Belize has a subtropical climate, with two seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. Snow is notably absent from the country, and the temperature rarely drops below 75°F. In fact, Belizeans consider it chilly when the temperature falls below 80°F, and they have been known to bring out their sweaters! While there may be no snow, Belize offers plenty of sunshine and balmy temperatures during its winter season, which runs from December to April. This is the perfect time to visit Belize and enjoy its beaches, scuba diving, snorkelling, and delicious seafood.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Snow in Belize | No |
Number of Seasons | 2 |
Seasons | Rainy Season, Dry Season |
Average Temperature (Rainy Season) | 79-86°F (26-30°C) |
Average Temperature (Dry Season) | 73-82°F (22-27°C) |
Rainy Season | May to November |
Dry Season | December to April |
Average Annual Precipitation | 1709-1800 mm |
What You'll Learn
- Belize has no snow, only two seasons: the Rainy Season and the Dry Season
- Belize's Dry Season is considered its winter, but without the snow and freezing temperatures
- Belize's winter is perfect for beachside activities, including scuba diving and snorkelling
- Belize's winter is an ideal time to visit its many protected parks and nature reserves
- Belize's winter sees temperatures drop, leading to cool, windy days with lots of sunshine
Belize has no snow, only two seasons: the Rainy Season and the Dry Season
Belize has a subtropical climate and does not experience snow. Instead, it enjoys balmy temperatures and sunshine throughout the year. Belize has only two seasons: the Rainy Season and the Dry Season.
The Dry Season, which runs from December to April, is considered Belize's "winter". During this period, the temperature cools down slightly in December, January, and February, resulting in cool, windy days with ample sunshine. From March to April, the weather becomes hotter, with almost no clouds in the sky. This stretch of pleasant weather is perfect for outdoor activities like aquatic sports and jungle adventures. It is also the peak tourism season in Belize, although the country remains relatively unknown and less crowded compared to other destinations.
The Rainy Season, also known as the low tourist season, spans from May to November. While sunny days are common, occasional rainfall can be expected. Tropical storms or hurricanes may also occur during this period, bringing heavy rains and strong winds. However, rain showers typically last only an hour or two in the afternoon or evening, and there are still plenty of activities to enjoy. The average monthly number of rainy days during this season ranges from 6 to 16 days, with higher rainfall amounts than the Dry Season.
Belizeans embrace the unique charm of their seasons. During the "winter" months without snow, they decorate their front porches with icicle lights and build "snowmen" out of sand on the beaches. As you travel inland, you'll find creative displays like hay figures in the countryside of the Cayo District, celebrating the season in their own special way.
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Belize's Dry Season is considered its winter, but without the snow and freezing temperatures
Belize has a subtropical climate with two distinct seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. The dry season, which runs from December to May, is considered Belize's "winter", but without the snow and freezing temperatures.
During the dry season, the temperature in Belize is mild, with plenty of sunshine and the occasional cool breeze. The days are warm and windy, with temperatures ranging from 73 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit (22 to 27 degrees Celsius). The nights can be a bit cooler, but it rarely gets cold enough for thick clothing. In fact, Belizeans consider it "blistering" when the temperature drops below 75°F!
The dry season is the perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities such as sunbathing on the beach, scuba diving, snorkelling, and exploring the many nature reserves and archaeological sites that Belize has to offer. It's also the high season for tourism, so expect some crowds, especially during the holidays.
Belizeans embrace the winter spirit in their own unique way, decorating their front porches with icicle lights, frosting their windows, baking Christmas cookies, and building "snowmen" out of sand on the beaches. So, while you won't find snow in Belize, you'll definitely find creative and fun ways to celebrate the season.
The dry season is followed by the rainy season, which runs from June to November. Even during this time, the temperatures remain warm, and rainfall usually comes in brief bursts, with the exception of the occasional tropical storm or hurricane. So, while there may be rain, it won't put a freeze on your plans!
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Belize's winter is perfect for beachside activities, including scuba diving and snorkelling
Belize is a winter wonderland for beachside activities, including scuba diving and snorkelling. With its tropical climate, Belize offers the perfect escape for those seeking sun, sea, and sand during the colder months. And with no snow in sight, you can leave your snow boots at home and pack your swimsuit instead!
Belize boasts the second-largest barrier reef in the world, making it a prime destination for scuba diving and snorkelling enthusiasts. The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef borders nearly the entire length of the country, providing easy access to a diverse range of marine life and vibrant coral ecosystems. Winter is an ideal time to explore the reef, as the dry season runs from November to April, offering favourable conditions with fewer tourists.
For scuba divers, Belize offers a range of experiences, from novice to advanced. The country's surrounding cayes, or low-lying mangrove-covered islands, provide some of the best diving spots. At Ambergris Caye, divers can explore the northern reefs and enjoy the convenience of nearby resorts and nightlife. Turneffe Atoll, a large offshore reef, offers the opportunity to spot a variety of marine life, including white-spotted toadfish, eagle rays, and reef sharks.
The Blue Hole, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a bucket list dive located in Lighthouse Atoll. This iconic spot, made famous by Jacques Cousteau, features a massive marine sinkhole over 400 feet deep and 1,000 feet wide. While the Blue Hole itself doesn't have much marine life due to its depth and limited sunlight, it's still a thrilling experience for divers.
For snorkellers, Belize offers equally captivating experiences. Glover's Reef Atoll, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands out as one of the country's best snorkelling destinations. With over 600 patch reefs, you can expect to encounter nurse sharks, whale sharks, turtles, and a myriad of colourful tropical fish. Half Moon Caye, also part of Lighthouse Reef Atoll, offers the perfect depth for snorkelers and the chance to see a variety of marine life.
In addition to its world-class scuba diving and snorkelling, Belize offers a host of other beachside activities during the winter months. Sea kayaking and SUP (stand-up paddleboarding) are popular ways to explore the crystal clear waters and thousands of coral reefs around Glover's Reef and Lighthouse Reef. Birdwatching is also a favourite pastime, with Belize serving as a sanctuary for over 540 bird species. So whether you're an adventure seeker or a nature enthusiast, Belize's winter beachside activities will leave you with unforgettable memories.
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Belize's winter is an ideal time to visit its many protected parks and nature reserves
One of the most popular destinations in Belize during the winter is the Placencia Peninsula, boasting 16 miles of golden sands along the Caribbean Sea. Just offshore is the Belize Barrier Reef, a thriving ecosystem teeming with colourful marine life. The Placencia Peninsula also offers easy access to top attractions like the Cockscomb Basin Nature Reserve and the Monkey River.
For those seeking adventure, Barefoot Rentals and Services provide a range of vehicles, including scooters, SUVs, motorbikes, and golf carts, allowing you to explore southern Belize at your own pace. The nearby town of Dangriga and the village of Hopkins are great places to experience the unique culture and music of the Garifuna people.
Winter is also an excellent time for guided tours, such as those offered by Barefoot to the Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave. This ancient site was once used by Maya priests for human sacrifices and is now a fascinating glimpse into the past, with sacrificial knives, altars, and human remains left behind.
If you're looking for more outdoor activities, Belize has plenty to offer. Zip-lining through the jungle, horseback riding, and relaxing on an inner tube while sailing down an underground river are just a few of the exciting options available.
So, if you're dreaming of a warm winter getaway, Belize is the perfect destination. With its abundance of protected parks and nature reserves, you can explore the country's natural beauty and cultural heritage while leaving your scarves and mittens at home!
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Belize's winter sees temperatures drop, leading to cool, windy days with lots of sunshine
Belize's winter is a far cry from the snow and ice of North America. Instead, the season sees a drop in temperatures, with plenty of sunshine and balmy weather. It's the perfect time to visit this Central American country, where more than a third of the land is dedicated to protected parks and nature reserves.
The temperature in Belize rarely falls below 60°F (16°C) in winter, so you can leave your scarves and mittens at home! The cooler climate makes it ideal for exploring the country's diverse attractions, from its stunning beaches to its ancient ruins. The winter months are also perfect for outdoor activities like scuba diving, snorkelling, and sampling fresh seafood.
One of the most popular places to visit during the winter is the Placencia Peninsula, with its 16 miles of golden sands along the Caribbean Sea. Just offshore is the Belize Barrier Reef, a thriving ecosystem teeming with colourful marine life. The nearby Cockscomb Basin Nature Reserve and Monkey River are also must-see attractions.
For those seeking a more adventurous winter getaway, Belize offers zip-lining through the jungle, horseback riding, and relaxing tube rides down underground rivers. The Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave, used by Maya priests for human sacrifices, is a fascinating glimpse into the ancient past.
With its comfortable winter temperatures, Belize is a unique destination for those seeking a mix of seaside relaxation and off-the-beaten-path experiences. So, if you're looking for a winter escape without the snow, Belize is the perfect choice!
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Frequently asked questions
No, it never snows in Belize. Belize has a subtropical climate and experiences two seasons: the dry season and the rainy season.
The dry season in Belize runs from December to April. During this time, the temperature cools down slightly, leading to cool, windy days with lots of sunshine. From March to April, the weather gets hotter, with almost no clouds.
The rainy season in Belize runs from May to November. During this time, sunny days may experience occasional rainfall. Belize's hurricane season typically runs from June to November, with September and October being the most active months.