When is the best time to visit Belize?

Visiting Belize in April - May

In April and May the weather in the Cayo District and on the Cayes remains predominantly dry, while heat and humidity gradually increases. Easter is a very popular time to visit Belize, so you need to book early if this is the only time you can travel; particularly if you are combining Belize with a visit to neighbouring Guatemala.

Events & Festivals

• Punta Gorda (end of May): Punta Gorda in Toledo District sees its annual Chocolate Festival, with a week of events celebrating the cacao bean, chocolate making and local crafts.

Visiting Belize in June - July

The rainy season begins, but this is rarely the persistent rainfall that is experienced later in the season, with sharp showers predominantly falling in the afternoon and at night. Mid-June marks the beginning of lobster season in Belize, with Placencia and Ambergris Caye being great places to try some tasty lobster dishes.

Visiting Belize in August - October

The height of the rainy season sees high humidity, heavy rain and the risk of tropical storms; including very occasional hurricanes. Some lodges close in September for annual maintenance.

Events & Festivals

• Belize Carnival (September): Belize Carnival is a purely national affair featuring colourful processions and costumes with a distinctly Creole flavour, with events particularly prevalent in the Orange Walk District and Belize City.
• La Costa Maya (early August): The biggest festival in Belize, with musicians travelling from across the Americas to perform. In Ambergris Caye there are pageants, music and dance events to be enjoyed.

Visiting Belize in November - December

The heaviest rains begin to ease and humidity is decreasing. By December, visitors are returning to Belize in great numbers, with beach hotels for Christmas and New Year becoming fully booked many months in advance.

Events & Festivals

• Garifuna Settlement Day (19th November): Brings traditional dancing, drumming and celebrations to the whole country, but most notably to Punta Gorda, Dangriga and Hopkins.