Belize Safety Guide for Savvy Travellers: Essential Tips 2025

Belize is celebrated as a top Caribbean destination, but it is crucial for prospective visitors to strike a balance between enjoying the stunning paradise that Belize offers and taking the necessary precautions to ensure their safety. This comprehensive guide includes the most recent crime statistics, official government advisories, and practical insights from real travellers, empowering visitors to experience Belize’s awe-inspiring beaches, lush jungles, and extraordinary ancient ruins while prioritising personal safety and security.

1. Comprehensive Overview of Crime Trends and Statistics in Belize

As of 2024, Belize has recorded a homicide rate of 21.7 per 100,000 inhabitants, which represents a slight increase from the previous year's figure of 21.5. However, it is noteworthy that there was a substantial decline in homicides by 29 percent during the first six months of 2025 compared to the same timeframe in 2024, with reported cases dropping from 58 to 41. The CompStat report from the Belize Police Department indicates that overall major crimes also experienced a reduction of 9 percent, falling from 536 incidents in H1 2024 to 489 in H1 2025. This encouraging trend can be attributed to significant decreases in murder (–29 percent), robbery (–15 percent), and theft (–26 percent), indicating an improved safety environment 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 Safe Travel to Belize

U.S. Department of State: Currently, Belize is classified as Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution due to the high incidence of violent crime, which includes sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and homicide. The Southside of Belize City is rated 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 advised to exercise a high degree of caution throughout Belize, with specific warnings to avoid non-essential travel to Southside Belize City due to ongoing issues with 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, with serious gang-related violence primarily affecting the Southside of Belize City. However, regions like 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, which significantly contributes to the higher rates of violent crime. It is wise to avoid non-tourist neighbourhoods, particularly after dark, to ensure personal safety.
Border Zones: Regions adjacent to the borders are experiencing increased smuggling and cross-border violence, particularly with Guatemala. Travellers should remain vigilant and exercise caution in these areas.
Petty Crime Hotspots: Areas such as San Pedro have reported incidents of pickpocketing and credit card fraud. Always stay alert by shielding your PIN when using ATMs, and prefer machines located inside banks for added security.

4. Effective Safety Strategies for Travellers Discovering Belize

Boosting Your Personal Security While Travelling

Stay vigilant: It is crucial to avoid walking alone at night, especially in urban environments such as Belize City and Belmopan, where the risk of crime is notably higher.
Protect your valuables: Always utilise hotel safes for storing important belongings and keep wallets and phones concealed to deter potential thieves.
Be wary of spiked drinks: Never accept food or beverages from strangers, as this could lead to perilous situations that endanger 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 Tips for Travellers

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

Participating in Adventure Activities with Safety in Mind

When taking part in adventure activities such as scuba diving, zip-lining, and cave tubing, always choose reputable operators. Check their safety records and equipment standards to safeguard your well-being; consider obtaining travel insurance that includes medical evacuation coverage for added peace of mind.
Only swim in designated areas; riptides are common, and lifeguards are often not present, making it crucial to prioritise safety while in the water.

Important Health Precautions for Travellers Visiting Belize

Vaccination Guidelines: Although there is no compulsory requirement for yellow fever vaccination, it is strongly advised to get vaccinated against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, and rabies prior to your travels to Belize. For comprehensive details, refer to the CDC guidelines.
Mosquito Protection Strategies: Given the year-round risk of diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, and Zika, it is vital to use EPA-approved insect repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and sleep under mosquito nets to reduce your exposure.
Water Safety Practices: Always adhere to 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 you stay adequately hydrated.

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

Women travelling alone should exercise increased caution to avoid isolated areas and poorly lit alleys, as there have been reports of harassment in specific 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 enforce this regulation strictly.

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 case of emergencies, always dial 911 for immediate assistance, whether for 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 assist with issues such as arrests, detention, or other emergencies. For further information, visit U.S. Embassy Belmopan.
Be sure to 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 vital assistance.