Have you started planning your Belize vacation yet? Or are you still caught up trying to figure out when’s the best time to visit? Well, the short answer to that question is that there isn’t really a bad time to visit. That’s because there’s always something to do, see, or experience. But if you’re looking for something more specific, then here’s what you need to know when it comes to choosing the best time to visit Belize.
The Best Time to Visit Belize for Good Weather
Between December and April
Photo by Itz’ana Resort
Activities to enjoy: swimming, birding, spelunking, beach bumming
Belize, like other Caribbean countries, has two main seasons: the wet season, also known as the hurricane season, and the dry season. If you’re looking to soak up as much sun as possible without the threat of heavy rains, then your best bet is to visit between the months of December and April. This period also coincides with high tourism season, though. And that means that you can expect more crowds and higher travel prices. This is especially the case with the Holiday months of December and January, when travellers flock to the region for some respite from the winter weather up north.
The Best Time for Great Deals & Affordable Prices
September to November or May
Caye Caulker, Belize. Photo via GlobeGuide
Activities to Enjoy: Garifuna Settlement Day, Chocolate Festival, Off the beaten path travel
Belize’s low tourism season runs from May to November. This is one of the best times for you to take advantage of travel deals, discount prices for accommodations, and, of course, less crowds. If you’re a fan of off the beaten path travel, then this period will be perfect for you. For the best weather, try visiting between October and November or in May. This period, also known as shoulder-season, offers great prices while most attractions are still open.
The Best Time to Visit Belize if You Love Parties, Concerts, and Festivals
June to September
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- Caye Caulker Lobster Fest. Image by Island Bway Photography
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- Photo by Kevin Quischan
Activities to enjoy: Belize Carnival, Belize International Film Festival, Lobster Fest
Whether you’re a foodie, a film buff, or you love a good fete, the months of June to September are ideal for a fun and memorable trip. Some festivals and parties that take place during this time are:
- The Belize International Film Festival in June
- Lobster Fest and Mango Fest in July
- Costa Maya Festival in August
- Belize’s September Celebrations (Carnival, The Annual Soca and Jazz Fest, Pan Yaad, and more)
The Best Time to Visit Belize for Whale Shark Diving
April and May
Whale Shark Diving. Image courtesy of Chabil Mar
Activities to enjoy: Diving and snorkeling in the Gladden Spit Marine Reserve
If you’ve ever wanted to swim with the world’s largest fish, you can do so right off the coast of Southern Belize. These gentle giants can be found in Belize’s waters during the springtime, especially in April and May. Interestingly, whale shark sightings coincide with the moon. Your best chances for spotting them are either two days before or up to two weeks after a full moon.
The Best Time to Visit for Birding
January to April
Photo by Chan Chich Lodge
Activities to enjoy: Birdwatching, Nature trails
Belize is home to hundreds of species of local and regional birds. And while the country is an amazing destination for birding year-round, the months of January to April offer an added treat. That’s when many migratory birds arrive in Belize. The best part is, the country is dotted with a number of resorts and national parks that offer some of the best opprtunities to spot a wide variety of birds (as well as other wildlife.)
Featured Photo courtesy Ray Caye Island Resort
