The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Belize

Tiny, tropical Belize is where Latin-flavored Central America meets the captivating culture of the Caribbean. However, choosing the right time to visit can significantly enhance your travel experience.

You’ll get the best out of Belize’s Maya ruins, vine-draped rainforests, and impressive barrier reef (the largest outside of Australia) during the dry season from December to April. During other times, crowds diminish, and prices drop, offering a more relaxed taste of the tropics.

Many visitors prefer the shoulder seasons in November and May, when there’s still plenty of sunshine, but much less competition for towel space on Belize’s Caribbean beaches.

However, some activities are undoubtedly better during the dry months, as rain can hinder diving experiences, especially in the mesmerizing Great Blue Hole or exploring the flooded caverns of Actun Tunichil Muknal.

Moreover, the summer heat can be intense. Therefore, this guide will help you decide the perfect time to visit Belize.

The Dry Season (December to April) Has the Best Weather

Brilliant blue skies and diverse birdlife along the Caribbean coast mark Belize’s dry season (December to April). This period offers prime conditions for birding, sunbathing, swimming, and diving on the beaches of Caye Caulker, Ambergris Caye, and hundreds of other islands along the Belize Barrier Reef. Consequently, hotels and transport operators may increase their prices by 30% to 50% during this time.

Though the dry season really starts in late January, the post-New Year holidays see a surge of visitors and a consequent spike in prices. Therefore, making reservations is essential if you wish to enjoy the sun during Christmas.

Belize hosts various celebrations during this peak season, including big New Year’s Eve parties in San Pedro and horse races at Burrell Boom.

In February, accommodation prices remain elevated. Demand for boat space to the cayes and trips inland to caves, ruins, and jungle reserves intensifies as lagoons and rivers dry up, making it easier to spot birds congregating around remaining water sources.

The dry season is also ideal for exploring the Maya wonders scattered across the country, from the stepped pyramids of Caracol to the grand temples at Lamanai and Xunantunich.

Moreover, cavers can take advantage of the dry weather to explore sacred underground caves like Actun Tunichil Muknal and Nohoch Che’en Caves Branch Archaeological Reserve.

Easter is a significant celebration in Belize, so expect extra crowds during the weeks before and after Semana Santa (Holy Week).

November and May Mean Fewer Crowds and Cheaper Prices

The tourist crowds dwindle on either side of the peak dry months. However, most of Belize’s attractions remain open, and hotels offer budget-friendly prices. Temperatures remain warm in November and May, ensuring plenty of dry days without the hassle of large crowds at temples, beaches, or jungle reserves.

If you visit in November, you can also participate in Garifuna Settlement Day, held on November 19, which celebrates the culture of the Garifuna people, descendants of escaped enslaved Africans and Indigenous Carib people.

Humidity rises as dry season transitions to wet season toward the end of May. However, this transition period can be a great time to visit due to lower tourist numbers and prices. Most attractions remain accessible, making it an ideal time for adventure.

Moreover, May is an excellent month for diving in Belize, as there may be opportunities to encounter whale sharks in the Gladden Spit & Silk Cayes Marine Reserve.

Nevertheless, sightings have become increasingly rare in recent years, but there is hope that their numbers will rebound soon. Additionally, cultural festivals—inclusive of the chocolate festival in Toledo and the cashew festival in Crooked Tree Village—are also excellent reasons to explore inland in May.

June to October is the Wet Season

The low season is characterized by lower prices. Nevertheless, this period comes with heavy rainfall and elevated temperatures, predominantly from June to mid-November. Rain is most prevalent at night, often accompanied by thunder and lightning.

As a consequence of the wet season, some hotels and tourist attractions close down, particularly in September and October. Visits to the rainforest and Maya ruins may be hindered due to muddy paths and pesky mosquitos.

Hurricanes are a possibility between August and October, and such events can disrupt activities along the coast. However, it’s important to note that it does not rain all day, with most showers occurring overnight or early morning.

In contrast, September is regarded as the most festive month in Belize, especially in Belize City, where locals exuberantly celebrate national holidays.

Moreover, resorts often slash their prices during the wet season, making it an opportune time for travelers looking for great deals. It’s wise to bring waterproof gear, a protective cover for your backpack, and a dry bag for your electronics to ensure a pleasant experience despite the weather.

This article was first published on June 28, 2021, and updated on January 6, 2024.