Belize's September Scorcher: A Tropical Heatwave

September in Belize is hot and humid, with temperatures reaching 31°C. There are six hours of sunshine per day, and the sea temperature is 29°C. It's the rainy season, but it's also mostly sunny, with around 18 days of rainfall. It's also hurricane season, but the risk is low. September is a great time to visit Belize, with lower prices and fewer tourists.

Belize's September weather is warm and pleasant

September is a great month to visit Belize, as it is still the low season for tourism, so you can expect budget prices and fewer tourists. It is also the longest holiday season in the hemisphere, with St. George's Caye Day and Independence Day celebrations falling in September, providing a great opportunity to experience Belizean culture and party with the locals.

The weather in September is technically part of the rainy season, but it is often mostly sunny, with rainfall occurring in the early mornings and overnight. This rainfall nurtures the country's intense greenery and profusion of bright flowers, fruits and birds. The days are usually warm and sunny, and with the sun out for an average of six hours a day, there is still plenty of time to explore and adventure.

September is a great month for wildlife spotting and dive excursions. The conditions are perfect for snorkelling and scuba diving, with good visibility, and it is one of the last best months to see hawksbill and green sea turtles. It is also a great time to view sea manatees, sharks, rays, dolphins and the diverse array of wildlife in the Maya Forest, including monkeys, white-tailed deer and coatis.

So, if you're looking for a warm and pleasant tropical climate, with plenty of sunshine, culture and wildlife, Belize in September is a great choice.

It's the rainy season, but the sun is mostly out

Belize in September: It's the rainy season, but the sun is mostly out

September in Belize is technically part of the rainy season, but that doesn't mean you won't see the sun. In fact, there are normally around 6 hours of bright sunshine each day—that's 50% of the daylight hours! The days are often sunny with warm temperatures, and the rainfall tends to occur in the early mornings and overnight.

Temperatures

The average daily maximum temperature in Belize in September is 31°C in the shade, with minimum temperatures of 24°C. The sea temperature is around 29°C, and the UV index is extremely high at 11+.

Rain and Hurricanes

September is the height of the rainy season and the hurricane season, with around 18 days of rainfall and an average monthly rainfall of 256mm. However, the rain usually falls in short bursts, and there are plenty of dry mornings and overcast skies. It's worth noting that the highest risk for hurricanes and tropical storms is in September, but Belize tends to be less affected than many neighbouring Caribbean islands due to its geographic position.

Advantages of Visiting in September

September is still considered the low season, so you can expect lower prices and fewer tourists. This means you can enjoy Belize's famous activities, like snorkelling and wildlife excursions, without the crowds. It's also a great time for wildlife spotting and dive excursions, and you can take part in the Independence Day celebrations on 21 September.

So if you're thinking of visiting Belize in September, don't be put off by the rainy season! With its mix of sun, warm temperatures, and exciting celebrations, it's a great time to experience all that this tropical paradise has to offer.

It's the low season, so expect budget prices

Belize in September: Budget-friendly travel

September is the low season in Belize, so it's a great time to visit if you're looking for budget-friendly travel options. Here are some reasons why travelling to Belize in September can be a great choice:

Affordable Accommodations

During September, accommodations in Belize offer significant savings. You can find deep discounts and competitive rates at top resorts, hotels, and lodges. This makes it more affordable to stay at some of the best places in the country. For example, Chabil Mar Villas in Placencia offers strikingly affordable rates, and you'll find similar deals at other popular locations near Belize City, such as the Black Orchid Resort and Cahal Pech Village Resort.

Cheaper Attractions and Amenities

In addition to accommodations, attractions, and other amenities also become more affordable during September. From adventure tours to all-inclusive vacation packages, you'll be able to stretch your budget further. Take advantage of the low season to indulge in luxury suites, explore ancient Maya sites, or enjoy the natural wonders of Belize without breaking the bank.

Fewer Crowds

September is an excellent time to visit Belize if you prefer a more relaxed and intimate travel experience. With fewer tourists, you'll have more space to spread out and won't have to deal with overcrowded tours, bars, and accommodations. This makes it easier to get to know the locals and take your time discovering the rich culture and diverse attractions that Belize has to offer.

Festive Celebrations

While September may be the low season for tourism, it's a festive month filled with local celebrations. You can join in on the month-long celebrations of Belize's national heritage and history, including St. George's Caye Day and Independence Day on September 21st. The country comes alive with live musical concerts, parades, food fairs, street dancing, Carnival, and patriotic displays of the Belizean flag. It's a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and celebrate with the vibrant and friendly Belizean community.

So, if you're looking for a budget-friendly travel destination in September, consider Belize. With its combination of affordable options, fewer crowds, and festive celebrations, it's a great choice for travellers seeking a unique and memorable experience.

The sea temperature is around 86°F (30°C)

September in Belize is the perfect time to enjoy the sea, with water temperatures sitting at a balmy 86°F (30°C). This is a great temperature for swimming, snorkelling, and diving, and with the sea this warm, you'll never want to get out!

The sea temperature in Belize in September is ideal for those who prefer their ocean swims on the warmer side. At 86°F, it's like a giant bath, and you can float around for hours without feeling any chill. This is the perfect time to make the most of Belize's marine environment and explore the diverse ecosystems that thrive in these warm waters.

With the sea at 86°F, conditions are perfect for snorkelling and diving. The warm waters mean a wider variety of marine life to discover, and with Belize's famous barrier reef, there's plenty to explore. The warm sea temperature also means that you can spend longer in the water without feeling cold, so you can take your time and really appreciate the beauty of the underwater world.

September is a great month to visit Belize if you want to make the most of the sea. The warm water opens up a range of activities, from swimming and snorkelling to boat trips and water sports. It's also a good time to spot sea turtles, as this is one of the last best months to see hawksbill and green sea turtles.

The warm sea temperatures in September are a result of the wet season, which brings increased rainfall and more sunshine. This unique combination creates the perfect conditions for the sea to heat up, providing a comfortable and enjoyable experience for swimmers, divers, and marine life alike.

There's a high chance of hurricanes and tropical storms

Belize in September: There's a High Chance of Hurricanes and Tropical Storms

September is the height of Belize's hurricane season. The Atlantic hurricane season officially runs from June 1 to November 30, and while hurricanes rarely make landfall in Belize, they can be serious when they do. Historically, the most active period for tropical storms is the end of August through mid-October, with September and October being the riskiest months for hurricanes and tropical storms.

Belize's location means it tends to be hit less frequently and less severely than many neighbouring Caribbean islands, Florida, and Honduras. However, it's always a possibility, so it's essential to be prepared. If you're travelling to Belize during hurricane season, it's recommended that you invest in travel insurance and that you plan in advance for any potential evacuation costs, as the U.S. Embassy Belmopan cannot provide immediate shelter or evacuation assistance.

Hurricane Phases and Alerts

Belize has three distinct hurricane phases:

• Hurricane Alert: All residents in the Cayes are advised to leave the islands.
• Hurricane Watch: The international airport will close when sustained winds reach 40 mph, usually during the watch phase. Residents of Belize City and coastal regions are advised to move to central Belize.
• Hurricane Warning: Anyone still in the coastal region is advised to move to the central highlands, as the hurricane is expected to strike the coast within a matter of hours.

Monitoring Hurricane Progress

Staying alert and informed is crucial during hurricane season. Here are some ways to monitor the progress of a hurricane:

• Internet: The National Hurricane Center Atmospheric and Oceanic Administration and the National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) provide continuous updates.
• Telephone: Call (011) 501-225-2011, the National Meteorological Office at the Phillip S. W. Goldson International Airport.
• Radio: All major radio stations will have continuous updates on the hurricane's progress.

Evacuation and Shelter

If you are in a hurricane-prone area, such as the cayes and coastal regions, it is advised that you evacuate at the hurricane alert stage. The government of Belize designates specific hurricane shelters for those being evacuated from tourist areas. It is essential to have an alternate residence and evacuation plan in place and to have a hurricane emergency kit ready.

Travel Insurance

It is highly recommended that you obtain travel insurance that covers both medical and emergency evacuation expenses. While hurricanes are less frequent in Belize than in other Caribbean regions, they can still cause extensive damage, serious injuries, and deaths. Don't skimp on travel insurance, especially if you plan to visit hurricane-prone areas.

Flexible Plans

Keep in mind that hurricanes and tropical storms can affect access to some attractions and activities. Be prepared to be flexible and adapt your plans if necessary. Heavy rains may make certain areas inaccessible, but there will still be plenty of other options available.

Packing Considerations

If you're travelling to Belize during hurricane and rainy seasons, make sure to pack appropriately:

• Waterproof backpack or rain cover
• Waterproof or quick-drying shoes
• Dry bags for electronics
• Rain jacket or poncho
• Travel umbrella
• Bug spray

In conclusion, while there is a high chance of hurricanes and tropical storms in Belize during September, it doesn't mean your trip will be ruined. With careful planning, flexibility, and the right gear, you can still enjoy a wonderful vacation in this beautiful country.

Frequently asked questions