
Fall in Belize is technically the off-season for the tourist industry, but that brings with it some serious advantages. You get better rates and fewer crowds without having to sacrifice much of anything. Practically anything you’d want to see or do elsewhere in the year is available in the fall, but the season brings its own unique experiences as well. Here are five things you can do in Belize this fall.
1. Check Out the Belize Barrier Reef
Belize is home to the world’s second-largest barrier reef — and it’s actually one of the biggest attractions for tourists. Fortunately, the weather in Belize is comfortably tropical all year long, and that means you can expect temperatures in the 80s when you decide to check out the reef. Whether you’re looking to fish, dive, or snorkel, there’s no lack of opportunities.
2. Celebrate Belize’s Independence Day
The fall offers locals a break from tourists but is also absolutely packed with holidays. Independence Day falls on September 21, but this year’s celebration is special because it represents the 40th anniversary of independence. There’s no better way to get acquainted with the local customs and celebrations than mixing and mingling with the Independence Day celebrations.
3. Try Some Local Food
Belize’s cuisine embraces the fresh seafood of the Caribbean Sea and the rich crops and meat from the verdant Cayo District, but they also blend together a wide range of different cultural influences in developing their dishes. But fall is a particularly special time of year thanks to the fact that it sits right in the middle of lobster season. Lobster season is a celebration in its own right within Belize’s borders, but be sure to make room for other dishes like panades, meat pies, and rice and beans.
4. Check Out the Diversity
Belize is the second smallest country in Central America, but there’s a whole lot worth exploring here. Islands like Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye offer a pampered experience, but the over 400 islands that straddle the country can promise a wide variety of different experiences. But there are also mainland beach towns like Hopkins and Placencia — and San Ignacio Town serves as the ideal gateway to the wild natural playground of the Cayo District.
5. Explore Ancient Civilization
Belize was once the beating heart of the Maya Empire, and much of that massive society’s imprint can still be found. The Cayo District offers the richest variety of ruins, but you can find them throughout the country. Cahal Pech, Xunantunich, Altun Ha, and Caracol are just a few of the ruins worth visiting.