Belize Safety Guide for Savvy Travellers: Essential Tips 2025

Belize is celebrated as a top-tier Caribbean destination, yet it is vital for prospective visitors to strike a balance between enjoying the stunning paradise Belize offers and implementing essential precautions to ensure their safety. This comprehensive guide provides a detailed overview of the latest crime statistics, government advisories, and practical insights, empowering travellers to discover Belize’s breathtaking beaches, lush jungles, and awe-inspiring ancient ruins while prioritising their safety and security.

1. Comprehensive Overview of Crime Rates and Trends in Belize

As of 2024, Belize recorded a homicide rate of 21.7 per 100,000 inhabitants, showing a slight increase from the previous year's figure of 21.5. However, there was a remarkable 29 percent reduction in homicides during the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, with 41 cases reported versus 58. According to the CompStat report from the Belize Police Department, overall major crimes also experienced a decrease of 9 percent, dropping from 536 incidents in H1 2024 to 489 in H1 2025. This encouraging trend is attributed to significant declines in murder (–29 percent), robbery (–15 percent), and theft (–26 percent), highlighting improved safety for both residents and tourists.

Crime Category	Jan–Jun 2024	Jan–Jun 2025	Change
Major crimes	536	489	–9 percent
Murders	58	41	–29 percent
Robbery	–	–	–15 percent
Theft	–	–	–26 percent

2. Essential Government Travel Advisories for a Safe Visit to Belize

U.S. Department of State: Currently, Belize is classified as Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution due to the occurrence of violent crime, which includes sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder. Notably, the Southside of Belize City is designated as Level 3: Reconsider Travel, and it is advisable to avoid non-tourist areas located south of Haulover Creek. Source: U.S. Department of State
Government of Canada: Canadians are encouraged to exercise a high degree of caution throughout the nation and are advised to avoid non-essential travel to Southside Belize City due to ongoing gang and drug-related violence. Source: Government of Canada
UK FCDO: The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office warns that Belize has one of the highest murder rates globally per capita; serious gang-related violence primarily affects the Southside of Belize City. In contrast, areas such as San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Placencia, and San Ignacio generally remain safe for travellers who take appropriate precautions. Source: UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

3. Identifying High-Risk Areas and Common Criminal Activities in Belize

Belize City (Southside): This area is notorious for gang activity, significantly contributing to elevated violent crime rates. It is advisable to steer clear of non-tourist neighbourhoods, especially after dark, to ensure your personal safety.
Border Zones: Regions adjacent to the borders are experiencing increased smuggling and cross-border violence, particularly with Guatemala, which travellers should be mindful of and approach with caution.
Petty Crime Hotspots: Areas like San Pedro are known for incidents of pickpocketing and credit card fraud. Always remain vigilant by shielding your PIN when using ATMs and favour machines located inside banks for enhanced security.

4. Effective Safety Strategies for Travellers Exploring Belize

Boosting Your Personal Security While Travelling

Maintain vigilance: It is crucial to avoid walking alone at night, particularly in urban areas such as Belize City and Belmopan, where the risk of crime is notably heightened.
Secure your valuables: Always utilise hotel safes for important belongings and keep wallets and phones out of sight to deter potential thieves.
Be cautious of spiked drinks: Never accept food or beverages from strangers, as this may lead to perilous situations that could jeopardise your safety.

Aerial view of the Great Blue Hole near the coast with people by the water, surrounded by greenery. Text on image reads "BELIZEAN GREAT BLUE HOLE" with illustrated map, sun, clouds, an airplane—perfect for your Belize travel adventures.

Transportation Safety Guidelines for Travellers

Road Conditions: Be mindful that most secondary roads in Belize are unpaved and poorly illuminated. It is advisable to travel only during daylight hours and ensure your fuel tank is always filled before embarking on longer journeys.
Public Transport Caution: Public buses often lack adequate maintenance—it's best to avoid them when possible. In using licensed taxis, remember that they are not regulated by meters, so it is wise to negotiate your fare beforehand to prevent misunderstandings.
Ferries Safety: When travelling between the cayes, ensure that life jackets are readily accessible and that vessels are not overcrowded to guarantee safe passage.

Participating in Adventure Activities with Safety in Mind

When partaking in adventure activities such as scuba diving, zip-lining, and cave tubing, always choose reputable operators. Verify their safety records and equipment standards to ensure your well-being; consider obtaining travel insurance that covers medical evacuation for added peace of mind.
Only swim in designated areas; riptides are common, and lifeguards are often unavailable, making it critical to prioritise safety while in the water.

Important Health Precautions for Travellers Visiting Belize

Vaccination Recommendations: Although there is no entry requirement for yellow fever, it is strongly advised to receive vaccinations against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, and rabies prior to travelling to Belize. For comprehensive details, refer to the CDC guidelines.
Mosquito Protection: Given the year-round risk of diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, and Zika, it is essential to use EPA-approved insect repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and sleep under mosquito nets to minimise exposure.
Water Safety Guidelines: Follow the principle of “boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it” regarding food and water consumption. Carry oral rehydration salts to effectively manage traveller’s diarrhoea and ensure adequate hydration.

5. Special Considerations for Women, Children, and LGBTQ+ Travellers in Belize

Women travelling alone should exercise heightened caution to avoid isolated areas and poorly lit alleys, as there have been reports of harassment in certain regions.
Members of the LGBTQ+ community may face social stigma in Belize; it is advisable to refrain from public displays of affection to ensure personal safety.
Children travelling alone or with only one parent are required to possess notarised parental consent letters, as immigration officials in Belize enforce this regulation stringently.

Two people stand at the edge of a lush, green lagoon with clear blue water at sunset. Swimmers enjoy the scene, while small buildings dot the trees. Four Belize safety icons are displayed in the bottom left corner.

6. How to Access Emergency Services and Consular Assistance in Belize

In emergencies, always dial 911 for immediate assistance, whether for medical, fire, or police services in Belize.
The U.S. Embassy located in Belmopan and the Canadian Honorary Consul in Belize City can provide help with issues such as arrests, detention, or other emergencies. For more information, visit U.S. Embassy Belmopan.
Ensure you register in your government’s traveller-registration programme, such as STEP for U.S. citizens or the Registration of Canadians Abroad for Canadians, to stay informed and receive necessary assistance.