Now that I have returned from Belize, here's the answers to my questions, for the ages...
Originally Posted by
GregWTravels
What options are there for buses to and from Belize City to San Ignacio? Is there a schedule I can see online?
I found this site with
a photo of the bus schedule, but not sure how accurate it was. Either way, buses seem to leave about every 20 minutes, and cost $BZ 7 one way. The trip takes 2 1/2 hours.
Originally Posted by
GregWTravels
Can you get independently from San Ignacio to Caracol, or do you need to book a tour? Can these be booked on short notice in San Ignacio?
Caracol is a distance to get to from San Ignacio. Tours can be booked, but there is a minimum number of people (from 2 to 4 depending on the company). As I was a solo traveller, and during the low season, I couldn't book one. However, I did go to Xunantunich, which is very easy to get to from San Ignacio.
To get to Xunantunich was very easy. From San Ignacio, I took the bus towards Benque ($BZ 1.75), got off at the hand-cranked ferry and then it is a 20 minute walk up to the site. $BZ 10 entrance fee. When I was there, there were very few other travellers, so I was often able to wander around the site without seeing another person. It was very good!
Originally Posted by
GregWTravels
Conversely, is it worth instead going direct to Caye Caulker and just booking a day trip to one of the sites closer to the island?
I ended up booking two nights in San Ignacio, and in addition doing a cave tour. It was worth spending a little more time in San Ignacio.
Greg