Belize Safety Guide: Smart Travel Tips for 2025

Belize is renowned as a premier Caribbean destination, attracting countless visitors. However, it is essential for prospective travellers to find a harmonious balance between reveling in the paradise that Belize presents and implementing necessary precautions to safeguard their well-being. This detailed guide encompasses the latest crime statistics, government advisories, and firsthand accounts to empower tourists with vital information, enabling them to explore Belize’s stunning beaches, vibrant jungles, and breathtaking ancient ruins while prioritising their safety and security.

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

As of 2024, Belize recorded a homicide rate of 21.7 per 100,000 inhabitants, reflecting a slight rise from the previous year's figure of 21.5. Interestingly, during the first half of 2025, there was a significant reduction in homicides by 29 percent compared to the same period in 2024, with 41 cases reported versus 58. According to the CompStat report from the Belize Police Department, major crime incidents overall have also decreased by 9 percent, falling from 536 in H1 2024 to 489 in H1 2025. This positive development is largely attributed to notable declines in murder (–29 percent), robbery (–15 percent), and theft (–26 percent), indicating an encouraging trend toward enhanced 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 Safe Visits to Belize

U.S. Department of State: Presently, Belize is categorised as Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution due to the occurrence of violent crime, including sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder. Notably, the Southside of Belize City is rated as Level 3: Reconsider Travel—it is strongly advisable to steer clear of 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, with specific 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; the severe gang-related violence primarily impacts the Southside of Belize City. Nonetheless, 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 Crimes in Belize

Belize City (Southside): This locality 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 adjacent to the borders are witnessing increased smuggling and cross-border violence, especially involving Guatemala, which travellers should remain aware of for their protection.
Petty Crime Hotspots: Areas such as San Pedro have reported incidents of pickpocketing and credit card fraud. Always ensure to conceal your PIN when utilising ATMs and prefer machines located inside banks for added security.

4. Proactive Safety Strategies for Travellers Exploring Belize

Boosting Your Personal Security While Travelling

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 elevated.
Secure your valuables: Always use hotel safes for important belongings 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.

Important Transportation Safety Guidelines for Travellers

Road Conditions: Be aware that the majority of 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 topped up before embarking on longer journeys.
Public Transport Caution: Public buses often lack proper maintenance—it's best to avoid them if possible. When utilising licensed taxis, remember that they are not regulated by meters; therefore, negotiate your fare beforehand to avert 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.

Safety Precautions for Engaging in Adventure Activities

When partaking 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 security; consider obtaining travel insurance that includes medical evacuation coverage.
Only swim in designated areas; riptides are prevalent, and lifeguards are often scarce, making it crucial to prioritise safety while in the water.

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 prior to travelling to Belize. For further details, refer to the CDC guidelines.
Mosquito Protection: Given the year-round 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: Adhere to the rule of “boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it” regarding food and water. Carry oral rehydration salts to effectively manage traveller’s diarrhoea and ensure you stay hydrated.

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

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 an emergency, always dial 911 for swift assistance, whether it concerns medical, fire, or police services in Belize.
The U.S. Embassy located in Belmopan and the Canadian Honorary Consul in Belize City can offer support with matters such as arrests, detention, or other emergencies. For more information, visit U.S. Embassy Belmopan.
Ensure you register 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.