Belize Safety Guide: Essential Tips for Savvy Travellers 2025

Belize is widely recognised as a premium Caribbean destination, yet it is vital for prospective travellers to achieve a harmonious balance between experiencing the breathtaking paradise that Belize presents and taking the necessary precautions to safeguard their well-being. This extensive guide offers an overview of the latest crime statistics, government advisories, and firsthand insights to empower visitors with the essential knowledge required to explore Belize’s stunning beaches, vibrant jungles, and remarkable 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 modest increase from the prior year's figure of 21.5. Notably, there was a significant decline in homicides of 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, overall major crimes saw a decrease of 9 percent, falling from 536 incidents in H1 2024 to 489 in H1 2025. This positive trend is attributed to significant reductions in murder (–29 percent), robbery (–15 percent), and theft (–26 percent), indicating an overall improvement in safety conditions 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 Safe Visits to 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 designated 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: Canadians are advised to exercise a high degree of caution throughout the country, along 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 per capita; serious gang-related violence primarily impacts the Southside of Belize City. However, 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 region is notorious for gang activity, which significantly contributes to the elevated violent crime rates. It is strongly advised to avoid non-tourist neighbourhoods, especially after dark, to ensure personal safety.
Border Zones: Areas adjacent to the borders are experiencing heightened smuggling and cross-border violence, particularly involving Guatemala, which travellers should remain aware of.
Petty Crime Hotspots: Areas such as San Pedro are known for incidents of pickpocketing and credit card fraud. Always exercise caution by shielding your PIN when using ATMs and prefer machines situated within banks for added security.

4. Proactive Safety Strategies for Travellers Exploring Belize

Maximising Your Personal Security During Your Travels

Maintain vigilance: It is essential to avoid walking alone at night, particularly in urban areas like Belize City and Belmopan, where the risk of crime is notably higher.
Secure your valuables: Always utilise hotel safes for safeguarding important items and keep wallets and mobile phones out of sight to deter potential thieves.
Exercise caution with food and drinks: Never accept food or beverages 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.

Understanding Transportation Safety While Visiting Belize

Road Conditions: Be aware 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 full before embarking on longer journeys.
Public Transport Caution: Public buses often suffer from a lack of proper maintenance—it's prudent to avoid them if possible. When using licensed taxis, remember they are not regulated by meters; therefore, negotiate your fare upfront to prevent misunderstandings.
Ferries Safety: When travelling between the cayes, ensure that life jackets are readily accessible and that the vessels are not overcrowded to guarantee safe travel.

Participating in Adventure Activities with Safety in Mind

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

Critical Health Precautions for Visitors 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 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 imperative to use EPA-approved insect repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and sleep under mosquito nets to minimise exposure.
Food and Water Safety Guidelines: Follow the rule of “boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it” when it comes to food and water. Carry oral rehydration salts to effectively manage traveller’s diarrhoea and stay hydrated.

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

Women travelling solo should exercise heightened caution to avoid isolated areas and poorly lit alleyways, 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 avoid 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 for Visitors 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 offer assistance with issues such as arrests, detention, or other emergencies. For more 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, to stay informed and receive necessary support.