Winter in Belize: A guide to festivities, adventures and fun!
Why Belize Should Be Your Top Winter Destination
Belize’s winter season coincides with its dry season, making it one of the best times to visit. From December through to January, the weather is perfect—balmy days, cool nights, and minimal rainfall—creating ideal conditions for exploring everything the country has to offer. As winter arrives and temperatures drop elsewhere, Belize shines as an escape from the cold, offering sunny skies, warm waters, and a treasure trove of unforgettable experiences. You can experience daily highs averaging 81°F and lows around 71°F during December and January. Belize’s traditionally cool weather and low humidity provide the perfect setting for relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re lounging on pristine beaches, discovering ancient Maya ruins, or diving into vibrant coral reefs, Belize has something for everyone. It’s truly a must-visit destination during the winter months.
Beachfront Bliss and Island Life
Trade in your snow boots for flip-flops and Christmas trees for coconut palms on Ambergris Caye, Belize’s most popular island, just a short flight from Belize City. Home to SunBreeze Hotel and SunBreeze Suites, this island offers a boutique beachfront experience with easy access to the Belize Barrier Reef, just a mile offshore. Winter is the perfect time to enjoy snorkeling at Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley, or diving at incredible sites like the Great Blue Hole.
Inland Adventures
Belize is not just about its stunning beaches; it’s also a land of lush jungles, cascading waterfalls, and ancient history. Hidden Valley Wilderness Lodge, nestled in the Mountain Pine Ridge, offers the perfect base to explore these natural wonders. After a day of adventuring, return to your private cabin and cozy up by your firepit as the cool jungle air sets in—a perfect way to unwind.
Winter is also an ideal time to venture into Belize’s rich history. Explore the majestic Maya sites like Caracol, the largest in the country, or visit Xunantunich and Cahal Pech, all located in the scenic Cayo District. For the waterfall chaser, Hidden Valley provides easy access to some of Belize’s most pristine waterfalls, where you can enjoy a secluded, refreshing dip surrounded by nature.
For those seeking even more adventure, the renowned ATM Cave (Actun Tunichil Muknal) is a must-visit. This sacred Maya cave, filled with incredible rock formations and ancient relics, offers a fascinating journey into Belize’s past while keeping you cool in the underground chambers.
Festivities and Local Culture
Belize comes alive with vibrant festivals during the winter months. December brings the festive spirit of Christmas and New Year’s, with celebrations that blend traditional Belizean customs with lively street parades and local foods.
Holiday Cheer: The warmth of the holidays is everywhere in Belize during December. Homes are filled with the smell of freshly baked fruit cake, shared with loved ones as a special holiday gift. Locals also enjoy sipping on rumpopo, an eggnog-like drink infused with rum, as they prepare for Christmas, making the entire country buzz with festive energy.
San Pedro Lighted Boat Parade: A must-see on Ambergris Caye is the annual San Pedro Lighted Boat Parade. Boats are decked out in dazzling Christmas lights and decorations. Countrywide you can also enjoy street parties and fireworks on New Year’s Eve.
The ‘Jankunu’ Dance: Experience Belize’s cultural richness with the Garifuna Wanaragua (Jankunu) Dance, performed on Christmas Day in Hopkins or Dangriga. Dancers wear elaborate costumes with colorful headpieces and shells tied to their knees. With every beat of the drum, they move energetically, embodying the resilience and history of Garifuna traditions.
This winter, trade the snow for sunshine, and let Belize’s natural beauty, adventure, and culture create unforgettable memories
