Belize Safety Guide: Top Tips for Savvy Travellers 2025

Belize is undeniably a premier Caribbean destination, offering a unique blend of stunning landscapes and rich cultural experiences. To fully enjoy the paradise that Belize presents, it is essential for visitors to remain aware and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety at all times. This extensive guide provides the latest crime statistics, official government advisories, and valuable real-life insights, empowering travellers with the knowledge required to explore Belize’s breathtaking beaches, vibrant jungles, and magnificent ancient ruins while prioritising their personal safety.

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, representing a slight increase from the previous year’s rate of 21.5. However, an encouraging trend emerged with a significant decrease of 29 percent in homicides during the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, with reported cases dropping from 58 to 41. According to the CompStat report from the Belize Police Department, overall major crimes also saw a decrease of 9 percent, falling from 536 in the first half of 2024 to 489 in the first half of 2025. This positive trend can be attributed to substantial declines in murder (–29 percent), robbery (–15 percent), and theft (–26 percent), suggesting a growing sense of safety for both residents and visitors.

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. Crucial Government Travel Advisories for Visiting Belize

U.S. Department of State: Presently, Belize is classified as Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution due to the prevalence of violent crime, including sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder. The Southside of Belize City is designated as Level 3: Reconsider Travel, making it advisable to avoid non-tourist areas located south of Haulover Creek. Source: U.S. Department of State
Government of Canada: Canadians are urged to exercise a high degree of caution throughout the nation, particularly advising against 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 alerts that Belize has one of the highest murder rates globally per capita; serious gang-related violence is predominantly concentrated in the Southside of Belize City. Nonetheless, other regions such as San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Placencia, and San Ignacio generally remain safe for travellers who exercise appropriate caution. Source: UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

3. Recognising High-Risk Areas and Common Crimes to Avoid in Belize

Belize City (Southside): This particular area is notorious for gang activity, which significantly contributes to elevated violent crime rates. It is advisable to steer clear of non-tourist neighbourhoods, especially after dark, to ensure personal safety.
Border Zones: Regions adjacent to the borders are currently experiencing increased smuggling activities and cross-border violence, particularly involving Guatemala, which travellers should remain cautious about.
Petty Crime Hotspots: Locations such as San Pedro are known for incidents of pickpocketing and credit card fraud. Always ensure to shield your PIN when using ATMs and opt for machines located inside banks for enhanced security.

4. Proactive Safety Strategies for Travellers Visiting Belize

Enhancing Personal Security During Your Travels

Stay vigilant: It is essential to avoid walking alone at night, particularly in urban areas such as Belize City and Belmopan, where the risk of crime is significantly higher.
Secure your valuables: Always utilise hotel safes for storing important items and keep wallets and phones out of sight to deter potential thieves.
Be cautious regarding spiked drinks: Never accept food or drinks from strangers, as this could lead to potentially dangerous situations.

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.

Essential Transportation Safety Guidelines for Travellers

Road Conditions: Be aware that most secondary roads in Belize are unpaved and poorly lit. It is advisable to drive only during daylight hours and ensure your fuel tank is always full before embarking on longer journeys.
Public Transport Caution: Public buses often lack proper maintenance—it's best to avoid them if possible. When opting for licensed taxis, remember they are not regulated by meters; therefore, negotiate your fare in advance to avoid misunderstandings.
Ferry Safety: When travelling between the cayes, ensure that life jackets are readily accessible and that the vessels are not overcrowded to guarantee safe travel.

Engaging in Adventure Activities with Safety in Mind

When participating 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 safety; consider purchasing travel insurance that includes medical evacuation.
Only swim in designated areas; be mindful of riptides, which are common, and lifeguards are often scarce, making it essential to prioritise safety in the water.

Essential Health Precautions for Travellers Heading to Belize

Vaccination Recommendations: While there is no entry requirement for yellow fever, it is highly recommended to obtain vaccinations against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, and rabies prior to travelling to Belize. For detailed information, refer to the CDC guidelines.
Mosquito Protection: Due to the year-round risk of diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, and Zika, it is vital to utilise EPA-approved insect repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and sleep under mosquito nets to reduce exposure.
Water Safety Guidelines: Adhere to the principle of “boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it” when it comes to food and water. Carry oral rehydration salts to effectively manage traveller’s diarrhoea and stay hydrated.

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

Women travelling alone should take extra precautions to avoid isolated areas and poorly lit alleys, as there have been reports of harassment in some regions.
Members of the LGBTQ+ community may face social stigma in Belize; it is advisable to avoid public displays of affection to ensure personal safety.
Children travelling alone or with only one parent must possess notarised parental consent letters, as immigration officials in Belize strictly enforce this regulation.

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 Support in Belize

In the event of emergencies, always dial 911 for immediate assistance, whether you require medical, fire, or police services in Belize.
The U.S. Embassy situated in Belmopan and the Canadian Honorary Consul in Belize City are available to provide assistance with issues such as arrests, detention, or other emergencies. For further information, visit U.S. Embassy Belmopan.
Ensure you enrol 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 any necessary assistance.