WHEN TO TRAVEL TO Belize

Location

Climate

Belize is an attractive tourist destination thanks to its beautiful beaches, tropical climate and numerous activities such as scuba diving, exploring Mayan ruins and much more.

Belize seasons: low and high season

Belize has two distinct seasons: dry and wet. The dry seasonThe summer season, which generally runs from February to May, is considered the best time to visit the country. During this period, temperatures are pleasant and rainfall less frequent, making it an ideal time to enjoy beaches and outdoor activities. However, the dry season is also high tourist season. As a result, you'll have to be prepared to cope with more visitors to tourist sites and higher prices for accommodation and activities. If you don't mind, then the dry season is the ideal time to go to Belize. The wet season, on the other hand, generally runs from June to January. During this period, temperatures are higher and rainfall more frequent, especially between September and November. However, the low season also offers certain advantages, such as more affordable rates for accommodation and activities, and less crowded tourism. What's more, if you're a scuba-diving enthusiast, be aware that certain marine species, such as the whale shark, are more present during the wet season.

Major cultural events in Belize

Belize is rich in cultural events throughout the year. Here are some of the highlights:

• Belize Carnival Belize Festival: Celebrated in September, this colorful event showcases Belize's traditional music, dance and costumes. Parades and concerts take place throughout the country, notably in Belize City and San Ignacio.
• Garifuna Day On November 19, the Garifunas, an ethnic group of African and Amerindian origin, celebrate their arrival in Belize with dances, drumming demonstrations and traditional meals.
• Lobster Festival : Every June, several towns in Belize, including Placencia and Caye Caulker, hold festivals to celebrate lobster fishing. Visitors can sample lobster dishes and enjoy musical and cultural entertainment.
• Independence Day September 21: Belize celebrates its independence from the UK with parades, concerts, fireworks and sporting events.

In addition to these major events, many other festivals and celebrations take place throughout the year, reflecting the country's cultural diversity.

Holidays in Belize

Belize has several national holidays that can influence your trip. Here are the main ones:

• New Year (January 1)
• National Remembrance Day (March 9)
• Good Friday and Easter Monday (dates vary according to the Christian calendar)
• Labor Day (May 1st)
• Independence Day (September 21)
• Garifuna Day (November 19)
• Christmas (December 25)
• Boxing Day (December 26)

During these holidays, many shops and services may be closed or operate on reduced hours. It is therefore advisable to plan your trip with these dates in mind.

The ideal season to visit Belize

Ultimately, the best time to visit Belize will depend on your personal preferences and interests. To take advantage of good weather and outdoor activities, the dry season between February and May will be the best time. However, if you want to avoid the crowds and benefit from more affordable rates, the low season during the wet season can also be a good option, provided you don't mind the more frequent precipitation and higher temperatures.

Belize, a small Central American country located between Mexico and Guatemala, attracts many visitors and immigrants every year. Its paradisiacal beaches, Mayan archaeological sites and coral reef are among the main attractions that attract tourists and expatriates alike.

Key immigration figures for Belize

In 2020, Belize's population was estimated at around 400,000. According to the International Organization for Migration (IOM), almost 16 % of this population is made up of immigrants, or around 64,000 people. These immigrants are mainly from Central America, notably Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador. Interestingly, the proportion of foreigners among Belize's population has increased significantly in recent years. Between 2000 and 2020, the number of immigrants almost doubled, from 34,000 to 64,000. This increase can be explained in part by the country's economic growth and its openness to foreign investment, which have favored job creation and the arrival of new workers from abroad.

The main nationalities represented

According to Belizean government statistics, the majority of immigrants to Belize come from neighboring Central American countries. At the top of the list are :

1. THE Guatemalanswho account for more than half of all immigrants (53 %)
2. THE Salvadoranswith approximately 16 % of immigrants
3. THE Honduranswho account for nearly 10 % of foreigners

There is also a significant presence of Asian nationals, particularly from Asia. China and of Taiwan. There are fewer European and North American immigrants, although they are increasingly attracted by Belize's lifestyle.

International tourism in Belize: figures and trends

The tourism sector is a major pillar of Belize's economy, contributing 40 % to its gross domestic product (GDP). Year on year, the number of international visitors continues to rise, from 850,000 in 2010 to 1.5 million in 2019. However, 2020 saw a drastic drop due to the Covid-19 pandemic, with only 200,000 tourists recorded.

Geographical distribution of tourists

The main nationalities of tourists visiting Belize are :

• Americans, who account for nearly 70 % of visitors
• Canadians, with around 10 % of tourists
• Europeans, mainly British, German, French, Italian and Spanish

Belize's most popular tourist region is undoubtedly the Caribbean coast, with its dream beaches and paradise islands such as Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker. The Cayo district, in the west of the country, also attracts travellers with its Mayan archaeological sites and natural parks.

Most popular visas in Belize

Belize offers different types of visa for foreigners wishing to visit as tourists, workers or permanent residents. Here are the most commonly requested visas:

Tourist visa

This visa is intended for people wishing to stay in Belize for a maximum of 30 days. It is possible to extend this visa for a further 30 days by applying to the local authorities.

Work visa

Foreign workers wishing to settle in Belize must obtain a work visa, also known as a work permit. This visa is issued for one year and can be renewed. The employment sectors most concerned by this type of visa are agriculture, fishing, construction, tourism and catering.

Permanent resident visa

The permanent resident visa allows foreigners to settle in Belize indefinitely. To be eligible for this visa, you need to have regularly resided in the country for at least one year, and have sufficient financial resources to support yourself.