Belize Safety Guide: Smart Tips for 2025 Travellers

Belize is widely regarded as a premier Caribbean destination, yet it is vital for prospective visitors to find a harmonious balance between experiencing the breathtaking paradise that Belize provides and taking necessary precautions to safeguard their well-being. This extensive guide encapsulates the latest crime statistics, government advisories, and authentic insights, empowering travellers with the essential knowledge required to explore Belize’s magnificent beaches, verdant jungles, and remarkable ancient ruins while prioritising their safety.

1. Explore the Crime Rates and Trends in Belize for Informed Travel Decisions

As of 2024, Belize recorded a homicide rate of 21.7 per 100,000 inhabitants, reflecting a slight uptick from the previous year’s rate of 21.5. Notably, there was a significant drop in homicides by 29 percent in the first half of 2025, compared to the same period in 2024, with reported cases decreasing from 58 to 41. According to the CompStat report from the Belize Police Department, overall serious crimes also fell by 9 percent, down from 536 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 a growing sense of safety for both residents and travellers.

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. Stay Informed with Essential Government Travel Advisories for Belize

U.S. Department of State: Currently, Belize is classified 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 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 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 predominantly impacts the Southside of Belize City. Nevertheless, other regions such as San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Placencia, and San Ignacio typically remain secure for travellers who exercise appropriate caution. Source: UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

3. Recognising High-Risk Areas and Common Crimes in Belize for Safer Travel

Belize City (Southside): This region is notorious for gang activity, which significantly contributes to elevated violent crime rates. It is advisable to avoid non-tourist neighbourhoods, especially after dark, to ensure personal safety.
Border Zones: Areas near the borders are experiencing heightened smuggling and cross-border violence, particularly with Guatemala, which travellers should remain aware of.
Petty Crime Hotspots: Locations like San Pedro are known for incidents of pickpocketing and credit card fraud. Always ensure to protect your PIN when using ATMs and prefer machines located inside banks for enhanced security.

4. Implement Proactive Safety Tips for a Secure Visit to Belize

Enhancing Your Personal Security While Travelling in Belize

Maintain vigilance: It is imperative to avoid walking alone at night, particularly in urban areas such as Belize City and Belmopan, where the risk of crime is notably higher.
Secure your valuables: Always utilise hotel safes for important items and keep wallets and phones out of sight to deter potential thieves effectively.
Be cautious of spiked drinks: Never accept food or drinks 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 Navigating Belize

Road Conditions: Be aware that most secondary roads in Belize are unpaved and poorly 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 lack adequate maintenance—it's best to avoid them if possible. When utilising licensed taxis, remember they are not regulated by meters; therefore, negotiate your fare in advance to avoid 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.

Engaging in Adventure Activities Safely During Your Belizean Journey

When partaking in adventure activities such as scuba diving, zip-lining, and cave tubing, always select reputable operators. Check their safety records and equipment standards to ensure your well-being; consider purchasing travel insurance that covers medical evacuation.
Only swim in designated areas; riptides are prevalent, and lifeguards are often scarce, making it crucial to prioritise safety in the water.

Essential Health Precautions for Your Trip 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 prior to travelling to Belize. For comprehensive information, consult the CDC guidelines.
Mosquito Protection: Given the year-round risk of diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, and Zika, it is crucial to use EPA-approved insect repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and sleep under mosquito nets to minimise exposure.
Water Safety Guidelines: Adhere to the rule of “boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it” when it comes to food and water. Carry oral rehydration salts to manage traveller’s diarrhoea effectively and remain hydrated.

5. Considerations for Women, Children, and LGBTQ Travellers for a Safe Experience

Women travelling solo 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. How to Access Emergency Services and Consular Support in Belize

In the event 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 provide assistance with issues such as arrests, detention, or other emergencies. For further information, 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 assistance.