Belmopan in February

February weather, activities, events & insider tips

February Weather in Belmopan

29°C (85°F) High Temp

19°C (66°F) Low Temp

0.0 mm (0.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is February Right for You?

Advantages

Peak dry season - February is the driest month with minimal rainfall, making it ideal for exploring Belize's extensive cave systems and jungle trails without muddy conditions
Perfect wildlife viewing conditions - dry weather concentrates animals around water sources, making February optimal for spotting jaguars, tapirs, and over 570 bird species in nearby reserves
Ideal temperature balance - daily highs of 29°C (85°F) are comfortable for outdoor activities, while cool evenings at 19°C (66°F) provide relief without needing heavy clothing
Lower tourist volumes than coastal Belize - while San Pedro and Caye Caulker see peak crowds, Belmopan remains relatively quiet, offering authentic local experiences and better accommodation rates

Considerations

Harmattan winds from the north can create dusty conditions and reduce visibility for photography, particularly affecting the scenic Mountain Pine Ridge area
Water levels in rivers and cenotes are at their lowest, limiting some swimming opportunities and making certain cave tubing routes less dramatic
Higher UV exposure due to clear skies and 70% humidity can cause rapid sunburn - locals avoid midday outdoor activities from 11am-3pm

Best Activities in February

Blue Hole and Caracol Maya Site Day Trips

February's dry conditions make the 2-hour drive to Caracol manageable on unpaved roads, while clear skies provide perfect visibility for the 43m (141ft) deep Blue Hole. Wildlife sightings peak as animals gather at water sources. Morning temperatures of 22°C (72°F) make early starts comfortable.

Booking Tip: Book 7-10 days ahead through certified guides (typically BZ$180-250 per person for Caracol, BZ$300-400 for Blue Hole trips). Choose operators with 4WD vehicles and archaeological permits. See current tour options in the booking section below.

Cave Tubing and Cave Exploration

Dry February conditions mean stable water levels and clear cave visibility. The Caves Branch River system offers perfect tubing temperatures, while dry caves like Actun Tunichil Muknal are accessible without flood risks. Underground temperatures stay constant at 24°C (75°F).

Booking Tip: Reserve 5-7 days ahead (typically BZ$120-180 per person for basic tubing, BZ$200-300 for ATM Cave). Choose operators with proper helmets and headlamps. Book through licensed operators (see current options in booking section below).

Belize Zoo and Wildlife Sanctuary Tours

February's comfortable temperatures and dry trails make wildlife viewing optimal. Animals are most active during cooler morning hours before 10am. The 12-hectare (29-acre) Belize Zoo showcases native species in natural habitats, while nearby Community Baboon Sanctuary offers howler monkey encounters.

Booking Tip: Best visited early morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat. Entry typically BZ$30-40 for zoo, BZ$15-25 for sanctuary tours. Transportation from Belmopan costs BZ$60-100 roundtrip. Check current tour packages in booking section below.

Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve Hiking

February's dry season provides excellent trail conditions for exploring waterfalls like Rio On Pools and Big Rock Falls. Cool morning temperatures at elevation (up to 1000m/3,280ft) make strenuous hikes comfortable. Clear weather offers unobstructed views of the Maya Mountains.

Booking Tip: Full-day trips typically cost BZ$200-300 per person including transportation and guide. Book with operators who provide 4WD vehicles essential for forest roads. Pack extra water - dry season hiking requires 3-4 liters per person. See current guided options in booking section below.

Local Market and Food Tours

February brings peak season for local citrus fruits and fresh produce. Weekly Saturday market in Belmopan showcases seasonal specialties like cashew fruit and dragon fruit. Cool evening temperatures make food walks comfortable after 5pm when vendors set up street stalls.

Booking Tip: Saturday morning market tours typically BZ$40-80 per person. Evening food walks cost BZ$60-120 including tastings. Book with local guides who speak Spanish and English. Best experienced between 6am-10am or 5pm-8pm to avoid midday heat.

Rio Frio Cave and Pine Ridge Waterfall Circuits

Dry February conditions make the 65km (40-mile) circuit to Rio Frio Cave safe and accessible. The massive cave entrance (15m/49ft high) provides cool relief, while multiple waterfalls maintain good flow despite dry season. Perfect for combining cave exploration with swimming.

Booking Tip: Full circuit tours typically BZ$180-280 per person. Book with operators providing sturdy footwear and multiple stops. Best done as early morning trips starting 7am to complete circuit before afternoon heat. Current tour options available in booking section below.

February Events & Festivals

Mid February

Belize National Agriculture and Trade Show

Annual showcase of Belizean agriculture, crafts, and culture held at the National Agriculture Showgrounds in Belmopan. Features local food vendors, livestock competitions, and cultural performances. Excellent opportunity to experience authentic Belizean culture away from tourist areas.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Wide-brimmed hat and UV-protective sunglasses - UV index reaches 8 and clear February skies offer minimal natural shade

Lightweight, long-sleeve cotton shirts in light colors - protect against sun while staying cool in 70% humidity conditions

Quick-dry hiking pants - essential for cave exploration and jungle trails that may have residual moisture

Waterproof day pack - protects electronics during cave tours and unexpected brief showers (10 rainy days average)

High-SPF reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 50+) - reapply every 2 hours in intense tropical sun, eco-friendly formulas protect local waterways

Sturdy water shoes with good grip - essential for cave tubing and waterfall visits where surfaces can be slippery

Insect repellent with 20-30% DEET - while dry season reduces mosquitos, sand flies are active near water sources

Lightweight rain jacket or poncho - brief afternoon showers can occur, and caves maintain high humidity

Headlamp or waterproof flashlight - essential for cave exploration, backup lighting for power outages

Reusable water bottle (3-4 liter capacity) - staying hydrated is crucial in dry season heat, many tour operators don't provide adequate water

Insider Knowledge

Local buses (chicken buses) run hourly between Belmopan and major sites like Belize Zoo for BZ$3-5, compared to BZ$60-100 for tourist shuttles - buy tickets directly from driver

February is cashew season - try fresh cashew fruit juice at roadside stands for BZ$2-3, a local delicacy tourists rarely discover

Visit government buildings and embassies on weekday mornings when they're open for tours - Belmopan's role as capital offers unique political insights not available elsewhere in Belize

Many cave systems require advance permits through Institute of Archaeology - independent travelers can save 40-60% by arranging permits directly rather than through tour operators

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating water needs in dry season - many tourists become dehydrated on cave and hiking tours, bring minimum 3 liters per person for full-day activities

Assuming all tours include entrance fees - many operators quote base prices excluding park fees (BZ$15-40 per site), ask for total pricing upfront

Planning only day trips from Belize City or San Ignacio - staying in Belmopan puts you 30-45 minutes closer to major attractions and costs 30% less than tourist towns