Belize Safety Guide: Essential Tips for Wise Travellers 2025

Belize is renowned as a premier Caribbean getaway, yet it is imperative for prospective tourists to find a harmonious balance between relishing the paradise that Belize presents and implementing necessary safety precautions for a secure experience. This extensive guide consolidates the latest crime statistics, government advisories, and firsthand insights to empower travellers with essential knowledge, enabling them to explore Belize’s breathtaking beaches, verdant jungles, and magnificent ancient ruins while prioritising their safety.

1. In-Depth Analysis of Crime Rates and Trends in Belize

As of 2024, Belize recorded a homicide rate of 21.7 per 100,000 inhabitants, reflecting a slight uptick from the previous year’s figure of 21.5. Notably, there has been a significant reduction in homicides, with a decrease of 29 percent in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, recording 41 cases versus 58. The CompStat report from the Belize Police Department indicates that overall major crimes also saw a decline of 9 percent, dropping from 536 in H1 2024 to 489 in H1 2025. This positive trend has been attributed to substantial decreases in murder (–29 percent), robbery (–15 percent), and theft (–26 percent), suggesting a more secure environment 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. Critical Government Travel Advisories for Safe Visits to Belize

U.S. Department of State: Currently, Belize is designated as Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution due to the prevalence of violent crime, encompassing sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murders. Notably, the Southside of Belize City is classified as Level 3: Reconsider Travel—it is strongly advised to avoid non-tourist regions located south of Haulover Creek. Source: U.S. Department of State
Government of Canada: Canadians are encouraged to exercise a high degree of caution across the nation, with specific recommendations 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 cautions that Belize has one of the highest murder rates globally per capita; serious gang-related violence predominantly impacts the Southside of Belize City. Nevertheless, regions such as San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Placencia, and San Ignacio generally remain safe for tourists who exercise appropriate caution. Source: UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

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

Belize City (Southside): This area is notorious for gang activity that significantly contributes to elevated violent crime rates. It is prudent to steer clear of non-tourist neighbourhoods, particularly after dark, for personal safety.
Border Zones: Regions adjacent to the borders are experiencing an uptick in smuggling and cross-border violence, particularly with Guatemala, which travellers should remain vigilant about.
Petty Crime Hotspots: Areas like San Pedro are recognised for incidents of pickpocketing and credit card fraud. Always ensure to shield your PIN when using ATMs and prefer machines located inside banks for enhanced security.

4. Proactive Strategies for Enhancing Safety While Travelling in Belize

Boosting Your Personal Security During Your Stay

Maintain vigilance: It is essential to avoid walking alone at night, particularly in urban centres such as Belize City and Belmopan, where the risk of crime is comparatively higher.
Secure your valuables: Always utilise hotel safes for important items and keep wallets and phones out of sight to deter potential thieves.
Be cautious of 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.

Important Transportation Safety Guidelines for Travellers in Belize

Road Conditions: Be mindful that most secondary roads in Belize are unpaved and inadequately lit. It is advisable to drive only during daylight hours and ensure your fuel tank is always filled before embarking on longer journeys.
Public Transport Caution: Public buses often lack proper maintenance, so it is best to avoid them if possible. When utilising licensed taxis, remember they are not regulated by meters; therefore, negotiate your fare beforehand to prevent misunderstandings.
Ferries Safety: When travelling between the cayes, ensure that life jackets are easily accessible and that the vessels are not overcrowded to guarantee safe passage.

Engaging in Adventure Activities with Safety in Mind

When participating in adventure activities such as scuba diving, zip-lining, and cave tubing, always opt for reputable operators. Check their safety records and equipment standards to ensure your safety; consider acquiring travel insurance that covers medical evacuation.
Only swim in designated areas; riptides are common, and lifeguards are often scarce, making it imperative to prioritise safety in the water.

Key Health Precautions for Travellers Heading to Belize

Vaccination Recommendations: While there is no entry requirement for yellow fever, it is highly advisable to get vaccinated against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, and rabies prior to travelling to Belize. For detailed information, consult the CDC guidelines.
Mosquito Protection: Given the year-round risk of diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, and Zika, it is crucial to use EPA-approved insect repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and sleep under mosquito nets to minimise exposure.
Water Safety Guidelines: Follow the rule of “boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it” regarding food and water. Carry oral rehydration salts to effectively manage traveller’s diarrhoea and ensure you remain hydrated.

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

Women travelling solo should take additional precautions to avoid isolated areas and poorly lit alleys, as there have been reports of harassment in certain regions.
Members of the LGBTQ+ community may encounter 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 have 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 Support in Belize

In case of emergencies, always dial 911 for immediate assistance, whether it pertains to medical, fire, or police services in Belize.
The U.S. Embassy located in Belmopan and the Canadian Honorary Consul in Belize City can provide assistance with issues such as arrests, detention, or other emergencies. For more 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 remain informed and receive necessary assistance.