December is firmly in the dry season with comfortable temperatures and a surge in visitors for the holidays. Prices and occupancy typically rise, particularly in coastal and island areas. Great month for outdoor activities and diving.
Average daily low and high (°C) and monthly rainfall. The badge shows how it feels, allowing for humidity.
Average temperature across Belize in December.
Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker, Hol Chan, Great Blue Hole
December brings cooler nights and a return of steady northeast trades that make boat rides crisp and shorelines comfortable; reef visibility often improves as rains diminish. Holiday bookings pick up toward late December, especially on Ambergris Caye, so arrange lodging early if visiting for Christmas or New Year’s. Expect warm days, breezy evenings, and pack layers for cooler pre-dawn boat departures.
Belize City, Corozal, Orange Walk, coastal villages
December restores dry, bright conditions across the lowlands and Belize City sees a pronounced uptick in visitors for the holidays; daytime warmth pairs with crisp nights when northers pass. River excursions and archaeological tours run smoothly and ferry crossings behave predictably, so it’s one of the easiest times to travel. Reserve accommodation early for holiday weeks and bring a mix of sun gear and a wind layer for early-morning boat departures.
San Ignacio, Xunantunich, Caracol, Mountain Pine Ridge
December returns to comfortably dry days and cool nights in the highlands, which is perfect for exploring cave systems, horseback trips and archaeological sites without the wet-season challenges. Holiday travel picks up so San Ignacio’s accommodation fills quickly around Christmas and New Year’s. Bring a warm layer for early mornings in the higher elevation and expect lively town markets and full-day excursion schedules.
Placencia, Hopkins, Seine Bight, Silk Cayes
December delivers sunny days and cooler nights on the Placencia Peninsula, with holiday bookings climbing after mid-month. The calm seas and clearer water make this one of the best months for diving and snorkeling, but be aware that accommodation sells out quickly around Christmas and New Year’s. Reserve transfers early and bring a light jacket for breezy evenings along the boardwalk.
Punta Gorda, Toledo villages, highland rainforest
December brings crisp mornings and clearer skies across the Maya Mountains and Toledo, with comfortable daytime temperatures that make trekking and cultural visits much easier. Punta Gorda feels revived for tourism after the rains, and the combination of cooler nights and fewer mosquitoes improves camping comfort. Book early for holiday weeks and bring a warm layer for higher-elevation dawn starts.
Belize hosts carnival-style celebrations in September and events continue into the late-year season in some areas.
See how December compares with the rest of the year, then read the full guide.