Belize is a great destination to visit year round with natural wonders such as the second largest barrier reef in the world, lush rainforests, Maya archaeological sites, delicious food and rich culture. No matter when you decide to visit there are many things to see and do, but October is a hidden gem.
Find out 10 reasons why you should plan your Belize vacation in October!
1) A Birder’s paradise
There are over 600 bird species found in Belize. Photo by Kevin Berkoff.
For all of you bird lovers out there, October is YOUR month in Belize! Not only are migratory birds heading south to escape the approaching winter frosts up north, it is also when Belize hosts its annual Birding Festival. In 2023, it will be held on October 7th featuring guest speakers, workshops, art exhibits, vendors and guided tours. If you prefer just getting out into nature, keep a look out for species such as Roseate Spoonbills, Egrets, Jabiru Storks, Keeled-billed Toucans or the Lesson’s Motmot. With over 600 species of birds found in Belize coupled with knowledgeable tour guides, it is a birder’s paradise!
2) It will rain, but not all the time!
Clouds over the lush rainforest. Photo by Launce Roberts.
Yes, in October it will rain in Belize, but that is a great thing! You’ll see and experience the green season. The warm tropical rains will nurture flowers and fruit, attracting birds and wildlife. Also, it will not rain all of the time. Tropical rains often move in and out fast, leaving plenty of time to enjoy sunshine and go on exciting adventures. It is a wonderful time of the year to plan an adventure into the lush broadleaf rainforest in search of a flowing waterfall. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife such as howler monkeys, white tailed deer or a variety of birds – you never know what you might encounter.
3) See green while saving your green
A lush green path in the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary. Photo by Sabrina Heisse.
Green season is an ideal time to visit Belize not just because of lush vegetation, but also because of lower prices. See the green while saving your green! You can often find cheaper flights and low season prices at hotels and resorts. Saving a few dollars on flights and accommodations will afford you the opportunity to squeeze in a few more vacation days or treat yourself to additional activities while traveling in Belize.
4) Perfect temperatures- not too hot and not too cold
Imagine relaxing poolside in October. Photo by Ben Kim.
During the month of October, the weather begins shifting from hot and humid conditions common in September to cooler and refreshing temperatures. On average, the weather in Belize in October is between 72-84° F and the coastal waters are approximately 85° F. Whether you are planning on sipping cocktails poolside or trekking through the jungle during your vacation, you will be pleasantly comfortable during the month of October.
5) Explore Belize’s natural wonders without the crowds
Enjoying Xunantunich with no crowds. Photo by Veronica the Explorer.
Taking a trip to Belize in October can offer you warm tropical weather without the crowds. Because many people are back from summer vacations or have kids in school, October is a fantastic time to travel if you are seeking to experience Belize with fewer people. Explore natural wonders, support local businesses, and experience Belizean hospitality in a more intimate setting when you travel during this time of the year.
6) Wildlife spotting
Howler monkey relaxing on a branch along the Monkey River. Photo by Sabrina Heisse.
With few people and rain bringing life to the lush rainforest, October is a great time of the year to spot wildlife in Belize. In the rainforest, fruiting trees and nutritious foliage attract monkeys, peccaries, or other creatures. October typically has good visibility for diving and snorkeling. It is the last month of Hawksbill and Green Turtles primary hatching season and the beginning of grouper spawning season. It is a wonderful time of the year to view sharks, rays, dolphins and other marine creatures, too.
7) El Dia de la Raza or National Indigenous Resistance Day
Hamanasi’s Maya staff dressed in cultural attire. Photo by Hopkins UNcut.
El Dia de la Raza, Pan American Day or National Indigenous Resistance Day is celebrated throughout Belize each October with different types of events. Some villages hold beauty pageants, music festivals or celebrate with a parade through town. It is an opportunity to celebrate the rich culture, history and traditions of Belize’s vibrant indigenous populations.
8) Foodie month at Hamanasi
A garden fresh and delicious salad. Photo by Ben Kim.
With World Food Day, World Vegetarian Day, and World Vegan Day, how could you not celebrate all things food related? All year, Hamanasi Resort’s Singanga Bar & Restaurant offers a menu that highlights an array of cultural cuisines featuring sustainable and locally sourced products, and caters to a diverse palate, accommodating a vast array of dietary preferences. But during the month of October, it goes a step further and showcases edible or food related experiences throughout the resort such as culinary tours and adventures, shade grown coffee specials and even a Papaya Facial spa special! If you are a foodie, it is definitely an experience you won’t want to miss.
9) Great time to be out on the Caribbean Sea
Diving and snorkeling along the barrier reef. Photo by The Drone Angel.
Winds are shifting from typical strong SE winds to E and NE winds and on average around 6-10 knots, October marks the start of the small ship cruising season as the hurricane season is coming to an end. Enjoy a day diving or snorkeling along the second largest Barrier Reef in the world spotting incredible wildlife such as sharks, rays, turtles, and tropical reef fish.
10) Sargassum is not common on the beaches in October
Enjoy beautiful sandy beaches at Hamanasi. Photo by Ben Kim
Sargassum seaweed is a naturally occurring algae bloom typical when the Caribbean waters warm up. While Sargassum seaweed is removed from the beaches daily, in October it’s unlikely that you’ll have to fret that you will see it. As the winds shift and temperatures cool , Sargassum is not common in Belize in October.
Travel to Belize is great year round, but with so many reasons to travel to Belize in October, what are you waiting for? Book your dream vacation today!
