Belize's High Season: Dry And Sunny

Belize's high season for tourism runs from late November or December to April. This period coincides with the country's dry season, which means warm and sunny days with clear skies. It's also the busiest time of year for tourism, so expect crowds and higher prices.

The dry season (December to May)

The Dry Season in Belize: December to May

The dry season in Belize runs from December to May. This period sees low rainfall and milder temperatures, with cool breezy days and plenty of sunshine. The dry season is also the country's high tourism season, with the biggest wave of tourists arriving between December 15 and January 15, and during the weeks around Easter. Many visitors come from colder climates and are looking to spend their holidays in the tropics. As such, hotels and resorts have high rack rates during this season, and budget travellers may want to avoid this period.

December is a festive time in Belize, with the local population celebrating the holiday season with parades, parties, concerts, shopping sprees, and horse race events. The Christmas and New Year period is a sociable time, with many local bars and lounges throwing large, elaborate parties.

In late November, Belizeans celebrate Thanksgiving, and while it's not exactly the same as in the US, locals make turkey dinner with all the trimmings.

March in Belize marks the beginning of springtime fun, with the island vacations starting as the weather is all-around perfect. It's also the time of the Ruta Maya Belize River Challenge, a four-day-long time trial endurance canoe race from the scenic Hawkesworth Bridge in San Ignacio down the Belize River to the old capital.

The dry season is the best time for outdoor activities such as water sports and jungle adventures. It's also a good time for scuba diving and snorkelling, with calm and clear waters.

However, it's worth noting that the dry season is also hurricane season in Belize, which runs from June to November. While hurricanes rarely make landfall, it's important to keep an eye on the weather forecast and purchase travel insurance.

The rainy season (June to November)

The Rainy Season in Belize

The rainy season in Belize runs from June to November, with the wettest months being September and October. During this time, you can expect warm temperatures and brief but intense rainfall. While the rain can be heavy, it usually only lasts for a couple of hours, and you can still enjoy sunny days in between the showers.

Weather Conditions

Belize's rainy season is characterised by warm temperatures and frequent but short-lived rainfall. The early arrival of rains in May and June is a good time to visit if you want to beat the tourist rush and take advantage of lower hotel rates. However, some dirt roads may become muddy, limiting access to remote areas. The rainy season is also the time when the Caribbean hurricane season occurs, so it's important to plan accordingly and purchase travel insurance.

Tourism and Activities

The rainy season in Belize is considered the low season for tourism. This means you can take advantage of fewer crowds and lower prices on tours, accommodations, and flights. While some resorts may close during this period, many attractions and tours remain open, giving you a more authentic local experience. Keep in mind that outdoor activities such as snorkelling and caving may be affected by choppy waters and flooding during tropical storms.

Local Festivities and Customs

Despite being the rainy season, there are still plenty of local festivities and customs to enjoy. June marks the beginning of the local lobster season, and the country hosts its signature Lobster Fest, a two-week-long celebration of all things lobster. In September, you can join in the patriotic celebrations of Battle of St. Georges Caye Day and Independence Day, with parades, music, and carnivals. As Halloween approaches in October, locals honour the dead with Finados, similar to Dia de Los Muertos, with prayers, food offerings, and altars in their homes.

The peak of high season (December 15 to January 15)

The Peak of High Season in Belize: 15 December – 15 January

The peak of the tourist season in Belize is between 15 December and 15 January. This period sees the single biggest wave of tourists, with visitors flocking to the country to escape frosty and snowy conditions back home.

During this time, you can expect warm temperatures, clear skies, and low rainfall. The dry season in Belize runs from December to May, with the temperature dropping a little in December, January, and February, leading to cool, breezy days with lots of sunshine. The dry season is the best time for amazing weather in Belize, and it coincides with the North American winter, so it's a popular time for Americans and Canadians to visit.

Belize's high season runs from December to April, with most visitors arriving in March, followed by December, January, February, and April. This is the dry season, and it's a great time for outdoor activities such as water sports and jungle adventures.

The downside of visiting Belize during the peak of the high season is that it can be crowded, and accommodation prices are at a premium. Hotels and resorts have high rack rates during this period due to high demand. Experts recommend avoiding the high season if you're looking to save money.

If you're planning to visit Belize during the peak of the high season, it's advisable to book well in advance to secure your preferred accommodation.

The Easter holiday

Easter is a significant Christian holiday commemorating the Resurrection of Jesus, and in Belize, it is observed with a public and bank holiday on the Monday after Easter Sunday. In 2024, Easter Monday falls on April 1.

During the Easter holiday, prices tend to be higher, and hotels and attractions are more crowded. It is recommended to book accommodations and tours in advance if you plan to visit Belize during this time.

The dry season in Belize provides excellent visibility for outdoor activities such as water sports and jungle adventures. It is also a great time for birdwatching, as migratory birds from North America join the resident bird population.

While the dry season is the peak time for tourism in Belize, the country is a year-round destination. The rainy season, from June to November, also attracts visitors who want to take advantage of fewer crowds and discounted rates on accommodations and tours.

The summer months (June to August)

June to August is the rainy season in Belize, but don't let that put you off—the rain tends to fall in short bursts, and it's usually still sunny, with temperatures averaging between 82 and 86°F (28–30°C). June and July are ideal months to visit Belize if you want to attend the many festivals that celebrate the opening of lobster season. You can indulge in this delicious seafood delicacy at lobster festivals in towns like San Pedro, Caye Caulker, and Placencia.

In August, the weather is balmy, and there are still plenty of sunny days. It's also the perfect time to take advantage of off-season rates and stay in a premium luxury resort. There are also fewer crowds, so you can enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.

The summer is a great time to visit Belize if you want to immerse yourself in the local culture. In addition to the lobster festivals, there's the International Costa Maya Festival, which takes place in August and celebrates ancient Mayan heritage with dancing, music, and parades.

If you're a nature lover, the summer is a fantastic time to go birdwatching in the Belize Rainforest. Experienced birders know that the best time of day for bird watching is at first light, so head to the local trails to spot tropical species like the Keel-Billed Toucan and the Collared Aracari. Belize is home to over 600 bird species, so you're sure to see something new and exciting.

So, if you're looking for a mix of culture, nature, and relaxation, the summer months of June to August are a great time to visit Belize. You'll be able to take advantage of lower prices and fewer crowds while still enjoying warm weather and plenty of sunshine.

Frequently asked questions