Hol Chan Marine Reserve

Best time to dive

January to December; February to June

What you might see

• DolphinPossible
• Eagle rayPossible
• Moray eelLikely
• Nurse sharkLikely
• Sea turtlePossible
• Whale sharkPeak season

Sightings are seasonal probabilities, not promises - even in peak season nature does its own thing.

Certification & difficulty

Open Water

Snorkelling

Snorkel-friendly - Yes — one of Belize's most popular snorkel sites, calm shallow reef areas suitable for beginners, usually combined with a guide

Safety notes

Mid-channel tidal current, boat traffic in a busy multi-use reserve, coral contact, sharp coral/urchins; touching, feeding, standing on, or collecting any marine life or coral is prohibited (protected marine reserve since 1987)

Permits & fees

Belize Fisheries Department marine reserve entrance fee (covers Hol Chan + Shark Ray Alley + Caye Caulker zones); historically US$10 for foreign visitors, per San Pedro Sun (Aug 2024) raised to approx US$15-20 for foreign tourists; typically collected/included by the tour operator

Permits and operators change - confirm before booking.

Location

Nearest hub: San Pedro