Hiking Belize: Essential Packing List

Belize is a hiker's paradise, with more than 30% of its territory dedicated to nature reserves and national parks. The country's diverse landscapes offer everything from steep mountain peaks to lush jungles and pristine beaches.

One of the best hiking spots in the country is the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve in Western Belize. This reserve is home to rushing rivers, waterfalls, natural pools, sacred caves, and Maya temples. For those seeking a challenge, Victoria Peak, located within the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, is Belize's tallest mountain at 3,675 feet. The trail is about 18 miles long and takes 3 to 4 days to summit.

Another popular destination is the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary in Southern Belize, which is famous for being the world's first Jaguar Preserve. The sanctuary offers well-marked trails suitable for all skill levels and is ideal for those interested in wildlife spotting and discovering waterfalls deep in the rainforest.

Belize truly offers a unique hiking experience with its diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and well-maintained trails.

Clothing essentials: light, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen or rayon

When preparing for a hike in Belize, it is important to consider the climate and terrain. The weather in Belize is hot and humid, so it is essential to wear light and breathable clothing. Fabrics such as cotton, linen, or rayon are ideal as they are lightweight and allow air circulation, keeping the body cool.

For hiking in Belize, it is recommended to wear clothing made from these breathable fabrics. This can include a combination of the following:

• Cheerleading shorts, a sports bra, and a loose-fitting tank top made from cotton or rayon. These fabrics will help to wick away sweat and keep you comfortable during your hike.
• Convertible hiking pants that are quick-drying and made with a silver fiber lining to disperse heat. This is especially useful in the humid climate of Belize.
• A loose-fitting linen shirt or blouse. Linen is a natural fabric that is ideal for hot climates as it is lightweight and breathable.
• A light jacket or raincoat made from breathable fabric such as cotton or rayon. The evenings can be cooler, and unexpected rain showers are common, so it is useful to have a layer that will keep you dry without adding too much warmth.

It is also important to consider footwear when hiking in Belize. Sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots are recommended, especially if you plan to hike in the jungle. Waterproof shoes are best as they will protect your feet from the elements and the terrain, which can include river crossings and muddy trails.

In addition to clothing and footwear, there are other essentials to consider when hiking in Belize:

• Sun protection: A sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential to protect your skin from the intense Belizean sun.
• Insect repellent: Mosquitoes and sand flies are common, especially during the rainy season, so it is important to protect yourself from bites.
• Water: It is crucial to stay hydrated in the warm climate, so carry a water bottle with a built-in filter to ensure access to clean drinking water.
• Towel: A quick-dry travel towel is recommended, as it is compact and dries quickly, making it ideal for hiking and other outdoor activities.

When preparing for a hike in Belize, it is important to choose clothing that is lightweight, breathable, and made from natural fabrics such as cotton, linen, or rayon. This will help keep you cool and comfortable during your hike, allowing you to fully enjoy the beauty and adventure that Belize has to offer.

Footwear: comfortable, closed-toe shoes for hiking and sandals for the beach

Belize is a hiker's paradise, with its array of national parks, nature reserves, and wildlife sanctuaries. The country's steamy temperatures and humid climate mean that, when it comes to footwear, breathability is key.

When hiking in Belize, it's important to wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes that are durable, lightweight, and preferably waterproof or at least water-resistant. Your shoes should also have good traction and arch support. While complete water protection is hard to come by, shoes with Gore-Tex or a similar liner can provide a good balance between waterproofing and breathability. Trail runners might be a good option if you're not carrying a heavy pack, as they tend to be lightweight and combine waterproofing with a breathable outer material.

Some popular hiking shoe brands for Belize include Merrell, Salomon, and Keen. Keen's Newport H2Os, in particular, are recommended for their toughness, drainage, and comfort. They also feature a tough toe guard, which can be useful when navigating through rugged terrain.

In addition to closed-toe shoes, it's also a good idea to pack sandals for your trip. These can be useful for water-based activities and for relaxing on the beach.

Sun protection: sunglasses, a sun hat and reef-safe sunscreen

Sun protection is a must when hiking in Belize. The Central American country is hot and humid, so it's important to protect yourself from the sun's harmful UV rays. Here are some essential items for sun protection when hiking in Belize:

Reef-Safe Sunscreen

When choosing a sunscreen, opt for a reef-safe option to protect the fragile marine ecosystem. Traditional sunscreens often contain chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which contribute to coral bleaching and deterioration. Instead, look for mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as the active ingredients. These minerals physically block UV rays without harming coral reefs.

When selecting a reef-safe sunscreen, check the ingredient list to ensure it doesn't contain any harmful substances like nanoparticles, nano-sized zinc or titanium, or microplastics. Opt for lotions over spray or mist formulations to avoid inhaling potentially harmful substances. Additionally, choose products with biodegradable or recyclable packaging to reduce plastic waste.

Sunglasses

Sunglasses are essential to protect your eyes from the sun's glare and UV rays. Look for polarized sunglasses, which help reduce glare and improve clarity, especially when hiking near water or in snowy conditions. Make sure the lenses offer UV protection to shield your eyes from harmful rays.

Sun Hat

A sun hat with a wide brim will provide shade for your face, neck, and shoulders. Look for a lightweight and breathable option that offers UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) protection. A sun hat with a chin strap can be helpful to keep it in place during windy conditions.

In addition to these sun protection essentials, consider wearing lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants made from breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. They can provide additional coverage from the sun while still keeping you cool.

Waterwear: a swimsuit, rash guard and waterproof bag

When packing for Belize, it's important to consider the activities you plan on doing and the season in which you'll be travelling. The weather in Belize is typically hot and humid, so lightweight, breathable clothing is essential. Here are some recommendations for waterwear, specifically a swimsuit, rash guard, and waterproof bag, for your trip to Belize:

Swimsuit

Belize is known for its stunning beaches and water activities, so packing a swimsuit is a must. It is recommended to bring at least two or three swimsuits to allow for adequate drying time between wears. If you plan on participating in water sports or more adventurous activities, consider packing swim shorts that can be worn over your swimsuit for added coverage and comfort.

Rash Guard

A rash guard is highly recommended, especially if you plan on spending a lot of time in the water. The sun in Belize can be intense, and a rash guard will provide much-needed protection from the sun's rays. Look for a long-sleeved rash guard with UPF 50+ protection to ensure adequate coverage.

Waterproof Bag

To protect your belongings from moisture and water damage, it is essential to pack a waterproof bag. This is especially important if you plan on participating in water activities such as snorkelling, swimming, or boating. A waterproof bag will keep your documents, electronics, and other valuables safe and dry. Consider a waterproof dry bag that can also double as a daypack for your excursions.

In addition to the above waterwear essentials, don't forget to pack other necessary items such as sunscreen, a sun hat, sunglasses, and insect repellent. The weather in Belize can be unpredictable, with rain showers possible even during the dry season. It is always a good idea to pack a lightweight rain jacket or poncho, especially if you're travelling during the rainy season from June to November.

When packing for Belize, it's best to favour functionality over fashion. Choose comfortable, breathable fabrics such as cotton, linen, or rayon to stay cool in the humid climate. Keep your outfits casual and remember to pack a sweater or wrap for cooler evenings on the coast or in the jungle.

Electronics: a portable charger, waterproof phone case and travel adapter

When hiking in Belize, it is important to bring the right electronics to ensure you can stay connected and capture the beautiful scenery. Here are some essential electronics to bring:

Portable Charger

A portable charger is a must-have when hiking in Belize. With so many beautiful sights to see, your phone battery may drain quickly from taking photos and videos. A portable charger will ensure that your devices stay charged throughout your hike, so you can capture every moment and stay connected with your companions.

Waterproof Phone Case

Belize offers many water-based activities and has a rainy season from June to November. A waterproof phone case will protect your phone from water damage and give you peace of mind during your adventures. It is also useful if you plan to take photos or videos underwater to capture the unique marine life.

Travel Adapter

Belize uses three types of power plugs and sockets: type A, type B, and type G. Type A has two flat parallel pins, type B has two flat parallel pins and a grounding pin, while type G has three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern. The standard voltage is 110/220 V, and the frequency is 60Hz.

If you are travelling from a country that uses a different plug type, such as the UK or Europe, you will need to bring a travel adapter. This will allow you to safely use your electronic devices and ensure you can charge your portable charger and phone.

In addition to a travel adapter, you may also need a voltage converter, as the voltage in Belize may differ from your home country. Check the label on your devices before your trip to determine if you need a converter.

By bringing these essential electronics—a portable charger, a waterproof phone case, and a travel adapter—you can ensure you have a safe and memorable hiking experience in Belize.

Frequently asked questions