5 Top Tips for Traveling to Belize

When you think of Belize, images of lush rainforests, ancient Mayan ruins, and pristine beaches likely spring to mind. For such a small country, Belize offers travelers a variety of opportunities for adventure. Whether you’re itching to explore nature, get your heart racing with an exhilarating outdoor activity, or sample some authentic local cuisine, the tiny Central American nation has something for everyone. If it isn’t your first time traveling to Belize and you’ve got your sights set on checking off another one of its bucket-list worthy attractions; whether that’s exploring more of the natural wonders found within its borders or sampling the local food scene in one of its bustling towns. This article will arm you with everything you need know before setting off on your next trip to Belize.

What to Know Before You Go to Belize

As with any travel destination, there are certain things you need to know before visiting Belize. The climate, culture, and cuisine are just some aspects you’ll want to familiarize yourself with before boarding your flight. In this section, we’ll cover some of the most important information you’ll need to know before visiting the Central American country.

When to Go to Belize

While the majority of visitors to Belize arrive during the “dry” season between November and May, the best time to visit Belize actually depends on what you plan to do while you’re there. The dry season between November and May is the best time for visiting Belize if you’re keen on exploring the Mayan ruins or snorkeling in one of the many blue holes that dot Belize’s coastline. These attractions are often inaccessible during the wet season, which lasts from June to October, as heavy rainfall makes travel difficult. If you’re interested in soaking up the sun, June to October is the best time to visit Belize, as temperatures are mild and the humidity is low.

How to Get to Belize

Depending on where in the world you’re flying from, there are a few different ways to get to Belize. Most travelers will pass through the Central American hub of Mexico City, which is just a few hours’ drive from Belize’s border. Alternatively, you can fly directly to Belize City International Airport from a number of U.S. cities and Caribbean islands. To drive from the U.S. to Belize, you’ll need to cross the border at Hidalgo or Texila. From Mexico and Central America, you can cross at any of the border crossings.

Where to Stay in Belize

Depending on what you want to get out of your trip, you can choose to stay in any one of Belize’s varied landscapes. If you’re keen on getting a feel for local culture, the bustling coastal towns of Belize’s Caribbean side make a good base. If you want to experience the rainforest, stay on the southern side of the country near the ancient Mayan ruins of Tikal in Guatemala. If you’re visiting Belize to dive, stay on the southern side where you’ll find the majority of the coral reefs. The southern side of Belize is also the only place you can see the famous blue holes. As you can see, there are plenty of reasons to visit each area of Belize. It all comes down to what you want to get out of your vacation.

What to See in Belore

While plenty of travelers visit Belize to experience the rainforest, the true natural wonders of the country can be found along its coastline. Whether you’re looking to dive in search of vibrant coral reefs or explore the country’s numerous blue holes, Belize has something for everyone. Here are a few of the country’s most awe-inspiring coastal attractions. Belize Barrier Reef - The largest coral reef in the Western Hemisphere, the Belize Barrier Reef is a must-see attraction on any Belizean itinerary. The world’s second-longest coral reef system stretches over 100 miles, providing a home to more than 600 species of coral, as well as an array of fish and other aquatic life. Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary - Located just 40 miles south of Belize City, the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a number of indigenous animals, including jaguars, pumas, and tapirs, which are the world’s largest land mammal. The park also provides refuge for a number of endangered species, including the scarlet macaw, black howler monkey, and green iguana. Blue holes - Also known as sinkholes, blue holes are natural depressions in the ocean floor that lead to underground caverns. These underwater caverns are often completely void of light, which is what gives them their name. In Belize, you can find blue holes near the southern coastline.

Tips for Traveling in Belize

As with any travel destination, certain precautions should be taken when visiting Belize. Here are a few travel tips to keep in mind before heading to the Central American nation. - The number one tip for traveling to Belize is to be prepared for a lot of humidity. You’ll sweat more than usual, so be sure to pack light and breathable clothing. - Be mindful of the country’s high crime rate, particularly in the border towns of Belize City and Chetumal. Stay vigilant at all times and avoid walking alone at night. - If you’re visiting during the rainy season, be sure to pack a good waterproof jacket with a hood. You might also want to pack an umbrella or rain poncho. - Practice good hygiene when dining out. You can minimize your risk of food poisoning by avoiding fruit that has not been peeled or is not peeled or by eating at restaurants that have sufficient refrigeration. - Minimize your contact with the water. While swimming in the Caribbean Sea is a must-do activity in Belize, it is essential to practice safe swimming by avoiding waters with a high current or water that is full of debris.

Bottom Line

There’s a lot to love about the tiny Central American country of Belize. From its lush rainforests to its pristine beaches, Belize offers travelers a wide variety of adventure. Belize’s main attractions are the country’s beautiful beaches and tropical jungles. The Caribbean coast features many small, undeveloped islands, while the southern coast has miles of mangrove swamps and tropical forests. When you think of Belize, images of lush rainforests, ancient Mayan ruins, and pristine beaches likely spring to mind. For such a small country, Belize offers travelers a variety of opportunities for adventure. Whether you’re itching to explore nature, get your heart racing with an exhilarating outdoor activity, or sample some authentic local cuisine, the tiny Central American nation has something for everyone.