Things to Do in Belize City in January

January Weather in Belize City

28°C (82°F) High Temp

21°C (69°F) Low Temp

0.0 mm (0.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is January Right for You?

Advantages

Peak dry season with minimal rainfall - only 10 rainy days compared to 18+ in summer months, perfect for reef diving and caye hopping
Cooler 21°C (69°F) morning temperatures make early morning activities like bird watching at Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary comfortable before heat peaks
Northeast trade winds keep humidity manageable at 70% compared to 85%+ in wet season, ideal for walking tours through historic Fort George district
Tourist infrastructure fully operational after December holiday rush but before spring break crowds - better availability and service quality

Considerations

High season pricing with accommodation rates 40-60% higher than low season, particularly around New Year's week
Dust from dry conditions can irritate sensitive respiratory systems and creates hazy conditions for photography
Strong trade winds (25-35 km/h or 15-22 mph) can make boat transfers to cayes choppy and uncomfortable for those prone to seasickness

Best Activities in January

Barrier Reef Diving and Snorkeling

January offers the clearest underwater visibility (30-40m or 100-130ft) due to minimal rainfall and calm seas. Water temperature holds steady at 26°C (79°F). The northeast trade winds create perfect conditions for diving the outer atolls like Lighthouse Reef. Morning departures take advantage of calmest seas before afternoon winds pick up.

Booking Tip: Book reef tours 7-10 days ahead through PADI-certified operators. Full-day trips typically cost BZ$200-300 (US$100-150). Choose operators with covered boats for wind protection and reef-safe sunscreen policies. Reference booking widget below for current certified operators.

Mayan Ruins Exploration

Dry season makes unpaved access roads to sites like Caracol and El Pilar passable after rainy season closures. Morning temperatures of 21°C (69°F) are ideal for climbing temple structures before midday heat. January's low humidity reduces the oppressive feeling inside tomb chambers and caves.

Booking Tip: Book archaeological site tours 5-7 days ahead. Day trips range BZ$150-250 (US$75-125) depending on distance. Look for guides certified by the Institute of Archaeology. Early morning departures (6-7am) maximize comfort. Check current tour options in booking section below.

Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary Bird Watching

January marks peak dry season bird concentration as water sources shrink, forcing species into smaller areas for easier viewing. Over 300 species including jabiru storks, boat-billed herons, and migrant North American waterfowl. Cool morning temperatures make 3-4 hour walks comfortable.

Booking Tip: Book guided birding tours 3-5 days ahead, typically BZ$120-180 (US$60-90) for half-day tours. Early morning tours (5:30-6:00am start) are essential for active bird life. Look for guides with spotting scopes and local community connections. See current options in booking widget below.

Garifuna Cultural Experiences

January's comfortable evenings are perfect for outdoor cultural performances and beach-side drum sessions. Many Garifuna communities celebrate New Year with traditional foods and music. The dry weather allows for coastal village visits to Hopkins and Seine Bight without muddy road conditions.

Booking Tip: Cultural tours typically cost BZ$100-160 (US$50-80) for half-day experiences. Book through community-based tourism operators 3-5 days ahead. Evening programs include traditional meals and drumming sessions. Look for authentic experiences that support local communities. Check booking section for current cultural tours.

Cave Systems and Underground Rivers

January's dry conditions make cave entrances accessible and water levels in underground river systems like Actun Tunichil Muknal optimal for exploration. Cool cave temperatures provide relief from midday heat. Reduced rainfall means clearer water for swimming in cave pools.

Booking Tip: Cave tours require advance booking 7-14 days ahead due to limited daily permits. Prices range BZ$180-280 (US$90-140) for full-day experiences. Choose operators with proper safety equipment and archaeological permits. Physical fitness required for some sites. See current permitted operators in booking widget.

Fishing and Water Sports

January's consistent trade winds create excellent conditions for sailing and windsurfing. Tarpon fishing peaks as fish concentrate in river mouths during dry season. Bone fishing on flats improves with clearer, calmer water. Permit and tarpon are most active in cooler morning temperatures.

Booking Tip: Fishing charters cost BZ$800-1200 (US$400-600) for full-day trips. Book specialized guides 10-14 days ahead, especially for tarpon and permit fishing. Half-day options available for BZ$400-600 (US$200-300). Look for experienced local guides with proper licenses. Current charter options available in booking section below.

January Events & Festivals

January 1

New Year's Day Junkanoo Parade

Street festival featuring costumed dancers, traditional music, and local food vendors along Albert Street. Combines Belizean, Caribbean, and Central American cultural elements with energetic performances starting at 10am

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight long-sleeve shirts in light colors - protects from UV index 8 sun and provides modest coverage for church/cultural site visits

Reef-safe mineral sunscreen SPF 50+ - regular sunscreen is banned at many marine parks and the UV index reaches dangerous levels

Quick-dry shorts and swimwear - you'll be in and out of water frequently, and cotton stays damp in 70% humidity

Waterproof phone case and dry bag - sudden 20-30 minute afternoon showers on 10 days, plus water activities

Comfortable walking shoes with good grip - many sidewalks in Belize City are uneven concrete or broken pavement

Light rain jacket or poncho - afternoon showers are brief but intense, umbrellas useless in trade winds

Insect repellent with 20%+ DEET - mosquitoes are less active in dry season but still present, especially at dawn/dusk

Wide-brimmed hat with chin strap - essential sun protection and trade winds will blow off loose hats

Lightweight pants for evening - protection from insects and appropriate for nicer restaurants or cultural events

Waterproof sandals - for boat transfers, cave exploration, and muddy areas after brief rains

Insider Knowledge

Local buses (US$1-2) run frequently between Belize City and nearby towns until 6pm - much cheaper than taxis (US$15-25) but stop running early for return trips

Belizean Creole greeting 'Wah di go aan?' (What's going on?) opens conversations with locals who appreciate visitors attempting local expressions

Municipal market on North Front Street has best prices for fresh fruit and local snacks (BZ$2-5) compared to tourist-oriented shops (BZ$8-12 for same items)

Water taxis to cayes run on 'Belizean time' - boats leave when full, not on posted schedules, so bring patience and entertainment for 15-30 minute delays

Avoid These Mistakes

Booking accommodations in downtown Belize City for beach vacation - the city is a transit hub, not a beach destination. Stay in Caye Caulker or Ambergris Caye for reef access

Underestimating travel time between attractions - distances seem short but roads are rough. Allow 2-3 hours for destinations marked as 1 hour away

Wearing expensive jewelry or carrying large amounts of cash in downtown areas - petty crime targets obvious tourists, especially near bus terminals and markets