Belize Travel Insights

Insights, ideas and itineraries from kimkim's trusted network of Local Travel Specialists and Experts in Belize

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Snorkel around part of the second-largest barrier reef on Earth from your base on Caye Caulker

Adventures in Belize & Tikal National Park: Ziplines, Caves & Reefs - 8 Days

This eight-day Belize itinerary offers a blend of adventurous exploration and beachside relaxation. Kick things off in San Ignacio before hopping across the Guatemalan border to Tikal National Park, where you'll zipline over an ancient Maya city and seek out jungle ruins. Return to Belize for underground adventures and river tubing in the caves of Actun Tunichil Muknal and Nohoch Che'en, then wind down on the laid-back island of Caye Caulker, with snorkeling in the Belize Barrier Reef and plenty of beach time.

You'll get the chance to swim with harmless nurse sharks in the Hol Chan Marine Reserve

Maya Ruins & Marine Life in Belize - 5 Days

This quick, five-day getaway combines cultural exploration with natural wonders in Belize's Cayo District and its largest island, Ambergris Caye. Begin in San Ignacio with an intrepid horseback ride to the Maya ruins of Xunantunich. Then, go inner tubing through an ancient cave network before jumping on a ferry to the island town of San Pedro. Snorkel or dive in the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, and if you're feeling brave, end your adventure swimming with nurse sharks and southern stingrays in Shark Ray Alley.

Discover unspoiled beaches and barrier reefs on a weeklong trip in Belize

1 Week in Belize - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With one week in Belize, you can spend three days each exploring the Maya ruins around San Ignacio and the Caribbean waters around Caye Caulker on a highlights tour. Alternatively, if you're a marine life enthusiast, San Pedro and Placencia are excellent bases for snorkeling excursions. Other options include an off-the-beaten-path adventure with a three-day stay in Hopkins Village and a fast-paced trip that includes time in Guatemala's Tikal National Park and Antigua.

Spot wildlife like white-fronted parrots as you explore Belize

Best of Belize & Guatemala - 7 Days

Belize is a bucket-list traveler destination, if only because it's home to the Western Hemisphere's second-largest barrier reef. Over seven days, you'll explore this reef and Belize's white-sand coral cayes (islands) on snorkeling tours while enjoying relaxing beach time. Afterward, hop the border into Guatemala for tours of the ancient Maya ruins at Tikal before winding down on the cobbled streets of Spanish colonial Antigua.

Swim with exotic marine life, like sea turtles, in the Caribbean waters around Caye Caulker

Belize Discovery Tour: Natural Wonders & Maya Culture - 7 Days

Travelers with a taste for the Caribbean shouldn't sleep on Belize. This Central American nation packs a punch in the form of its offshore barrier reef, which is the largest in the Western Hemisphere. You'll have plenty of time during this seven-day adventure for epic snorkeling tours and hops around postcard coral islands, but first up is a memorable journey deep into the jungle for nature hikes, visits to ancient Maya archaeological sites, and tours of mysterious river caves.

See big cats like jaguars at a jungle reserve near Placencia

Nature & Adventure in Belize: San Ignacio & Placencia - 7 Days

With seven days in Belize, you want an itinerary that deftly balances aquatic excursions with off-the-beaten-path jungle adventures. This active holiday delivers on both fronts, starting in the western forests where you'll embark on nature hikes, explore river caves, and visit the ruins of ancient Maya cities. Stop at a nature reserve on your way to the coast to see big cats, then spend the remainder of your time on snorkeling trips around the south-coast reefs.

Discover coral islands and white-sand beaches on this seven-day tour

Belize Beach Escape: Snorkeling, Diving & Sailing at Ambergris Caye - 7 Days

Escape to Belize for a week of island hopping and snorkeling around some of the finest dive sites in the world. Spend most of your time on the coral island of Ambergris Caye, where you'll enjoy resort-style relaxation and snorkel at famous sites like Shark Ray Alley and the Blue Hole. Cap the journey with a jungle excursion to discover the ruins at Xunantunich, an ancient Maya city dating to 300 CE.

Snorkel and kayak around the barrier reefs and nature reserves of southern Belize

Belize Off the Beaten Track: San Ignacio & Hopkins Village - 7 Days

Take the road less traveled on this weeklong journey through Belize. Each of these seven days is packed with activities and adventures that range from kayaking along tropical rivers to snorkeling around the Western Hemisphere's largest barrier reef. You'll also indulge your inner Indiana Jones on a tour of the remote Maya ruins at Xunantunich.

Cahal Pech pyramid in San Ignacio, Belize

2 Weeks in Belize & Guatemala - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With two weeks in Belize and Guatemala, you can visit up to seven destinations. For a history and culture-focused itinerary, include Livingston for an encounter with Afro-Guatemalan Garufina culture. Adventurers will want to spend time kayaking and hiking at Lake Atitlán, Guatemala, while history buffs will be interested in ancient Maya ruins at Xunantunich and Tikal National Park in Flores, Guatemala, and San Ignacio, Belize. Snorkeling at the Belize Barrier Reef in Caye Caulker will surely be a highlight for all.

See marine life on a snorkeling or scuba diving adventure around Belize's many cayes, like this harmless nurse shark

10 Days in Belize - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With 10 days in Belize, you can cover three to four destinations. Consider a classic route of caves, Maya ruins, and snorkeling around Ambergris Caye, or spend time in the Cayo District—a starting point to explore parks and ecological reserves before learning about Garifuna culture in Hopkins on the coast. For a more off-the-grid experience, add a paddling adventure down the Moho River, and for divers and snorkelers, Glover's Reef Atoll is your paradise.

Relax in paradise on a Belizean island caye, like Carrie Bow Cay Field Station

5 Days in Belize - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Belize is a small country, about the size of Massachusetts, so in five days, you can hit all the highlights: the beach, Maya ruins, and jungle. Mix it up with time at the Maya Lamanai ruins, zipline through the jungle, and relax on Southwest Caye, or spend more time discovering Maya ruins, exploring the jungle, and checking out underground cave systems. Alternatively, you could spend most of your time on an island like Tobacco Caye or Southwest Caye, snorkeling and diving the Belizean Barrier Reef and lying out under the sun.

Spend 10 days relaxing and exploring Belize

Belize Adventure: From Reefs to Maya Ruins - 10 Days

With some of the world's best snorkeling spots, rich Maya history, and endless cayes to explore, Belize is a paradise waiting to be discovered on this 10-day adventure. Journey by land and sea as you swim with sharks in the Hol Chan marine reserve, step into the world of Actun Tunichil Mukna's sacrificial burials, and explore the archaeological site at Caracol. Hop over to the islands to end your trip dancing, savoring fresh fish, and snorkeling on Ambergris Caye.

Discover nature reserves and natural wonders in Belize

Belize for Nature Lovers - 5 Days

This quick five-day escape to Belize delivers some major highlights of this gem of Caribbean Central America. Upon arrival in Belize City, you'll transfer inland for nature excursions in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve. After enjoying some cave tubing, you'll fly high over Belize's famous Blue Hole dive site, followed by lunch on the windswept tropical isle of Ambergris Caye.

See the country's incredible birds at the Belize Zoo, like this toucan

Best of Belize : Culture, Nature & History - 10 Days

Belize's many cultures and culinary traditions are revealed on this 10-day tour that combines mainland and island adventures. Climb through the former palace of Maya rulers in Xunantunich, and walk through deep caves to see the underwater sacrificial burials at Actun Tunichil Muknal. Take a break from history lessons and relax into the island lifestyle as you swim in the bliss of Lime Caye's clear waters and taste a feast of Garifuna dishes rich in coconut and fish in Hopkins.

Guatemala & Belize Adventure: Antigua, Lake Atitlan & Caye Caulker - 14 Days

See the best that Guatemala and Belize have to offer on this immersive two-week tour. Discover the living history of colorful, colonial Antigua, then hike, kayak, and paraglide around Lake Atitlán. Learn about Maya civilization in Guatemala City before visiting the pyramids and ruins of Tikal National Park. Cross the border into Belize for more Maya exploration at Cahal Pech, and wind down with a few days of island life on Caye Caulker, where you'll snorkel along its barrier reef and laze on the beach.

Kayak, swim, and snorkel the clear waters off of Belize's Southwest Caye

Southwest Caye Belize Beach Escape - 5 Days

Escape to Middle Caye for a five-day Belize beach break. After a brief stop in Belize City, you'll head straight to the paradise island of Southwest Caye to stay in a safari-style tented cabana among the palms. Spend sun-soaked days snorkeling and kayaking around Glover's Reef Atoll, a protected reserve where you'll discover an underwater world teeming with colorful coral and biodiverse marine life.

Maya ruins of Xunantunich in Belize are home to incredibly detailed stonework

Belize & Guatemala Cultural Highlights: Ancient Maya Ruins & Bustling Village Markets – 7 Days

Discover the highlights of Belize and Guatemala on this weeklong cultural tour. Start with a beach escape to Caye Caulker for white sands and snorkeling trips of the Belize Barrier Reef. You'll explore Maya palaces and pyramids at Tikal National Park and tour the ancient ruins of Xunantunich on horseback. The adventure ends in Chichicastenango near the shores of Lake Atitlán, where you'll visit one of Central America's most famous markets.

Belize Scuba Diving Adventure - 5 Days

Take to the seas on this five-day scuba diving adventure in Belize, one of the best ways to appreciate the country's spectacular biodiversity and some of the best diving opportunities in the world. Dive the Belize Barrier Reef, the second-largest barrier reef in the world, to see beautiful corals, reefs teeming with life, and threatened species like marine turtles and manatees. Visit a marine research field station, picnic on a sandbar, and unwind at a serene tropical island getaway on Tobacco Caye.

Spend a day snorkeling and lying out on the sand on Southwest Caye

Highlights of Belize: Maya Ruins, Glover's Reef & More - 5 Days

Discover some of Belize's best cultural and natural sites, and take part in active jungle adventures on this five-day tour. See Maya ruins at Cahal Pech and Xunantunich, soar over the jungle canopy near San Ignacio, and snorkel through the pristine reefs of Glover's Reef Marine Reserve. End your trip by learning about the lifecycle of dazzling blue morpho butterflies.

Adventure, Nature & Culture in Belize - 5 Days

Discover some of Belize's highlights on this whirlwind five-day adventure. Spot wildlife, including crocodiles and toucans, explore the large Maya site of Lamanai Ruins, and whiz through the jungle on a zipline at Calico Jack's Village. There will be time for relaxation, too, along with snorkeling, kayaking, and beachside yoga at Southwest Caye within Glover's Reef Marine Reserve.

Overlook Tobacco Caye from a beach bungalow in the middle of the Belize Barrier Reef

How Many Days to Spend in Belize

In a week, you can enjoy the best of Belize, from its world-class diving to the inland Maya ruins. Stay longer to explore all of this tiny Afro-Caribbean nation as you visit indigenous villages and paddle down jungle rivers. And if you want to see as many of Belize's famous dive sites in a short time, base yourself on the island of Ambergris Caye, from which you can embark on day trips to incredible marine reserves.

Belize in December: Travel Tips, Weather & More

By December the dry season has arrived in Belize, meaning it's time for fun and sun. All the mainland highlights, like wildlife sanctuaries and Maya ruins, are easily accessible, as are the tours around the hundreds of islands all over Belize's Barrier Reef. Also, the idea of a Christmas holiday in this Caribbean locale is an attractive option for many folks in chilly North America and Europe.

Belize in November: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Take advantage of the pleasant final month of Belize's low season before the December tourist crowds arrive. Because while November does get a fair share of rain, the weather is quickly improving and the skies are bright and sunny more often than not. Taken together, these factors should be attractive to those looking for a great Caribbean holiday at budget prices.

Belize in October: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Belize in October may be the height of the rainy season, but not to fear: this country is open for business year-round. It's a great time to come and marvel at the exotic flora and fauna, discover Maya ruins, and embark on excursions to the atolls and coral islands around the famous Barrier Reef.

Belize in September: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Come to Belize in September and enjoy great wildlife spotting and dive excursions at low season prices. It may technically be the rainy season in this small Caribbean nation, but the sun is mostly out, meaning it's open for adventure. All you need to decide is how much time to spend on land and sea.

Belize in August: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Get ready for Belize's "little dry" season, which occurs in August and September. During this brief respite from the rainier months, the sun is out and it's the perfect time for nature hikes and tours around the islands. The best part is this is still considered the low season, so expect budget prices without the drizzly weather.

Belize in July: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Belize in July is all about the wildlife. Embark on nature treks to witness exotic birds like macaws and toucans as well as magnificent land animals such as monkeys, tapirs, and jaguars. Head out on the water to spot sharks, rays, dolphins, and green sea turtles. And if you work up an appetite, not to fear: by July, Belize is well into the lobster season.

Belize in June: Travel Tips, Weather & More

June may officially mark the start of the rainy season in Belize, but there's still plenty of fun and sun to be had. Diving and snorkeling conditions remain good during this month, plus it's a great time to spot exotic wildlife on both land and sea. Come for the Maya ruins and nature reserves, but stay for the Caribbean reefs and amazing sport fishing.

Kayaking in the crystal-clear waters of Belize

Belize in May: Travel Tips, Weather & More

May is the last month of Belize's dry season, which means it's the last chance to enjoy (mostly) sunny weather before the frequent rains arrive. This is the month to take advantage of diving, snorkeling, and water sports. It's also a great time to gaze at wildlife like howler monkeys and hike around Maya ruins without fear of a rainout. Continue reading to learn more.

Belize in April: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Belize in April is the perfect time for an island getaway. Diving and snorkeling conditions are ideal, the coastal breezes offset the higher temperatures, and marine wildlife is out in force. Plus, if you don't mind warmer temps, there are great wildlife spotting, tours, and activities on the mainland. Read on to learn more about the best ways to spend April in Belize.

Belize in March: Travel Tips, Weather & More

March is the apex of Belize's dry winter months. It also marks the height of the tourist season, when travelers are eager to take advantage of all the nature excursions the sunny weather allows. Beyond that, dive conditions around the islands are great, and kayaking and boat trips to the outer atolls are popular seafaring adventures. Continue reading for tips on how to plan an unforgettable Belize getaway in March.

Belize in February: Travel Tips, Weather & More

There may be no more ideal time of year to visit Belize than February. During this month the sun is ever-present, there's little rain, and the northern winds are mild. It's a great time for diving, wildlife spotting, nature hikes—you name it. Below you'll find all the practical details you need in order to best enjoy your Belize getaway in February.

Belize in January: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Belize in January is a relatively mellow time to visit, as many tourists have gone home after the December holidays. Plus, it's well into the dry season, meaning the sun is out and dive conditions are near perfect. The lovely weather is also great for wildlife spotting and nature hikes. Continue reading for insider tips on what makes January one of the best months of Belize's high season.

Best Time of Year to Visit Belize

Belize has a subtropical climate defined by two seasons: wet (Jun-Nov) and dry (Dec-May). Both are mild enough that you can enjoy this country's highlights any time of year. However, certain factors affecting climate and cost may dictate your ideal time to visit. There's also a secret high season that briefly appears each year and makes for an attractive getaway without the crowds.

Discover Belize: Rainforests, Ruins & Reefs - 10 Days

Spend 10 days discovering Belize's greatest outdoor gems. Start out at a lodge in the heart of a rainforest. Then, spend some time in a Maya village, followed by a few days paddling and camping along the Moho River. Venture into the jungle, tour the Maya ruins of Lubaantun, and take a tour of a chocolate farm. The trip concludes with several days of free time to explore Glover's Reef Atoll—paddling, kayaking, and snorkeling at your leisure.

Discover the underwater world off of Belize

Belize Wildlife, Mayan Ruins & Reef Tour - 9 Days

Spend nine days exploring some of the best of Belize. Upon arrival, head to Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary to do some birding and view the native wildlife, along with exploring two different Mayan ruins. Next, take a water taxi to the Lighthouse Reef Atoll, and spend the next few days snorkeling, paddling, and relaxing beachside. Then, enjoy a final night on the town in Belize City.

Rainforest & Reef Exploration in Belize - 7 Days

Spend one week discovering two different sides of Belize. Check in to your ecolodge within Mayflower Bocawina National Park, and enjoy a few days of adventuring in the rainforest—go zip lining, bird-watching, rappelling, and more. Then, head to Tobacco Caye, part of the South Water Caye Marine Reserve, and enjoy some time on the pristine beaches. Laze in a hammock on your over-the-water deck, go snorkeling around the Southern Barrier Reef, and spend some time paddling and kayaking surrounded by the fresh ocean breeze.

Kayaks on the beach waiting for your next paddle

Islands of Belize: Tobacco Caye & South Water Caye - 7 Days

On this seven-day tour of Belize's best islands, you'll spend time discovering underwater marine life while enjoying the pristine beaches. Begin at the Tropical Education Centre, where you'll embark on a nocturnal tour of the Belize Zoo. Then, head to Tobacco Caye to start exploring the mangroves and coral reefs. The trip continues to South Water Caye, where you can swim, snorkel, paddleboard, and dive your way through the Southern Barrier Reef.

Experience Belize: Glover's Reef & Maya Caves - 7 Days

This seven-day adventure combines the best elements of Belize—the inland exploration of Maya ruins and rainforest caves, along with several days to discover the remote coral atoll of Glover's Reef. Perfect for active families and couples of all skill levels, this itinerary offers the flexibility to relax, paddle, snorkel, dive, and sea kayak, depending on your preference.

Belize Lighthouse Reef Adventure - 7 Days

The seven-day adventure begins with an overnight at Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary, then heads out by boat to Lighthouse Reef. You'll explore the Lighthouse Reef atoll—a tropical marine park and designated UNESCO World Heritage Site—via various snorkeling and paddling opportunities. Spend five nights at your Half Moon Caye Basecamp, which offers both guided and independent excursions, and end your trip with a night in Belize City.

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