3-Day Unique Adventure & Shopping Excursion in Belize

Belize

3 days

Adventure

Shopping

Off the beaten path

Wooden subbeds under palm trees on Placencia beach

About Belize

Belize, a captivating paradise in Central America, offers a blend of rich history, diverse culture, and natural beauty. Explore the ancient Mayan ruins, such as Caracol and Lamanai, or dive into the world's second-largest barrier reef, teeming with vibrant marine life. The lush rainforests are home to exotic wildlife, including jaguars and howler monkeys. Visit the charming towns like San Ignacio or the laid-back islands of Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye for a taste of local life. Belize's unique blend of Caribbean and Latin cultures is reflected in its cuisine, music, and festivals. With English as its official language, navigating Belize is easy for English-speaking travelers. Whether you're an adventure enthusiast, history buff, or nature lover, Belize promises an unforgettable experience.

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring Belize City and Altun Ha

Morning

Start your day with a visit to a Local Market in Belize City. Here, you can immerse yourself in the local culture, interact with the locals, and buy some fresh fruits for breakfast.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Belizean lunch at a local eatery. Try some of the local delicacies like rice and beans, stewed chicken, and fry jacks.

Afternoon

Head to the Mayan Ruins of Altun Ha for an adventurous afternoon. Explore the ancient structures, learn about the Mayan civilization, and enjoy the stunning views from the top of the temples.

Dinner

Have a seafood dinner at a local restaurant. Belize is known for its fresh seafood, so don't miss the chance to try some lobster or conch ceviche.

Evening

Spend the evening exploring the nightlife of Belize City. Visit some local bars and enjoy the vibrant music scene.

Day 2

Boat Trip to the Great Blue Hole and Snorkeling

Morning

Start your second day with a boat trip to the Great Blue Hole. This is a world-renowned diving spot, so if you're a diver, this is a must-do. If not, you can still enjoy the stunning views from the boat.

Lunch

Have a picnic lunch on one of the small islands near the Great Blue Hole. Enjoy the serene beauty of the place while having some sandwiches and fresh fruits.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon Snorkeling in the crystal clear waters around the islands. You'll get to see a variety of colorful marine life.

Dinner

Return to Belize City and have dinner at a local restaurant. Try some Belizean desserts like coconut tart or cassava pudding.

Evening

Spend the evening at a local Craft Market. Here, you can buy some unique souvenirs and handicrafts made by local artisans.

Day 3

Visit to Belize Zoo and Jungle Exploration

Morning

On your last day, visit the Belize Zoo. This zoo is home to many native species of animals and is a great place to learn about Belize's wildlife.

Lunch

Have lunch at a local restaurant near the zoo. Try some local dishes like gibnut or armadillo.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the nearby jungle. You can go for a hike, bird watch, or just enjoy the lush greenery.

Dinner

Have your last dinner in Belize at a local restaurant. Try some local drinks like Belikin beer or cashew wine.

Evening

Spend your last evening in Belize strolling along the city's waterfront. Enjoy the cool breeze and reflect on your wonderful trip.

Attractions in Itinerary (7)

1
Local Market

A bustling market where locals sell a variety of goods, from fresh produce to handmade crafts.

Shopping

Cultural Experiences

2
Mayan Ruins of Altun Ha

Ancient Mayan city with two main plazas and thirteen structures. It's a significant archaeological site.

Attractions

Cultural Experiences

Landmarks

Monuments

3
Great Blue Hole

A world-class destination for diving, this natural sinkhole in the Caribbean Sea is over 300m across and 124m deep.

Attractions

Landmarks

Sports

4
Snorkeling

Belize is home to the second largest barrier reef in the world, making it a popular destination for snorkeling.

Sports

Tours

Attractions

5
Craft Market

A market where local artisans sell handmade crafts, including jewelry, pottery, and textiles.

Shopping

6
Belize Zoo

A zoo that houses over 175 animals of about 48 species, all native to Belize. It's a center for wildlife education and conservation.

Attractions

Parks

7
Jungle Exploration

Guided tours through Belize's lush jungles, where visitors can see wildlife, waterfalls, and ancient Mayan ruins.

Tours

Attractions

Sports

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Rice and Beans

A staple in Belizean cuisine, this dish is typically made with coconut milk, red kidney beans, and rice. It is often served with a protein like chicken, beef, or fish.

Belizean Stew Chicken

A popular Belizean dish, this is a savory stew made with chicken, spices, and vegetables. It's often served with rice and beans.

Conch Fritters

A popular seafood dish in Belize, these are deep-fried balls made from conch meat, flour, and seasonings. They are usually served with a dipping sauce.

Johnny Cakes

A traditional Belizean breakfast food, these are small, round breads that are often filled with ham, cheese, or beans.

Ceviche

A popular dish in coastal areas of Belize, it's made with fresh raw fish cured in citrus juices, and spiced with chili peppers, onions, and cilantro.

Pibil

A traditional Mayan dish that is popular in Belize, it is a slow-roasted pork dish marinated in citrus juice, annatto seeds, and other seasonings.

Fry Jacks

A popular Belizean breakfast item, these are deep-fried pieces of dough that are often served with beans, eggs, or cheese.

Garnaches

A popular street food in Belize, these are small fried tortillas topped with beans, cheese, and a spicy sauce.

Belizean Tamales

A traditional Belizean dish, these are made with masa (corn dough) filled with meat, wrapped in a banana leaf, and then steamed.

Belizean Rum Punch

A popular drink in Belize, it's made with local rum, fruit juices, and a splash of grenadine.

Belikin Beer

The national beer of Belize, it's a light, crisp beer that is perfect for the tropical climate.

Seaweed Shake

A unique Belizean drink, it's a sweet, creamy shake made with dried seaweed, milk, and various spices.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Belize as a tourist is during the dry season, which is from late November to mid-April. This period offers the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities and sightseeing. However, if you're interested in diving or snorkeling, the best time would be between April and June when the waters are clear, and it's also the season when whale sharks are often spotted. Keep in mind that December to April is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and more crowds during this time.

How to get around

Rental Car

Renting a car is a popular option for getting around Belize. It provides the flexibility to explore at your own pace. However, be aware that some roads, especially in rural areas, can be rough and require a 4x4 vehicle.

Taxi

Taxis are readily available in most towns and cities. They are not metered, so it's best to agree on a fare before starting your journey. Taxis are usually identified by green license plates.

Bicycle

In smaller towns and on the islands, bicycles are a common mode of transport. Many hotels and guesthouses offer bike rentals. It's a great way to explore the local area at a leisurely pace.

Public Bus

Public buses are a cheap and efficient way to travel between towns and cities. They can be crowded and may not run on a strict schedule, but they offer a real taste of local life.

Water Taxi

Water taxis are a common way to travel between the mainland and the islands, such as Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker. They run on regular schedules and offer beautiful views of the Caribbean Sea.

Private Shuttle

Private shuttles are a comfortable and convenient way to travel between tourist destinations. They can be arranged through hotels or tour operators and often include pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation.

Domestic Flight

Belize has a number of small airports and airstrips, making domestic flights a quick and convenient way to travel long distances. The main domestic airlines are Tropic Air and Maya Island Air.

Ridesharing

Ridesharing is not widely available in Belize. However, in some areas, locals may offer rides for a small fee. Always use your discretion and prioritize safety when considering this option.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

CurrencyBZ$ BZD

Time zoneUTC-6

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone911

Drinking waterYes, but some opt for bottled water outside the cities

Power sockets

Voltage110 V, 220 V

Things to know about Belize as a first time visitor

1

Belize's official language is English, making it easy for English-speaking tourists to communicate.

2

The local currency is the Belize Dollar (BZD), but US dollars are widely accepted. The exchange rate is typically 2 BZD to 1 USD.

3

Belize has a tropical climate with high humidity. The average temperature ranges from 70°F (21°C) in the winter to 95°F (35°C) in the summer.

4

Belize is a safe country for tourists, but like any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty theft.

5

Belize's tap water is generally safe to drink in cities and tourist areas, but it's recommended to drink bottled water in rural areas.

6

Belize has a slower pace of life, often referred to as 'Belize Time'. Be prepared for things to move a bit slower than you might be used to.

7

Belize's cuisine is a mix of Caribbean, Mexican, and Mayan influences. Be sure to try local dishes like rice and beans, fry jacks, and ceviche.

8

Belize is home to the second largest barrier reef in the world, making it a popular destination for snorkeling and scuba diving.

9

The country has a departure tax for international travelers, which is typically included in your airfare.

10

Belize is a small country, making it easy to explore multiple regions during your trip.

11

Public transportation in Belize is limited, so renting a car or hiring a taxi is often the best way to get around.

12

Belize has a casual dress code, but it's important to dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

13

Belize has a 12.5% General Sales Tax (GST) on goods and services.

14

The country has a diverse ecosystem, so bring insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes and other insects.

15

Belize's peak tourist season is from November to April, coinciding with the dry season.

16

Belize is in the Central Standard Time zone and does not observe daylight saving time.

17

The country's electrical outlets are the same as those in the US (110 volts, 60 Hz), so travelers from the US won't need a power adapter.

18

Belize has a rich Mayan history, and you'll often see Mayan symbols and artwork throughout the country.

19

Belizeans are known for their friendliness and hospitality, so don't hesitate to ask locals for recommendations or directions.

20

Belize is a biodiversity hotspot, so respect the local flora and fauna and follow all environmental guidelines and regulations.

Packing List

Clothing
Lightweight clothing
Underwear
Swimwear
Beach cover-up
Shorts
T-shirts
Lightweight long-sleeve shirt
Lightweight pants
Comfortable walking shoes
Sandals
Hat
Sunglasses
Rain jacket

Toiletries
Travel-size shampoo
Travel-size conditioner
Travel-size body wash
Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Deodorant
Razor
Shaving cream
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
Prescription medications
First-aid kit

Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's license
Credit cards
Cash
Travel insurance documents
Hotel reservation details
Emergency contacts and addresses

Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger
Headphones
Camera
Memory card
Portable power bank
Travel adapter

Miscellaneous items
Travel pillow
Earplugs
Eye mask
Snacks
Water bottle
Books or e-reader
Travel guidebook
Ziplock bags
Tote bag for beach or shopping
Reusable shopping bag

Weather Conditions

Belize is a tropical paradise that offers a unique blend of lush rainforests, beautiful beaches, and ancient Mayan ruins. However, the weather in Belize can be quite variable, so it's important to plan your trip accordingly. The country experiences two main seasons: the dry season, which runs from late November to April, and the wet season, which spans from May to early November. The dry season is the best time to visit if you want to avoid heavy rainfall. During this period, the weather is generally sunny with temperatures ranging from 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C). The wet season, on the other hand, is characterized by frequent rain showers and occasional hurricanes, particularly between June and November. Despite the rain, the wet season can still be a good time to visit, as the showers often occur in the late afternoon or evening, leaving the majority of the day for outdoor activities. The temperatures during the wet season are typically between 80°F and 90°F (27°C to 32°C). Regardless of when you visit, it's advisable to pack lightweight, breathable clothing due to the country's high humidity. A rain jacket or umbrella is also a must, especially if you're visiting during the wet season. Don't forget your sunscreen, as the sun can be quite strong year-round. Lastly, keep an eye on the weather forecast during your trip. Belize is prone to tropical storms and hurricanes, so it's important to stay informed and take necessary precautions if a storm is predicted.

Month	Hi / Lo (°C)	Weather Overview
January	29° / 19°	January is a great time to visit Belize, as it's the dry season with temperatures ranging from 19°C to 29°C.
February	30° / 20°	In February, Belize experiences a dry season with temperatures slightly warmer than January, ranging from 20°C to 30°C.
March	31° / 21°	March is still within the dry season, with temperatures ranging from 21°C to 31°C, making it a good time for outdoor activities.
April	33° / 23°	April is the hottest month in Belize with temperatures ranging from 23°C to 33°C, perfect for beach activities.
May	34° / 24°	May marks the beginning of the rainy season, but temperatures remain high, ranging from 24°C to 34°C.
June	34° / 24°	June is in the middle of the rainy season, but it's also a good time to visit if you enjoy tropical rain showers, with temperatures from 24°C to 34°C.
July	34° / 24°	July is also part of the rainy season, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 34°C, but it's less crowded with tourists.
August	34° / 24°	August is a good time to visit Belize if you enjoy the rainforest and tropical showers, with temperatures from 24°C to 34°C.
September	34° / 24°	September is part of the rainy season, but it's also when Belize celebrates its independence, with temperatures from 24°C to 34°C.
October	33° / 23°	October is the wettest month in Belize, with temperatures ranging from 23°C to 33°C, but it's a good time to visit if you enjoy less crowded tourist spots.
November	31° / 21°	November marks the end of the rainy season, with temperatures ranging from 21°C to 31°C, making it a good time for outdoor activities.
December	30° / 20°	December is a popular time to visit Belize, as it's the start of the dry season with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C.