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Belize Snapshot

Belize’s subtropical climate sees high temperatures and humidity most of the year, but the fresh sea breezes generally make life more comfortable. The dry season is from December to May, and this is the best time to visit Belize if you’re looking for sunshine and warm temperatures.

The wet season is from June to November where rain is more frequent. Belize can get quite busy during the main holidays of Christmas and Easter so be prepared to share the beaches with other travellers during this time.
  • Belize weather chart

Eating and Drinking in Belize

  • Seafood: Belize’s seafood is undisputedly among the best in the world. A steady supply of lobster, crab, mussels and Creole-style fish stew should keep seafood-aficionados happy.
  • Hot Sauces: Marie Sharp's famous habanero sauces, jams and condiments are served almost everywhere - and with everything - in Belize. You can also visit this local success story’s factory in Dangriga if you’re nearby.
  • Fry Jacks & Johnny Cakes: Served at breakfast instead of toast, these doughy delights often accompany bacon and eggs. While not good for the diet, they are delicious and you’ll soon get used to a side of fry jacks instead of bread.
  • Fruit Shakes: Street carts and cafes make use of the wide variety of tropical fruits that grow in Belize. Ingredients range from the usual suspects (papaya, lime, bananas), to sweet additions (cinnamon), to the darn right weird (seaweed shake anyone?). Either way, choose what you want in your shake for a quick and healthy refreshment.
  • Fresh crabs

Intrepid believes that one of the best ways to experience a country is by eating! Whether you're sampling street food, savouring a cheap eat or indulging in a banquet, there are endless options to choose from wherever you are in the world.

Shopping in Belize

  • Traditional Drums: Hand-made by the Garifuna, drums are an excellent musical memento. Made from natural materials without the use of machinery, this is a great item to buy if you want to support and celebrate local culture.
  • Hot Sauces and Condiments: Locally made hot sauces, jams and seasonings are a great way to take a taste of Belize home with you. Marie Sharp’s Fine Food Store is a one-stop shop for hot condiment lovers.
  • Art: Vibrant art by local artists can be found in city galleries, shops and some markets. From traditional ethnic art to more modern pieces, there’s a wide range to choose from.
  • Rum: One of the most popular items bought by visitors to Belize. Before buying, check with customs officials to see how much rum you can legally bring home with you.
  • Traditional drums

The nature-lovers playground of Belize is not well known for its shopping – the best action definitely happens on the beaches and in the jungles. Despite this, there are still enough markets and shops to keep most entertained – look hard and you’ll find some genuine finds among the standard (overpriced) touristy trinkets.

It's also a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country. Australia and New Zealand generally have strict quarantine laws.

Accommodation

Travelling with Intrepid is a little bit different. We endeavour to provide travellers with an authentic experience to remember, so we try to keep accommodation as unique and traditional as possible.

When travelling with us in Belize, you may find yourself staying in a:

  • Simple Hotel

  • Intrepid prefers smaller, character-filled hotels than hotel chains. When staying in Belize, enjoy staying in small hotels owned and run by friendly locals.

Transport

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport - which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun.

Depending on which trip you're on while in Belize, you may find yourself travelling by:

  • Boat

  • No trip to Belize is complete without getting acquainted with the dazzling coast. Hop on a boat to discover hidden islands, impressive reefs and seemingly endless expanses of cool, blue water.

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Belize at a glance

  • 25
  • Belmopan (population 6,000)
  • 321,100
  • English
  • BZD
  • (GMT-06:00) Central America
  • Type A (North American/Japanese 2-pin), Type B (American 3-pin), Type G (Irish/British 3-pin)
  • +501

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