The months from December to May mark the dry season in Belize. During this period, rainfall is less, temperatures are cooler, and opportunities for adventure seem almost endless. While winter may equate to inches of snow and being bundled up inside for many, this tropical destination offers a much-welcomed alternative. Here’s why Belize during the dry season is the perfect place for a winter getaway.
Dry Season in Belize: What to Expect
Rather than the four seasons you might be accustomed to, Belize—and much of the Caribbean—has only two seasons, the wet or “green” season and the dry season. While the green season promises fewer crowds with increased chances of showers, the dry season is when the country truly comes alive with activity.
From December to May, both the temperature and the humidity fall, creating the perfect weather for a tropical vacation. That includes everything from coastal activities like snorkeling and island hopping to jungle exploration. Expect average temperatures ranging from 71°F to 82°F and even a bit lower in January during the occasional cold front. There may be rain showers from time to time early in the season, but these are sporadic and usually occur in the nighttime.
When it comes to packing for the dry season, be sure to leave your winter coat and boots at home. Instead, opt for a light jacket alongside cool, comfortable wear that’s lightweight. Of course, items like reef-safe sunscreen and insect-repellant are also a must.
Things to Do During Your Belize Winter Getaway
There’s a good reason why the dry season in Belize coincides with its high tourism season. The country offers travelers a different kind of winter getaway, with warm and balmy weather providing a pleasant escape from the chill of winter. Whether your plan is to unwind in a beach hammock with a book or embark on a thrilling adventure like cave tubing, Winter in Belize is sure to look a whole lot different than it usually does at home.
If you love adventure, the dry season in Belize is the best time for hiking and caving. The lack of rain means trails will be clear and water levels at sites that require some swimming—like Actun Tunichil Muknal—will be reasonably low. Every April, the Belize Audubon Society announces the opening of Victoria Peak Season. It’s the one period of the year when weekend warriors and travelers who love a challenge can attempt to summit the country’s second-tallest mountain.
For those with plans to go offshore, enjoy clear visibility and little to no sargassum in the earlier months. Take a trip to Hol Chan Marine Reserve for a day of uninterrupted snorkeling. Or, head south and enjoy visiting islands like Moho Caye and Laughing Bird Caye during an afternoon of island hopping.
There’s never a wrong time to visit Belize, with each season boasting its own unique charm. But for travelers who want to make the most of their vacation, a Belize getaway in the dry season is a top-tier choice.
