What You Need to Know About Green Season in Belize

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A tropical summer getaway. Yes, just the thing. Belize is English speaking, a short trip from many hubs in the USA, and boasts the largest barrier reef in this hemisphere. Checking all of your vacation boxes yet? But what about the weather? Summertime in Belize coincides with the return of the rains after a pronounced dry period. Locals, wildlife and the earth itself breathes a sigh of relief with the renewal that quickly occurs during this aptly-named Green Season. 

Belize is a tropical country, with rainfall totaling 60 inches in the north and up to 160 inches in the south, annually. While we don’t have the same seasons as our neighbors to the north, we do have distinct seasons. The dry season, February-May, coincides perfectly with Spring Break and typically is hot and dry, with little-to-no rainfall. The rains joyously return in June and Green Season begins, lasting through November.

With the return of the rains, things get growing. Greenery perks up, flowers bloom and many plants fruit during this time of plenty. Local fruits and veggies abound, sure to tempt your pallet. Mangoes, avocados, and lobster (though not a plant, it’s just as celebratory) are in season! It’s a great time to enjoy all of the tropical flavors that Belize has right at your fingertips.

In addition to your regular packing list, specific items will help to be prepared for brief rainy spells that may occur throughout an otherwise sunny day. A raincoat or small umbrella is easy to add to your suitcase and can pack down small to stash with you as you explore Ambergris Caye. While we encourage this year-round, being a tropical destination, insect repellent is another must-have that should go on your packing list. Another handy item to bring witare Ziploc baggies in whichever size is appropriate for must have’s like a phone or small camera. They are great to have stowed in a pocket, should a passing shower catch you, especially when on jungle tours or exploring out and about. A little bit of preparation goes a long way and helps make quick bouts of rain that may blow through just a brief inconvenience, rather than a damper (pun intended) on your whole vacation.

It is common during this time of year to have periodic rains, often with quick-changing weather. It can go from beautifully sunny to rainy and back to sunny again in just a few minutes. A forecast of rain does not mean days on end of precipitation, washing out your vacation plans. That said, there can be stronger weather systems that come through and do require monitoring and the appropriate action to be taken. The country of Belize’s National Emergency Management Organization, NEMO, is responsible for the country’s emergency plan and for the preservation of life and property during an emergency. NEMO guides citizens, businesses and the government in proper action to be taken should it be necessary.

Celebration time! September is a very festive month in Belize, with many patriotic holidays, including Independence Day on the 21st, falling during this month. Travel during September will certainly include a celebratory spirit, as the entire country embraces patriotic activities including parades, displays, and celebrations.

Another great reason to visit Belize during Green Season is to take advantage of the many summer specials that are available. Resorts and tours are apt to be less crowded than during other times of the year, allowing you to have a more intimate experience. Some excursions are weather dependent, such as snorkeling and diving; for safety reasons, reputable tour operators will monitor the weather and always err on the side of safety, no matter the time of the year.

Travel during Green Season in Belize can be a great adventure and isn’t a thing to be avoided. Prepare for brief rain showers, take advantage of all of the positives aspects and most importantly, have fun! “Rain, after all, is only rain; it is not bad weather.” – I Ching