Travelling to Belize, frequently asked questions

Where is Belize and what language is spoken there?

Belize sits on the Caribbean coast of Central America, between Mexico to the north and Guatemala to the west and south. English is the official language, alongside Kriol, Spanish, Garifuna and Maya languages, which makes Belize the only English-speaking country in Central America.

When is the best time to travel to Belize?

The dry season, from December to April, is the most comfortable window: clearer water for snorkelling and easier jungle tracks. The rainy season runs from June to November, when showers are usually short but the tracks to Caracol can turn muddy. The Atlantic hurricane season officially runs from 1 June to 30 November, with peak activity between August and October.

How long should a trip to Belize be?

Nine to ten days is the sweet spot for combining the Maya sites and caves of the Cayo District with time on the reef. Our sample itineraries run 9, 10, 14 and 15 days, the longer ones combining Belize with Guatemala or with the wider region, and each can be shortened or extended around your dates.

Which Maya sites can you visit in Belize?

Caracol is the largest Maya city in Belize, dominated by the Caana pyramid. Xunantunich overlooks the Mopan River valley near the Guatemalan border, and Lamanai is reached by river cruise through the jungle of the Orange Walk District. A day trip across the border to Tikal, in Guatemala, can also be added.

Is Belize a good destination for snorkelling and diving?

Yes. The Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list since 1996. The most popular sites are Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley, where you snorkel among nurse sharks and rays, while the Great Blue Hole can be dived or seen from the air on a scenic flight.

Ambergris Caye or Caye Caulker, which island should you choose?

Ambergris Caye and its town of San Pedro is the larger and livelier of the two, with more hotels and restaurants. Caye Caulker is smaller and slower, with no cars at all, where everything moves by golf cart, bicycle or on foot. Our Essential of Belize itinerary finishes on Ambergris Caye, and Jungle and Coral finishes on Caye Caulker.

What are the entry requirements for Belize?

Requirements depend on your nationality and change over time, and a day trip to Guatemala adds its own border formalities. Always confirm the current rules with the official sources for your country before you book, and AZORA will flag anything specific to your itinerary.

How do you travel around Belize?

On our itineraries, by private vehicle with your own driver on the mainland, then by water taxi or domestic flight to reach the islands. Distances are short, which is one of the reasons Belize works so well over a shorter trip.

Can an AZORA trip to Belize be tailor-made?

Yes. The itineraries shown here are starting points, not fixed packages. The length, the pace, the hotel standard and the experiences are all adjusted to you. Ask for your quotation and a local expert builds the journey around your wishes.