Best Time to Visit Belize (Weather, Events, & More)
Planning your next getaway and wondering about the best time to visit Belize? This Central American gem, known for its lush rainforests, stunning barrier reef, and rich Mayan history, offers unique experiences throughout the year. However, timing your trip can enhance your experience, whether you're after perfect beach weather, vibrant festivals, or the best conditions for exploring ancient ruins. Let's dive into what makes certain times of the year stand out in Belize.
Table of Contents
- Best Time to Visit Belize (Weather, Events, & More)
- Best Overall Time to Visit Belize
- Monthly Overview of Belize
- Detailed Monthly Analysis
- Belize in January
- Belize in February
- Belize in March
- Belize in April
- Belize in May
- Belize in June
- Belize in July
- Belize in August
- Belize in September
- Belize in October
- Belize in November
- Belize in December
- Special Events in Belize to Look Out For
- Pro Tips for Traveling to Belize
- Belize Travel FAQ
Best Overall Time to Visit Belize
If you're pondering the best time to visit Belize, aim for the dry season, which spans from late November to mid-April. This period promises superb weather, making it ideal for diving into the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean or exploring ancient Mayan ruins without the worry of rain. Plus, the breezy evenings are perfect for beachside dining or a leisurely stroll through bustling markets.
However, visiting Belize during the low season, from June to November, has its own perks and drawbacks. On the upside, you'll benefit from lower prices and fewer tourists, which means more serene beaches and a relaxed atmosphere. On the downside, this is also the rainy season, which can lead to sporadic tropical showers and the occasional hurricane threat, potentially disrupting travel plans.
Monthly Overview of Belize
Month | Season | Avg. Days of Rainfall | Avg. Temperature (°F/°C) | Hotel Costs |
---|---|---|---|---|
January | Dry | 6 | 75/24 | High |
February | Dry | 5 | 76/24 | High |
March | Dry | 4 | 78/26 | High |
April | Dry | 4 | 80/27 | Medium |
May | Wet | 10 | 82/28 | Medium |
June | Wet | 15 | 84/29 | Low |
July | Wet | 16 | 82/28 | Low |
August | Wet | 16 | 82/28 | Low |
September | Wet | 18 | 81/27 | Low |
October | Wet | 21 | 79/26 | Low |
November | Wet | 14 | 76/24 | Medium |
December | Dry | 9 | 75/24 | High |
Detailed Monthly Analysis
Here’s what to expect in Belize in each month of the year:
Belize in January
Visiting Belize in January is a treat for those looking to escape colder climates. The weather is comfortably warm and it's the dry season, so you'll experience less rainfall and more sunny days. This makes it perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the stunning natural beauty of Belize.
- Average Temperature: 24°C / 75°F
- Days of Rainfall: 5 days
- Season: Dry season
- Cost: High
- Activities: Snorkeling with nurse sharks at Shark Ray Alley, attending the Belize City Carnival, bird watching in Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary
Belize in February
Visiting Belize in February is a treat for those looking to escape colder climates. The weather is warm and mostly dry, making it perfect for outdoor adventures and beach days. It's a popular time for tourists, so expect some lively vibes, especially around the coast.
- Average Temperature: 28°C / 82°F
- Days of Rainfall: 5 days
- Season: Dry season
- Cost: High
- Activities: Snorkeling with nurse sharks at Shark Ray Alley, attending the Placencia Sidewalk Arts Festival
Belize in March
Visiting Belize in March is a delight as you're hitting the sweet spot of the dry season. The weather is fantastic, with plenty of sunshine and blue skies, making it perfect for outdoor adventures and beach days. It's a popular time for tourists, so there's a vibrant buzz around the place, but it's still possible to find your own tranquil spot if you know where to look.
- Average Temperature: 28°C / 82°F
- Days of Rainfall: 5 days
- Season: Dry season
- Cost: High
- Activities: Snorkeling with whale sharks, attending the La Ruta Maya Belize River Challenge
Belize in April
Visiting Belize in April is a real treat as you're catching the tail end of the dry season. The weather is fantastic, with plenty of sunshine and blue skies, making it perfect for outdoor adventures and beach days. It's also just before the peak tourist season, so you can enjoy slightly less crowded attractions and more interaction with locals.
- Average Temperature: 28°C / 82°F
- Days of Rainfall: 4 days
- Season: Dry season
- Cost: Moderate
- Activities: Snorkeling with nurse sharks at Shark Ray Alley, attending the Belize National Agriculture and Trade Show
Belize in May
Visiting Belize in May is a delightful mix of warm weather and occasional showers, marking the transition from the dry to the wet season. The landscapes are vibrant and the tourist crowds are thinner, making it a great time to explore the natural beauty and cultural festivities of the region.
- Average Temperature: 28°C / 82°F
- Days of Rainfall: 10 days
- Season: Transition from dry to wet season
- Cost: Moderate
- Activities: Chocolate Festival of Belize, snorkeling, and diving
Belize in June
Visiting Belize in June means embracing the wet season. You'll find the island lush and green, though it's also the peak of the rainy season, so expect daily downpours. However, the rain usually comes in intense short bursts, often in the afternoon, leaving the morning and night clearer for exploration.
- Average Temperature: 28°C / 82°F
- Days of Rainfall: 22 days
- Season: Wet season
- Cost: Moderate
- Activities: Snorkeling with whale sharks, attending the Lobsterfest in coastal towns, exploring the Belize Barrier Reef
Belize in July
Visiting Belize in July means embracing the wet season. You'll find the island lush and green, though it's also the peak of the rainy season, so expect daily downpours. However, the rain usually comes in intense short bursts, often in the afternoon, leaving the morning and night clearer for exploration.
- Average Temperature: 28°C / 82°F
- Days of Rainfall: 22 days
- Season: Wet season
- Cost: Moderate
- Activities: Snorkeling with whale sharks, attending the Lobsterfest in coastal towns, exploring the vibrant wildlife in the rainforests
Belize in August
Visiting Belize in August means embracing the wet season. You'll find the island lush and green, though it's also the peak of the rainy season, so expect daily downpours. However, the rain usually comes in intense short bursts, often in the afternoon, leaving the morning and night clearer for exploration.
- Average Temperature: 28°C / 82°F
- Days of Rainfall: 22 days
- Season: Wet season
- Cost: Moderate
- Activities: Snorkeling with whale sharks, attending the Costa Maya Festival, exploring the Belize Barrier Reef
Belize in September
Visiting Belize in September is a unique experience, as it coincides with the country's festive season, despite being in the heart of the rainy period. The weather is warm and the showers, though frequent, are usually quick, allowing you to enjoy the vibrant celebrations and lush landscapes that define Belize this time of year.
- Average Temperature: 28°C / 82°F
- Days of Rainfall: 22 days
- Season: Wet season
- Cost: Moderate
- Activities: Celebrating Belize's Independence Day, attending the Carnival, visiting the Belize Expo
Belize in October
Visiting Belize in October means embracing the wet season. You'll find the island lush and green, though it's also the peak of the rainy season, so expect daily downpours. However, the rain usually comes in intense short bursts, often in the afternoon, leaving the morning and night clearer for exploration.
- Average Temperature: 26°C / 79°F
- Days of Rainfall: 27 days
- Season: Wet season
- Cost: Low
- Activities: Indoor cultural shows, spa days, museum visits
Belize in November
Visiting Belize in November is a delightful mix of mild weather and vibrant cultural experiences. It's the tail end of the rainy season, so while you might encounter some showers, they're generally short-lived and make way for clear, sunny spells. This is a fantastic time to enjoy the country without the peak season crowds, giving you a more relaxed and intimate experience of all that Belize has to offer.
- Average Temperature: 24°C / 75°F
- Days of Rainfall: 15 days
- Season: Transition from wet to dry season
- Cost: Moderate
- Activities: Garifuna Settlement Day celebrations, snorkeling, and diving after the rains clear
Belize in December
Visiting Belize in December is a delightful experience as it marks the beginning of the dry season. The weather is cooler and more comfortable, making it ideal for exploring the outdoors. December in Belize is festive and vibrant, with holiday celebrations and a welcoming, joyful atmosphere.
- Average Temperature: 24°C / 75°F
- Days of Rainfall: 12 days
- Season: Start of the dry season
- Cost: High (peak tourist season)
- Activities: Snorkeling with nurse sharks at Shark Ray Alley, attending the San Pedro Holiday Boat Parade, exploring the Lamanai Maya ruins
Special Events in Belize to Look Out For
San Pedro Carnival
- Date: Week leading up to Ash Wednesday
- Description: A lively pre-Lenten celebration, featuring traditional "comparsas" (street dances), vibrant costumes, and plenty of paint and water being playfully thrown around.
Baron Bliss Day
- Date: March 9th
- Description: Honoring one of Belize's biggest benefactors, Baron Bliss, this national holiday is marked with regattas, fishing tournaments, and parades, particularly vibrant in Belize City.
Chocolate Festival of Belize
- Date: Late May
- Description: Held in Punta Gorda, this sweet festival celebrates the rich heritage of cacao in the region with chocolate-making demonstrations, tastings, and local music.
Lobster Fest
- Date: June (Dates vary by location)
- Description: Celebrated in several coastal towns like Caye Caulker and Placencia, this festival marks the start of the lobster season with delicious seafood, live music, and dance parties.
Belize Independence Day
- Date: September 21st
- Description: Commemorating Belize's independence from the UK in 1981, this day is filled with patriotic parades, flag-raising ceremonies, and festive concerts.
San Pedro International Costa Maya Festival
- Date: Early August
- Description: A week-long event in San Pedro that celebrates the Maya culture with pageants, traditional dances, and music from around the Maya world.
Garifuna Settlement Day
- Date: November 19th
- Description: This important cultural holiday celebrates the arrival of the Garifuna people to Belize in 1832, featuring live drumming, dancing, and parades, especially vibrant in Dangriga.
La Ruta Maya Belize River Challenge
- Date: Early March
- Description: A grueling four-day canoe race that runs along the Belize River, attracting teams from around the world to compete in this challenging event.
Pro Tips for Traveling to Belize
- Cash Over Card: Many places in Belize, especially smaller vendors and rural areas, prefer or only accept cash, so always have some on hand.
- Tipping Culture: Tipping is customary and appreciated in Belize. Aim for 10-15% at restaurants, and consider tipping your tour guides and hotel staff.
- Drinking Water Caution: Stick to bottled or purified water as tap water may not be safe to drink everywhere.
- Public Transportation Tips: Buses are a common and affordable way to travel around Belize but be prepared for a less structured schedule than you might be used to.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly in rural and village areas, and always ask for permission before taking photos of people.
- Try Local Cuisine: Don’t miss out on Belizean specialties like rice and beans, stew chicken, and seafood dishes like conch ceviche.
- Language Ease: English is the official language of Belize, making communication generally straightforward, but learning a few phrases in Creole can endear you to locals.
- Respect the Reef: When snorkeling or diving, be mindful of the delicate coral reef ecosystems. Avoid touching or stepping on coral.
- Belizean Time: Things often move at a slower pace in Belize. Patience is key, and it’s best to embrace the laid-back lifestyle.
- Safety First: Always be aware of your surroundings, use common sense, and keep valuables secure, especially in crowded or less touristy areas.
Belize Travel FAQ
Do I need a visa to visit Belize?
For most tourists, including those from the US, Canada, and the UK, no visa is required for stays up to 30 days. However, you must have a passport valid for at least three months beyond your date of entry and proof of onward travel. Always check the latest entry requirements before your trip as policies can change.
What currency is used in Belize?
The Belize Dollar (BZD) is the official currency, pegged to the US dollar at a rate of 2 BZD to 1 USD. US dollars are also widely accepted throughout the country, so it's convenient to carry some with you. Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but having local cash is handy for smaller purchases.
What should I pack for a trip to Belize?
Lightweight, breathable clothing is perfect for Belize's tropical climate. Include swimwear, a hat, sunglasses, and a sturdy pair of walking shoes for adventures. Don't forget your insect repellent, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle. If you're visiting during the rainy season (June to November), pack a waterproof jacket or umbrella.
Do I need to speak Spanish or Belizean Creole to visit Belize?
No, you don't need to speak Spanish or Belizean Creole. English is the official language of Belize, making it easy for English-speaking tourists to communicate and navigate around the country.
Is Belize safe for tourists?
Belize is relatively safe for tourists, but it's important to take standard travel precautions. Avoid isolated areas, especially at night, keep an eye on your belongings, and use hotel safes for valuables. Always use licensed taxis and be cautious when withdrawing money from ATMs.
Is Belize accessible for travelers with disabilities?
Accessibility can be challenging in Belize, as many areas lack the necessary infrastructure, such as ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. Some of the newer hotels and tourist facilities are more likely to have better accessibility features. It's a good idea to check with specific venues and accommodation providers about their facilities before booking.
What type of electrical outlet is used in Belize?
Belize uses Type A and Type B electrical outlets, the same as in the United States and Canada. The standard voltage is 110-120V. If you're coming from a country with a different standard, you might need a voltage converter or plug adapter.
What are the best months to visit Belize?
The best time to visit Belize is during the dry season, from late November to mid-April. This period offers the most pleasant weather for enjoying outdoor activities and exploring the reefs and rainforests. Keep in mind that this is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.