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Natural Belize: Belize’s North
Northern Belize is best described as “Natural Belize.” Unknown to most visitors, this region is brimming with wildlife and overflowing with adventure.
In the west, thick jungles conceal jaguars and mask the tree-covered ruins of ancient Maya cities such as Lamanai and La Milpa. In the east, mangrove habitats and crystal lagoons support West Indian manatees and some of the Caribbean’s best sport fisheries.
In the heart of this region, the idyllic New River meanders from the Cayo District to Chetumal Bay, linking bird-filled wetlands, ancient sites, and quiet towns. Orange Walk, once a vital Maya trade port known as Holpatin, is an ideal base for exploring the New River Lagoon. Farther north, Corozal rests at the mouths of the New River and Rio Hondo, overlooking the turquoise waters of Chetumal Bay.
This is a region of timeless rhythms and rich biodiversity, best explored by road, river, and boat.
What to do in Northern Belize
Northern Belize offers a wide range of nature-based and cultural experiences, including several Maya Sites:
- Visit Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary, a 16,400-acre wetland and forest habitat home to Jabiru Storks, Black Howler Monkeys, and Morelet’s Crocodiles. Tours can be arranged by boat or on foot
- Explore the riverside Maya ruins of Lamanai, home of over 700 identified structures, including the tallest known Pre-Classic Mayan Temple (N10-43), as well as ball courts and stelae
- Travel by boat along the New River, with views of jungle wildlife and remote Maya sites such as Cuello and Noh Mul
- Hike through the Rio Bravo Conservation Area and visit La Milpa, Belize’s third-largest Maya city. Over 400 bird species have been spotted in this reserve, along with populations of jaguar, jaguarundi, ocelot, and puma
- Go birdwatching and wildlife spotting in Shipstern Nature Reserve, known for its butterflies and forest habitats
- Take a short boat ride across the turquoise waters of the Bay of Chetumal to the Maya site of Cerros
- Fishing in Corozal Bay, famous for it’s tarpon, barracuda, permit, and jack fisheries
What is the Weather Like?
The best time to visit Northern Belize is from December to May. Rainy season extends from June to November, with hurricane potential from July to mid-November. Temperatures remain fairly consistent year-round, with highs in the mid-80s and lows in the 70s. These averages are changing, please check weather forecasts using your preferred weather app prior to departure.
Getting There
Orange Walk is an easy 55-mile drive north of Belize City on the New Northern Highway. Corozal is only 30 miles farther north. Several daily flights link Corozal to Ambergris Caye in just 25 minutes.
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 Northern Belize.
How to combine Northern Belize
Have some extra time? Here are some options for you to combine with.
