Belize: Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit Belize is generally considered to be during the dry season, which runs from December to April/May. During this period, rainfall is low and temperatures are mild, with warm and sunny days, clear blue skies, and cooler evenings. February, in particular, is a pleasant month to visit, as the weather is nice and there are fewer crowds than in January and March.

However, Belize is a year-round destination, and the wet season (June to November) has its advantages, too. During this time, you can take advantage of fewer crowds and lower prices, with tourism businesses offering discounts of up to 40%. While there is a risk of hurricanes and storms, the rain usually falls in short bursts, and there is still plenty of warm sunshine.

The dry season (December to April)

The Dry Season in Belize:

Belize has two seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. The dry season, which runs from December to April, is the best time to visit Belize. During this period, rainfall is low, and the temperatures are mild. The dry season offers warm and sunny days with clear blue skies, with the nights being cooler.

December:

• The dry season begins in December, with the temperature dropping a little, leading to cool, breezy days with plenty of sunshine.
• December is a festive time in Belize, with the country celebrating the holiday season through parades, parties, concerts, shopping sprees, and horse race events.
• The post-New Year holidays see a huge influx of people, with prices increasing significantly.
• There are big New Year's Eve parties in San Pedro, and horse races at Burrell Boom.
• Cyclists ride from Corozal to Belize City for the Krem Annual New Year's Day Classic.

January:

• January is a very popular month for visitors, both inland and on the coast.
• The temperature ranges from an average monthly low of 70°F (21°C) to a high of 80°F (27°C).
• This is a good time to visit the Cayo District and the Cayes, which offer clear, sunny days.

February:

• February has similar temperatures to January, with days being generally mild and nights being cooler.
• This is a good month for birdwatching, as lagoons and rivers begin to dry up, making birds easier to spot as they gather around the remaining water sources.
• February is a busy month for tourism, with high demand for boats to the cayes and trips inland to caves, ruins, and jungle reserves.

March:

• March is the middle of the dry season, with clear and uninterrupted days and nights.
• The temperature ranges from 83°F (28°C) during the day to 74°F (23°C) at night.
• This is a good time to visit the Maya sites, such as the stepped pyramids of Caracol and Altun Ha, and the temples at Lamanai and Xunantunich.

April:

• In April, temperatures start to rise, and brief, cooling showers, known as "Iguana Rains," appear along the coast.
• Expect average highs of 85°F (29°C) and lows of 76°F (24°C).
• April is a popular time for Easter celebrations, so expect extra crowds during this month.

The dry season is the high tourism season in Belize, so certain attractions and towns can be crowded. 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.

The rainy season (June to November)

Belize's rainy season, also known as the wet season, runs from June through to November. While this period sees the country's highest rainfall, it doesn't rain all day, every day. Typically, rain showers occur overnight or in the early morning, with the occasional afternoon downpour. The early months of the rainy season, May and June, are a good time to visit Belize if you want to avoid the tourist rush and take advantage of lower hotel rates.

However, heavy rainfall can cause flooding, and some businesses may close during this time. Dirt roads can become muddy, and travel to remote areas may be difficult. The wet season is also the hurricane season, and while Belize doesn't attract many major direct hits, there is a low risk of hurricanes from August to October.

Despite these challenges, the rainy season has its advantages. With fewer crowds, you can enjoy more privacy in areas such as the beaches, caves, and Maya ruins. The summer months are also a great time for lobster fishing, and Belize hosts its signature seafood event, the Belize Lobster Fest.

If you're looking for a summer break destination, Belize can be an attractive option. The country's large tracts of jungle and rainforests provide cooling relief, and the temperatures are warm rather than hot. The upside of the dry weather in summer is that river levels are low, making it safer for canoe and cave archaeology adventure tours, such as the Belize ATM Cave.

So, if you don't mind a little rain and are looking for a more relaxed taste of the tropics, consider visiting Belize during the rainy season. You'll find fewer crowds, lower prices, and plenty of unique experiences to enjoy.

The shoulder season (November and May)

The shoulder season, which falls in November and May, is a great time to visit Belize if you want to avoid the crowds and take advantage of lower prices. During these months, you can enjoy a more relaxed experience as you explore the country's ancient Mayan temples, join rainforest expeditions, or go zip-lining over jungle canopies. The weather is still pleasant, with plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

In November, you can join the celebrations for Garifuna Settlement Day, which falls on November 19th. This cultural event celebrates the traditions of the Garifuna people, descendants of escaped enslaved Africans and Indigenous Carib people. The whole country comes alive with traditional dancing and drumming, and festivities, especially in Punta Gorda, Dangriga, and Hopkins.

May is also an excellent month for diving and snorkelling enthusiasts. While whale shark sightings have become rarer in recent years, there is hope for their return. The Chocolate Festival in Punta Gorda and the Cashew Festival in Crooked Tree Village are also great reasons to visit Belize in May. You can indulge in chocolate-themed events and local crafts in Punta Gorda or head to Crooked Tree Village for all things cashew-related.

During the shoulder season, you'll find that most of Belize's attractions remain open, and you won't have to deal with the peak season crowds. It's a great time to explore the country's temples, beaches, and jungles at your own pace.

The peak season (December to April)

The Peak Season in Belize:

The peak season in Belize runs from December to April, coinciding with the country's dry season. During this period, Belize experiences an increase in visitors, with the highest number of tourists arriving in March, followed by December, January, February, and April. The dry season offers warm and sunny days with clear blue skies, making it the perfect time for outdoor activities such as water sports and jungle adventures.

Weather Conditions:

The dry season in Belize is characterised by low rainfall and milder temperatures. While the months of December, January, and February bring cooler breezy days with plenty of sunshine, March, April, and May tend to be hotter with minimal cloud cover. This makes it an ideal time to explore the country's Maya ruins, rainforests, and barrier reef, as well as enjoy activities such as birdwatching, sunbathing, swimming, and diving.

Accommodation and Pricing:

Due to the high demand during the peak season, hotels and resorts typically charge their highest rates. It is recommended that budget travellers consider visiting outside the peak season to take advantage of lodging discounts of 25% or more. Additionally, airline ticket prices tend to be lower during the off-peak months. However, some resorts may offer discounts during the peak season if booked well in advance with a deposit, so it is worth hunting for these unadvertised specials.

Holidays and Events:

The peak season in Belize includes several holidays and events that attract visitors. The post-New Year period sees a huge influx of tourists, with many people fleeing the cold weather in their home countries and seeking a tropical getaway. Belize also celebrates Easter with passion, and the weeks before and after Semana Santa (Holy Week) are particularly crowded.

Other notable events during the peak season include Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's celebrations. Belizeans celebrate Christmas with parades, parties, concerts, shopping sprees, and horse races. New Year's Eve is a social event, with bars and lounges hosting elaborate parties. Valentine's Day in Belize is also a romantic time, with locals creating special experiences for couples.

In March, the Ruta Maya Belize River Challenge takes place, a 4-day-long time trial endurance canoe race from Hawkesworth Bridge in San Ignacio down the Belize River to the old capital. This event adds to the festive atmosphere of the peak season.

Planning Your Trip:

When planning a trip to Belize during the peak season, it is essential to make reservations in advance, especially if you plan to visit during the Christmas and New Year holidays. Additionally, some resorts may offer early booking discounts, so it is worth exploring these options. Keep in mind that the single biggest wave of tourists is between December 15 and January 15, so you may want to avoid this period if you prefer a quieter experience.

The offseason (May to November)

While the dry season from December to April is the most popular time to visit Belize, the country's offseason from May to November has its own unique advantages. During this period, you can take advantage of fewer crowds and significant discounts on accommodation and tours.

From May to November, Belize's rainy season, also known as the "wet season", sets in. However, this doesn't mean that it rains all day, every day. In fact, rain showers typically only last for one or two hours, and you can still expect plenty of dry days. The rainiest months are typically July, September, October, and November, with October seeing the highest rainfall. During this time, you can expect temperatures to be a bit warmer, with average highs of around 90°F (32°C).

Despite the rain, the offseason is a great time to visit Belize if you're looking for a more relaxed and affordable experience. Many of Belize's top attractions remain open, and you can explore the country's beauty without having to deal with large crowds. It's the perfect time to discover the country's stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and impressive Maya ruins at your own pace.

If you're looking for a more festive experience during the offseason, the month of September is a great time to visit. Belizeans celebrate their national pride with St. George's Caye Day, Carnival, and Independence Day during this month. You can also take part in the International Costa Maya Festival, which features a week of parties and beauty pageants in the town of San Pedro.

For those seeking a unique cultural experience, November is a significant month as it marks the arrival of the Garifuna people to Belize. Garifuna Settlement Day is celebrated across the country, with major events taking place in Southern Belize. This is also a great time to visit if you want to avoid the peak season crowds and still enjoy warm temperatures.

So, if you're considering visiting Belize during the offseason, you can look forward to a more tranquil and budget-friendly experience, with plenty of opportunities to explore the country's natural and cultural offerings.

Frequently asked questions