Car Rental in Cayo

Hi All,
I'm going to be bussing it from Caye Caulker to San Ignacio (well, boating, then bussing it I guess) and then was planning to rent a car in SI for a few days while I'm in the area. I'd be getting to SI on December 10. Do you think I need to reserve a car now, or would I be okay to wait until I get there? I figure I could walk or get a taxi from the bus station to Matus, Cayo or Flames when I get there - Just not sure if it would be too risky not having something booked in advance.

Also, what's the best way to get from SI to Hopkins? Do you think it would be best to rent a car to return in Hopkins, or is the bus route easy that direction?

Thanks in advance!
Jeff

Cars probably will be available for walk-ins, but if you know when you'll need the vehicle why not reserve in advance? There's usually not a savings in renting at the last minute and you might even pay more.

A couple of years ago, in the summer, the first place I went to in San Ignacio was sold out of cars, so it can happen.

Of course, even reserving in advance doesn't always guarantee you the car you want.

As to going to Hopkins, there are plenty of buses from San Ignacio to Dangriga via Belmopan (you'll have to change in Belmopan) only very limited service to Hopkins village. You can get off at the Hopkins Road and hitch a ride the 3 or 4 miles from the Southern Highway to Hopkins village.

However, it's nice to have a car so you can explore the areas around Hopkins on your own and not have to depend on tours or buses.

--Lan Sluder