk Town is approximately 75 km (47 miles) and takes 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, depending on traffic around the northern villages.
This makes Orange Walk one of the closest major destinations to the airport—yet travelers are often surprised by how different the north feels compared to the rest of the country. The farther you go up the Philip Goldson Highway, the more the landscape opens into wide farmland, cane fields, and riverside communities.
The Route: What the Drive Is Like
Your private transfer heads north from the airport and passes several local villages before reaching the town known affectionately as “Sugar City.”
Landmarks You’ll Pass Along the Way
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Ladyville – a residential community near the airport
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Burrell Boom junction – gateway to the Belize River area
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Crocodile Ridge Wildlife Sanctuary area
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Biscayne Village – known for farming communities
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Sandhill & Maskall Junction – where the road branches east to Altun Ha
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Tower Hill – home of the famous sugar factory
As you approach Orange Walk, the smell of cane sometimes drifts across the road during harvest season—the town is deeply tied to its sugar industry.
Local Fact
Orange Walk has one of the highest Maya populations in Belize and some of the strongest Mestizo cultural traditions. You’ll see this in the food—especially tacos, panades, and garnaches.
Why Choose a Private Transfer Instead of Buses or Taxis?
Northern Belize does offer public bus service, but for travelers arriving at the airport, a pre-booked private shuttle is the most reliable and convenient choice.
1. No transit into Belize City
Buses do not run directly from the airport, meaning you’d first have to taxi into Belize City and wait at the main terminal. A private shuttle eliminates all of this.
2. Safe and comfortable for families or groups
Orange Walk buses can get full during morning and late-afternoon rush hours.
A private shuttle gives you:
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AC
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Personal space
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Secure luggage handling
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Hotel drop-off (especially helpful if staying outside town)
3. Direct route with optional scenic stops
If you want to stop at Altun Ha on the way, your shuttle can detour you to the site. This is one of the biggest advantages over public transport.
4. Perfect for early or late arrivals
If your flight lands after 5pm, public bus schedules can be limited.
A private shuttle runs on your schedule, not the other way around.
Learn more about private transfer options here:
Orange Walk Travel Tips (From Local Drivers)
1. Try the tacos — no, seriously
Orange Walk is known for having the best tacos in Belize. Any local will tell you the same.
You’ll see dozens of roadside stands with long lines (a good sign).
The classic order is chicken tacos with onion and pepper sauce.
2. Take a boat tour to Lamanai
This is one of Belize’s most unique archaeological experiences.
You take a boat 30 miles upriver, spotting:
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crocodiles
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spider monkeys
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birds
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villages
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turtles
before arriving at the ruins.
3. Bring bug spray
Northern Belize—especially near rivers and lagoons—can have mosquitos at dawn and dusk.
4. Expect warm, dry weather
Orange Walk is one of the warmest regions in Belize.
Pack lightly, stay hydrated, and expect sunny days most of the year.
5. Cash is helpful
Many small restaurants and taco stands are cash-only.
ATMs are available in town if needed.
Where to Stay in Orange Walk
Most travelers choose Orange Walk as the base for visiting Lamanai or exploring northern Belize’s wildlife. Popular areas include:
Hotels & Lodges
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Hotel de la Fuente – central and reliable
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El Gran Mestizo Riverside Cabins – quiet and local
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Lamanai Landings Hotel & Marina – ideal for river access
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Chan Chich Lodge (further west) – luxury jungle lodge
If you’re staying toward the New River or Shipyard/Mennonite community, your private transfer can take you directly to remote lodges or homes.
Why Visit Orange Walk?
Because it’s one of the most authentic places in Belize.
Northern Belize doesn’t hide behind tourism — you see everyday life, farms, wildlife, and living traditions.
Things to Do in and Around Orange Walk
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Lamanai Archaeological Site (boat or road access)
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New River wildlife tours
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Rio Bravo Conservation Area
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Honey, cacao & agricultural tours
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Street food tours
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San Felipe & Shipyard Mennonite communities
This is Belize beyond the tourist map.
Arriving in Orange Walk: What to Expect
Orange Walk Town sits along the New River with a mix of colonial buildings, colorful shops, local restaurants, and waterfront views. It’s lively, friendly, and full of family-owned businesses.
When you arrive:
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your driver helps unload your luggage
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confirms directions with your accommodation
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and makes sure you’re fully set before ending the trip
Northern hospitality is real — people here look out for one another.
Ready to book your private shuttle from Belize Airport to Orange Walk?
Uncharted Jewel makes the trip safe, direct, and easy.