Belize Holidays 2026/2027

Belize is a jewel of Central America, offering a unique blend of lush jungles, pristine beaches, coral reefs, vibrant culture, and ancient Mayan ruins.

Catering to solo travellers, couples, honeymooners and family groups, whether you’re seeking cultural immersion, wildlife encounters, relaxation, soft adventure, its warm people, stunning landscapes, and rich history make a trip to Belize a joy to experience. The best time to travel is the dry season, from November to April, when the weather is best for both exploring in the jungle and relaxing on a golden Caribbean beach. Here are our recommendations on what to do and enjoy on a trip to Belize. 

1. Visit Ancient Mayan ruins hidden in the jungle

Belize has some of the most impressive Mayan ruins in Central America, including the following sites: Caracol is the largest Mayan city in Belize, hidden deep in the Chiquibul Forest. Climb the Caana (Sky Palace), the tallest man-made structure in the country, for panoramic jungle views; Xunantunich, located near San Ignacio, features the towering El Castillo pyramid; Lamanai is accessible by boat along the New River, a remote site is surrounded by lush vegetation and wildlife

It is also easy to visit Tikal in neighbouring Guatemala on a day trip from your lodge in Chaa Creek, Mountain Pine Ridge or San Ignacio.

Our Coral tour itinerary stays in both Chaa Creek and Mountain Pine Ridge.

2. Relax on the Cayes

Belize’s cayes (islands) are perfect for unwinding following days of exploration. The two most popular are: Ambergris Caye, the largest island, known for its white-sand beaches, vibrant nightlife, and excellent snorkelling and diving; and Caye Caulker, a laid-back alternative with a relaxed ambiance, crystal-clear waters, and a focus on sustainable tourism. It’s also a gateway to the Hol Chan Marine Reserve.

Both islands offer snorkelling, kayaking, and sailing opportunities, as well as fresh seafood and beachfront bars.

See our selection of hotels and resorts on Ambergris Caye.

3. Experience Belizean Culture and Cuisine

Belize’s culture is really interesting; a melting pot of Maya, Garifuna, Creole, Mestizo, and European influences. Our guides will showcase the life of local people including; a visit a Garifuna Village where you can enjoy drumming workshops, traditional dances, and authentic Garifuna cuisine; and showing you local Belizean food which is fusion of Caribbean and Latin American influences. Popular dishes include rice and beans, hudut (Garifuna fish stew), and fry jacks (a breakfast staple).

If your trip aligns with September’s Carnival or November’s Garifuna Settlement Day, you’ll experience the joy of Belize’s colourful and happy celebrations.

4. Wildlife Wonders

Belize is an excellent destination for wildlife enthusiasts. All the jungle lodges we feature offer guided tours with expert local naturalist guides to spot the animals and birds - many of which are endemic to Belize. You can also observe wildlife in protected sanctuaries: the Community Baboon Sanctuary is a protected area where you can observe howler monkeys in the wild; Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for its birdwatching, including jabiru storks and herons; and Swallow Caye Wildlife Sanctuary is a manatee protection area where you can spot these gentle giants.

5. Stay in luxury jungle lodges

One of the joys of visiting Belize is getting away from the stresses of daily life with a stay in a luxury lodge hidden in the jungle surrounded by lush gardens, an infinity pool, rivers and streams. Stay in a cosy bungalow and enjoy guided walks or tours by canoe. Some lodges have their own private reserve including Hidden Valley Wilderness Lodge at Mountain Pine Ridge and Francis Ford Coppola's luxury forest hideaway, Blancaneaux Lodge.

See our range of lodges and resorts.

6. Family Adventures

Belize is a good choice for family groups, as the jungle offers activities children of all ages will enjoy and the beaches have excellent watersports, snorkelling and scuba diving options. Activities and adventures for families include: a visit to Belize Zoo, home to jaguars, tapirs, ocelots, and more, all in naturalistic enclosures. The zoo is also a great place to learn about Belize’s conservation efforts; guided jungle hikes in Chaa Creek, Mountain Pine Ridge or Lamanai with trails through dense forest, waterfalls, and swimming holes; kayaking and zip-lining in the rainforest where your intrepid children can observe the forest canopy. Enjoy watersports, snorkelling and scuba diving on Ambergris Caye or Caye Caulker.

7. Discover the Belize Barrier Reef

The Belize Barrier Reef is the second-largest coral reef system in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its home to 70 hard coral species and 500 fish species, including rays, nurse sharks, and sea turtles. You can experience the reef by: snorkelling at Hol Chan Marine Reserve, with colourful coral formations and diverse marine life; swim with Whale Sharks from March to June - when these gentle giants gather near Gladden Spit, offering a magical experience; or take a glass-bottom kayak trip, ideal for those who prefer to stay dry while exploring the reef’s beauty.

8. Visit Belize City and discover its fascinating history

A guided tour of Belize City offers a glimpse into the country’s colonial past and vibrant present. Top attractions include: the House of Culture is a museum showcasing Belize’s history, from Mayan times to independence; St. John’s Cathedral is the oldest Anglican cathedral in Central America; and Fort Street village has shops, cafes, restaurants, and local crafts to peruse.

9. Explore the Great Blue Hole

One of Belize’s most iconic natural wonders is the Great Blue Hole - a giant marine sinkhole off the coast of Ambergris Caye. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a paradise for divers and snorkellers. The hole spans 300 metres across and 125 metres deep, with stunning stalactites and stalagmites visible underwater. Even if you’re not a diver, boat tours from Ambergris Caye, Belize City or Caye Caulker offer breathtaking views of this natural marvel.

10. Combine a trip with Guatemala

Belize is often visited alongside a tour of Guatemala, where you can enjoy colonial Antigua, the authentic local market at Chichicastenango, the serene beauty of Lake Atitlan and explore the ancient Mayan ruins at and around Tikal - hidden in the Jungle. Then cross the border into Belize for a few days in the Belizean jungle and time to relax on the beach at one of the Cayes.

See our tour combining Belize and Guatemala.

11. Combine a trip with Mexico and Guatemala

Mexico is Belize’s northern neighbour and popular choice for many is to explore Mexico, Belize and Guatemala on a multi-country journey. Our Zapotec tour itinerary combines mighty Aztec pyramids, ancient Zapotec ruins, the world famous Mayan sites of Chichen Itza and Uxmal, time to Relax on a Caribbean beach with a stay in Belize’s remote tropical forest and a tour of Guatemala. 

12. Sustainable and eco-friendly

One theme you will notice throughout your stay in Belize is the strong emphasis on sustainable practices, with local ingredients often grown by the lodge you are staying at, local cooperatives, support for local communities and zero plastics, particularly on the coast or on the cayes.

If you’re looking for a warm climate, relaxation, a chance to escape daily life with jungle adventures, cultural immersion, and gentle exploration, Belize is an excellent choice for a truly enjoyable holiday.