Belize has two distinct seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. The dry season, which is also the high season for tourism, runs from December to May, with the peak of tourism occurring between mid-December and mid-January, as well as around Easter. During this time, temperatures are mild and rainfall is low. The rainy season, also known as the low season for tourism, runs from June to November, with September and October being the rainiest months. While the rainy season can bring occasional tropical storms and hurricanes, it is also a great time to visit Belize to take advantage of lower prices and fewer crowds.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Seasons | Dry Season, Rainy Season (aka Hurricane Season or Wet Season), Norte Season |
Dry Season | December to April/May |
Rainy Season | June to November |
Norte Season | November to February |
Average Yearly Temperature | 80°F |
Average Humidity | 85% |
Coolest Winter Temperatures | Low 60s°F |
Hottest Summer Temperatures | Mid 90s°F |
Best Time for a Small Ship Cruise | November to February |
Best Time for Snorkelling and Scuba Diving | April to June |
Best Time for Birding | December to April |
Best Time for Fishing | May to August |
What You'll Learn
Belize has a subtropical climate
Belize has a comfortable subtropical climate, which is suitable for travel all year round. The average yearly temperature is about 80°F (26.6°C) with humidity hovering around 85%. The coolest winter temperatures can reach the low 60°F (15°C) range, while the hottest parts of summer can reach the mid-90°F (32-35°C) range on the mainland.
The climate in Belize is tropical monsoon, which means it is very humid and hot. The dry season, also known as the "winter", runs from December to April or May. During this time, temperatures are cooler, and there are lots of sunny days. The dry season is also the high tourism season, so certain towns and attractions can be crowded with tourists. However, Belize is still relatively unknown and doesn't attract as many tourists as some other countries.
The rainy season, also known as the wet season or the "summer", runs from June to November. Being in Belize during this time means that sunny days can turn rainy, but the rain usually only lasts for an hour or two. The rainy season is the low tourist season, so tourists can take advantage of fewer crowds and lower prices.
Belize does not have the four distinct temperate seasons of spring, summer, fall, and winter. Instead, it has two seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. Belizeans do celebrate summer, which is when school children are on a three-month break from classes in June, July, and August.
The best time to visit Belize is generally considered to be during the dry season, from December to April or May, when rainfall is low and temperatures are milder. However, the rainy season is also a great time to visit Belize, as it is less crowded and tourists can take advantage of lower prices.
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The dry season runs from February to May
The dry season in Belize, which runs from February to May, is a great time to visit the country. February, in particular, is one of the best months to visit Belize, as you can enjoy some of the country's finest weather, with warm tropical weather and sunny skies. You can also expect more choice in hotels and lower airfares compared to the exceptionally busy periods of January and Easter.
During the dry season, you can expect warm and sunny days with clear blue skies and cooler weather in the evenings and at night. This is the perfect time to explore the country's jungles, try adventure activities, and relax on the beach. The dry season is also ideal for scuba diving and snorkelling, as the waters are calmer.
The dry season is Belize's high tourism season, so certain attractions and archaeological sites can be crowded with tourists. However, Belize is still relatively unknown and doesn't attract as many tourists as some other countries. For example, Belize only receives about 500,000 overnight visitors each year.
The dry season is also a great time to enjoy outdoor activities such as water sports and jungle adventures. The good weather allows for the easy scheduling of fun activities, including aquatic sports and exploring the country's lush jungles.
In February, the average coastal temperature in Belize ranges from 76-79°F, while the inland temperature ranges from 68-84°F. The water temperature is around 80°F, making it perfect for swimming and other water activities.
In March, the temperatures start to rise, with the coastal temperature ranging from 77-79°F and the inland temperature from 69-88°F. There are fewer rainy days, with only 2-3 days of rain expected in March.
April brings even hotter temperatures, with the air warming up to 92°F inland. The water temperature also increases to 82°F, making it a perfect time for swimming and water sports.
By May, temperatures remain hot, especially inland. Rain increases, usually falling as light showers in the morning and occasional thunderstorms at night. The end of the dry season in May can mean fewer travellers and more affordable prices on accommodations and tours.
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The rainy season runs from June to November
The rainy season in Belize runs from June to November, with September and October being the most active months for rainfall. During this time, you can expect warm temperatures and brief but sometimes intense rainfall. The rainforest and wildlife come to life, with trees and flowers in full bloom. This makes birds and wildlife more accessible to travellers.
June marks the start of the rainy season, with temperatures remaining high. Fresh breezes off the Caribbean Sea and more frequent afternoon showers keep things moderate and pleasant. Lobster season begins, and this is available in restaurants across the country. Atlantic hurricane season also begins, but it is not usually an active month for tropical storms.
In July, the rainfall intensifies and is the wettest month of the year in Belize. Storms can last several days, but most rain occurs in predictable morning showers and frequent thunderstorms overnight. Easterly breezes provide relief from the heat inland.
August offers a brief respite from the rainy season, known locally as "little dry", with a slight break from the summer rains. There are still high possibilities of tropical storms and hurricanes.
September is the height of the rainy season and the Belize hurricane season. There is increasing rainfall in the early mornings and overnight, but days are often sunny with warm temperatures. This is the low season for tourism, and many catamaran charter boats are out of the water for annual maintenance.
In October, rainfall continues to be heavy, with occasional "northers", two- or three-day storms centred around the Maya Mountains. Several days of heavy rain might affect wet cave tours, which can become unsafe when rivers are too high.
November is the beginning of winter for locals, but most travellers will find it warm and sunny. It is the coolest month in Belize and a great time to visit before the busy holiday season.
The rainy season is also known as the "low season" for tourism, as it is outside the peak tourism months of December to April. During the rainy season, you can expect fewer crowds and lower prices for travel and accommodation.
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The average temperature is 73 to 82 °F in the dry season
Belize has a tropical monsoon climate, which means it's hot and humid. The country has two distinct seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. The dry season, which is also the high season for tourism, typically runs from December through to April or May. During this time, the average temperature is 73 to 82 °F (22 to 27 °C), with the number of rainy days ranging from 4 to 11.
December to February is considered Belize's "winter", with cooler temperatures and strong northerly winds called "nortes". These winds can bring clouds and cool nights, causing some of the lowest temperatures of the year. In December, the average temperature ranges from 67-81°F (20-27°C) during the day to 59-64°F (15-18°C) at night. January is the coolest month, with average daytime temperatures of around 81°F (27°C).
From March onwards, the weather warms up, with daytime temperatures reaching 82-88°F (28-31°C) and nights cooling to 68-70°F (20-21°C). March typically sees 7 hours of sunshine per day, increasing to 7.5 hours in April and 8 hours in May.
The dry season is the best time for outdoor activities such as water sports and jungle adventures. It's also a great time for scuba diving and snorkelling, as the water is calm and clear. However, it's important to book in advance during this period, as hotels and attractions can get crowded.
The dry season is followed by the rainy season, also known as the "green season" or "low season" for tourism, which runs from June to November. This period sees warm temperatures and brief but intense rainfall. The rainforest and wildlife come to life, making it a good time for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.
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The average temperature is 79 to 86 °F in the rainy season
Belize has a tropical monsoon climate, which means it's hot and humid. The country has two distinct seasons: the dry season, which lasts from December to May, and the rainy season, which lasts from June to November. The average temperature during the rainy season is 79 to 86 °F (26 to 30 °C).
The rainy season in Belize brings warm temperatures and brief but intense rainfall. The rainforest and wildlife are lush and vibrant during this time, with trees and flowers in full bloom. This makes birds and wildlife more accessible to visitors. The rainiest months are typically September and October, with occasional "northers" – two- or three-day storms centred around the Maya Mountains.
The temperature in Belize varies throughout the rainy season. In June, the coastal temperature ranges from 80 to 83 °F (27 to 28 °C), while the inland temperature ranges from 75 to 88 °F (24 to 31 °C). The water temperature is around 84 °F (29 °C). In July, the coastal temperature remains the same, while the inland temperature drops slightly to 74 to 88 °F (23 to 31 °C). The water temperature is still around 84 °F (29 °C).
By August, the rainy season takes a brief respite, with a slight break from the summer rains. Known locally as the "little dry", there is a slight decrease in rainfall. The coastal temperature in August ranges from 80 to 84 °F (27 to 29 °C), while the inland temperature ranges from 74 to 90 °F (23 to 32 °C). The water temperature increases to around 85 °F (29 °C).
September marks the peak of the rainy season and the start of the hurricane season. While there is more rain in the early mornings and overnight, the days are often sunny and warm. The coastal temperature in September ranges from 80 to 84 °F (27 to 29 °C), and the inland temperature ranges from 74 to 88 °F (23 to 31 °C). The water temperature reaches 86 °F (30 °C).
In October, rainfall remains heavy, with the occasional "northers". The coastal temperature in October ranges from 79 to 82 °F (26 to 28 °C), and the inland temperature ranges from 72 to 84 °F (22 to 29 °C). The water temperature is around 85 °F (29 °C).
November marks the beginning of winter for locals, but most visitors will find it warm and sunny. It is the coolest month in Belize, with coastal temperatures ranging from 77 to 80 °F (25 to 27 °C) and inland temperatures ranging from 69 to 82 °F (21 to 28 °C). The water temperature is around 83 °F (28 °C).
The rainy season in Belize offers a great opportunity to experience the country's natural beauty and vibrant wildlife. With fewer crowds and discounted rates, it is a perfect time to explore the country's diverse attractions, including its renowned rainforests and stunning beaches.
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Frequently asked questions
Belize has a subtropical climate with three seasons: a dry season from February or March to May, a rainy season from June to October, and a Norte season from November to February.
The dry season is Belize's "winter", with cool, windy days and lots of sunshine. The average temperature is 73 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit (22 to 27 degrees Celsius).
The rainy season is also hurricane season, with the most active months being September and October. The average temperature is 79 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit (26 to 30 degrees Celsius).
The 'Norte' season is characterised by strong cold northern winds that blow in from Mexico along the Gulf of California. The average temperature in November through January is around 75 degrees Fahrenheit.