Belize Safety Guide: Essential Travel Tips for 2025

Belize is undoubtedly a top Caribbean holiday destination, but it is crucial for prospective visitors to strike a balance between enjoying the heaven that Belize offers and taking essential precautions to ensure their safety. This comprehensive guide provides the latest crime statistics, official government advisories, and personal stories from travellers, equipping tourists with the knowledge they need to navigate Belize’s stunning beaches, lush jungles, and awe-inspiring ancient ruins while prioritising their security.

1. Comprehensive Overview of Crime Statistics and Trends in Belize

As of 2024, Belize reported a homicide rate of 21.7 per 100,000 residents, showing a slight increase from the previous year’s statistic of 21.5. However, it’s important to highlight that there was a notable decline in homicides by 29 percent during the first half of 2025 compared to the same timeframe in 2024, with incidents decreasing from 58 to 41. According to the CompStat report from the Belize Police Department, the overall number of major crimes also experienced a reduction of 9 percent, dropping from 536 in H1 2024 to 489 in H1 2025. This encouraging trend is associated with significant declines in murder (–29 percent), robbery (–15 percent), and theft (–26 percent), indicating a positive shift in safety for both locals 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 Safe Visits to Belize

U.S. Department of State: Currently, Belize is classified as Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution due to prevalent instances of violent crime, including sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder. In particular, the Southside of Belize City has been rated as Level 3: Reconsider Travel, with strong advice 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 country, particularly recommended 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 is predominantly affecting the Southside of Belize City. However, other areas such as San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Placencia, and San Ignacio generally remain safe for travellers who take appropriate precautions. Source: UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

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

Belize City (Southside): This area is infamous for gang-related activity, which significantly contributes to elevated violent crime rates. It is strongly advised to avoid non-tourist neighbourhoods, especially after dark, to safeguard your personal safety.
Border Areas: Regions adjacent to the borders are experiencing heightened smuggling and cross-border violence, particularly with Guatemala, which travellers should remain alert to.
Petty Crime Hotspots: Areas like San Pedro are known for incidents of pickpocketing and credit card fraud. Always take precautions to protect your PIN when using ATMs and prefer machines located within banks for added security.

4. Effective Strategies for Ensuring Personal Safety While Travelling in Belize

Enhancing Your Personal Security During Your Travels

Stay vigilant: It is vital to avoid walking alone at night, particularly in urban centres like Belize City and Belmopan, where the risk of crime is notably higher.
Secure your valuables: Always use hotel safes to store important items and keep wallets and mobile phones out of sight to deter potential thieves.
Beware of spiked drinks: Never accept food or beverages from strangers, as this could lead to dangerous situations.

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

Transportation Safety Guidelines for a Secure Journey

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 undertaking longer journeys.
Public Transport Caution: Public buses often lack adequate maintenance; it’s wise to avoid them if possible. When using licensed taxis, remember they are not regulated by meters; therefore, negotiate your fare beforehand to avoid misunderstandings.
Ferries Safety: When travelling between the cayes, ensure that life jackets are available and that the vessels are not overcrowded to guarantee safe travel.

Engaging in Adventure Activities with Safety Considerations

When participating in adventure activities such as scuba diving, zip-lining, and cave tubing, always choose reputable operators. Investigate their safety records and equipment standards to ensure your well-being; consider obtaining travel insurance that covers medical evacuation.
Only swim in designated safe areas; riptides are common, and lifeguards are often scarce, making it essential to prioritise safety when in the water.

Health Precautions Every Traveller Should Take Before Visiting 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 important to use EPA-approved insect repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and sleep under mosquito nets to minimise exposure.
Water Safety Guidelines: Follow the guideline of “boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it” regarding food and water safety. Carry oral rehydration salts to effectively manage traveller’s diarrhoea and maintain hydration.

5. Important Precautions for Women, Children, and LGBTQ+ Travellers

Women travelling alone should take extra precautions to avoid secluded 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 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 strictly enforce this regulation.

Two individuals 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 case of emergencies, always dial 911 for immediate assistance, whether it pertains to medical, fire, or police services in Belize.
The U.S. Embassy located in Belmopan and the Canadian Honorary Consul in Belize City can provide crucial assistance with matters such as arrests, detention, or other emergencies. For additional information, visit U.S. Embassy Belmopan.
Ensure you register in your government’s traveller-registration program, such as STEP for U.S. citizens or the Registration of Canadians Abroad for Canadians, to stay informed and receive essential assistance.