Belize in April is the perfect time for an island getaway. Diving and snorkeling conditions are ideal, the coastal breezes offset the higher temperatures, and marine wildlife is out in force. Plus, if you don’t mind warmer temps, there are great wildlife spotting, tours, and activities on the mainland. Read on to learn more about the best ways to spend April in Belize.
Weather in Belize During April
April marks a transition in Belize’s weather, with temperatures beginning their ascent. It’s a time of year that presents a compelling balance, making it a very attractive month for exploration. While inland areas can experience warmer conditions, sometimes reaching peaks around 92°F (32°C), these warmer spells are often punctuated by brief, refreshing showers that provide a welcome cooling effect. These passing showers help to maintain a comfortable and enjoyable atmosphere throughout the day.
Along the coast, the temperature tends to be milder and more consistent, typically averaging a high of around 81°F (27°C). This creates pleasant conditions perfect for leisurely beach days or engaging in various water activities. The increase in coastal winds during April, usually blowing between 12-16 knots, further enhances the appeal of this time of year. Although these winds can occasionally cause some choppiness in the open waters, they contribute to an overall refreshing climate, particularly along the shoreline. Importantly, the waters sheltered by the reef generally remain calm and serene.
The remarkably calm seas behind the reef make April an exceptional month for aquatic adventures. Snorkeling conditions are at their peak, offering unparalleled clarity and visibility. Scuba diving enthusiasts will also find this to be a prime time to explore the underwater wonders of Belize. Fishing is also excellent during this period. The combination of pleasant weather and calm seas also opens up opportunities for catamaran excursions to the outer atolls, providing unforgettable experiences on the Caribbean Sea.
Crowds and Costs Associated with April Travel
Similar to February and March, April continues to be a popular time for travelers to visit Belize. Sun-seekers, diving aficionados, and water sports enthusiasts alike converge on Belize during this month, drawn by the favorable weather conditions and wealth of activities on offer. The high season is still in full swing, especially for those planning island getaways and barrier reef adventures. This popularity means that hotels tend to fill up quickly, and the most sought-after boat tours around Belize’s renowned marine reserves require advance booking.
Therefore, it’s highly recommended to plan and book your trip well in advance, ideally a couple of months ahead of your intended travel dates. This will increase your chances of securing your preferred accommodations and tours. Be prepared to encounter high season prices for both accommodations and activities. Despite the higher costs, many visitors find that the unique experiences and favorable conditions of April make the trip well worth the investment.
Prime Destinations to Explore in April
During April, a large number of visitors opt for Belize’s islands over venturing inland. With over 400 islands dotting the coast, Belize offers a plethora of options for island hopping and relaxation. Many of these islands are located near pristine marine reserves, making them ideal launchpads for exciting excursions. Belize boasts eight such reserves, each with its own distinct charm and ecological significance. Among the most popular is Hol Chan Marine Reserve. Its strategic location near Ambergris Caye, the largest island in Belize, makes it easily accessible and perfect for day trips.
However, for those who don’t mind slightly warmer temperatures, mainland Belize offers an array of captivating destinations waiting to be discovered. Mayflower Bocawina National Park is a treasure trove of beautiful rainforest landscapes nestled within the Maya Mountains. The park provides opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring stunning waterfalls. Then there’s Altun Ha, a significant archeological site that served as a vital Maya trading center until around 900 CE. The ruins offer a glimpse into the rich history and cultural heritage of the Mayan civilization.
Indigenous villages such as Santa Theresa offer a chance to experience the living Mayan culture firsthand. Exploring these communities allows visitors to learn about traditional customs, crafts, and ways of life. In addition, Belize is home to countless protected areas teeming with diverse wildlife. The Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary, is a prime example, provides a sanctuary for a wide variety of bird species and other wildlife.
Engaging Activities to Experience
Snorkeling, diving, and kayaking are incredibly popular activities during April in Belize, thanks to the favorable weather and calm waters. The renowned Belize Barrier Reef, stretching 180 miles (290 km) along the coast, offers an abundance of opportunities for these water-based adventures. There are so many great diving spots and must-see highlights. These include the coastal community of Placencia, famous for its laid-back atmosphere and access to the southern reef. Also, the iconic Blue Hole, a marine sinkhole and atoll renowned for its stunning depths and diverse marine life.
Don’t forget Turneffe Atoll, a haven for divers and snorkelers with its vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine species. Half Moon Caye, a protected island and natural monument, offers pristine beaches and a rich ecosystem both above and below the water. Many of these locales, particularly Hol Chan Marine Reserve, are excellent spots to observe marine life up close. Expect to encounter nurse sharks, rays, and various turtle species, including loggerheads and green sea turtles.
The mainland also presents a different kind of adventure, with opportunities to spot Belize’s diverse land and air-based animals. The Belize Zoo is home to magnificent wildcats like jaguars and ocelots, offering a chance to see these elusive creatures in a naturalistic setting. River cruises along the New River and Moho River often reveal sightings of howler monkeys and colorful macaws perched on the riverbanks. And the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary, a wetland area, is a paradise for birdwatchers, with opportunities to spot aquatic birds like herons and storks in their natural habitat.
Furthermore, the mainland is a treasure trove of Maya ruins, providing a fascinating glimpse into the ancient civilization that once thrived in the region. Beyond Altun Ha, there’s also Lamanai, boasting some of the oldest Maya ruins in Belize, dating back to around 1500 BCE. Caracol, a massive site even larger than present-day Belize City, is well worth a visit and features impressive pyramids like Caana. Caana is also known as “sky palace,” which towers 141-feet (43-m) high.
Special Events Taking Place in April
Easter (Late Apr): Easter is one of the most significant holidays in Belize, observed over five days: Easter Thursday, Good Friday, Holy Saturday, Easter Sunday, and Easter Monday. Belizeans celebrate this occasion with religious processions, extended church services, and dramatizations of biblical events such as The Passion. During this period, expect that the majority of stores and services will shut down starting on Thursday and remain closed throughout the Easter festivities. It’s a time for reflection, celebration, and community gatherings.
Suggested Belize Itineraries for April Travel
Consider these itineraries as ideas for planning your adventure:
This weeklong adventure is centered around nature reserves and protected areas. The journey begins with wildlife spotting on the mainland at Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary. From there, the experience continues on the water with snorkeling and kayaking excursions around the Lighthouse Reef Atoll, a marine park and UNESCO World Heritage Site. This itinerary offers a comprehensive exploration of Belize’s natural beauty and ecological treasures.
Experience the best of Belize in just nine days! This adventure begins with a birding and wildlife tour down the New River, followed by a hike around the Maya ruins of Altun Ha. Then, the trip moves to Belize’s famous barrier reef where you will snorkel around the Turneffe Atoll and Lighthouse Reef.
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