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 enjoying the stunning paradise that Belize offers and taking the necessary precautions to protect their personal safety and well-being. This comprehensive guide presents the latest crime statistics, government advisories, and genuine insights, empowering travellers to discover Belize’s stunning beaches, lush jungles, and extraordinary ancient ruins while ensuring their safety and security are prioritised.

1. Detailed Examination of Crime Rates and Trends in Belize

As of 2024, Belize recorded a homicide rate of 21.7 per 100,000 inhabitants, indicating a slight increase from the previous year's figure of 21.5. However, a remarkable decrease in homicides of 29 percent was observed during the first half of 2025 compared to the same timeframe in 2024, with 41 cases reported versus 58. According to the CompStat report from the Belize Police Department, overall major crimes also experienced a decrease of 9 percent, dropping from 536 incidents in H1 2024 to 489 in H1 2025. This encouraging trend is attributed to significant declines 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. Important Government Travel Advisories for Visitors to Belize

U.S. Department of State: Currently, Belize is categorised as Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution due to the prevalence of violent crime, which includes sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder. Notably, the Southside of Belize City is classified as Level 3: Reconsider Travel, which means it is advisable to avoid non-tourist areas located south of Haulover Creek. Source: U.S. Department of State
Government of Canada: Canadians are encouraged 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 warns that Belize has one of the highest murder rates globally per capita; serious gang-related violence predominantly affects the Southside of Belize City. Conversely, areas such as San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Placencia, and San Ignacio are generally safe for travellers who maintain appropriate caution. Source: UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

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

Belize City (Southside): This area is notorious for gang activity, which significantly contributes to increased violent crime rates. It is advisable to avoid non-tourist neighbourhoods, particularly after dark, to ensure your personal safety and security.
Border Zones: Regions adjacent to the borders are experiencing heightened smuggling and cross-border violence, especially with Guatemala, which travellers should be aware of and approach with caution.
Petty Crime Hotspots: Locations like San Pedro have been noted for incidents of pickpocketing and credit card fraud. Always stay vigilant by shielding your PIN when using ATMs, and prefer machines that are located inside banks for added security.

4. Effective Safety Strategies for Travellers Visiting Belize

Boosting Your Personal Security While Travelling

Stay vigilant: It is vital to avoid walking alone at night, particularly in urban areas like Belize City and Belmopan, where the risk of crime is significantly heightened.
Protect your valuables: Always utilise hotel safes for important belongings and keep wallets and phones out of sight to deter potential thieves and opportunistic criminals.
Exercise caution with drinks: Never accept food or beverages from strangers, as this could lead to dangerous situations that compromise your safety and well-being.

Aerial view of the Great Blue Hole near the coast with people by the water, surrounded by greenery. Text on the image reads "BELIZEAN GREAT BLUE HOLE" with illustrated map, sun, clouds, an airplane—perfect for your Belize travel adventures.

Transportation Safety Guidelines for Travellers

Road Conditions: Be aware that most secondary roads in Belize are unpaved and poorly illuminated. It is advisable to travel only during daylight hours and ensure your fuel tank is always topped up before embarking on longer journeys.
Public Transport Precautions: Public buses often lack adequate maintenance—it's best to avoid them whenever possible. When using licensed taxis, keep in mind that they are not regulated by meters; therefore, it is prudent to negotiate your fare beforehand to prevent any misunderstandings.
Ferry Safety: When travelling between the cayes, ensure that life jackets are readily accessible and that vessels are not overcrowded to guarantee safe passage during your travels.

Ensuring Safety While Participating in Adventure Activities

When taking part in adventure activities such as scuba diving, zip-lining, and cave tubing, always choose reputable operators. Verify their safety records and equipment standards to ensure your well-being; consider obtaining travel insurance that covers medical evacuation for added peace of mind and security.
Only swim in designated areas; riptides are common, and lifeguards are frequently unavailable, making it critical to prioritise your safety while in the water.

Crucial Health Precautions for Travellers Visiting Belize

Vaccination Recommendations: Although there is no entry requirement for yellow fever, it is strongly advised 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 use EPA-approved insect repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and sleep under mosquito nets to minimise exposure.
Water Safety Guidelines: Adhere to 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 adequate hydration throughout your trip.

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 alleys, as there have been reports of harassment in certain regions of the country.
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 are required to possess notarised parental consent letters, as immigration officials in Belize enforce this regulation stringently to protect minors.

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 in Belize

In emergencies, always dial 911 for prompt 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 issues such as arrests, detention, or other emergencies. For more information, visit U.S. Embassy Belmopan.
Be sure 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 remain informed and receive necessary assistance throughout your travels.