Belmopan - Things to Do in Belmopan in March

Belmopan in March

March weather, activities, events & insider tips

March Weather in Belmopan

31°C (88°F) High Temp
19°C (67°F) Low Temp
0.0 mm (0.0 inches) Rainfall
70% Humidity

Is March Right for You?

Advantages

  • Peak dry season - March has the least rainfall of any month with only 0.0mm (0.0 inches) total, making outdoor activities reliable
  • Comfortable evening temperatures around 19°C (67°F) perfect for exploring the city center and government district on foot
  • Mahogany trees throughout the city are in full bloom, creating natural shade corridors along Constitution Drive and Forest Drive
  • Best wildlife viewing at nearby Blue Hole National Park - animals gather at water sources during dry conditions

Considerations

  • Intense midday heat reaching 31°C (88°F) with 70% humidity makes outdoor activities uncomfortable between 11am-3pm
  • Unpredictable brief downpours despite low total rainfall - those 10 rainy days can disrupt plans without warning
  • Limited air conditioning in this destination and some local establishments during peak afternoon hours

Best Activities in March

Belize Zoo Wildlife Tours

March's dry conditions make this the optimal time to see native animals like jaguars, pumas, and over 150 bird species. Animals are most active during cooler morning hours (7-9am) and late afternoon (4-6pm). The 1.6 km (1 mile) walking trail through natural habitat is comfortable in March's lower humidity compared to rainy season.

Booking Tip: Book 7-10 days ahead for morning slots. Tours typically cost BZ$30-50 (US$15-25) per person. Look for guides certified by Belize Audubon Society. Best times are 8am or 4pm starts to avoid midday heat.

Guanacaste National Park Hiking

The dry March conditions make the 3.2 km (2 mile) Belize River trail accessible without muddy sections that plague other months. Morning temperatures of 24°C (75°F) are perfect for spotting over 120 bird species. The mahogany and cohune palm forests provide natural cooling even during peak sun hours.

Booking Tip: Self-guided entry BZ$10 (US$5), guided tours BZ$40-60 (US$20-30). Park opens 8am - arrive early for wildlife viewing. Bring 2 liters (68 oz) of water per person. No advance booking needed but register at entrance.

Caves Branch River Tubing

March's consistent water levels from recent December-February rains make cave tubing ideal without the high water risks of peak rainy season. Water temperature stays cool at 22°C (72°F), providing relief from March heat. The 45-minute underground float through limestone caves is comfortable in March's stable weather.

Booking Tip: Book 5-7 days ahead. Full-day tours including transport from Belmopan cost BZ$180-220 (US$90-110). Look for operators with certified cave guides and proper safety equipment. Tours run 9am-3pm daily.

Caracol Maya Site Expeditions

March's dry roads make the 2-hour drive from Belmopan to Caracol much more manageable than rainy season attempts. The 43m (141 ft) tall Caana pyramid offers spectacular views in March's clear air. Early morning departure at 6am beats the heat and provides best wildlife spotting en route through Chiquibul Forest.

Booking Tip: Full-day tours cost BZ$200-280 (US$100-140) including 4WD transport and guide. Book 2 weeks ahead - limited operators handle this remote site. Tours run Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday only. Bring sun protection and 3 liters (101 oz) water.

Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve

March conditions are perfect for exploring the waterfalls and granite formations. Big Rock Falls has optimal water flow from recent months while Rio On pools maintain safe swimming levels. The elevated terrain stays 3-5°C (5-9°F) cooler than Belmopan, making afternoon visits comfortable.

Booking Tip: Day tours from Belmopan cost BZ$160-200 (US$80-100). Self-drive possible with 4WD. Multiple waterfalls accessible in single day during March. Book accommodations at lodges 2-3 weeks ahead if staying overnight.

March Events & Festivals

March 9th

Baron Bliss Day

National holiday on March 9th honoring Belize's greatest benefactor. Government offices close but provides opportunity to see Belizeans celebrating with boat races in Belize City and cultural events throughout the country. Local food vendors set up around Belmopan's central area.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight long-sleeved shirts in light colors - protect from UV index 8 while staying cool in 31°C (88°F) heat
Quick-dry pants for cave tubing and forest hikes - March's variable conditions mean wet-dry cycles
Packable rain jacket - those 10 rainy days bring sudden 20-30 minute downpours despite low total rainfall
SPF 50+ sunscreen and lip balm - intense tropical sun at 17°N latitude with minimal cloud cover in dry season
Insect repellent with 30% DEET - March's dry conditions concentrate mosquitoes around remaining water sources
Comfortable walking shoes with good grip - Government district sidewalks can be slippery after brief showers
Wide-brimmed hat - Essential for midday temperatures and limited shade in Belmopan's planned city layout
Electrolyte supplements - 70% humidity and 31°C (88°F) days require extra hydration support
Lightweight daypack - For carrying water during 3-4 km (2-2.5 mile) walks to main attractions from city center
Portable phone charger - Many outdoor activities last 6-8 hours with limited charging opportunities

Insider Knowledge

Government offices and banks close early on Fridays in March - complete any official business by 2pm to avoid Monday crowds
Local buses to Belize City run most frequently 6-9am and 3-6pm - plan around government worker schedules for better connections
Ring Road construction continues through 2025 - add 15-20 minutes to any driving times and use Constitution Drive as main alternative
March is mango season - roadside vendors near the market sell the sweetest varieties for BZ$1-2, much better than imported hotel fruit

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling outdoor activities between 11am-3pm when temperatures hit 31°C (88°F) with 70% humidity - locals take shelter during these hours
Not carrying rain gear despite March being 'dry season' - those 10 rainy days can bring sudden intense 20-30 minute storms
Underestimating walking distances in Belmopan - the planned city layout means 1.5-2 km (1-1.2 miles) between major attractions with limited shade

Activities in Belmopan