Best Time to Visit Belize

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When is the Best Time to Visit Belize? Weather, Crowds, and Budget Considerations.
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Thursday, 13 Feb, 2025
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Summary
On average, the busiest months for tourism in Belize are December and March, coinciding with winter break and spring break in the United States. While these months attract the highest number of visitors, Belize is a fantastic destination year-round. The best time to visit depends on several factors, including your budget, weather preferences, crowd levels, and planned activities. Let’s explore these aspects to help you determine the ideal time for your trip to Belize.
 
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On Average, most people visit Belize in December and March. This usually coincides with Winter break and Spring break in the United States. In our biased opinion, anytime is the best time to visit Belize. There is no time better than now!

 
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Determining the best time to visit Belize depends on several key factors, including your budget, preferred weather conditions, crowd levels, and the activities you want to experience. Let’s explore these aspects to help you decide the ideal time for your trip to Belize.

Crowds: High Season vs. Low Season

Even during Belize’s peak months of December and March, the country sees just under 50,000 visitors per month—significantly fewer than destinations like Cancun, which welcomes over 6 million annual visitors.

In 2019, Belize had a record-breaking 503,177 overnight visitors, marking the first time the country surpassed half a million tourists in a year. Although the pandemic impacted travel, Belize’s numbers are steadily recovering, and 2024 is expected to be close to pre-pandemic levels.

When is Belize busiest?

  • December is historically the busiest month, averaging 47,957 visitors over the past five years.
  • March follows closely with an average of 47,742 visitors.
  • The high season lasts from December to March, averaging just under 45,000 visitors per month.

However, Belize’s “tourist season” isn’t strictly limited to these months. June and July actually see more visitors than May. Over the past five years, the average monthly overnight visitors in Belize has been 35,769.

Belize Overnight Visitor Statistics


Visitor Trends:

  • Above average months: January, February, March, April, June, July, December.
  • Below average months: May, August, September, October, November.

September and October are the slowest months, averaging around 20,600 visitors. If you want fewer crowds, visit between August and October. If you prefer livelier travel, visit between December and March.

That said, even during peak season, Belize doesn’t experience overwhelming tourist crowds. The only real congestion is at the small international airport. Otherwise, you can easily find quiet beaches and secluded jungle trails.

Weather in Belize

Belize enjoys warm tropical weather year-round, though heat and humidity can take some getting used to. The most pleasant temperatures are between December and March, coinciding with the high tourism season.

  • Coldest month: January (average low: 70°F / 21°C)
  • Hottest month: May (average high: 89.4°F / 31.9°C)

From May to August, temperatures can exceed 100°F (38°C), making the Caribbean waters a perfect way to cool off.

Average Temperatures

Here’s a breakdown of average temperatures in Belize:

  • Coastal areas & islands: High: 86.2°F (30.1°C), Low: 72.6°F (22.6°C)
  • Inland: High: 88.3°F (31.3°C), Low: 68.9°F (20.5°C)
  • Mountainous areas: High: 77.5°F (25.3°C), Low: 63.8°F (17.7°C)

Average Monthly Temperatures in Belize - Fahrenheit
Average Monthly Temperatures in Belize - Celsius


Humidity & Rainy Season

Belize has consistently high humidity levels (above 80%), making it feel hotter than the actual temperature. Be prepared to sweat, especially in the summer months.

Belize Average Relative Humidity


The rainy season runs from June to October, peaking in September.

Belize Average Rainfall Totals


Dry Season

The dry season lasts from November to May, with April being the driest month. Less rain usually means more visitors.

Best Time to Visit Belize Based on Weather

Consider your home climate when deciding the best time to visit Belize:

  • If you're escaping winter, visit between December and March. Expect mild temperatures (around 80°F / 27°C).
  • If you prefer fewer tourists, August to October offers solitude but also increased rain.
  • For hot and sunny beach weather, visit between April and July.

Belizean locals sometimes wear jackets when it drops into the low 70s (21°C) in December, but for most visitors, this is ideal tropical weather.

Final Travel Tips

  • Prepare for high humidity—it makes the temperature feel hotter.
  • Pack sunscreen with high SPF to protect against intense sun.
  • If visiting between June and October, bring an umbrella or rain jacket.
  • Weather is unpredictable—sometimes it rains for a week, sometimes not at all.

For real-time climate data, check out the Belize Meteorological Service’s Climate Summary.

 
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Best Time to Visit Belize on a Budget

The best time to visit Belize depends on your budget. If you’re looking to save money, understanding Belize’s high season and low season pricing is key.

How to Save Money on a Belize Vacation?

  • Travel during the low season (June – October) for cheaper hotel rates and fewer crowds.
  • Book flights to Belize early—prices are highest from November to April due to high demand.
  • Take advantage of offseason deals for hotels and car rentals.

While most expenses are lower during the low season, keep in mind that tours don’t necessarily get cheaper. Tour prices depend on the number of participants rather than the time of year.

Many hotels and restaurants remain open year-round, despite some closing for renovations during the slowest months. Post-COVID, most businesses are happy to welcome visitors anytime.

Explore the best Belize hotels, including Gold Standard accommodations. Find the perfect place to stay within your budget.

High Season (November – April): What to Expect

Hotel rates are highest during peak season due to high demand.

Flights to Belize cost more between November and April, especially around holidays.

More events and activities are available, making it a great time for social travelers.

Low Season (May – October): Best Time to Save

Enjoy Belize with fewer crowds—have entire beaches and trails to yourself.

Hotels and flights are cheaper, offering great deals for budget travelers.

Expect occasional rain, as this coincides with Belize’s rainy season.

For budget-conscious travelers, the low season gives you the best value. While tours may not be cheaper, hotels, flights, and rentals often offer discounts.

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Best Time to Visit Belize for Activities

Belize offers incredible adventures year-round, but some activities are seasonal. If you’re visiting for a specific experience, plan accordingly.

Ocean & Marine Activities

  • Bioluminescence Tour in Hopkins: Available from December to May (best just after a full moon).
  • Whale Shark Diving in Placencia: Best time: April & May (season runs March – June).
  • SCUBA Diving & Snorkeling: Summer months (June – August) offer the calmest waters.

Wildlife & Nature Activities

  • Birdwatching in Belize: Visit during migration season (September – April) for rare sightings.
  • Hiking & Jungle Adventures: Best from November to May (dry season).

Cultural Festivals

  • Hopkins Mango Festival: A must-visit in June for food lovers.
  • Belize Carnival & September Celebrations: Best time to experience Belizean culture.

For a full list of experiences, check out Things to Do in Belize and book directly with local experts.

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Why September is the Best Month to Visit Belize

Why September? You get the best of Belize—festivals, culture, and fewer crowds—all while saving money.

Benefits of Visiting Belize in September

  • Cheaper flights & hotel deals—perfect for budget travelers.
  • Less crowded attractions—enjoy beaches and Mayan ruins in peace.
  • Nonstop celebrations—September is a month-long party in Belize.

Belize September Celebrations

September is Independence Month, and Belize comes alive with national pride.

  • September 10th: Battle of St. George’s Caye celebrations
  • September 21st: Independence Day – parades, concerts, and fireworks
  • Carnivals & Street Festivals across all major towns

Travel Tip: Avoid traveling on September 10th & 21st, as many businesses close for national celebrations.

Despite the chance of rain, September is one of the best times to visit Belize if you want an unforgettable cultural experience.

 
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When is the Best time to Visit Belize?Most people visit Belize from December to March. The best time to visit depends on what you want to do, the weather, and your budget.
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Private Riverside Villas
Aliana's is a vacation rental property located near San Ignacio, Cayo. Aliana's sits on a 50-acre farm and includes three private riverfront villas. ... more

Gold Standard Transportation is provided via Belize Ground Shuttle.
Relax on the banks of the Mopan river just outside your doorstep and enjoy bird watching or take a refreshing swim to cool off at your pleasure. We have canoes and floating tubes available. A popular guest activity is to float down the Mopan river from the village of Bullet Tree Falls. The float takes about two hours. You can spot monkeys and a variety of bird species along the river. We also have an outdoor grill and brick oven available for use by all guests.

Each unit includes air-conditioned bedrooms for your comfort. The property is filled with many tropical fruit trees that you can enjoy when in season, such as mangoes, breadfruit, plums, star fruit, and others. The property may be booked for private events subject to availability.
Gold Certified:
Yes
Area:
San Ignacio
Region:
Western Belize
 (2)
Established in 1976, San Ignacio Resort Hotel is a Belizean and family-owned boutique Hotel located in the Cayo District, Western Belize. The Resort is centrally situated on a 17-acre ... moreprivate estate, 5-minutes away of Cahal Pech Maya temple and the popular San Ignacio Town—an area that features a variety of cultural, adventurous, and culinary experiences. This characteristic has dubbed the Resort as “the only jungle in town”.

The 27-room Resort is renowned for its hospitality services and features the award-winning Running W Restaurant (which showcases meats from the family’s ranch), an on-site tour company (Cayo Gial Tours), in-room wellness treatments, an outdoor swimming pool and tennis court area, the largest event facilities in the District, and the #1 Activity in San Ignacio, the Green Iguana Conservation Project.
Gold Certified:
Yes
Area:
San Ignacio
Region:
Western Belize
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