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Belize City: Belize’s Caribbean Coast
Belize City is located at the mouth of the Belize River, on the Caribbean Coast. This area was settled by the Maya centuries before the arrival of European pirates and loggers in the mid-1600s. Belize City served as the capital of British Honduras from 1892 until 1970, when administrative control was moved inland to Belmopan in an effort to avoid hurricanes.
Although Belize City is the nation’s largest metropolis, it has fewer than 100,000 residents and feels a bit like an overgrown town. Few structures are higher than two stories, many of the homes and shops are painted in bright pastels, and the city’s most famous bridge is still operated by hand-crank.
Most visitors pass through Belize City quickly, their sights set on the nearby islands, beaches, and mountains.
What to do in Belize City
If you have time in Belize City, highlights include St. John’s Cathedral, the colorful Swing Bridge, and the Belize Zoo. Day trips can be arranged to Altun Ha—an impressive Maya Classic Period city located 30 miles northwest. The zoo, located 30 miles west, is home to tapirs, jaguars, toucans, and other native species in a forested setting.
What is the Weather Like?
Belize City is warm and humid year-round, with daytime highs typically in the mid-80s°F and lows in the mid-70s°F. Rainfall is most frequent from June to November, with the heaviest showers in September and October. The drier season runs from February through May.
These averages are changing, please check extended weather forecasts using your favorite weather app prior to departure.
Getting There
Belize City is served by Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport (BZE), located in Ladyville—about eight miles northwest of the city center. Regional flights connect Belize City with Ambergris Caye (15 minutes), Placencia (40 minutes), and Tikal in Guatemala.
Most international flights arrive via Houston (2.5 hours), Miami (2 hours), Dallas (3 hours), or San Salvador (1 hour).
Start your journey today
LANDED delivers the finest in custom, private travel to Central America, South America, and Antarctica. These regions are our passion; we know them first-hand and by heart. Speak with one of our travel designers and let us create a tailored itinerary for you in Belize City.
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