Belize: Best Time To Visit

The best time of year to visit Belize depends on what you want to do. The dry season, from December to April, is the country's high season for tourism. During this time, you can expect warm temperatures, clear skies, and easy access to top attractions, but you'll also have to deal with crowds and higher prices. The rainy season, from June to November, sees fewer tourists and lower prices, but heavy rainfall and high temperatures can be a challenge. If you want to avoid the rain, February through April is the best time, while September and October are great for lower prices and fewer crowds.

Weather conditions during the dry season (December to May)

Belize's dry season, which typically lasts from December to April, is characterised by clear skies and warm temperatures, making it a popular time for tourists to visit. The dry season is also the country's high tourism season, with hotels and resorts often charging premium rates during this period. The dry season is the perfect time to explore Belize's Maya ruins, rainforests and impressive barrier reef. It's also ideal for activities such as birdwatching, sunbathing, swimming and diving.

The dry season in Belize is further divided into two parts: the high-dry season, from November to February, and the low-dry season, from February to May. The temperature during the dry season can vary, with the early months, including December, January and February, experiencing cooler and windy days with plenty of sunshine. From March onwards, the days become hotter, with minimal cloud cover. The average temperature during the dry season ranges from 73 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit (22 to 27 degrees Celsius).

December marks the beginning of the dry season, with temperatures ranging from 71 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit (22 to 27 degrees Celsius). This month sees a mix of rain and dry days as the wet season comes to an end. By January, the dry season is in full swing, with mild temperatures and very little rainfall. February is the driest month, with mild daytime temperatures and cooler nights, making it an excellent time for rainforest exploration.

In March, the weather remains pleasant, with clear days and nights uninterrupted by rain. The temperatures start to rise, with averages between 83 degrees Fahrenheit (28 degrees Celsius) during the day and 74 degrees Fahrenheit (23 degrees Celsius) at night. April brings even higher temperatures, with an average high of 85 degrees Fahrenheit (29 degrees Celsius) and lows of 76 degrees Fahrenheit (24 degrees Celsius).

May is the last month of the dry season, with temperatures climbing to an average high of 87 degrees Fahrenheit (31 degrees Celsius) and lows of around 79 degrees Fahrenheit (26 degrees Celsius). While rainfall is possible, it usually occurs in the morning or as thunderstorms at night.

Overall, the dry season in Belize offers ideal conditions for outdoor activities and exploring the country's natural attractions. However, it is important to plan and book accommodations in advance, especially during the peak tourism periods around Christmas, New Year and Easter.

Weather conditions during the rainy season (June to November)

Belize's rainy season, also known as the wet season or low season, usually runs from June to November. However, the onset of the rainy season can vary, with some sources stating it can begin as early as May. During this time, the country experiences its highest annual rainfall, with parts of the country receiving up to 150 inches of rain.

The early months of the rainy season, from May to June, are a good time to travel to Belize if you want to avoid the tourist rush and take advantage of lower hotel rates. However, as the season progresses, travel can become more challenging due to muddy roads and flooding in the south, which may curtail visits to remote areas. Some businesses, especially in September and October, may also be closed during this time.

The rainy season is characterised by heavy rainfall, with showers falling mostly in the afternoon and at night. While it doesn't rain all day, heavy rainfall can cause floods, and some roads and caves may be closed due to unsafe conditions. The rain is often accompanied by thunder and lightning, with hurricanes and tropical storms also possible between August and October.

Despite the rain, the rainy season in Belize still offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. The summer months are a great time to visit the beaches, caves, and Maya Ruins, as you'll encounter fewer tourists. The dry weather in summer also means that river levels are low and safer for canoe and cave archaeology adventure tours, such as the Belize ATM Cave.

In terms of temperature, the rainy season in Belize is warm, with average highs of around 86°F (30°C) and lows of 72°F (22°C) to 79°F (26°C). The humidity is fairly consistent throughout the year at around 85%, but it can feel more humid during the rainy season due to the increased rainfall.

If you're planning to visit Belize during the rainy season, it's a good idea to come prepared for the weather. Bring waterproof clothing, a rain cover for your belongings, and a dry bag to protect your electronics.

The best time for sightseeing

Belize is a nature lover's paradise, with over 400 islands and cays, a vast barrier reef, and wildlands and reserves that are home to diverse animal species. The best time for sightseeing in Belize is during the dry season, which falls between December and April. This peak season sees thousands of tourists flocking to the country to enjoy warm temperatures, clear skies, and easy access to top attractions.

December to April is the perfect time to explore Belize's Maya ruins, rainforests, and impressive barrier reef. The dry season offers prime weather for birding, sunbathing, swimming, and diving along the Caribbean Coast and on the beaches of Caye Caulker, Ambergris Caye, and other islands along the Belize Barrier Reef. It is also the ideal time for activities such as cave exploration and jungle expeditions.

While the dry season sees an increase in prices for hotels and transportation, visiting during this time ensures you can take full advantage of the country's outdoor attractions. February, in particular, is a great month to visit Belize as it falls between the busy periods of January and Easter. You can enjoy some of the country's finest weather, with warm sunshine and low humidity, and there is a wider choice of accommodations and lower airfares.

If you're looking to beat the rush of tourists and don't mind the possibility of rain, the shoulder seasons of November and May are also good options for sightseeing. These months offer warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine, with fewer crowds and more affordable prices. However, keep in mind that some activities, such as diving and rainforest expeditions, are better during the dry season.

Overall, the dry season from December to April is the ideal time for sightseeing in Belize, with February being one of the best months to visit due to its pleasant weather and slightly lower tourist numbers.

The best time for families with children

The best time to visit Belize with your family depends on what you want to do. If you're looking for warm, dry weather, the high season from December to April is ideal. However, this is also the busiest and most expensive time to visit. If you're looking for lower prices and smaller crowds, the shoulder seasons in April to May and October to November or the low season from June to September are better options.

If you're travelling with children, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, the dry season from January to May offers warm temperatures and clear, sunny days, making it a great time to enjoy the beaches and outdoor activities. However, this is also the peak season, so it can be crowded and expensive. The rainy season from June to December may be a better option, as travel is still possible until early August, and you can take advantage of lower prices. Keep in mind that some businesses may be closed during the rainy season, and travel may become challenging as the season progresses due to heavy rainfall and the risk of hurricanes.

Overall, February is one of the best months to visit Belize with your family. You can enjoy some of the country's finest weather, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to keep the kids entertained, such as exploring jungles, caves, ruins, and beaches. You'll also have more choice when it comes to hotels and lower airfares compared to the peak months.

If you're looking for a more relaxed and budget-friendly option, consider visiting during the shoulder season. In April and May, the weather is dry, and you can take advantage of lower prices before the peak Easter season. There are also several festivals during this time, such as the Punta Gorda Chocolate Festival in Toledo District.

To avoid the crowds, November and May are great months to visit. Most families are either preparing for the holidays or back in school, so you'll have more space to explore the ancient Mayan temples and join rainforest expeditions. The weather is still warm, and you can take advantage of lower prices on accommodations and attractions.

The best time for couples

If you're looking for the perfect time to visit Belize as a couple, consider going during the dry season, which runs from January to May. February, in particular, is an excellent choice as you'll get to enjoy the country's finest weather without the crowds and high prices of the peak season. With more choice of hotels and lower airfares, you can explore jungles, caves, ruins, and beaches with your partner.

The dry season offers the perfect weather for romantic outdoor activities like birdwatching, sunbathing, swimming, and diving at popular destinations such as Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye. You can also take advantage of the dry conditions to explore the Maya ruins and sacred caves, including Actun Tunichil Muknal and Nohoch Che'en Caves Branch Archaeological Reserve.

If you're looking for a quiet, intimate dinner with your significant other, Valentine's Day in Belize can be the perfect time to plan that dream date. Belizeans are known for their romance and can help make your date extra special.

For couples seeking a more relaxed and authentic Belizean experience, the summer months of June and July can be ideal. While it's the rainy season, the showers are usually short-lived and you'll have the opportunity to interact with locals in a more natural state. Additionally, you can take advantage of discounted travel during these months.

To avoid the crowds, the months of November and May are great choices. You'll have more space on the beaches and at tourist attractions, and you can join the celebrations for Garifuna Settlement Day on November 19, which commemorates the culture of the Garifuna people.

In summary, the best time for couples to visit Belize is during the dry season, especially in February, or during the summer months for a more peaceful and affordable experience.

Frequently asked questions