Weather
Belize sees more rain in September than in August (about nine inches), and it's also hurricane season. Despite this, it's still mostly sunny throughout the month. This unique space of time is what locals refer to as Belize's "little dry" season. Temperatures are a bit cooler due to the increased rain, topping out at around 84°F (28°C) on the coast with inland temps reaching about 88°F (31°C). There are reliable offshore winds, but they don't do much to cool down the water, which heats up to around 86°F (30°C).
Crowds & Costs
September is still classified as the low season, so expect budget prices when compared to the dry season months. This goes for both hotels and tours, which don't need to be booked so far in advance. Do be aware, however, that many charter boats are out of the water for yearly maintenance so it may be harder to find a catamaran running to the outer atolls.
Other than that, you'll get to enjoy most of Belize's famous activities, like snorkeling and wildlife excursions, without the big crowds. Plus Belize's biggest holiday, Independence Day, falls in late September, which is a good excuse to party with the locals.
Where to Go
To experience both the natural and man-made highlights of Belize's mainland, head into the Maya Forest north of Belize City. Here there are nature reserves as well as the Belize Zoo, which is the best place to see the most diverse array of animals like monkeys, white-tailed deer, and coatis. Other highlights include five different wildcat species including jaguars and ocelots.
Not far from the zoo is Altun Ha, one of the most impressive ancient archeological sites in Belize. The Maya ruins here cover three square miles, within which are various pyramids, temples, and two large plazas. On the other end of the country is Lubaantun, which is the largest Maya site in southern Belize. It's notable for the fact that construction of the buildings here was done without mortar, meaning each stone was cut to fit perfectly with the others.
Of course, you need to head out on the water for excursions around the Belize Barrier Reef. There are various marine reserves you can visit, each offering great diving, snorkeling, and kayaking. Stay at the tiny island of Tobacco Caye and spot dolphins and colorful reef fish around the South Water Caye Marine Reserve. Or simply laze in a hammock on the beach and watch the sunset.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
What to Do
Beyond the Belize Zoo, you can view wildlife, like howler monkeys and macaws, on a boat tour down the nearby Moho River. Also close by is the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary, whose lagoons are a haven for waterbirds like storks and herons.
As mentioned, the marine reserves are great places to view exotic marine life like nurse sharks, dolphins, and sea turtles. Besides South Water Caye, another good place to enjoy these specimens is Glover's Reef Marine Reserve, which is 90 sq. miles of marine reserve home to clear waters and 700 patch reefs that are great dive sites. On a related note, this is one of the last best months to come and see hawksbill and green sea turtles.
September is also great to take a tour to view sea manatees. They can be found at various atolls around the reef; however, the best place to see them is near Placencia, a coastal peninsula in southern Belize. You can't swim with manatees, but there are boat tours that will take you right to them.
Events in September
St. George's Caye Day. This is considered Belize's National Day, as it commemorates a key military victory against Spanish invaders in 1798. There are various festivities throughout the country as well as fireworks and cultural presentations.
Independence Day (Sep 21). Locals prepare the entire month for raucous celebrations commemorating Belize's independence from England in 1981. Events are held throughout the country and include parades, carnivals, concerts, fireworks, and more.
Traveling to Belize in September? Check out these great itineraries
Islands of Belize - 7 days. This week-long adventure begins with a mini wildlife safari at the Belize Zoo, where you can see jaguars, monkeys, coatis, and more. Then it's off to the reef and the South Water Caye Marine Reserve, where you'll stay on Tobacco Caye and spend the remainder of the trip kayaking and snorkeling around the lagoons and mangrove channels.
Discover Belize - 10 Days. This comprehensive 10-day itinerary covers the highlights of Belize. First, you'll travel to the Maya Mountains, where you'll visit indigenous villages and spot exotic wildlife on a riverboat tour. After touring the ancient ruins at Lubaantun, you'll head to the Glover's Reef Marine Reserve to explore the crystalline Caribbean waters with the help of the local Garifuna people.
More Helpful Information
Belize in August
Belize in October
Best Time of Year to Visit Belize
More Tours & Itineraries