Belize Safety Guide for Savvy Travellers in 2025

Belize is celebrated as a top-tier Caribbean destination, yet it is crucial for prospective visitors to strike a balance between indulging in the heavenly landscapes that Belize offers and implementing necessary precautions to ensure their safety. This comprehensive guide provides an overview of the latest crime statistics, government advisories, and practical insights, empowering travellers to discover Belize’s stunning beaches, lush jungles, and awe-inspiring ancient ruins while prioritising their safety and security.

1. Detailed Examination of Crime Rates and Trends in Belize

As of 2024, Belize reported a homicide rate of 21.7 per 100,000 inhabitants, indicating a slight rise from the previous year's figure of 21.5. Significantly, there was a notable decline in homicides by 29 percent during the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, with 41 cases documented instead of 58. According to the CompStat report from the Belize Police Department, there was also an overall reduction in major crimes by 9 percent, decreasing from 536 incidents in H1 2024 to 489 in H1 2025. This encouraging trend is credited to significant falls in murder (–29 percent), robbery (–15 percent), and theft (–26 percent), suggesting improved safety for both residents and tourists 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. Essential Government Travel Advisories for Visiting Belize

U.S. Department of State: Currently, Belize is classified as Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution due to the high incidence of violent crime, which includes sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder. Specifically, the Southside of Belize City is rated as Level 3: Reconsider Travel, making it advisable to stay clear of non-tourist areas south of Haulover Creek. Source: U.S. Department of State
Government of Canada: Canadian travellers are advised to exercise a high degree of caution throughout the country, with specific warnings to avoid non-essential travel to Southside Belize City due to ongoing gang and narcotics-related violence. Source: Government of Canada
UK FCDO: The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office warns that Belize ranks among the highest globally for murder rates per capita; serious gang-related violence primarily affects the Southside of Belize City. Conversely, destinations such as San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Placencia, and San Ignacio tend to be safe for travellers who exercise appropriate caution. Source: UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

3. Identifying High-Risk Areas and Understanding Common Criminal Activities in Belize

Belize City (Southside): This particular area is notorious for gang-related activity, which significantly contributes to the elevated rates of violent crime. It is highly advisable to avoid non-tourist neighbourhoods, particularly after sunset, to ensure your personal safety.
Border Zones: Regions adjacent to the borders are experiencing increased smuggling and cross-border violence, especially with Guatemala, which travellers should approach cautiously and remain aware of.
Petty Crime Hotspots: Areas such as San Pedro have been highlighted for incidents of pickpocketing and credit card fraud. Always remain vigilant by shielding your PIN when using ATMs, and opt for machines located within banks for enhanced security.

4. Effective Safety Strategies for Travellers Discovering Belize

Boosting Your Personal Security During Your Travels

Stay vigilant: It is essential to refrain from walking alone at night, particularly in urban areas like Belize City and Belmopan, where the risk of crime is notably heightened.
Protect your valuables: Always utilise hotel safes for securing important belongings and keep wallets and mobile phones out of sight to deter potential thieves.
Be wary of spiked drinks: Never accept food or drinks from strangers, as this could lead to perilous situations that jeopardise 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 Tips for Travellers in Belize

Road Conditions: Note that the majority of secondary roads in Belize remain unpaved and poorly lit. It is advisable to travel exclusively during daylight hours and ensure your fuel tank is full before embarking on longer trips.
Public Transport Caution: Public buses often suffer from inadequate maintenance—it's best to avoid them when possible. When utilising licensed taxis, bear in mind that they are not regulated by meters; therefore, it is wise to negotiate your fare in advance to avoid misunderstandings.
Ferries Safety: When travelling between the cayes, ensure that life jackets are readily accessible and that vessels are not overcrowded to guarantee a safe passage.

Engaging in Adventure Activities with Safety in Mind

When partaking 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 well-being; consider obtaining travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation for added peace of mind.
Only swim in designated areas; riptides are prevalent, and lifeguards are often unavailable, making it imperative to prioritise safety while enjoying water activities.

Critical Health Precautions for Travellers Visiting Belize

Vaccination Recommendations: While there is no entry requirement for yellow fever, it is strongly advisable to get vaccinated against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, and rabies prior to travelling to Belize. For comprehensive 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 utilise EPA-approved insect repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and sleep under mosquito nets to minimise exposure.
Water Safety Guidelines: Follow the principle of “boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it” regarding food and water consumption. Carry oral rehydration salts to effectively manage traveller’s diarrhoea and ensure you stay adequately 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 specific regions.
Members of the LGBTQ+ community may face 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 enforce this regulation stringently.

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 Assistance in Belize

In emergencies, always dial 911 for immediate assistance, whether 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 help with matters such as arrests, detention, or other emergencies. For further information, visit U.S. Embassy Belmopan.
Ensure to register 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.