Costa Rica vs Belize: The Best Country to Visit Is…

The Pacific coast experiences its best weather during the dry season, while the Caribbean coast enjoys its driest months from August to November.

Costa Rica’s varied geography creates multiple micro-climates, from warm coastal regions to cooler highlands like the cloud forests of Monteverde. This diversity allows travelers to experience a range of weather conditions, with generally warm temperatures year-round.

For more info check out our guide to Costa Rican weather.

Coastal areas, such as Belize City and the Cayes, enjoy warm temperatures year-round, averaging around 80°F (27°C).

The best weather is typically during the dry season, perfect for beach activities and exploring the Belize Barrier Reef.

Inland regions, like the Cayo District, can be slightly cooler and more humid.

Keep in mind that Belize is also in the hurricane belt, with the highest risk of storms from June to November.

The country’s commitment to conservation has resulted in the preservation of various habitats, making it a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts.

Costa Rica is home to over 500,000 species, representing nearly 4% of the world’s animal species.

The country’s marine biodiversity is equally impressive, with vibrant coral reefs, sea turtles, dolphins, and whales along both its Pacific and Caribbean coasts.

The Belize Barrier Reef is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a hotspot for marine biodiversity. It features a vast array of fish, coral, and other marine life, making it one of the best diving and snorkeling destinations in the world.

Belize’s rainforests and caves are home to numerous species of reptiles, amphibians, and insects, as well as ancient Mayan ruins.

• Hotels: Costa Rica offers a range of accommodations from luxury resorts to mid-range hotels and budget hostels. Prices are higher compared to other Central American countries, especially in tourist hotspots.
• Transportation: Renting a car is common but can be pricey. Public buses are cheaper but less reliable and less comfortable. Domestic flights are available but can add up quickly.
• Food: Dining out can be expensive, especially in tourist areas. A lot of restaurants cater to tourists. at these places you can expect to pay similar prices as in the United States.
• Activities: Adventure activities like zip-lining, surfing lessons, and guided tours add up. National park entry fees and guided tours also contribute to higher costs. Popular activities, such as visiting hot springs or taking boat tours, are also relatively expensive. However, all beaches need to have free public access by law, so this is a free activity you can always enjoy.

• Hotels: Belize provides a wide range of accommodations from luxury resorts in popular areas like Ambergris Caye and Placencia to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses.
• Transportation: Public transportation, including buses and water taxis, is inexpensive. Renting a golf cart or bicycle in small towns can be cost-effective.
• Food: Dining out in Belize is generally affordable, with local restaurants and street food options offering meals at reasonable prices.
• Activities: Many activities, such as exploring Mayan ruins, visiting national parks, and enjoying water activities like snorkeling and diving, are budget-friendly. Entry fees to parks and historical sites are typically lower than in Costa Rica.

• Hiking and Waterfalls: Hike through the lush trails to the impressive La Fortuna Waterfall, or explore the bright blue waterfall at Rio Celeste in Tenorio Volcano National Park.
• White Water Rafting: The Pacuare river offers thrilling white-water rafting experiences for a variety of skill levels.
• Coffee Tours: Learn about Costa Rica’s coffee production by visiting a coffee farm in the Central Valley Enjoy guided tours that explain the coffee-making process from bean to cup, and taste some of the world’s best coffee.

For more ideas, check out our guide to the best things to do in Costa Rica.

• Mayan Ruins: Explore ancient ruins like Caracol and Xunantunich.
• Barrier Reef Diving: Dive or snorkel in the Belize Barrier Reef, the second-largest reef system in the world.
• Cave Exploration: Discover the Actun Tunichil Muknal cave and its archaeological wonders.
• Jungle Tours: Hike through the lush jungles and rainforests, spotting exotic wildlife.
• Island Hopping: Visit the beautiful islands of Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye for a mix of relaxation and adventure.

• Manuel Antonio Beach: Located within Manuel Antonio National Park, this beach is famous for its white sands, clear waters, and abundant wildlife.
• Tamarindo Beach: Known for its vibrant nightlife and excellent surfing conditions, Tamarindo is a hotspot for tourists looking for both excitement and beach fun.
• Santa Teresa: A hidden gem on the Nicoya Peninsula, Santa Teresa is popular among surfers and those seeking a more relaxed, off-the-beaten-path experience.
• Playa Conchal: Famous for its unique sand made of crushed shells, Playa Conchal offers crystal-clear waters.
• Puerto Viejo: Located on the Caribbean coast, Puerto Viejo is known for its laid-back vibe, black sand beaches, and vibrant local culture.

• Ambergris Caye: The most popular destination in Belize, Ambergris Caye offers beautiful beaches and excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities at the Belize Barrier Reef.
• Caye Caulker: Known for its laid-back vibe and clear waters, Caye Caulker is perfect for snorkeling and relaxing, with a motto of “Go Slow” that perfectly captures its atmosphere.
• Placencia Peninsula: This area offers a mix of lively beaches and quiet spots.
• Hopkins: A cultural hub with beautiful beaches and a gateway to the Belize Barrier Reef.
• Silk Caye: A tiny island in the middle of the Belize Barrier Reef, Silk Caye offers pristine conditions for snorkeling and diving.

• Fiestas de Zapote: Held in late December and early January, this festival in San José features bullfighting, traditional foods, rides, and concerts.
• Juan Santamaría Day: Celebrated on April 11th, this national holiday honors Costa Rican national hero Juan Santamaría with parades, cultural events, and reenactments of historical battles.
• Semana Santa (Holy Week): Leading up to Easter, this religious holiday features processions, reenactments of the Passion of Christ, and various church activities.
• Virgen de los Ángeles Day: Held on August 2nd, this religious holiday involves a pilgrimage to the Basílica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles in Cartago, where thousands of people walk, and many go on their knees, to pay homage to Costa Rica’s patron saint, La Negrita.
• Independence Day: Celebrated on September 15th, it marks Costa Rica’s independence from Spain with parades, traditional music, and dancing.

• Belize Carnival: Held in September, this lively event features colorful parades, elaborate costumes, and energetic dancing, celebrating Belize’s diverse culture.
• Garifuna Settlement Day: Celebrated on November 19th, this holiday honors the arrival of the Garifuna people in Belize with drumming, dancing, and reenactments of their journey.
• Lobster Festivals: Held in June and July in various coastal towns like San Pedro, Placencia, and Caye Caulker, these festivals celebrate the lobster season with delicious seafood dishes, music, and beach parties.
• Belize International Film Festival: An annual event that showcases films from Belize and around the world, promoting cultural exchange and creativity.
• Costa Maya Festival: Held in August in San Pedro, this festival includes cultural performances, beauty pageants, and music, celebrating the heritage of the Maya people.

• Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels (Basílica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles): Situated in Cartago, this basilica is one of Costa Rica’s most important religious sites and a major pilgrimage destination.
• Santa Rosa National Park: This park is not only a natural reserve but also a historic site commemorating the Battle of Santa Rosa, a significant event in Costa Rican history.
• Orosi Church and Colonial Museum: Located in the Orosi Valley, this is one of the oldest churches in Costa Rica, dating back to 1743.
• Stone Spheres of the Diquís: Found in the Diquís Delta and on Isla del Caño, these mysterious stone spheres are a testament to the region’s pre-Columbian culture and are designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Altun Ha: One of the most famous Mayan ruins in Belize, located north of Belize City. It features impressive temples and plazas.
• Xunantunich: Near the Guatemalan border, this ancient Mayan city is known for its stunning El Castillo pyramid.
• Lamanai: This archaeological site is one of Belize’s largest and longest-occupied Mayan cities.
• Cahal Pech: Situated near San Ignacio, this ancient Mayan site features a palace complex with impressive courtyards and structures.
• Belize Barrier Reef: While not a man-made landmark, this UNESCO World Heritage site is an integral part of Belize’s natural and cultural heritage.
• St. John’s Cathedral: Located in Belize City, it is the oldest Anglican cathedral in Central America, built from bricks brought as ballast from Europe.