March is the apex of Belize’s dry winter months. It also marks the height of the tourist season, when travelers are eager to take advantage of all the nature excursions the sunny weather allows. Beyond that, dive conditions around the islands are great, and kayaking and boat trips to the outer atolls are popular seafaring adventures. Continue reading for tips on how to plan an unforgettable Belize getaway in March.
## Belize in March: A Comprehensive Travel Guide
March in Belize offers a unique blend of pleasant weather, vibrant wildlife, and cultural celebrations, making it a popular time to visit this Central American gem. However, this popularity comes with its own set of considerations, including larger crowds and higher prices. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the best that Belize has to offer in March, ensuring a memorable and well-planned vacation.
**Weather in Belize During March**
The transition from the cooler months is well underway by March, characterized by a significant decrease in rainfall and an abundance of clear, sunny skies. This makes it an ideal time to explore the diverse landscapes of Belize, from its pristine coastline to its lush inland jungles. Temperatures begin to rise across the country, but the coastal areas benefit from refreshing sea breezes.
Along the coast, expect daytime temperatures to peak around a comfortable 79°F (26°C), with nighttime lows averaging around 77°F (23°C). These balmy conditions are perfect for enjoying the numerous water activities that Belize is famous for. However, venturing inland towards the capital and the forested regions reveals a different climatic picture. Here, temperatures can soar to a much hotter 88°F (31°C), accompanied by higher humidity levels. The humidity around the capital of Belize City hovers around 79%, adding to the intensity of the heat. Despite the dryness of the season, the country still receives an average of about two inches of rainfall throughout the month.
The sea temperature in Belize remains consistently pleasant at around 80°F (26°C). This inviting water temperature guarantees comfortable conditions for swimming, diving, and snorkeling throughout your visit. March falls squarely within the dry season, promising mostly sunny days, perfect for outdoor adventures and soaking up the Caribbean sunshine.
**Crowds and Costs in March**
It’s important to acknowledge that March marks the height of the tourist season in Belize. As a result, you should anticipate larger crowds and higher prices compared to other times of the year. Popular attractions and destinations will be bustling with visitors, and accommodations tend to fill up quickly.
Catamaran tours venturing out to the outer atolls, such as those within the Glover’s Reef Marine Reserve, are particularly popular and often fully booked well in advance. Similarly, hotels and resorts in sought-after destinations like the vibrant town of San Pedro, located on the beautiful Ambergris Caye, experience peak occupancy rates.
To avoid disappointment and secure your preferred lodging and activities, it is highly recommended that you book your Belize holiday as far in advance as possible. Aim to make your reservations at least a couple of months ahead of your intended travel dates. This proactive approach will not only give you peace of mind but also potentially allow you to take advantage of early-bird discounts and special offers.
**Where to Go in Belize**
Belize offers a remarkable range of destinations to cater to diverse interests and preferences. From idyllic islands to ancient Maya sites, there’s something for everyone to discover.
For those seeking the quintessential Caribbean island experience, Belize’s numerous islands, affectionately known as *cayes*, offer a slice of paradise. Southwest Caye serves as an excellent base for exploring the stunning marine environment. It is located within a marine reserve, in one of the most pristine sections of Belize’s magnificent Barrier Reef. From here, you can easily access and explore the waters surrounding Glover’s Reef Marine Reserve and its breathtaking atolls.
Venturing onto the mainland unlocks a wealth of cultural and historical treasures. Belize is home to a number of captivating Maya archeological sites, providing fascinating insights into the region’s rich past. Two notable sites that are located in close proximity to each other are Altun Ha and Lamanai. Altun Ha, spanning over three square miles, reached the peak of its power around 400 CE. Lamanai, on the other hand, holds the distinction of being the oldest Mayan archeological site in Belize, with its origins dating back to approximately 1500 BCE. In addition to these historical landmarks, the area surrounding these sites also encompasses protected wildlife parks and nature reserves, such as the renowned Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary, offering opportunities to encounter Belize’s diverse flora and fauna.
**What to Do in Belize**
March presents ideal conditions for wildlife spotting, making it a prime time for nature enthusiasts. The inland lagoons become havens for a variety of waterbirds, including majestic herons, elegant storks, and graceful egrets. During the winter months, vibrant scarlet macaws establish their temporary homes near the indigenous village of Red Bank, providing a stunning display of color. On Half Moon Caye, red-footed boobies are in the midst of their hatching season, offering a unique opportunity to observe these fascinating seabirds.
Further opportunities to observe indigenous wildlife abound along the banks of the Moho River, where you might spot playful howler monkeys and docile iguanas. For a more controlled wildlife viewing experience, the Belize Zoo offers a chance to observe wildcats such as ocelots and jaguars, along with other native species.
March also heralds the beginning of whale shark season in Belize, an exceptional opportunity for divers and snorkelers. The premier location for whale shark encounters is at Gladden Spit, situated just off the coast of Placencia, along Belize’s southern coast. Beyond whale sharks, the waters of Belize teem with a diverse array of exotic marine life, including sea turtles, rays, and nurse sharks, all of which can be found along the reef, cayes, and atolls. If you seek an adventurous encounter with these creatures, Shark Ray Alley, located within the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, provides an unforgettable experience.
**Events in March**
One of the significant cultural events celebrated in Belize during March is:
* **National Heroes & Benefactors Day (Mar 9):** More widely known as Baron Bliss Day, this public holiday honors a wealthy Englishman who, upon his death in 1926, bequeathed his fortune to Belize. The celebrations traditionally include a regatta held in Belize City, accompanied by smaller sailing exhibitions and festive parties held throughout the country.
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