Belize is a beautiful Central American country with stunning beaches, ancient Mayan ruins, and incredible wildlife. However, there are certain times of year when visiting Belize may not be ideal due to weather conditions, crowds, and high prices. Knowing the worst times to visit Belize can help you plan your vacation during the best season.
Rainy Season (June to November)
The Rainy season in Belize runs from June to November, with September and October being the wettest months.
- Heavy rainfall occurs almost daily, which can put a damper on outdoor activities. Flooding and road closures are common during this time.
- Mosquitoes and other insects thrive in the humidity, making bug spray a must.
- Occasional tropical storms and hurricanes threaten the region, causing potential travel disruptions.
Tips for Visiting in Rainy Season
- Book accommodations with indoor entertainment for rainy days.
- Pack rain jackets, umbrellas, and waterproof bags to stay dry.
- Avoid mosquito-borne illnesses by using insect repellent and protective clothing.
- Check weather reports frequently and have flexible travel plans in case of storms.
- Head to drier inland areas like San Ignacio to avoid the worst coastal rains.
Holiday Seasons (December to April)
The holiday weeks around Christmas, New Year’s, and Easter are extremely popular times to visit Belize.
- Hotels, flights, and tours sell out far in advance, with peak rates over the actual holidays.
- Major attractions get very crowded and wait times increase.
- Roads are busier, especially around the international airport.
Alternatives to Holiday Travel
- Visit in early December or May to enjoy festive decorations and weather without the crowds.
- For Easter, travel the week before or after to take advantage of low season prices.
- Spend Christmas and New Years on less-visited Ambergris Caye or Placencia villages.
- Look for all-inclusive resorts that offer holiday meal specials and entertainment.
Spring Break (March to April)
Thousands of college students head to Belize for beach parties and adventure during Spring Break.
- The islands, beaches, bars, and nightclubs are packed with reveling students. Expect loud music and raucous behavior.
- Prices surge for accommodations and activities catering to students on break.
- Family travelers with young children may want to avoid this hectic period.
Enjoy Belize Without Spring Breakers
- Head inland to the mountains, jungles, and Mayan ruins to avoid beach crowds.
- Choose a small boutique hotel over a large-scale party resort.
- Visit in early March before the peak break weeks.
- Stick to laid-back destinations like Hopkins or Placencia over high-energy San Pedro.
FAQ About Visiting Belize
The best time is during the dry season from late November to May, excluding the busy holiday weeks in December and January. The weather is warm and sunny without too much rain.
The hurricane season in Belize is from June to November, peaking in September and October. Tropical storms can cause flooding, winds, and travel disruptions during this period.
During the rainy season, expect frequent downpours and humidity. September and October see the most rainfall, while June and July have slightly drier weather mixed with sunshine.
Yes, many college students head to Belize for Spring Break in March and April. The beaches, nightlife, and party towns get very crowded and loud during this time.
Head inland to Mayan ruins, caves, ziplining, and wildlife sanctuaries. Or check out museums and shops in towns and cities. Have backup indoor plans like spa days, cooking classes, or bar hopping.
Key Tips for Visiting Belize
- Research the average weather conditions during your travel dates to know what to expect.
- Book hotels with flexible cancellation policies in case storms affect your itinerary.
- Purchase travel insurance to protect against weather-related disruptions.
- Pack for both warm sunny days and cooler rainy days.
- Avoid mosquitoes by using bug spray and protective clothing.
- Confirm that destinations are open by calling ahead during rainy season.
- Check for local festivals and events that could mean larger crowds.
- Consider visiting in the off-season spring and fall months to avoid extreme weather.
- Plan to spend more time inland away from the coast if rain is likely.
- Don’t let weather ruin your vacation! Have backup indoor activities planned.
