Belize In March: A Weather Preview

Belize in March is hot, dry, and sunny. With temperatures ranging from 70-85°F, it's the perfect time to visit Ambergris Caye and relax in the tropical sun. The dry season in Belize falls between February and May, with little rainfall and mild temperatures. This makes it a popular time for tourists to take advantage of the many nature excursions on offer, including diving, kayaking, and boat trips to the outer atolls. The sea temperatures are also pleasant, sitting at around 80°F, so you can enjoy a dip in the sea, or try snorkelling and scuba diving.

Rainfall and temperatures

Belize has a comfortable tropical climate with an average yearly temperature of 84°F (29°C). The country experiences two seasons, rather than four: the wet and the dry. The dry season falls between February and May, with significantly less rainfall than the rest of the year. The wet season, from June to December, sees parts of the country receive up to 150 inches of rain, with heavy storms associated with the Caribbean usually occurring in the late afternoon.

March is the apex of Belize's dry winter months. The country experiences a relative lack of rain and clear skies, with temperatures starting to spike. The average temperature in Belize in March falls between 83°F (28°C) during the day and 74°F (23°C) at night. The coast remains relatively cool, with a peak of about 79°F (26°C) and a low of 77°F (23°C). The capital and inland forested areas are often much hotter and more humid, with temperatures reaching as high as 88°F (31°C). The humidity in the capital, Belize City, is 79%, and the total rainfall throughout the country is about two inches.

The sea temperatures are pleasant and steady at around 80°F (26°C), making it a great time for swimming, diving, or snorkelling. The month of March falls within the hurricane season, but the chances of hurricanes are low. Rainstorms are infrequent, and the weather is mostly sunny.

What to wear

March is the height of the dry season in Belize, with temperatures spiking and little rainfall. The weather is hot, with temperatures averaging 70-85°F (21-29°C) and a humidity level of 79%. The coast remains relatively cool, with highs of 79°F (26°C) and lows of 77°F (23°F), while the capital and inland areas are much hotter and more humid, with temperatures reaching as high as 88°F (31°C).

Given the warm and humid weather, lightweight and breathable clothing is recommended. Here are some suggestions for what to wear during your March trip to Belize:

• Lightweight, loose-fitting clothing: To stay cool and comfortable, opt for loose-fitting shirts, blouses, and dresses made from lightweight, breathable fabrics such as cotton, linen, or rayon.
• Shorts and skirts: Go for lightweight shorts or skirts to keep cool in the warm weather.
• Swimwear: With the sea temperatures holding steady at around 80°F (26°C), you'll want to spend time in the water. Pack a swimsuit or two for snorkelling, swimming, or just relaxing on the beach.
• Hat and sunglasses: Protect yourself from the strong tropical sun with a wide-brimmed hat and UV-protective sunglasses.
• Comfortable footwear: For exploring Mayan ruins and going on nature walks, bring comfortable walking shoes or sandals.
• Rain gear: While March is the dry season, there is still a small chance of occasional rain showers. Pack a lightweight rain jacket or umbrella, especially if you plan on visiting the inland areas.
• Warmer layers: For cooler evenings, especially in the coastal areas, bring a light jacket, cardigan, or shawl.
• Sun protection: Don't forget to pack sunscreen, lip balm with SPF, and a sun hat to protect yourself from the strong sun.
• Snorkelling gear: If you plan on snorkelling, bring your own mask, snorkel, and flippers if you have them. However, these can also be rented in Belize.

Remember to dress for comfort and practicality, as you'll likely be spending a lot of time outdoors exploring all that Belize has to offer in March.

Wildlife spotting

Belize is a wildlife-spotting paradise, with its sparse human population, low-impact human activity, and strong conservation agenda. Here are some of the best wildlife-spotting opportunities in Belize, especially during March:

Whale Sharks

Swim alongside the world's biggest fish, the whale shark, which grows up to 12 metres (60 feet) long and weighs up to 50,000 pounds. These gentle giants congregate at Gladden Spit off Placencia during their spawning season from March to June. Don't be intimidated by their size; instead, admire the unique constellations of markings on their bodies, as unique as fingerprints.

Scarlet Macaws

The rare and colourful Scarlet Macaw, with its crimson, yellow, and blue feathers, can be spotted in the modest Maya Village of Red Bank from November to March. These birds are a sight to behold, perching in the blooming treetops.

Antillean Manatees

Just seven miles from Belize City, at the Swallow Caye Wildlife Sanctuary, you can observe the gentle Antillean Manatees grazing on seagrass in shallow waters. While it is illegal to interfere with them, you can watch these playful creatures frolic and surface for air.

Jaguars, Pumas, and More

Belize is home to five wildcat species, including the elusive jaguar. The Rio Bravo Conservation Area in the Programme for Belize offers the best chance to spot these gorgeous beasts. This 100,000-hectare protected area is also home to pumas, deer, and ocellated turkeys.

Howler Monkeys

Head to the Community Baboon Sanctuary, where you'll find over 2,000 endangered Black Howler Monkeys, also known as baboons in the local Creole. These vocal primates are noisy yet charming and can be observed in their natural habitat just outside Belize City.

Green Iguanas

Get up close and personal with the interactive Green Iguanas at the San Ignacio Resort Hotel's Green Iguana Conservation Project. This on-site experience allows you to feed and interact with these timid lizards before they are released into the wild.

Things to do

March is the height of the tourist season in Belize, with warm sunny weather and little rainfall. The country offers a range of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and wildlife spotting opportunities. Here are some things to do when visiting Belize in March:

Outdoor Activities

• Diving and snorkelling: With pleasant sea temperatures of around 80°F (26°C), March is a great time to dive and snorkel in Belize. Explore the Belize Barrier Reef, one of the world's wonders, and swim alongside nurse sharks, stingrays, and sea turtles at Shark Ray Alley.
• Kayaking and boating: Take a kayaking or boat trip to the outer atolls, such as Southwest Caye, which is located in a marine reserve.
• Catamaran tours: Enjoy a catamaran sail and snorkel at popular sites like Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley.
• Swimming: Take a refreshing dip in the Mopan and Macal Rivers, or the warm waters of the Caribbean Sea.
• Cave tubing: Experience the unique thrill of tubing through a series of caves in Belize.
• Zip-lining: Swing through the canopy of a tropical rainforest on a zip line for a bird's-eye view of the lush landscape.

Cultural Experiences

• Mayan ruins: Belize is home to numerous Mayan archaeological sites, including Altun Ha, Lamanai, Xunantunich, and Cahal Pech. Explore these ancient cities and climb their stone pyramids.
• Festivals and celebrations: March is a month filled with high-energy festivals, such as La Ruta Maya Belize River Challenge, Baron Bliss Day, and Easter celebrations. Experience the local culture through these festive events.
• San Ignacio Market: Visit the vibrant San Ignacio Market and immerse yourself in the local culture and handicrafts.

Wildlife Spotting

• Wildlife reserves: Spot waterbirds like herons, storks, and egrets in the inland lagoons, and visit wildlife parks and nature reserves like the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary.
• Red Bank: See the scarlet macaws that make their winter home in this indigenous village.
• Moho River: Observe howler monkeys, iguanas, and other indigenous wildlife along the banks of the Moho River.
• Belize Zoo: Get up close with wildcats like ocelots and jaguars at the Belize Zoo.
• Whale shark watching: March marks the beginning of whale shark season in Belize. Head to Gladden Spit, off the coast of Placencia, for the best chance to see these gentle giants of the deep.

Events and festivals

Belize is known for its rich Latin heritage and vibrant festivals. Here are some events and festivals that take place in March:

La Ruta Maya Canoe River Challenge

A four-day, 179-mile canoe race along the Macal and Belize Rivers. The race, called the La Ruta Maya Belize River Challenge, takes competitors from San Ignacio Town to Belize City. It is held annually in March and brings together participants from many local villages, who celebrate their hard work as they make their way to the finish line.

Baron Bliss Day

A national holiday honouring Baron Bliss, a man known for his kind heart and philanthropy. Baron Bliss Day is celebrated with various athletic events, including boat races and regattas, as well as fishing. The day falls on March 9 or the Monday closest to it. The greatest festivities take place in Belize City, with a regatta and horse and foot races.

Trade & Livestock Show

This event is held biennially in Belmopan during the last weekend of March. It features a rodeo and showcases livestock, handicrafts, traditional costumes, and dances.

Holy Saturday Regatta

A regatta is held in Caye Caulker for both sailboats and powerboats.

Holy Saturday Cross Country Cycling Classic

This annual cycling event takes place during the Easter holidays. It is a gruelling 140-mile race from Belize City to San Ignacio and back. The race has been held since 1928 and is Belize's biggest cycling event, now gaining international recognition.

Frequently asked questions