Belize Safety Guide: Top Tips for Savvy Travellers 2025

Belize is undeniably a premier Caribbean destination, but it is imperative for prospective visitors to find a harmonious balance between reveling in the paradise that Belize presents and taking essential precautions to ensure their safety. This detailed guide encapsulates the latest crime statistics, government advisories, and authentic insights to equip travellers with the knowledge necessary to explore Belize’s breathtaking beaches, verdant jungles, and remarkable ancient ruins while prioritising their safety and well-being.

1. Analyse Current Crime Rates and Trends in Belize

As of 2024, Belize reported a homicide rate of 21.7 per 100,000 inhabitants, indicating a slight increase from the previous year's figure of 21.5. Notably, there was a substantial decrease in homicides by 29 percent during the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, with 41 cases reported against 58. According to the CompStat report from the Belize Police Department, overall major crimes have also diminished by 9 percent, decreasing from 536 in H1 2024 to 489 in H1 2025. This positive trend can be attributed to significant reductions in murder (–29 percent), robbery (–15 percent), and theft (–26 percent), suggesting an encouraging shift towards improved 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. Comprehensive Government Travel Advisories for Belize

U.S. Department of State: Presently, Belize is rated as Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution due to the prevalence of violent crime, which encompasses sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder. Specifically, the Southside of Belize City is classified as Level 3: Reconsider Travel—it is highly recommended to steer clear of non-tourist areas situated south of Haulover Creek. Source: U.S. Department of State
Government of Canada: Canadian travellers are advised to exercise a high degree of caution throughout the nation, with specific recommendations to avoid non-essential travel to Southside Belize City owing to ongoing gang‐ and drug-related violence. Source: Government of Canada
UK FCDO: The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office cautions that Belize harbours one of the highest murder rates globally per capita; the serious gang-related violence predominantly affects the Southside of Belize City. Conversely, 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 in Belize

Belize City (Southside): This area is notorious for gang activity that significantly contributes to violent crime rates. It is advisable for visitors to avoid non-tourist neighbourhoods, especially after dark, to ensure personal safety.
Border Zones: Regions near the borders are experiencing heightened smuggling and cross-border violence, particularly with Guatemala, which travellers should remain aware of while planning their routes.
Petty Crime Hotspots: Locations such as San Pedro have reported incidents of pickpocketing and credit card fraud. Always take precautions by shielding your PIN when using ATMs and prefer machines located within banks for enhanced security.

4. Proactive Safety Tips for a Secure Visit to Belize

Boosting Your Personal Security While Travelling

Maintain vigilance: It is of utmost importance to avoid walking alone at night, particularly in urban areas like Belize City and Belmopan, where the risk of crime tends to be more pronounced.
Secure your valuables: Always use hotel safes for important items and keep wallets and mobile phones out of sight to deter potential thieves from targeting you.
Be cautious of spiked drinks: Never accept food or beverages from strangers, as this could lead to perilous situations that compromise 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 Secure Travel

Road Conditions: Be aware that the majority of secondary roads in Belize are unpaved and inadequately lit. It is advisable to drive exclusively during daylight hours and ensure your fuel tank is always full before embarking on longer journeys.
Public Transport Caution: Public buses frequently lack proper maintenance—it's best to avoid them whenever possible. When utilising licensed taxis, remember they are not regulated by meters; therefore, negotiate your fare beforehand to prevent any misunderstandings.
Ferries Safety: When travelling between the cayes, ensure that life jackets are readily accessible and that vessels are not overcrowded to promote safe travel.

Engaging in Adventure Activities with Safety in Mind

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

Crucial Health Precautions for Visitors to Belize

Vaccination Recommendations: Although there is no entry requirement for yellow fever, it is highly advisable to receive vaccinations for 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 reduce exposure.
Water Safety Guidelines: Adhere to the principle of “boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it” concerning food and water safety. Carry oral rehydration salts to effectively manage traveller’s diarrhoea and ensure you remain hydrated during your stay.

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

Women travelling alone should exercise additional 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 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 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. Accessing Emergency Services and Consular Support in Belize

In case of emergencies, always dial 911 for immediate assistance, whether you require medical, fire, or police services while 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 further details, 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, enabling you to stay informed and receive necessary assistance during your travels.