Belize is a small country with a mix of reef, rainforest, and ruins. From snorkeling and hiking to exploring Maya temples, it offers a wide range of experiences for every type of traveler. Here’s everything you need to know before visiting.
The best time to visit Belize is between late November and mid-April, when the weather is more likely to be dry and temperatures are comfortable for both coastal and inland exploration (averaging 75–85°F or 24–29°C). This is also the high season, so booking accommodation early is recommended. The wet season runs from June to October, with heavier rainfall from August through October, although travel is still possible with fewer crowds.
Belize offers a mix of laidback beach towns, quiet islands, and inland jungle escapes. Whether you're looking for a simple guesthouse, beachfront resort, or something in between, you’ll find options for every style of traveler across the country’s most popular destinations.
Ambergris Caye is the most visited island in Belize, known for its easygoing feel, access to the barrier reef, and the relaxed coastal town of San Pedro. It’s a great choice for snorkeling, diving, and spending time by the water with all the comforts close by.
Caye Caulker is a smaller island with a slower pace, perfect for travelers who want to relax, walk barefoot, and enjoy the sea without big crowds. It’s known for its friendly vibe, fresh seafood, and water-based activities like snorkeling and paddleboarding.
Placencia is a small seaside town at the tip of a long peninsula in southern Belize. It sits between the Caribbean Sea and a lagoon, with mountain views to the west and beaches to the east. The town is a good base for exploring both the sea and inland nature, including wildlife tours and jungle trips.
Placencia Village
Belize is considered safe for most travelers, especially in the islands, inland towns, and popular nature destinations. Places like Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker, Placencia, and San Ignacio are known for being welcoming and relaxed. Belize City, on the other hand, has higher crime rates and is not a major tourist destination. Most visitors pass through quickly or stay in well-known areas near the airport or water taxi terminals.
Belize City has higher crime rates, so visitors are advised to use extra caution.
It can be tough to choose what to see in Belize, especially with so much packed into one small country. To make it easier, we’ve picked out the most iconic and unforgettable spots to visit during your stay.
This massive underwater sinkhole is one of the most recognizable sights in the Caribbean. You can explore it by diving into its deep blue depths, snorkeling along the reef nearby, or booking a scenic flight for a view you won’t forget.
Dive into crystal-clear waters at Hol Chan Marine Reserve, just off the coast of Ambergris Caye. Swim alongside colorful coral gardens, vibrant tropical fish, playful sea turtles, and graceful rays. This protected marine ecosystem is a must for both beginners and seasoned snorkelers looking for an unforgettable underwater adventure.
Belize is home to some of the most impressive Maya sites in Central America. Among the most visited are Xunantunich, where you can climb El Castillo for sweeping jungle views, and Caracol, a large archaeological complex deep in the Maya Mountains. Other notable ruins include Lamanai, reached by boat through jungle canals, and Altun Ha, located near Belize City and famous for its jade artifacts.
Xunantunich Mayan Ruins
Nightlife in Belize is mostly laidback, with beach bars, live music, and casual spots to grab a drink after sunset. The liveliest scenes are found on the islands and in coastal towns, especially on weekends when both locals and visitors head out.
San Pedro has the most active nightlife in the country, with beachfront bars, live music, and dancing that can go into the night. Popular spots include:
Caye Caulker is quieter than Ambergris, but still social, especially in the evening hours. Most bars are open to the breeze with music, cocktails, and a relaxed vibe. Popular spots include:
This beach town offers mellow nightlife with fire pits, drum circles, and drinks by the sea. Check out thes spots:
Belize is located in Central America, bordered to the north by Mexico and to the west and south by Guatemala. Its eastern edge meets the Caribbean Sea, with hundreds of small islands, known as cayes, stretching along the coast. Inland, the country is covered by forests, rivers and limestone hills, while its coastline connects to the second largest barrier reef in the world.
Belize has the second largest barrier reef in the world.
Half of Belize is covered in dense jungle and protected nature reserves.
Over 900 ancient Maya sites have been discovered here.
You can see the famous Blue Hole from the air, a massive marine sinkhole over 300 meters wide.
Belize has more jaguars per square kilometer than anywhere else in the Caribbean and Central America.
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