AmbergrisCaye.com Home Forums Belize by District Cayo VISAs and Rental Cars to Tikal

Do Americans need a VISA for a daytrip to Tikal? Hear it is $45USD which seems high for a daytrip plus the entry and exit fees for both belize and guatamala.

We also will have a rental car already to get to Cayo. Is it safe, easy and practical to drive ourselves to Tikal or should we leave the car behind in San Ignacio and take a tour? Thanks for the insight.

One consideration is that most rental car companies won't permit you to take the car into Guatemala. Crystal is one, Thrift I think still does allow it. Another is insurance -- last time I checked you couldn't buy insurance at the Melchor/Benque border, and of course Belize insurance isn't valid in Belize. Easy and safe? Well, it's a matter of how you see things. Guatemala isn't Michigan or Georgia, but it's certainly a lot safer than, say, South Africa.

If you are an American citizen you do not need an advance visa to enter Guatemala. Departing Belize you now have to pay a US$10 fee. There is also a Guatemala fee, which is somewhat more flexible depending on what the Guat officials think you will pay.

--Lan Sluder

Hi,
Where are you staying in Cayo? I believe anywhere you stay would have guides they know and trust who would take you to Tikal. Personally, I would recommend going with someone who is reputable. I would forget about taking a rental car on your own into Guatemala. It would be great but also could be a big headache with potential problems. Tikal is worth seeing, but it is also worth perhaps paying a little more to ensure a safe trip and excellent guide. If you need help with finding a good guide, I have friends who live in the Cayo district who would be willing to offer their advise.