Here’s your one-week Belize Itinerary—filled with sightseeing, food tasting, and a few helpful tips.
Belize is filled with tons to do, taste, and see. In fact, there’s so much to see here that you might just find yourself wondering whether you have time to witness it all. Luckily, we’ve got the perfect travel plan to help you make the most out of your trip. From historical sites to tasty food, experience the best of Belize with little stress and lots of enjoyment using this helpful 7-day itinerary.
Part 1 – Before You Go
First, here are a few tips and things to know about traveling to Belize.
What Should You Bring?
Chances are, you don’t need a visa to visit Belize. Most visitors don’t, and instead only need a passport that’s valid for at least six months.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, Belize has updated its entry requirements to ensure the safety of both its visitors and its citizens. You can read more about those requirements on the Belize Tourism Board’s website here: https://www.travelbelize.org/health-safety/.
Already vaccinated? Then you’re in luck. Persons who have been immunized no longer need to show a negative COVID-19 test upon entry. Just don’t forget your official vaccine card at home, otherwise, you’ll be required to take a test on arrival.
When’s the Best Time to Visit Belize?
There’s no wrong time to visit Belize. Regardless of what time of year it is, there are always great experiences to be had.
Peak tourist season, though, is from November to April, which is the also country’s dry season. This is the busiest time of the year but the period when you’ll be able to experience the best weather.
(Tip: I’d recommend visiting towards the end of high season, early in the year: airfare will be cheaper, most businesses will still be open, and the weather will still be bright and sunny.)
Part 2 – Your 7-Day Belize Itinerary
Day 1 – Sightseeing in the Belize District
Belize District is the most practical place to start (or end) your trip. It’s well connected to other locations by land, sea, and air. It’s also where your flight will be landing.
After arriving at the Phillip Goldson International Airport, spend some time touring the city. You’ll find plenty of historical sites downtown, including Saint John’s Cathedral and The Museum of Belize.
Outside the city, a trip to Altun Ha grants you a glimpse into Belize’s Mayan past. But if you’re more animal lover than history buff, then you should definitely check out The Belize Zoo. There, you’ll be able to learn about the country’s national animals, meet and feed a jaguar, stroll down nature trails, and lots more.
At the end of the day, catch a boat or a flight from Belize City to Caye Caulker.
Days 2 and 3 – Caye Caulker
La Isla Cariñosa—more commonly known as Caye Caulker—is only 4 miles long, but it boasts plenty of fun activities and Belizean delicacies.
Spend a day relaxing on the beach: go for a swim, and then make your way over to one of the many restaurants near The Split, where you can enjoy some lobster ceviche (if it’s in season) along with an ice-cold Belikin Beer.
The next day, start your morning off the right way—with some soft and fluffy stuffed fry jacks. Make sure you get your fill. You’ll be in for an active second day!
Caye Caulker isn’t just great for relaxation. The island also offers many aquatic activities like snorkeling, sailing, fishing, and—wait for it—swimming with sharks. Book a trip to Shark Ray Alley through one of Caye Caulker’s many tour operators for an opportunity to swim with stingrays and nurse sharks. Most trips usually last about 2 hours and include a few other scenic stops along the way.
At the end of the day, head back to Belize City and then make your way up to the Cayo District for some inland adventure.
(Tip: In Cayo, I’d recommend staying in San Ignacio Town. It’s the perfect hub for whatever tours you’d like to take in the district and is an entire experience in itself. Plus, it’s also pretty budget-friendly.)
Days 4 and 5 – Cayo
Your list of possibilities when it comes to Cayo can feel almost endless. And rightfully so, as it’s Belize’s largest district. Whether you’re looking forward to caves and rivers or bubble tea and peaceful dinner, there’s something for everyone in this beloved district.
Spend the morning exploring Xunantunich, where you’ll get to ride across the Mopan River in a hand-cranked ferry and climb one of Belize’s tallest structures. Then, enjoy a classic Belizean Lunch at Benny’s Kitchen—a great family-style restaurant offering dishes like Rice & Beans, Chimole, and Pibil.
Cahal Pech, located right in the heart of San Ignacio, is another site that you can add to the itinerary.
Finish the day off by taking a stroll downtown. Burns Avenue is a great place to start. Grab some bubble tea, or pick up some souvenirs at Back to My Roots. And if you’re feeling hungry by nightfall, a tranquil dinner at Guava Limb Café will certainly hit the spot.
Looking for adventure? There are plenty of options available for day two in Cayo. One thing thrill-seekers often look forward to is the many cave systems found in Belize—most of which are right in Cayo.
Actun Tunichil Muknal, Barton Creek Cave, and Rio Frio Cave are just a few of the caves that you can explore. Plenty of local tour companies offer cave tubing packages, and they usually include zip lining and rappelling as well. Regardless of which you choose, expect to spend at least 4 hours on your tour.
Day 6 – The Hummingbird Highway & Billy Barquedier Waterfall
Personally, I believe a trip to Belize isn’t complete without having witnessed the beauty of the Hummingbird Highway. Thanks to towering Maya Mountains, sprawling landscapes, and plenty of twists and turns, it’s often revered as one of Central America’s most scenic highways. Admire the incredible views as you make your way down to your next stop: Billy Barquedier Park.
At this 1600 acre park in the Stann Creek District, you can hike through lush tropical forests. Look for Billy Barquedier Waterfall, and then take a swim in the park’s cool waters.
End your journey with some delicious tamales from Miss Bertha’s Tamales shop. Located in St. Margaret’s Village (at around Mile 27), the small red and white shop is famous for serving some of the best chicken tamales in the country. What’s a better way to end your trip than with a happy stomach and a smile on your face?
Day 7 – Journey Back to Belize District
Your last day can be reserved for enjoying some R&R. Spend some more time leisurely exploring the twin towns of Cayo. When you’re done, make your way back to Belize City and buy yourself some souvenirs. Take some pictures in front of the Baron Bliss Lighthouse and enjoy the view of Belize’s coast one last time before concluding your successful 7-day trip.
