Best Time To Travel To Belize
Unlike temperature countries farther north like Canada and the United States, there are no change of seasons in Belize. The weather is warm and sunny all year round. The only seasonal variations are denoted in terms of the amount of rainfall, usually divided into the “dry season” and the “green season”.
High and Low Seasons
Because tourism is an important mainstay of the economy, many people in Belize divide the calendar year into the high season and the low season which roughly correspond to the greener and drier months. The high season runs from December to April when the weather is drier and many people from temperature latitudes flock to Belize to escape the icy clutches of wintry weather. Because these are the most popular months to visit, accommodation rates are usually higher during this period.
The low season runs from approximately May to November. Rainfall is higher during this period but it is usually restricted to early morning showers and overnight storms, keeping most days clear and sunny. With fewer crowds to deal with and lower tour and room rates, many travelers prefer to visit Belize during the low season.
Visiting Belize in January – March
One of the most popular times to visit Belize, the first few months of the year are marked by plenty of warm temperatures and sunshine. The fabulous weather makes it easy to enjoy mainland attractions like nature tours or relaxing on the beach as well as trips to the islands and reef to enjoy snorkeling, sailing, fishing, and scuba diving.
Visiting Belize in April and May
This is a transitional period as sunny skies remain dominant while humidity levels begin to climb a bit. Easter is one of the biggest holidays in the country with many lodges, resorts, and beach hotels booked up.
Visiting Belize in June and July
The beginning of the green season when brief afternoon showers and overnight rains replenish nature’s vitality. Lobster fishing is strictly regulated in Belize, so the opening of lobster season in mid-June is celebrated in places like Ambergris Caye and Placencia with lobster festivals.
Visiting Belize in August – October
The height of the green season sees abundant rain overnight and the jungles and rainforests bursting with life. With fewer visitors, this is the best time to take advantage of off-season discounts on accommodations, airfare, and guided tours to the top attractions in the country.
Visiting Belize in November and December
This is the beginning of the dry season with lots of sunny skies and low humidity. One of the most popular times to visit, resorts, beach hotels, and jungle lodges are usually booked several months in advance during the holidays.
Belize Festivals and Events
Belizeans are a fun-loving people and there are plenty of festivals and events throughout the year.
Lobster Festivals – The island of Caye Caulker, the town of San Pedro on Ambergris Caye and the Placencia Peninsula each host a popular festival to celebrate the mighty lobster. These events are held in June to coincide with the beginning of the lobster fishing season.
The International Costa Maya Festival – A mixture of a beauty pageant and event to celebrate the cultural heritage of the Maya, this lively week-long celebration is held in San Pedro on Ambergris Caye.
September – Throughout the country, important holidays like Independence Day (Sep 21), St. George’s Caye Day (September 10 in honor of an important naval battle where the British defeated the Spanish on St. George’s Caye) and Carnival (similar to but different than the springtime Carnival held before Easter) keep September lively.
Toledo Chocolate Festival – Held in the heart of the cacao-growing part of Belize, it’s a mouthwatering celebration of all things chocolate (dates vary).
La Ruta Maya River Challenge – Held every March, La Ruta Maya challenges canoe crews to navigate hundreds of miles of river on a four-day race to get to the finish line in Belize City.
Garifuna Settlement Day – Every November 19, the Garifuna people re-enact their perilous boat voyage across the Caribbean to arrive in Belize with plenty of music, dancing, drumming, and food.
Where to Stay in Belize
One of the finest resorts in the country is Chabil Mar on the Placencia Peninsula in southeastern Belize. Just a short distance away from the Belize Barrier Reef and the most popular mainland attractions, Chabil Mar offers guests unparalleled luxury with several tastefully appointed villas with a full range of modern amenities, an onsite restaurant, bar, and a gorgeous infinity pool.
Visit our website chabilmarvillas.com for more information on Belize, and don’t hesitate to send us an email, or call US/CAN Toll Free: 1-866-417-2377, Local: (011-501) 523-3606, if you have questions or need help in planning a Belize vacation.