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