Belize Safety Guide: Smart Travel Tips for 2025

Belize is widely recognised as a premier Caribbean destination, offering visitors an idyllic paradise experience. However, it’s essential for prospective travellers to find a balance between enjoying the breathtaking beauty of Belize and taking necessary precautions to ensure their safety during their stay. This detailed guide provides the latest crime statistics, governmental advisories, and firsthand accounts, equipping travellers with crucial knowledge to explore Belize’s stunning beaches, verdant jungles, and magnificent ancient ruins while prioritising their safety and wellbeing.

1. An In-Depth Analysis of Crime Rates and Trends in Belize

As of 2024, Belize reported a homicide rate of 21.7 per 100,000 inhabitants, reflecting a slight rise from the previous year’s figure of 21.5. Notably, there was an impressive decline in homicides by 29 percent during the first half of 2025, with 41 cases compared to 58 in the same period of 2024. According to the CompStat report from the Belize Police Department, overall major crimes also saw a decrease of 9 percent, dropping 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 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 Travel Advisories Issued by Government Authorities for Belize

U.S. Department of State: Currently, Belize is rated as Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution because of the prevalence of violent crime, which encompasses sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder. Notably, the Southside of Belize City is classified as Level 3: Reconsider Travel—it is strongly recommended to avoid 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 nation, with specific 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 cautions that Belize has one of the highest murder rates globally per capita; serious gang-related violence predominantly affects the Southside of Belize City. Nevertheless, other regions such as San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Placencia, and San Ignacio typically 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 that significantly contributes to the high rates of violent crime. It is advisable to steer clear of non-tourist neighbourhoods, particularly after dark, to maintain personal safety.
Border Zones: Regions near the borders are experiencing an uptick in smuggling and cross-border violence, particularly with Guatemala. This is an important consideration for travellers planning to visit these areas.
Petty Crime Hotspots: Locations such as San Pedro are frequently associated with incidents of pickpocketing and credit card fraud. Always take precautions by shielding your PIN when using ATMs and prefer machines located inside banks for added security.

4. Practical Safety Strategies for Travellers Visiting Belize

Enhancing Your Personal Security While Exploring Belize

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 tends to be elevated.
Secure your valuables: Always make use of hotel safes for keeping important items secure, and ensure that wallets and phones are kept 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 dangerous situations that compromise 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 Guidelines for Secure Travel in Belize

Road Conditions: Be aware that the majority of 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 topped up before setting off on longer journeys.
Public Transport Caution: Public buses often lack proper maintenance and safety checks—it’s best to avoid using them if possible. When opting for licensed taxis, remember that they are not regulated by meters; therefore, negotiate your fare in advance to avoid any misunderstandings.
Ferries Safety: When travelling between the cayes, ensure that life jackets are readily available and that the vessels are not overcrowded, as this is vital for ensuring 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 select reputable operators. Verify their safety records and equipment standards to ensure your wellbeing; consider obtaining travel insurance that covers medical evacuation for added peace of mind.
Only swim in designated areas; riptides are common in many locations, and lifeguards are often scarce, making it crucial to prioritise safety when enjoying water activities.

Vital Health Precautions for Travellers to 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 year-round risk of diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, and Zika, it is crucial to utilise EPA-approved insect repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and sleep under mosquito nets to minimise exposure and protect your health.
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 ensure you remain hydrated throughout your trip.

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 and comfort.
Children travelling alone or with only one parent need to 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 the need 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 support with issues such as arrests, detention, or other emergencies. For further 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 the necessary assistance while abroad.