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How to get from San Ignacio, Belize, to Flores, Guatemala

You can travel from San Ignacio to Flores by shared shuttle, private transfer, or taxi + public transport.

Tucked away in the heart of Guatemala’s Petén region lies a small island that seems to have been plucked straight out of a dream: Flores!

The serene Lake Petén Itzá surrounds the island, and its cobbled streets are lined with colorful colonial buildings that exude charm and character. 

From the moment you step onto this picturesque island, you’ll be enchanted by its beauty and rich history and culture. Flores is a hidden gem that promises to leave you in awe and yearning for more. 

And while visiting Flores, you can’t miss the ancient wonders of Tikal! Join this tour from Flores to Tikal and discover this mystical Maya site’s fascinating history and culture. 

Walk among the towering pyramids and temple ruins while listening to the sounds of the jungle surrounding you. 

A knowledgeable guide will lead you through the site, revealing the secrets of Tikal’s past and its enduring legacy. Don’t miss this unforgettable adventure to one of the most significant archaeological sites in the world!

Distance from San Ignacio to Flores

The distance from San Ignacio to Flores is about 105.7 kilometers or 65.7 miles.

The trip from San Ignacio to Flores takes about 2 hours by car.

Transportation Options from San Ignacio to Flores

The following table outlines all transportation options from San Ignacio to Flores:

MethodTravel timePrice
Shared Van Shuttle from San Ignacio to Flores4 hoursUSD 59
Private Transfer from San Ignacio to Flores~2 hours
Taxi + Public Transport from San Ignacio to Flores~2 hours~USD 7

Getting to Flores from San Ignacio

1. Shared Van Shuttle from San Ignacio to Flores

Travel time: 4 hours

The first and most common way to get from San Ignacio in Belize to Flores in Guatemala is by boarding a shared van shuttle!

A shared shuttle is the perfect choice for travelers who want to sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride without worrying about driving on unfamiliar roads or navigating public transportation. 

These air-conditioned vans depart from San Ignacio and transport passengers directly to Flores, crossing the Belizean-Guatemalan border. 

The journey takes approximately 4 hours, depending on traffic and waiting at the border, and offers a convenient and comfortable option for getting from one destination to the other.

Not only is traveling by shared shuttle affordable, with the price being USD 59 per person, but it also provides an excellent opportunity to meet fellow travelers along the way. 

There is only one international departure from San Ignacio to Flores daily, so make sure you reserve your tickets in advance!

Departure TimeArrival TimeDurationPrice per Person
02:00 PM06:00 PM4 hoursUSD 59BOOK NOW 3 e1661788865313BOOK NOW 6.59.51 PM
San Ignacio to Flores2

2. Private Transfer from San Ignacio to Flores

Travel time: ~2 hours

If you’re looking for a more convenient and personalized way to travel from San Ignacio to Flores, a private transfer may be the perfect option for you. 

Private transfers offer a comfortable and stress-free travel experience, allowing you to sit back and relax as you’re chauffeured through the Belizean countryside.

Private transfers are ideal for travelers who want to customize their travel itinerary and travel with a bigger group. 

With a private transfer, you can choose your own departure time and pick-up location, and even make stops whenever you like.

The private transfer journey from San Ignacio to Flores takes approximately 2 hours. The cost of a private transfer is higher than the other options, depending on the size of the group and the type of vehicle.

However, the convenience and comfort of a private transfer make it worth the extra cost for many travelers. 

You’ll have the vehicle to yourself or your group, with air conditioning and a knowledgeable driver who can recommend local restaurants or things to do in Flores. Plus, you won’t have to worry about navigating unfamiliar roads!

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San Ignacio to Flores1

3. Taxi + Public Transport from San Ignacio to Flores

Travel time: ~2 hours

For a unique, immersive, and inexpensive travel experience, consider combining taxi and public transportation when traveling from San Ignacio to Flores.

Start by hailing a taxi from San Ignacio to the Belize-Guatemala border, ensuring the vehicle has a BVO license tag to keep costs at approximately USD 2 per person. This half-hour ride will take you to the Belizean immigration checkpoint.

Bear in mind that the border crossing can be crowded, potentially causing delays. Once border formalities are complete, board a colectivo, which is a shared minibus popular in Central America, for an affordable and culturally enriching experience! 

The colectivo ride to Santa Elena, the largest city in Guatemala’s Petén region, takes about 30-40 minutes and costs roughly USD 4 per person.

From Santa Elena, switch to a tuk-tuk for the final leg of the journey to Flores, situated on an island in Lake Petén Itzá. 

Tuk-tuks are three-wheeled vehicles commonly used for short trips in Guatemala. The 10-15 minute ride from Santa Elena to Flores will cost less than USD 1!

While this travel method is an excellent opportunity to engage with local culture and meet fellow travelers, it may be more time-consuming and less comfortable than other alternatives. Thus, adequate planning and research are essential.

Best day tours in Flores, Guatemala

Explore one of the most diverse countries on Earth with Get Your Guide—an excellent choice for travelers who want to make their vacations exciting and unforgettable!

Whether you’re looking for a vacation, road trip, or adventure in Guatemala, Get Your Guide has something for every traveler.

Get ready to see the world through and experience unforgettable memories while taking advantage of personalized suggestions, guided trips, and famous landmarks!

Check out the following widgets for more day tours in Flores, Guatemala!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cheapest way to travel from San Ignacio to Flores?

The cheapest way to travel from San Ignacio to Flores is by taxi and public transportation. The whole trip costs about USD 7! Keep in mind that public transportation can sometimes be crowded and uncomfortable, especially during peak travel times. However, suppose you don’t mind sacrificing a bit of comfort for the sake of affordability and an authentic local experience. In that case, then traveling this way between San Ignacio and Flores may be the perfect option for you!

What is the fastest way to travel from San Ignacio to Flores?

The fastest way to travel from San Ignacio to Flores is by car. The journey takes about 2 hours, depending on traffic.

Are there any visa or passport requirements for traveling between San Ignacio and Flores?

Yes, you must carry a passport with you and show it at the borders of Belize and Guatemala. Depending on your country of citizenship, you might also need to apply for a visa in advance.

Can I take a bus directly from San Ignacio to Flores?

There isn’t a bus that travels directly from San Ignacio to Flores. However, you can book private transport or a shared van shuttle.

Is it necessary to book transportation in advance?

It is not necessary to book transportation in advance, but it is highly recommended to ensure availability, especially during peak travel times.

Is the journey from San Ignacio to Flores safe?

Yes, traveling from San Ignacio to Flores is usually safe. However, it’s crucial to exercise common sense safety measures, like never leaving your things unattended and paying attention to your surroundings.

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