Belize: Avoid The Rainy Season

Belize is a nature lover's paradise, with a lively barrier reef, lush jungles, and ancient Mayan ruins. The best time to visit Belize is during the dry season, which is between January and May. During this time, you can expect warm temperatures and clear, sunny days, especially in the Cayo District and on the Cayes. However, if you're looking for lower prices and fewer crowds, you may want to consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (April to May and October to November) or the low season (June through September). Keep in mind that the wet season in Belize runs from June to November, and travel can become challenging towards the end of this period due to the risk of hurricanes. Some businesses may also be closed during this time.

June to November: Hurricane season

June to November is the wet season in Belize, and it also coincides with hurricane season, which officially runs from June 1 to November 30. While hurricanes rarely make landfall in Belize, they can be serious when they do. The most active period for tropical storms is usually from the end of August through mid-October, with August, September, and October being the most active months.

If you plan to visit Belize during hurricane season, keep an eye on weather reports and purchase travel insurance when you book your trip. While it rarely rains more than 50 inches per year in the north of the country, the south can receive more than 150 inches of rain annually. Rainfall is also heaviest in the lowland jungle areas.

Travel to Belize becomes more challenging as the wet season progresses, with a low risk of hurricanes. Some businesses will close during this period, and there may be reduced transportation services.

June: Unbearable heat

June is one of the warmest months in Belize, with an average monthly temperature of 86°F (30°C). While the heat is intense, there are ways to mitigate it. The country experiences fresh easterly breezes off the Caribbean Sea, and frequent short showers in the afternoon provide some relief from the heat.

The heat index in Belize City in June is calculated to be an extremely hot 43°C (109.4°F). Heat exhaustion, cramps, and heatstroke are all possible outcomes of continuous activity in these conditions. It is important to take precautions such as staying hydrated, wearing lightweight and light-coloured clothing, and avoiding strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day.

The UV index in June is also high, with an average maximum of 12, posing an extreme threat to health from sun exposure. It is crucial to take protective measures such as seeking shade, wearing sunscreen, and covering up with appropriate clothing.

Despite the heat, June can still be a pleasant month to visit Belize. The lively vibe continues in the streets and markets, and the sea retains its warmth, appealing to tourists for enjoyable beach days. The wet season begins in June, and with it comes lower prices at hotels. It is also the start of the Caribbean Spiny Lobster season, making it a great time to try some tasty lobster dishes in Placencia and Ambergris Caye.

If you plan to visit Belize in June, be prepared for the heat by packing lightweight and breathable clothing, staying hydrated, and limiting outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day. Take advantage of the beach and water activities to stay cool, and don't forget to apply sunscreen generously!

March: Sargassum seaweed

March is the height of the dry season in Belize, with the least amount of rain and rising temperatures. However, this month can be affected by Sargassum seaweed, which starts to come in as early as March and can be a concern for prospective travellers.

The dry season in Belize runs from December to May, with the driest months being January to March. This is also the peak season for tourism, with the highest number of visitors and the most expensive prices. The dry season is the best time for bird and wildlife watching, with many species active and visible, and it is also a good time for snorkelling and diving, with calm and clear waters.

If you want to avoid the seaweed, one option is to head to the west of the country, where San Ignacio is located. This area is less affected by the seaweed and offers a range of attractions, including hiking, ancient Maya sites, and the Actun Tunichil Muknal cave.

If you do choose to visit Belize in March, you can expect warm and dry weather, perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the country's jungles and Maya ruins. However, if you are concerned about the seaweed situation, it may be worth considering an alternative month or location within Belize to ensure you have the best possible experience during your trip.

October: Businesses close

October is the height of Belize's rainy season, and the month with the most rainfall, averaging 10 inches. The wet weather can make it difficult to find catamaran trips to the outer atolls along the Belize Barrier Reef. Inland cave tours, a popular excursion, may also be closed due to flooding.

Some businesses close during the wet season, which runs from June to December. The wet season sees travel become more challenging as it progresses, with a low risk of hurricanes.

However, despite the rain, there is still plenty to do in Belize in October. The country is open for business year-round, and October is a great time to marvel at the exotic flora and fauna, discover Maya ruins, and embark on excursions to the atolls and coral islands around the famous Barrier Reef.

October is also the beginning of conch season, so you can enjoy fresh conch dishes such as ceviche, fritters, or soup.

The weather in October is cooling down, with temperatures on the coast reaching around 82°F (27°C) and 84°F (28°C) inland.

It is also one of the most sparsely visited months, so travellers can benefit from lower rates on tours and hotels. It is possible to save $100 or more on luxury hotels, and there are many discount packages for families and honeymooners.

October is also the annual birding festival, with over 580 species to spot, including toucans, macaws, egrets, herons, motmots, and red-footed boobies.

August: Peak rainy season

August is part of Belize's wet season, which runs from June to December. This is the peak of the rainy season, with high humidity, heavy rain, and the risk of tropical storms and hurricanes. Travel to Belize during this time can be challenging, and there is a chance that some businesses will be closed.

The wet season in Belize is characterised by heavy, wild storms, usually in the late afternoons. The country experiences high winds and rain from tropical waves, tropical storms, and hurricanes, which move westward through the Caribbean from June to November. The rainy season exhibits a brief break in rainfall in August, known as the "little dry" or "Mauga" season. During this time, drier winds from the west replace the easterly sea breezes, resulting in a decrease in rainfall and a slight rise in temperatures.

Despite the wet season, Belize's climate remains mild, and visitors can still enjoy the country's natural beauty and attractions. The country's large tracts of jungle and rainforests provide cooling relief, even during the hottest and rainiest months. The temperature in August ranges from highs of 86°F (30°C) to lows of 78°F (26°C), with an overall average of 82°F (28°C).

While August is not the ideal time to visit Belize due to the rainy season, it is worth noting that the biggest festival in Belize, La Costa Maya, takes place during this month. Musicians travel from across the Americas to perform, and there are pageants, music, and dance events to enjoy.

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