Best Time to Visit Belize In 2023 – Travel Guide

Continue reading to learn more about Belize’s weather by month, season information, and our professional advice on when to go.

The dry season, which lasts from January to May, is the ideal time to travel to Belize. The type of weather you get will vary by region even though you can experience warm temperatures all over the country. In the Cayo District and on the Cayes, expect clear, sunny days. A more humid climate, with a chance of rain at any time of year, is what the Toledo District and Placencia experience, but this is what gives these areas their lush beauty.

Travel is still feasible up until the beginning of August during the wet season, which lasts from June to December and is marked by mainly afternoon downpours. There is a low chance of hurricanes, and travel becomes difficult as the season goes on. During this time, some businesses will shut down.

Best Times to Visit Belize

Belize’s dry season, which lasts from late November to mid-April, is the ideal time to visit. Despite the fact that thousands of tourists flock to the area during this busy time of year, putting up with the crowds is a small price to pay for the pleasant weather, clear skies, and convenient access to the nation’s top attractions. When humidity mists the tropical landscape and temperatures soar into the triple digits, you should probably avoid traveling in April and May. June through mid-November will bring showers and strong winds. Come during the rainy season in September and October if you want to avoid the tourist crush and don’t mind bringing an umbrella. Don’t forget, though, that some businesses close down in the off-season.

BELIZE WEATHER & CLIMATE

It is possible to travel to Belize year-round due to its pleasant subtropical climate. The average annual temperature is around 80 degrees Fahrenheit, with a relative humidity of around 85%. Low 60s are not unheard of during the coldest winters. On the mainland, it can get as hot as the mid-nineties during the hottest parts of the summer.

Most of the year, trade winds blow along the coast, cayes (pronounced keys), and reef, keeping temperatures comfortable. The southern region and the lowland jungle regions experience the heaviest rainfall. In the north and on the cayes, it is the lightest. Altitude affects climate, with evenings at higher elevations being comfortably cool and the lowland jungle frequently being muggy and humid. For more information and our professional advice on when to visit Belize, continue reading.

Belize Seasons

There are two distinct wet and dry seasons in Belize. December through May is typically the dry season, and June through November is the wet season. Rainfall can happen at any time of year in the tropics, but it tends to come in short bursts during the dry season. A third transition season is acknowledged by some locals during the winter. Here, we dive deeper to explain Belize travel seasons and suggest the ideal times of year to visit.

Belize Dry Season – High Season for Travel

High season for travel and cruising is the Belize dry season, which lasts from December to May. Temperatures that range from warm to hot, sunny days, calming trade winds, and little rain are characteristics of the climate.

From December through February, strong northerly winds called “nortes” can blow (see norte season below). With little rain, pleasant temperatures, and calm, clear water, March and April are picture-perfect. When rain does occur during the dry season, it usually does so in moderate, brief spurts that have a pleasant cooling effect.

Prices rise during the peak season, especially around the holidays of Christmas and Easter. There is more crowding at hotels and attractions. Small-ship cruises to Belize sell out quickly. If you want to visit Belize while it’s dry, we advise making your reservations as soon as possible.

Belize Rainy Season – Low Season for Travel

In Belize, the rainy season lasts from June to November. The rainy season, also known as the green season or Belize’s low season, is characterized by warm temperatures and brief but occasionally intense rain. Flowers and trees in bloom bring the rainforest and its wildlife to life. Travelers can then see birds and other wildlife more easily as a result.

Tropical rainfall occurs in June or early July and is punctuated by a reprieve in late July and August known as the “mauger” or “little dry season.” September and October are when it rains the most. Unless there is a tropical storm, rain showers usually last one to two hours.

Each region has a different average annual rainfall. For instance, the north of Belize rarely receives more than 50 inches of precipitation annually while the south of Belize can receive more than 150 inches.

Belize Norte Season

When the rainy season turns into the dry season, some Belizeans will recognize a third season. The norte season occurs from November through February and is characterized by occasional strong northerly winds or “nortes” coming from the Nortes from the U.S. and Mexico can bring heavy clouds and chilly nights, resulting in some of the lowest temperatures of the year in the low 60s.

Belize Hurricane Season

The Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to November 30 every year, officially overlaps with Belize hurricane season. Tropical storm activity is historically highest from the end of August to the middle of October. Although they rarely hit Belize, hurricanes can be very dangerous when they do. Consider purchasing travel insurance at the time of booking if you intend to travel during this time of year. Also, keep an eye on weather reports.

Belize in January

The changeover from the wet to the dry seasons occurs in Belize in January. It consequently experiences mild temperatures and varying amounts of rainfall. Northern “norte” winds can bring clouds and cooler evenings. Hotels, tours, and boats are all booked months in advance as Belize’s peak travel season begins in January.

Belize Weather in January

• Coastal temperature in Belize in January: 75-78 degrees
• Inland temperature in Belize in January: 66-80 degrees
• Water temperature in Belize in January: 80 degrees
• Belize average coastal wind in January: NE 9-13 knots

Benefits of Visiting Belize in January

• High season for travel
• Coolest weather of the year with rains diminishing
• Rainforest wildlife is active prior to dry season
• Fewer crowds right after December holidays
• Escape cold winter weather in North America and Europe
• Good visibility for snorkeling and diving
• Access to outer atolls is possible by catamaran

Belize Wildlife in January

• Good time to view rainforest wildlife including monkeys
• Birds that migrate from the Arctic and North America, such as hummingbirds, tanagers, warblers, and terns, start to arrive.
• Scarlet macaws arrive at seasonal feeding grounds near Red Bank
• a good time to see dolphins, rays, and sharks.

Belize in February

Belize entered the dry season in February, when there was significantly less rainfall. The month of February is enjoyable because the days are mild and the nights are cool. Although less frequently, nortes can happen. Given Belize’s warm tropical climate and clear skies, many people believe that February is the best month to travel there.

Belize Weather in February

• Coastal temperature in Belize in February: 76-79 degrees
• Inland temperature in Belize in February: 68-84 degrees
• Water temperature in Belize in February: 80 degrees
• Belize average coastal wind in February: E 11-15 knots

Benefits of Visiting Belize in February

• High season for travel
• Excellent bird and wildlife watching
• Good visibility for snorkeling and diving
• Access to outer atolls is possible by catamaran
• Escape cold winter weather in North America and Europe
• Parades, live music, dancing, and other events are all part of the week-long Fiesta de Carnaval celebration.
• a good time to see dolphins, rays, and sharks.

Belize Wildlife in February

• Good time to view rainforest wildlife including monkeys
• Many wading birds congregate in lowland lagoons; among the countless herons, ibis, storks, spoonbills, and waterfowl are the jabiru, northern boat-billed heron, and snail kite that are foraging there.
• Scarlet macaws seen at seasonal feeding grounds near Red Bank
• Access to outer atolls is possible by catamaran
• Lobster season ends

Belize in March

The height of the dry season in Belize is in March, making it a popular time to travel there. Things are warming up as there has been the least amount of rain and the temperatures have begun to rise.

Belize Weather in March

• Coastal temperature in Belize in March: 77-79 degrees
• Inland temperature in Belize in March: 69-88 degrees
• Water temperature in Belize in March: 80 degrees
• Belize average coastal wind in March: E 11-15 knots

Benefits of Visiting Belize in March

• High season for travel
• Excellent bird and wildlife watching
• Good visibility for snorkeling and diving
• Access to outer atolls is possible by catamaran
• Cashew harvest begins and continues through June
• Best time to view rainforest wildlife

Belize Wildlife in March

• Good time to view rainforest birds and wildlife
• Large numbers of wading birds flock into lowland lagoons during the height of the dry season
• Red-footed boobies hatching on Half Moon Caye
• Scarlet macaws seen at seasonal feeding grounds near Red Bank
• Especially around a full moon, whale shark season starts.
• best time of year to view sea turtles, including hawksbill, loggerhead, and green sea turtles.
• Sharks, rays, and dolphins can all be seen at this time.

Belize in April

April in Belize brings increasing temperatures and welcome rains, dubbed “iguana rains” by locals. Along the coast and inland, conditions are pleasant and the humidity is kept at a minimum despite the fact that it is still mainly dry. The start of the peak fishing, snorkeling, and scuba diving season is signaled by calm seas.

Belize Weather in April

• Coastal temperature in Belize in April: 79-81 degrees
• Inland temperature in Belize in April: 72-92 degrees
• Water temperature in Belize in April: 82 degrees
• Belize average coastal wind in April: SE 12-16 knots

Benefits of Visiting Belize in April

• Best visibility for snorkeling and diving
• The best time to see whale sharks is right around full moon.
• Excellent bird and wildlife watching
• April is among the warmest and driest months in Belize
• Access to outer atolls is possible by catamaran
• Good time to view manatee

Belize Wildlife in April

• Good time to view rainforest birds and wildlife
• Large numbers of wading birds flock into lowland lagoons during the height of the dry season
• Scarlet macaws leaving seasonal feeding grounds near Red Bank
• When the moon is full, you can see whale sharks the best.
• View loggerhead, green, and hawksbill sea turtles, among others.
• a good time to see dolphins, rays, and sharks.

Belize in May

May weather is still hot, especially inland. Rainfall increases, typically coming in the form of brief morning showers with sporadic evening thunderstorms. Less tourists and cheaper hotel and tour prices in Belize may result from the end of the dry season.

Belize Weather in May

• Coastal temperature in Belize in May: 80-82 degrees
• Inland temperature in Belize in May: 74-91 degrees
• Water temperature in Belize in May: 82 degrees
• Belize average coastal wind in May: SE 12-15 knots

Benefits of Visiting Belize in May

• calm water for scuba diving, snorkeling, and catamaran charter cruises.
• Best visibility for snorkeling and diving
• Grand slam fishing season. The seasons for permit, bonefish, and tarpon have arrived.

Belize Wildlife in May

• Great time to view rainforest wildlife including monkeys
• Large numbers of wading birds flock into lowland lagoons
• When the moon is full, you can see whale sharks the best.
• Good time to view hawksbill turtles
• Loggerhead turtle season ends
• A good time to see dolphins, rays, and sharks.

Belize in June

The rainy season in Belize begins in June. Although it’s still hot outside, there are gentle breezes from the Caribbean Sea and more frequent but brief afternoon showers to keep things comfortable. The season for lobster has arrived, and restaurants all over the country are serving it. Beginning of the Atlantic hurricane season, but statistically not a tropical storm-active month here.

Belize Weather in June

• Coastal temperature in Belize in June: 80-83 degrees
• Inland temperature in Belize in June: 75-88 degrees
• Water temperature in Belize in June: 84 degrees
• Belize average coastal wind in June: SE 11-14 knots

Benefits of Visiting Belize in June

• Lobsterfest coincides with the opening of lobster season
• Cashew harvest ends
• Season of the grand slam. It’s time for tarpon, permit, and bonefish.
• Best visibility for snorkeling and diving

Belize Wildlife in June

• Rainforest wildlife active at the onset of Belize rainy season
• Whale shark season ends
• Best time to view manatee
• Hammerhead shark season begins
• Good time to view hawksbill and green sea turtles
• Lobster fishing season begins
• A good time to see dolphins, rays, and sharks.

Belize in July

Statistics show that July is the wettest month of the year in Belize. While storms do occasionally occur and they can last for several days, the majority of rain falls during regular overnight thunderstorms and predictable morning showers. There is relief from the heat inland thanks to easterly breezes.

Belize Weather in July

• Coastal temperature in Belize in July: 80-83 degrees
• Inland temperature in Belize in July: 74-88 degrees
• Water temperature in Belize in July: 84 degrees
• Belize average coastal wind in July: E 9-13 knots

Benefits of Visiting Belize in July

• Fishing season for grand slams. Tarpon, bonefish, and permit are all in season.
• Good visibility for snorkeling and diving
• Lobster season in full swing

Belize Wildlife in July

• Best time to view rainforest wildlife including monkeys
• Best time to view manatee
• Good time to view hammerhead sharks
• Good time to view hawksbill turtles
• Green sea turtle season begins
• a good time to see dolphins, rays, and sharks.

Belize in August

Belize experiences a brief break from the rainy season in August. Known locally as “little dry,” there is slight break from summer rains. Westerly inland winds take the place of easterly sea breezes to help things dry out a bit. increased likelihood of hurricanes and tropical storms.

Belize Weather in August

• Coastal temperature in Belize in August: 80-84 degrees
• Inland temperature in Belize in August: 74-90 degrees
• Water temperature in Belize in August: 85 degrees
• Belize average coastal wind in August: SE 10-14 knots

Benefits of Visiting Belize in August

• Grand slam fishing season
• Little dry season offers reprieve from Belize rainy season
• Low season rates and discounts offered
• Good visibility for snorkeling and diving

Belize Wildlife in August

• Good time to view rainforest wildlife including monkeys
• Best time to view manatee
• Good time to view hammerhead sharks
• Good time to view hawksbill turtles
• Good time to view green sea turtles
• good time to see dolphins, rays, and sharks.

Belize in September

The rainy and hurricane seasons in Belize reach their peak in September. In the early mornings and overnight, it rains more frequently. However, days are frequently sunny and warm. The off-season for travel is right now. For yearly maintenance, many of the catamaran charter boats in Belize are currently dry docked. It’s a fun month to travel to Belize during the annual Carnival celebration to take in the best of the country’s music, costumes, dances, and culture.

Belize Weather in September

• Coastal temperature in Belize in September: 80-84 degrees
• Inland temperature in Belize in September: 74-88 degrees
• Water temperature in Belize in September: 86 degrees
• Belize average coastal wind in September: SE 9-13 knots

Benefits of Visiting Belize in September

• Low season rates and discounts offered
• September 21 is Belize Independence Day. a month-long celebration featuring fireworks, parades, and music.
• Rainfall during the wet season feeds fruit and flowers, luring birds and other wildlife.
• Wonderful temperature range: neither too hot nor too cold.
• Good visibility for snorkeling and diving

Belize Wildlife in September

• Good time to view rainforest wildlife including monkeys
• Best time to view manatee
• Hammerhead shark season ends
• Good time to view hawksbill turtles
• Good time to view green sea turtles
• good time to see dolphins, rays, and sharks.

Belize in October

In October, rainfall in Belize continues to be heavy with occasional “northers,” two- or three-day storms often centered around the Wet cave tours could be impacted by a few days of persistent rain in the Maya Mountains because they become risky when rivers rise too high. The daytime temperature starts to fall.

Belize Weather in October

• Coastal temperature in Belize in October: 79-82 degrees
• Inland temperature in Belize in October: 72-84 degrees
• Water temperature in Belize in October: 85 degrees
• Belize average coastal wind in October: E 6-10 knots

Benefits of Visiting Belize in October

• Annual Belize Birding Festival
• Low season rates and discounts offered
• Rains during the wet season support flowers and fruit, luring birds and other wildlife.
• Excellent temperature: neither too hot nor too cold.
• Good visibility for snorkeling and diving
• Small ship cruising season begins

Belize Wildlife in October

• Good time to view rainforest wildlife including monkeys
• Grouper mating season brings large numbers of fish
• Hawksbill and green sea turtle season ends
• good time to see dolphins, rays, and sharks.

Belize in November

Locals in Belize view November as the start of winter. However, the majority of tourists will likely find it to be quite warm and sunny. The coolest month of the year in Belize is November, which makes it a great time to travel before the busy holiday season the following month.

Belize Weather in November

• Coastal temperature in Belize in November: 77-80 degrees
• Inland temperature in Belize in November: 69-82 degrees
• Water temperature in Belize in November: 83 degrees
• Belize average coastal wind in November: NE 9-13 knots

Benefits of Visiting Belize in November

• November 19 is Garifuna Settlement Day. Public holiday featuring parades, live music, and ethnic dancing.
• Transition between Belize rainy season and dry season
• before the holidays in December, fewer travelers. Visitation during Thanksgiving can be wonderful.
• Good visibility for snorkeling and diving

Belize Wildlife in November

• Good time to view rainforest wildlife including monkeys
• Grouper mating season brings large numbers
• a good time to see dolphins, rays, and sharks.

Belize in December

In Belize, December usually starts out rainy and ends up being drier as the dry season starts. The temperature has dropped, and the winter rains are ceasing. The best months for scuba diving and snorkeling begin as the waters become calm and clear. Holiday travel is at its peak in December, so reservations should be made well in advance.

Belize Weather in December

• Coastal temperature in Belize in December: 76-79 degrees
• Inland temperature in Belize in December: 67-81 degrees
• Water temperature in Belize in December: 81 degrees
• Belize average coastal wind in December: NE 9-13 knots

Benefits of Visiting Belize in December

• Good visibility for snorkeling and diving
• Escape cold winter weather in North America and Europe
• Beginning of dry season
• Holiday travel should be booked in advance

Belize Wildlife in December

• Good time to view rainforest wildlife including monkeys
• Red-footed boobies begin nesting on Half Moon Caye
• a good time to see dolphins, rays, and sharks.

Best Time to View Rainforest Wildlife in Belize

Belize offers year-round opportunities to see rainforest wildlife. You might come across amazing animals like monkeys, coatimundis, iguanas, scarlet macaws, and blue morpho butterflies, to name just a few. Wildlife can be most active during the wet season because there is plenty of food available, particularly in June and July when the rains start and hungry animals feast on the blossoming trees and flowers.

Early in the morning is the best time of day to see wildlife in the rainforest. For the most wildlife activity and perhaps a stunning dawn, get up before sunrise. A great time to see wildlife is during nighttime walks. Any kind of animal after dark can be located with the aid of a good guide. The majority of Belizean lodges provide morning and evening wildlife walks.

Best Time for Birding in Belize

Belize is a haven for birdwatchers. Belize is a favorite destination for birders and nature lovers because of its abundance of over 570 bird species and diverse neotropical landscapes. All seasons are great for birding in Belize.

The best months to visit Belize are December through April if you want to go birding. Migratory birds from North America join the local birds during the dry season. Migratory birds from South America come to Belize during the summer (the wet season). From January to April, the majority of scheduled bird tours take place.

Best Time to Take a Cruise in Belize

Any time of the year, large cruise ships will stop in Belize. Small ship cruises to Belize run every year from October through April. With a brief break in September and October, catamaran charter cruises in Belize are accessible all year long.

Belize’s sailing season runs from June to November. Belize has excellent sailing conditions with trade winds from the southeast averaging 10–13 knots.

Waters inside the barrier reef are shielded from swells in the Caribbean Sea, but sailing vessels may experience wind chop. Boats may run into ocean swells outside the reef. November through February are the ideal months for sailing and visiting Belize’s outer atolls, such as Turneffe Atoll, Lighthouse Reef, or Glovers Reef.

BEST TIME to SNORKEL & SCUBA DIVE in BELIZE

In Belize, diving and snorkeling are fantastic year-round activities. The water is typically 84 degrees Fahrenheit. Excellent visibility of between 60 and 100 feet is available. One of the best places in the world to go snorkeling and scuba diving is Belize.

The best months to visit Belize for snorkeling and scuba diving are April through June. Because of the calm winds and clear water at this time of year, visibility is improved.

While Caribbean surface conditions can be choppy, rainfall from July through October has no effect on visibility at offshore reef sites.

Temperatures above and below the water’s surface are a little bit cooler from November through April. In a shorty wetsuit during this time, the majority of divers feel comfortable.

Best Time to See Whale Sharks in Belize

Although they can also be found in March and June, the best months to see whale sharks in Belize are April and May. The best time to snorkel or dive with whale sharks is typically two days before the full moon through ten days after the full moon, depending on lunar cycles. Whale shark viewing can be influenced by lunar cycles.

Best Time to Fish in Belize

Belize offers top-notch tarpon, permit, and bonefish sport fishing. When all three species are present, May through August is the best time to go fishing in Belize. The grand slam fishing season is this time of year.

There is no specific season for bone fish; it is available year-round. Although they can be found all year long, permit fishing is most productive from midwinter to early summer when the trade winds are steady. The best fishing months for tarpon are from June to August because they migrate. All Belize catamaran cruises encourage fishing, and they frequently troll while underway to catch whatever the environment provides.

Lobster Season in Belize

A tasty delicacy is Caribbean spiney lobster. Sometimes referred to locally as crayfish, the scientific name is Panulirus argus. Rock lobster and Caribbean lobster are other names for it.

The lobster season is only allowed in Belize from June through February each year in order to protect the species and maintain a sustainable fishery. Before going lobster hunting, make sure you have a license because there are size and possession restrictions. If your plans call for lobster, find out in advance as exact dates can change from year to year. Any Belize charter cruise must include the opportunity to catch and eat fresh lobster.

Belize Conch Season

The conch fishing season in Belize typically starts in October and lasts until June, or until the allowed catch quota is reached. A common seafood in Belize and the Caribbean is the queen conch, which is pronounced “conk.” To make the meat of conch more tender, it is typically marinated in citrus or pounded thin and sauteed. Conch stew, fritters, ceviche, and soup are traditional Belizean dishes. Jewelry, decorations, and souvenirs are all made from the stunning hard shell.

Conclusion: WHEN is the BEST TIME to GO to BELIZE?

Any time of year is a great time to visit Belize. According to their findings, December through April is the ideal time to visit Belize. Any time of year, we are here to help you plan the ideal trip. Your best month to visit Belize may vary depending on a number of variables.

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