Belize's Tropical Seasons

Belize has two seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. The dry season, which is also the high season for tourism, runs from December to May. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny with clear blue skies, and temperatures range from 68°F (20°C) to 88°F (31°C). The rainy season, or low season for tourism, lasts from June to November and sees a decrease in tourism as travel becomes more challenging, with occasional hurricanes and tropical storms. However, the rainy season is a great time to take advantage of lower prices and fewer crowds.

Dry season: December to May

Dry Season in Belize: December to May

Belize's dry season, which runs from December to May, is characterised by warm and sunny days, clear blue skies, and mild temperatures. The dry season is a great time to visit Belize, with pleasant weather that makes it ideal for outdoor activities such as water sports and jungle adventures. It is also the country's high tourism season, with many tourists visiting from North America to escape the cold winters.

Weather

December to February sees temperatures drop slightly, leading to cool, breezy days with lots of sunshine. From March to May, the weather tends to get hotter, with temperatures climbing to an average high of 87°F (31°C) in May, and almost no clouds. The dry season experiences significantly lower rainfall than the rest of the year, and when rain does occur, it is usually in mild, short bursts. The humidity is moderate, and the winds are mild, providing a gentle breeze that balances the warmth.

Things to Do

Belize's dry season offers the perfect weather for a range of activities, especially those involving the coast and marine environments. The warm, calm seas are ideal for boating, fishing, diving, and snorkelling. The reduced rainfall also makes it a good time to explore ancient Maya sites and the Belizean jungles, as there is less risk of closures due to flooding.

December is a particularly enchanting time to visit Belize, as it marks the beginning of the dry season and the high tourist season, and it coincides with the holiday season. The Christmas celebrations in Belize are vibrant and extend throughout the month, with parades, concerts, parties, horse races, and more. The combination of sunny, warm weather and the dynamic festive atmosphere creates a unique and memorable holiday experience.

Tourism

The dry season is Belize's high tourism season, with the biggest wave of tourists arriving between December 15 and January 15, as well as during the weeks around Easter in April. Tourism lodges and resorts tend to charge premium rates during these peak periods. However, it is important to note that Belize is still relatively unknown and does not attract a large number of tourists compared to other countries, with approximately 500,000 overnight tourists visiting annually.

Planning Your Trip

If you're planning to visit Belize during the dry season, it is recommended to book well in advance and consider making a deposit to secure discounts. Additionally, keep in mind that certain attractions, such as Maya sites, may be more crowded than usual during this period.

Wet season: June to November

Belize's wet season runs from June to November or May to October, depending on the source. During this time, the country receives up to 150 inches of rain, with the early months of May, June, and July being a good time to travel to Belize to escape the tourist rush and take advantage of lower hotel rates. However, heavy rainfall can cause portions of some public highways and caves to temporarily close, and ground travel may be impeded.

The wet season is also hurricane season, and while Belize does not attract many major direct hits, it does experience severe tropical weather with high winds and rain. Nevertheless, the country has an effective early warning network and safety procedures in place. The wet season is also the low season for tourism, with some resorts closing down for a couple of months due to slow business. This can be an attractive time to visit Belize for those seeking privacy and fewer crowds, and discounted rates on tours and accommodations.

During the wet season, rain showers can be heavy and often occur in the afternoons, but they usually only last one to two hours unless there is a tropical storm. The temperature during this season can sometimes be high, but cooler and more humid trade winds provide some relief. The northern part of the country tends to experience more sun during these months.

The wet season in Belize is also a great time to enjoy the local lobster season, which opens in June or July, and the country's signature seafood event, the Belize Lobster Fest.

Average yearly temperature: 84°F

Belize has a very comfortable tropical climate with an average yearly temperature of 84°F (29°C). The coastal sea breezes, large tracts of jungle, and rainforests provide cooling relief in the hottest summer months, while winters are cool but never very cold. In short, the climate is pretty much perfect all year round.

The temperature in Belize rarely falls below 60°F (16°C) in winter, while in summer the mercury sits at around 86°F (30°C). Humidity is also fairly consistent at around 85%.

With such consistent temperatures, Belize has two seasons—the wet and the dry—rather than the four seasons experienced in other parts of the world. The dry season, from February to May, has significantly lower rainfall, and when rain does come, it is usually in mild, short bursts. The wet season, from June to December, sees parts of the country receive up to 150 inches of rain. The heavy, wild storms associated with the Caribbean usually occur in the late afternoon.

The wet season is also hurricane season, and while Belize does not attract many major direct hits, it does get its share of severe tropical weather with high winds and rain. However, the country has an effective early warning system and safety procedures in place.

The dry season is the high season for tourism, with warm temperatures and clear skies. The wet season is the low season, with fewer crowds and discounted prices for tourists. However, travel can be challenging during this period, with some businesses closing down.

Best time to avoid rain: February to April

February to April is the dry season in Belize, with little to no rainfall and ideal temperatures. This is the best time to visit Belize if you want to avoid the rain.

February is a great month to visit Belize, with warm tropical weather and sunny skies. It is the driest time of the year, with little rain and mild days and cool nights. The month sees the transition to the dry season, with less rain than other months. The rain that does fall is usually short-lived, creating a pleasant cooling effect. February is also a good time for bird and wildlife watching, with many species active and visible. It is also a good time for snorkelling and diving, with good visibility and calm waters.

March is the height of the dry season, with the least amount of rain and temperatures starting to rise. It is a popular month to visit Belize, with excellent bird and wildlife watching opportunities. The weather is balmy, with little rain and pleasant temperatures.

In April, temperatures increase, and there are welcome brief showers, known as "iguana rains" by locals, which keep conditions pleasant and humidity down. This month sees the beginning of the high season for snorkelling, scuba diving and fishing, with calm seas and good visibility. It is one of the warmest and driest months in Belize, with excellent wildlife watching opportunities.

February to April is also the high season for tourism in Belize, so it can be busy and more expensive. It is a good idea to book accommodation and tours in advance during this period.

Best time for underwater visibility: March to June

Belize is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to do. The dry season, from December to May, is the high season for tourism, with the biggest wave of tourists arriving between mid-December and mid-January, and during the weeks around Easter in April. The rainy season, from June to November, is the low season, with fewer crowds and lower prices.

If you're planning an underwater adventure, the best time for underwater visibility in Belize is between March and June. During these months, you can expect clear waters and excellent visibility, which is ideal for scuba diving and snorkelling. The calm waters during this period also make it a perfect time for other water activities such as swimming, fishing, and recreational boating.

The average depth of visibility for diving in Belize is around 80 feet (24 meters), but this can range from 50 to 100 feet, depending on factors such as current and wind conditions. The water temperature in Belize is generally warm, ranging from 79 to 84 degrees Fahrenheit (26 to 29 degrees Celsius) throughout the year.

March to June is also a great time to spot whale sharks in Belize's tropical waters. You'll also find that accommodation and flight prices are more affordable during these months, as they fall just before or after the peak tourist season.

So, if you're an avid diver or snorkeller, March to June is the perfect time to visit Belize, offering clear waters, excellent underwater visibility, and the chance to see whale sharks in their natural habitat.

Frequently asked questions