Belmopan - Things to Do in Belmopan in November

Belmopan in November

November weather, activities, events & insider tips

November Weather in Belmopan

29°C (84°F) High Temp
21°C (69°F) Low Temp
0.0 mm (0.0 inches) Rainfall
70% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

  • Dry season transition - significantly less rainfall than October (0.0mm vs 300mm+), making outdoor activities more reliable
  • Perfect temperatures for exploring - comfortable 21-29°C (69-84°F) range ideal for walking tours and outdoor markets without extreme heat
  • Crystal clear cave visibility - reduced rainfall means underground rivers in Actun Tunichil Muknal and Blue Hole National Park are at their clearest
  • Peak bird migration season - over 70 species pass through Belize in November, making it exceptional for birding at Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary

Considerations

  • Transition weather unpredictability - 10 rainy days spread throughout month can disrupt day trips with sudden afternoon downpours lasting 45-90 minutes
  • Higher accommodation rates - November marks start of high season with prices increasing 25-40% compared to October shoulder season
  • Crowded weekends - influx of regional tourists from Guatemala and Mexico creates weekend bottlenecks at popular attractions like Caracol

Best Activities in November

Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave Archaeological Tours

November's reduced rainfall creates optimal conditions for this sacred Maya cave. Water levels drop to waist-deep (vs chest-deep in rainy season), making the 45-minute underground hike more manageable. Crystal formations are clearly visible, and the famous Crystal Maiden skeleton is perfectly illuminated. The 8km (5-mile) jungle trek to entrance is muddy but not flooded.

Booking Tip: Book 2-3 weeks ahead through licensed operators only - permits limited to 100 visitors daily. Tours typically cost BZ$180-220 (US$90-110) including transport from San Ignacio. Must be comfortable swimming and hiking. Reference booking widget for current availability.

Blue Hole National Park Cenote Swimming

November's dry conditions make the 1.6km (1-mile) trail to the Blue Hole cenote easily accessible. Water temperature stays comfortable at 24°C (75°F) year-round, and reduced rainfall means crystal-clear visibility for swimming in this 25m (82ft) deep limestone sinkhole. Perfect for afternoon visits when temperatures peak.

Booking Tip: Day trips from Belize City typically cost BZ$160-200 (US$80-100) including park fees and lunch. Book through operators offering small groups (8-12 people) for better experience. Check current tour options in booking section below.

Caracol Archaeological Reserve Day Expeditions

November's drier roads make the 2.5-hour journey to Belize's largest Maya site more comfortable. Canaa pyramid (43m/141ft tall) offers spectacular views above the jungle canopy. Cooler morning temperatures (21°C/69°F) are perfect for climbing structures before afternoon heat builds. Wildlife spotting peaks as animals seek water sources.

Booking Tip: Full-day tours typically cost BZ$200-280 (US$100-140) from San Ignacio. Military escort required - tours depart 8am sharp. Book minimum 1 week ahead as group size determines escort availability. Bring plenty of water for the 6-hour expedition.

Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary Birding Tours

November is peak migration season with over 300 bird species including jabiru storks, roseate spoonbills, and tiger herons. Receding water levels concentrate birds around remaining lagoons, making spotting easier. Early morning tours (6am start) offer best viewing before 28°C (82°F) midday temperatures.

Booking Tip: Half-day birding tours cost BZ$120-160 (US$60-80) including boat transport and guide. Book with certified birding guides who know current bird locations. Tours run 6am-10am or 3pm-6pm to avoid heat. See current options in booking widget.

Belize River Canoe Archaeological Tours

November's stable water levels make multi-day canoe expeditions ideal for exploring remote Maya sites like El Pilar and Cahal Pech. River flows are predictable without flood risks, and camping conditions are comfortable with lower humidity (70% vs 85% in rainy season). Wildlife activity peaks along riverbanks.

Booking Tip: 2-3 day river expeditions cost BZ$300-450 (US$150-225) per person including camping gear and meals. Book through operators specializing in archaeological tours. Physical fitness required for 4-6 hours daily paddling. Reserve 2+ weeks ahead for equipment availability.

Garifuna Cultural Village Experiences

November celebrates Garifuna Settlement Day (Nov 19th) with authentic cultural demonstrations, traditional drumming, and cassava bread making. Village visits in Hopkins and Dangriga offer hands-on experiences with traditional fishing, weaving, and cooking techniques. Comfortable temperatures make outdoor cultural activities enjoyable.

Booking Tip: Cultural village tours cost BZ$80-120 (US$40-60) for half-day experiences. Book around Settlement Day for festival activities but expect higher prices. real feels available year-round through community-based tourism operators. Check booking section for current cultural tour options.

November Events & Festivals

November 19th

Garifuna Settlement Day

National holiday celebrating Garifuna culture with traditional drumming, punta dancing, and authentic cuisine. Hopkins and Dangriga host the largest celebrations with street parades, cultural demonstrations, and traditional boat ceremonies reenacting the 1832 arrival from Honduras.

Mid November

Belikin Beer Fest

Annual music festival in Belize City featuring local bands, international Caribbean artists, and traditional Maya cultural performances. Local food vendors serve traditional dishes alongside Belikin beer tastings. Family-friendly event with children's cultural activities.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket or poncho - afternoon thunderstorms happen 33% of November days and last 45-90 minutes
Quick-dry hiking pants - essential for cave tours and jungle treks that involve water crossings up to waist-deep
Reef-safe sunscreen SPF 50+ - UV index reaches 8 even on cloudy days, and regular sunscreen damages coral reefs
Waterproof phone case - mandatory for cave tours and water activities, protects against humidity and sudden downpours
Insect repellent with 30% DEET - mosquito activity increases after afternoon rains, especially near water sources
Comfortable water shoes - rocky cave floors and cenote entries require protection, flip-flops insufficient for most activities
Cotton or linen shirts - avoid synthetic fabrics in 70% humidity, natural fibers dry faster and prevent overheating
Wide-brimmed hat - essential for archaeological site visits with minimal shade, protects neck from intense UV
Small daypack with waterproof liner - protects electronics and snacks during sudden weather changes on day tours
Cash in small bills - many attractions and local guides prefer cash, ATMs scarce outside Belize City

Insider Knowledge

Book accommodations by early October - November begins high season and rates jump 25-40%, especially around Garifuna Settlement Day weekend
Afternoon thunderstorms typically hit between 2-4pm - schedule indoor activities like museums or shopping during these hours
Local buses to archaeological sites run on 'Belize time' - expect 30-60 minute delays, private tours more reliable for tight schedules
November is lobster season opening - coastal restaurants serve fresh lobster at lowest prices before Christmas demand increases rates

Avoid These Mistakes

Packing only for dry weather - November has 10 rainy days with sudden downpours that catch tourists unprepared
Booking weekend archaeological tours - regional tourists create crowds at Caracol and ATM Cave, weekdays offer better experiences
Underestimating travel times - rainy season damage to roads means longer journeys, allow extra time for remote destinations

Activities in Belmopan