Belize Safety Guide for Savvy Travellers: Essential Tips 2025

Belize is celebrated as a top-tier Caribbean destination, yet it is crucial for prospective visitors to strike a balance between luxuriating in the heavenly paradise that Belize offers and taking essential precautions to ensure their personal safety. This comprehensive guide provides an overview of the latest crime statistics, official government advisories, and firsthand experiences, empowering travellers to navigate Belize’s stunning beaches, lush jungles, and magnificent ancient ruins while prioritising their safety and security throughout their journey.

1. Detailed Examination of Crime Rates and Developments in Belize

As of 2024, Belize reported a homicide rate of 21.7 per 100,000 inhabitants, indicating a slight rise from the previous year's figure of 21.5. Remarkably, there was a substantial decrease in homicides by 29 percent during the first half of 2025 compared to the same timeframe in 2024, with 41 cases documented 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 credited to significant declines in murder (–29 percent), robbery (–15 percent), and theft (–26 percent), suggesting improved safety for both local residents and international 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. Key Government Travel Advisories for Safe Visits to Belize

U.S. Department of State: Currently, Belize is rated as Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution due to the frequency of violent crime, which includes sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and homicide. Specifically, the Southside of Belize City is classified as Level 3: Reconsider Travel, hence it is advisable to steer clear of non-tourist zones located south of Haulover Creek. Source: U.S. Department of State
Government of Canada: Canadians are advised to exercise a high degree of caution across the nation, along with recommendations to avoid non-essential travel to Southside Belize City due to persistent 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; the severe gang-related violence primarily affects the Southside of Belize City. Conversely, regions such as San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Placencia, and San Ignacio typically remain safe for tourists who exercise due caution. Source: UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

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

Belize City (Southside): This area is notorious for gang-related activities, which significantly contribute to the high rates of violent crime. It is advisable to avoid non-tourist neighbourhoods, especially after dusk, to ensure your personal safety.
Border Areas: Regions near the borders are witnessing increased smuggling and cross-border violence, particularly with Guatemala, which travellers should be mindful of and approach with caution.
Petty Crime Locations: Areas such as San Pedro are known for incidents of pickpocketing and credit card fraud. Always remain vigilant by concealing your PIN when using ATMs and opting for machines located within banks for enhanced security.

4. Effective Safety Measures for Travellers Exploring Belize

Boosting Your Personal Safety During Your Travels

Stay alert: It is vital to avoid walking alone at night, particularly in urban centres like Belize City and Belmopan, where the risk of crime is markedly elevated.
Protect your belongings: Always utilise hotel safes for essential items and keep wallets and mobile phones out of plain sight to deter potential thieves.
Exercise caution regarding drinks: Never accept food or beverages from strangers, as this could lead to perilous situations that 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.

Safe Transportation Tips for Travellers

Road Conditions: Be aware that many secondary roads in Belize are unpaved and poorly lit. It is advisable to travel only during daylight hours and ensure that your fuel tank is always filled before embarking on longer journeys.
Public Transport Awareness: Public buses often lack adequate maintenance—it's wise to avoid them when possible. When using licensed taxis, remember that they do not operate on meters; therefore, it is prudent to negotiate your fare in advance to avoid misunderstandings.
Ferry Safety: When travelling between the cayes, ensure that life jackets are readily available and that vessels are not overcrowded to guarantee safe transit.

Engaging 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 acquiring travel insurance that covers medical evacuation 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 enjoying water activities.

Important Health Precautions for Travellers Visiting Belize

Vaccination Guidance: While there is no entry requirement for yellow fever, it is strongly advised to receive vaccinations against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, and rabies before travelling to Belize. For detailed information, consult the CDC guidelines.
Mosquito Protection Measures: 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.
Food and Water Safety Practices: Follow the rule 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 maintain proper hydration.

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

Women travelling alone should exercise heightened caution to avoid desolate areas and poorly lit streets, as there have been reports of harassment in certain locations.
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 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 case of 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 support for issues such as arrests, detention, or other emergencies. For further information, visit U.S. Embassy Belmopan.
Ensure 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 essential assistance.