Belize Safety Guide: Smart Travel Tips for 2025

Belize is recognised as a premier Caribbean destination, yet it is essential for prospective visitors to find a harmonious balance between indulging in the heavenly beauty of Belize and adopting necessary precautionary measures to safeguard their well-being. This all-encompassing guide summarises the latest crime statistics, official government advisories, and real-life experiences, providing travellers with the vital information required to explore Belize’s breathtaking coastlines, vibrant rainforests, and remarkable historical sites while ensuring their personal safety is prioritised.

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 minor increase from the previous year’s figure of 21.5. However, a significant reduction was observed in homicides, with a 29 percent decline during the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, dropping from 58 cases to 41. The CompStat report issued by the Belize Police Department indicates that overall major crimes also experienced a decrease of 9 percent, falling from 536 in the first half of 2024 to 489 in the first half of 2025. This positive trend is attributed to notable reductions in murder (–29 percent), robbery (–15 percent), and theft (–26 percent), suggesting an improvement in 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. Crucial Government Travel Advisories for Safe Travel in Belize

U.S. Department of State: Currently, Belize is designated as Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution due to the prevalence of violent crime, which encompasses sexual assaults, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder. Notably, the Southside of Belize City is rated as Level 3: Reconsider Travel—it is strongly recommended 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 the nation, with 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 on a per capita basis; serious gang-related violence predominantly affects the Southside of Belize City. Conversely, areas 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 area is notorious for gang activity, which significantly contributes to elevated violent crime rates. It is advisable to avoid non-tourist neighbourhoods, particularly 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 vigilant about.
Petty Crime Hotspots: Areas such as San Pedro are known for incidents of pickpocketing and credit card fraud. Always take care to shield your PIN when using ATMs and prefer using machines located within banks for enhanced security.

4. Proactive Strategies for Ensuring Safety While Travelling in Belize

Enhancing Your Personal Security During Your Travels

Maintain vigilance: It is crucial to avoid walking alone at night, especially in urban areas such as Belize City and Belmopan, where the potential for crime is significantly higher.
Secure your valuables: Always utilise hotel safes for important items and keep wallets and mobile phones out of sight to deter potential thieves.
Be cautious of spiked drinks: Never accept food or beverages from strangers, as this could lead to perilous 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.

Transportation Safety Guidelines for Visitors to Belize

Road Conditions: Be aware that most secondary roads in Belize are unpaved and poorly 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 often lack proper maintenance—it’s best to avoid them wherever possible. When using licensed taxis, remember that they are not regulated by meters; therefore, 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 travel.

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 includes medical evacuation coverage.
Only swim in designated areas; riptides are prevalent, and lifeguards are often scarce, making it essential to prioritise safety while in the water.

Key Health Precautions for Travellers Visiting Belize

Vaccination Recommendations: Although there is no entry requirement for yellow fever, it is highly advisable to get vaccinated against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, and rabies before travelling to Belize. For detailed information, consult the CDC guidelines.
Mosquito Protection: Given the continuous 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 minimise exposure.
Water Safety Guidelines: Follow the rule of “boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it” concerning food and water. Carry oral rehydration salts to effectively manage traveller’s diarrhoea and ensure you stay hydrated.

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

Women travelling alone should exercise extra 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. How to Access Emergency Services and Consular Support While in Belize

In case of emergencies, always dial 911 for immediate assistance, whether it’s for medical, fire, or police services in Belize.
The U.S. Embassy located in Belmopan and the Canadian Honorary Consul in Belize City can offer assistance with issues such as arrests, detention, or other emergencies. For more information, visit U.S. Embassy Belmopan.
Ensure you enroll 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 necessary assistance.