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Why I Decided to Visit Belize in November
When I started planning my trip to Belize, I didn’t aim for the classic winter escape. Instead, I booked my ticket for early November, a time most travel blogs called “the shoulder season.” It’s that in-between stretch—right after the rainy months but before the heavy flow of winter tourists.
I’ll admit, I was a little nervous. Would it rain nonstop? Would tours still run? Would the beaches feel empty?
What I found was the opposite of what I expected: Belize in November was peaceful, vibrant, and refreshingly authentic. I experienced warm sunshine, occasional showers, smiling locals, and a sense of calm you rarely get during the high season. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to explore Belize when the crowds thin out and the dry season begins to take shape, here’s my story.
First Impressions: A Warm Welcome in the Shoulder Season
I landed at Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport on a humid afternoon. The air was thick with that tropical sweetness you only get in the Caribbean. Within minutes of stepping outside, I could feel the slower pace of Belize life kick in.
Unlike big city airports packed with tourists, Belize’s arrival scene was friendly and quick. My shuttle driver greeted me with a “Ya mon, welcome to Belize!” and I immediately relaxed.
Driving toward my first stop, San Ignacio, I noticed how green everything looked—lush hillsides glistening from recent rains, colorful houses, and roadside fruit stands bursting with pineapples and mangoes. Locals waved as we passed, and even in small towns, there was a sense of calm readiness. November felt like the quiet before the holiday rush, a time when the country starts drying out but still holds the fresh scent of rain.
Weather Reality Check: Sunshine with a Splash of Rain
Before arriving, I read mixed reviews about Belize weather in November. Some said it was too rainy, others called it ideal. The truth? It’s both.
Days often started with brilliant sunshine and a light breeze from the Caribbean. Around mid-afternoon, clouds would roll in and a quick shower would cool everything down. The rain never lasted long—usually 20 or 30 minutes—and afterward, the sky would explode with rainbows and golden sunsets.
Average temperatures hovered between 75°F and 85°F (24°C–29°C)—warm enough for swimming but comfortable for hiking. The humidity made the jungle feel alive, the rivers fuller, and the beaches softer.
One afternoon, while kayaking near Barton Creek Cave, a sudden drizzle began. Instead of paddling back, I just floated, listening to the sound of rain on the water. It was one of the most peaceful moments of the trip—proof that even a bit of weather could turn into something magical.
My Favorite Experiences in Belize in November
Snorkeling the Barrier Reef in Caye Caulker
After two days inland, I took a water taxi to Caye Caulker, a laid-back island famous for its slogan, “Go Slow.” It was exactly what I needed.
Fewer tourists meant more personal space on tours and beaches. I joined a half-day snorkeling trip to the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, where I swam alongside sea turtles, rays, and nurse sharks. The water was crystal-clear, visibility perfect thanks to the dry season’s early calm.
Evenings were pure bliss—grilled lobster on the beach, reggae music, and the pink-and-orange sunsets that Belize is known for.
Exploring Ancient Mayan Ruins Near San Ignacio
Back inland, I visited Xunantunich, one of Belize’s most impressive Maya archaeological sites. My guide mentioned that during the high season, hundreds of visitors climb its pyramid daily. That day, it was just me and two other travelers.
We had the ruins almost entirely to ourselves, which made the experience even more powerful. From the top of El Castillo, the view stretched across the jungle all the way to Guatemala.
Nearby, I hiked through Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, where recent rains made the waterfalls roar and the forests shimmer with mist. November’s moisture brought the landscape to life—lush, vibrant, and photogenic.
Food, Culture, and Local Moments
If there’s one thing I didn’t expect, it was how good the food in Belize would be. Every meal felt like an event: stewed chicken, rice and beans, plantains, and seafood fresh from the coast.
November also coincides with Garifuna Settlement Day (November 19), a national holiday celebrating the arrival of the Garifuna people to Belize. I joined locals in Hopkins for drumming, dancing, and cassava bread tasting. The energy was electric, and I realized how deeply cultural pride runs here.
Belize’s warmth isn’t just in its weather—it’s in its people.
A Peaceful Beach Escape in Placencia
Toward the end of my trip, I headed south to Placencia, a narrow peninsula lined with beaches. It felt like a secret—no crowded bars, no noisy jet skis, just calm blue water and coconut palms.
I rented a beachfront cabana at a fraction of the price I’d seen online for December. Most mornings, I had the beach entirely to myself. I’d sip local coffee, read, and watch pelicans dive for breakfast.
That quiet, uncrowded charm is what made November in Belize truly special.
Surprises and Lessons from the Shoulder Season
Traveling during the shoulder season taught me a few things:
- Belize doesn’t shut down in November. Contrary to what I read, most tours, restaurants, and lodges operate as usual.
- Weather is more manageable than expected. Showers were short, refreshing, and even welcomed.
- You get more authentic experiences. Locals had more time to chat and share stories
- You save significantly. My accommodation and tours were 20–30% cheaper than winter rates.
The only downside? A few smaller restaurants were still preparing for the upcoming peak season. But that just gave me more reason to try local family-run spots, which turned out to be even better.
Practical Tips for Visiting Belize in November
If you’re planning to visit Belize during the shoulder season, here are my top takeaways:
- Pack smart: Bring a light rain jacket, breathable clothes, quick-dry shoes, and plenty of mosquito repellent.
- Book in advance: Some eco-lodges and reef tours still fill up fast.
- Expect short showers: Don’t let them ruin your day—plan flexible activities and enjoy the cool breaks.
- Celebrate Garifuna Settlement Day: It’s a cultural highlight filled with music, dance, and local food.
- Mix coast and inland: Belize’s beauty shines both underwater and in the rainforest, and November is great for both.
- Budget bonus: You’ll get more value for your money, from hotels to guided tours.
Would I Visit Belize in November Again? Absolutely.
When I think back on my trip, what stands out most isn’t just the scenery—it’s the balance. The warmth of the people, the rhythm of life, the gentle mix of sunshine and showers. Belize in November offered the best of both worlds: post-rain freshness and pre-peak serenity.
If you’re looking for a destination that feels real, relaxed, and surprisingly affordable, the shoulder season in Belize might be your best-kept secret. I’d go again in a heartbeat—rain clouds, rainbows, and all.
Final Thoughts
Belize’s shoulder season is not a time to avoid—it’s a time to savor. If you don’t mind a bit of tropical unpredictability, you’ll find a country that rewards you with beauty, connection, and calm. November isn’t just the start of the dry season—it’s the start of something special.