Belize Safety Guide: Essential Tips for Savvy Travellers 2025

Belize is renowned as a premier Caribbean destination. However, it is essential for prospective visitors to maintain a careful balance between experiencing the stunning paradise that Belize presents and implementing necessary precautions to safeguard their well-being. This extensive guide provides the latest crime statistics, official government advisories, and real-world insights to arm travellers with the essential knowledge required to explore Belize’s breathtaking beaches, verdant jungles, and magnificent ancient ruins while prioritising their personal safety.

1. Deep Dive into Crime Rates and Trends in Belize

As of 2024, Belize recorded a homicide rate of 21.7 per 100,000 inhabitants, indicating a slight rise from the previous year's figure of 21.5. Notably, there was a significant reduction in homicides by 29 percent 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, the overall incidence of major crimes also saw a decline of 9 percent, falling from 536 in the first half of 2024 to 489 in the first half of 2025. This positive trend is largely attributed to substantial decreases in murder (–29 percent), robbery (–15 percent), and theft (–26 percent), suggesting an encouraging shift towards greater safety for both residents and visitors alike.

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 a Safe Visit to Belize

U.S. Department of State: Presently, Belize holds a rating of Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution due to the prevalence of violent crime, including sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder. Specifically, the Southside of Belize City is designated as Level 3: Reconsider Travel. It is recommended to avoid non-tourist areas situated 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 country, alongside recommendations to avoid non-essential travel to Southside Belize City due to ongoing gang-related and drug-related violence. Source: Government of Canada
UK FCDO: The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office highlights that Belize has one of the highest murder rates globally per capita; the severe gang-related violence primarily affects the Southside of Belize City. Nevertheless, 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 Criminal Activities in Belize

Belize City (Southside): This part of the city is notorious for gang-related activity, significantly contributing 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 near the borders are currently experiencing increased incidents of smuggling and cross-border violence, particularly with Guatemala, which travellers should remain cautious of.
Petty Crime Hotspots: Areas such as San Pedro have a reputation for occurrences of pickpocketing and credit card fraud. It is vital to always shield your PIN while using ATMs and to prefer machines located inside banks for enhanced security.

4. Proactive Safety Strategies for Travellers Exploring Belize

Enhancing Your Personal Security While Travelling

Maintain vigilance: It is imperative to avoid walking alone at night, particularly in urban centres like Belize City and Belmopan, where the risk of crime is significantly heightened.
Secure your valuables: Always utilise hotel safes for safeguarding important items and keep wallets and mobile phones concealed 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 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.

Transportation Safety Tips for Travellers in Belize

Road Conditions: Be aware that most secondary roads throughout Belize are unpaved and poorly illuminated. It is advisable to drive exclusively during daylight hours and to ensure your fuel tank is filled before embarking on longer journeys.
Public Transport Caution: Public buses frequently lack proper maintenance, so it is best to avoid them if feasible. When using licensed taxis, remember they are not regulated by meters, so negotiate your fare in advance to prevent misunderstandings.
Ferries Safety: When travelling between the cayes, ensure that life jackets are readily available and that the vessels are not overcrowded to guarantee safe passage.

Engaging in Adventure Activities Safely in Belize

When participating in adventure activities like scuba diving, zip-lining, and cave tubing, always opt for reputable operators. Verify their safety records and equipment standards to ensure your well-being; consider purchasing travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation.
Only swim in designated areas; riptides are common, and lifeguards are often scarce, making it crucial to prioritise safety while in the water.

Critical Health Precautions for Travellers Visiting Belize

Vaccination Recommendations: While there are no entry requirements for yellow fever, it is highly advisable to obtain vaccinations against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, and rabies before travelling to Belize. For comprehensive information, refer to the CDC guidelines.
Mosquito Protection: Given 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 minimise exposure to these threats.
Water Safety Guidelines: Adhere to the rule of “boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it” when it comes to food and water consumption. 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 alone should exercise heightened caution, avoiding isolated areas and poorly lit alleys, as there have been reports of harassment in certain regions.
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 it is 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 assistance with issues such as arrests, detention, or other emergencies. For further information, visit U.S. Embassy Belmopan.
Ensure that 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 during your travels.