Less traveled than some of the other sections of Belize, the northern portion of the country is more readily accessible through Cancun. Its two districts, Corozal and Orange Walk, offer visitors everything from ancient ruins, to jungles, to small eclectic fishing villages and of course beautiful coastline. Check out the impressive ruins at Lamanai via guided river tour, explore the remains of Santa Rita—an ancient Mayan town, or simply relax by the water and do a little fishing if you so choose. This area has something for everyone, and because it isn’t quite as populated as the south part of the country, prices do tend to be quite affordable in this region.
A small seaside village, Sarteneja is a great base for visiting most of the key sites of Northern Belize. As it was and still is a fishing town, visitors can see traditions that live on today, such as the art of wood sailboat building.
Corozal Bay is one of the big draws when it comes to this town. Crystal blue waters attract those who long to visit Belize for its fishing, boating, swimming, sailing and snorkeling. Not to mention, the area is home to some of the best Mexican influenced restaurants in Belize.
With over a quarter of a million acres, this area is perhaps the country’s wildest. Among the exotic species that live here: river turtles, the yellow-headed parrot and crocodiles. Guided tours are available and recommended in order to see all of the best wildlife the park has to offer.
The winter season in Northern Belize is warm and dry, with temperatures ranging from the 60s to 80s Fahrenheit. It's an excellent time to visit this region as it offers pleasant weather for outdoor activities. Winter is perfect for exploring the picturesque islands of Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye, where visitors can enjoy snorkeling, diving, and relaxing on pristine beaches. The nearby Lamanai Archaeological Reserve is also a popular destination for exploring ancient Mayan ruins amidst the jungle.
Spring in Northern Belize brings slightly warmer temperatures, with highs in the 70s to 80s Fahrenheit. The landscape is lush and green due to the previous winter's rains, making it a great time to explore the lush rainforests and nature reserves of the region. Spring is ideal for birdwatching in the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary and exploring the Rio Bravo Conservation and Management Area. Visitors can also enjoy the cultural celebrations during the San Pedro Lobster Fest.
The summer season in Northern Belize is hot and can be humid, with temperatures in the 80s to 90s Fahrenheit. Despite the heat, this season attracts tourists who want to experience the lively festivals and events held in the area. Summer offers opportunities for cave tubing in the Barton Creek Cave and enjoying water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding along the coastal waters. Visitors can also immerse themselves in the Garifuna culture during the annual Garifuna Settlement Day celebrations.
Fall in Northern Belize is a transitional period, with temperatures ranging from the 70s to 80s Fahrenheit. The weather is generally pleasant with occasional rains, contributing to the lush greenery of the landscape. Fall is an excellent time for exploring the ancient Maya site of Altun Ha and visiting the Belize Zoo to see native wildlife. It's also a time for celebrating Belize's Independence Day on September 21st, which includes parades, cultural events, and patriotic displays.