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When to visit Belize

The best time to visit Belize is usually between December and May, the drier season. Due to the compact size of Belize, there are not any regional differences and generally the country enjoys a hot and humid climate all year round. However, the amount of rainfall differs, splitting the year into two seasons, the wet and the dry season. The dry season combines nicely with the winter in the northern hemisphere, meaning Belize is a tempting winter holiday.

From the spectacular scarlet macaw in the jungle, red footed boobies on the cayes and the rare jabiru stork in the wetlands of north, Belize is an extremely popular birding destination throughout the seasons and birds can be seen year-round in Belize. Similarly, the endangered black howler monkey, who are only found in Belize, southern Mexico and northern Guatemala, can most likely be seen along the Orange Walk area of Belize and spotted all year round too.

Belize Beach
BEL St Belize Bladen River Kevin Wells Photography

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The best time to visit Belize


  • JAN
  • FEB
  • MAR
  • APR
  • MAY
  • JUN
  • JUL
  • AUG
  • SEP
  • OCT
  • NOV
  • DEC

One of the busiest months in Belize, travel in January usually requires early booking. This month is slightly cooler than the rest of the dry season and therefore a bit more pleasant to visit the rainforest in. Jaguars are more likely to be seen roaming the forest from this time of the year and it is a good time to visit the Mayan ruins too.


December to May

Belize’s dry season lasts from December to May and is unsurprisingly also the most popular. December to January in particular can be exceptionally busy, with many accommodations requiring early booking and is worth considering when booking. The shoulder months of November, May and June can still experience some tropical rains, but they are also excellent times to visit as the areas are less busy but still have pleasant weather. The coolest months are usually between December and February, whilst still remaining pretty dry.

June to November

The rainy season in Belize is between June and November. Whilst by no means certain, there are also threats of hurricanes hitting the area during this time, so we would advise on travelling during the drier months. Rainfall can vary according to where you are located, and the north experiences up to three times less than the south. September and October are the months that usually have the heaviest rainfall.

Things to do in Belize

Explore the Jungle and Rainforest

Explore the lush jungles and rainforests of Belize and take guided hikes to spot howler monkeys, jaguars, tapirs, and various reptiles and amphibians. Watch for elusive wildcats such as the jaguar, puma, ocelot, margay and jaguarund in the steamy jungle of the Orange Walk district.

River Safaris

Join river safaris along Belize's rivers, like the New River or the Macal River, to spot wildlife like crocodiles, iguanas, and a variety of bird species.

Sea Turtle Nesting

Witness the nesting and hatching of sea turtles on Belize's beaches, particularly at Turtle Beach in Placencia, Laughingbird Caye, and Glover's Reef Atoll.

Snorkeling and Diving

Explore the Belize Barrier Reef, the second-largest coral reef system in the world. Go snorkeling or diving to observe colorful coral formations, a variety of fish.