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Northern Lowlands
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The Northern Lowlands of Belize encompass the Corozal and Orange Walk Districts, presenting a landscape vastly different from the mountainous south. This region is a flat to gently undulating plain, characterized by numerous rivers, lagoons, and wetlands, including major water bodies like the New River and Laguna de On. The geology is dominated by a limestone shelf, resulting in fertile but often poorly drained soils that are well-suited for growing sugar cane, the region's primary agricultural crop. This area was a heartland of the ancient Maya civilization, and it is rich with archaeological sites such as Lamanai and Cerros, many of which were strategically located along the waterways. The lowlands' mosaic of forests, wetlands, and agricultural fields supports a diverse array of wildlife, particularly wading birds and crocodiles.
- Location: Belize
- Top sights: Little Belize · Progreso, Belize
- Nearby: Biscayne (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 23 | 25 | 26 | 28 | 29 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 26 | 24 | 23 |
| Rain mm | 83 | 46 | 38 | 35 | 121 | 222 | 137 | 174 | 190 | 230 | 146 | 103 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The Northern Lowlands of Belize are easily reached via the Northern Highway from Belize City or the Mexican border. The main roads are mostly paved and generally quite navigable for all vehicles.
Best season
The dry season from February to May is the preferred time to travel, as the landscape is easily accessible. The rainy season often brings high humidity and can cause localized flooding issues.
Terrain & paths
The terrain is extremely flat and expansive, heavily dominated by agricultural land, sugarcane fields, and some wetlands. Walking or driving through this lowland region is typically very easy.
What to bring
Light, breathable clothing, a sun hat, and plenty of sun protection are essential on the open plains. Insect repellent is highly advisable, especially when exploring near the wetland areas.
Parking
Parking is rarely an issue in this predominantly rural region. There is ample space at local farms, villages, or along side roads to park vehicles safely and typically without any parking fees.
Safety
Be highly cautious on the highways regarding large agricultural machinery and sugarcane industry trucks. Stay hydrated, as the midday sun can be exceptionally intense over the vast, unshaded fields.
Time needed
A traversal or tour of the region can be structured as a half-day trip. Those specifically interested in agrotourism should definitely plan a full day for corresponding farm visits and tours.
Geography
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Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Northern Lowlands (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What are the Northern Lowlands?
A vast, flat area in northern Belize, characterized by agriculture.
What crop dominates here?
This region is the primary sugarcane-growing area in Belize.
Are there significant lagoons there?
Yes, the New River Lagoon is one of the largest and most ecologically important.
What animals can be seen in the lowlands?
Waterbirds, crocodiles, and in the savanna areas, deer can be seen.
Are there ancient Maya sites there?
Lamanai is the most famous site, located right on a lagoon in the lowlands.
Northern Lowlands: where is it located?
Northern Lowlands is located in Belize.
Northern Lowlands: what is there to see?
Highlights include Little Belize, Progreso, Belize.
Northern Lowlands: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Northern Lowlands: why is it worth visiting?
The Northern Lowlands of Belize encompass the Corozal and Orange Walk Districts, presenting a landscape vastly different from the mountainous south.
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Nearby cities
Progresso Lagoon Village
A picturesque village on the Progresso Lagoon.
Progresso
A village on Progresso Lagoon in the Corozal District.
Bacalar
Known as the 'Lagoon of Seven Colors,' Bacalar is a breathtaking freshwater lagoon with various shades of blue and ancient stromatolites.
Hattieville
A settlement founded for the victims of Hurricane Hattie.
Burrell Boom
A historic Creole village on the Belize River.
San Joaquin (Corozal)
A village south of Corozal Town.
Biscayne
A small settlement on the Northern Highway.
Gardenia
A village on the Northern Highway.
Riversdale
A small fishing village on the coast of the Stann Creek District.
Independence and Mango Creek
Twin villages that are home to a major port for the banana industry.
Santa Clara (Corozal)
A village in the north, near Corozal Town.
Gales Point
A remote Creole village on a peninsula, known for its manatees.
Libertad (Corozal)
A historic village in the Corozal District, once the site of a major sugar factory.
Seine Bight
A Garifuna village on the Placencia Peninsula.
Sand Hill
A growing village in the Belize District, located at a major junction on the Phillip Goldson Highway.
Nature
More places
Cerros
An ancient Maya site located directly on the coastline.
Altun Ha
Well-known Maya site near Belize City, where the Jade Head was found.
Placencia Coconut Groves
Coconut palms and small coastal farms along the Placencia Peninsula.
Stann Creek Valley
A major agricultural valley in central Belize, famous for its sprawling citrus groves.
High Merendón
The highest reaches of the Merendón mountain range.
🗺️
Merendón Mountains
A major mountain range located along the border with Guatemala.
Belize River Valley
The river valley of the Belize River.
Sittee River Foothills
The transition zone where the Maya Mountains descend into the Stann Creek coastal plains.