Belize Safety Guide: Smart Travel Tips for 2025

Belize is recognised as a premier Caribbean destination, but it is essential for prospective visitors to find a balance between relishing the heavenly experience that Belize presents and taking necessary precautions to ensure their safety throughout their journey. This detailed guide provides the latest crime statistics, government advisories, and first-hand insights, empowering travellers with the vital information they need to explore Belize’s breathtaking coastal beaches, vibrant jungles, and remarkable ancient ruins while prioritising their safety and well-being.

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

As of 2024, Belize has recorded a homicide rate of 21.7 per 100,000 inhabitants, which reflects a slight increase from the previous year's figure of 21.5. Notably, there was a significant decline in homicide cases by 29 percent during the first half of 2025 in comparison to the same period in 2024, with 41 cases reported versus 58. According to the CompStat report from the Belize Police Department, overall major crime incidents also experienced a drop of 9 percent, decreasing from 536 in the first half of 2024 to 489 in the first half of 2025. This positive trend is largely attributed to significant reductions in murder (–29 percent), robbery (–15 percent), and theft (–26 percent), highlighting improvements 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 Government Travel Advisories for a Safe Visit to Belize

U.S. Department of State: Presently, Belize is classified as Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution due to the prevalence of various violent crimes, which encompass sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder. Specifically, the Southside of Belize City is rated as Level 3: Reconsider Travel—it is highly recommended to steer clear of non-tourist areas situated south of Haulover Creek. Source: U.S. Department of State
Government of Canada: Canadian citizens are advised to exercise a high degree of caution throughout the nation, coupled with recommendations to avoid non-essential travel to the Southside of Belize City due to ongoing gang-related and drug-related violence. Source: Government of Canada
UK FCDO: The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office highlights that Belize has one of the highest murder rates globally per capita; serious gang-related violence predominantly impacts the Southside of Belize City. However, areas 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 area is notorious for gang activity that significantly contributes to higher rates of violent crime. It is advisable to avoid entering non-tourist neighbourhoods, particularly after dark, for your personal safety and peace of mind.
Border Zones: Regions near the borders are experiencing a surge in smuggling and cross-border violence, particularly with Guatemala, which travellers should remain aware of to ensure their safety.
Petty Crime Hotspots: Locations like San Pedro have gained a reputation for incidents of pickpocketing and credit card fraud. It is crucial to protect your PIN while using ATMs and to prefer machines located inside banks for enhanced security.

4. Effective Safety Strategies for Travellers Exploring Belize

Boosting Your Personal Security While Travelling

Maintain vigilance: It is vital to avoid walking alone at night, especially in urban areas such as Belize City and Belmopan, where the risk of crime tends to be higher.
Secure your valuables: Always utilise hotel safes for storing important items and keep wallets and mobile phones out of sight to deter potential thieves from targeting you.
Be cautious of spiked drinks: Never accept food or drinks from strangers, as this could lead to precarious 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 Guidelines for a Secure Journey

Road Conditions: Be aware that most secondary roads in Belize are unpaved and poorly lit, which can pose risks for drivers. It is advisable to drive only during daylight hours and to ensure your fuel tank is always full before embarking on longer journeys to avoid being stranded.
Public Transport Caution: Public buses often lack proper maintenance and safety measures—hence, it is best to avoid them if possible. When using licensed taxis, remember that they are not regulated by meters; therefore, negotiating your fare in advance will help to avoid misunderstandings.
Ferries Safety: When travelling between the cayes, make sure that life jackets are readily available and that the vessels are not overcrowded to guarantee a safe journey.

Prioritising Safety During Adventure Activities

When engaging in adventure activities such as scuba diving, zip-lining, and cave tubing, always choose reputable operators with proven safety records. Verify their equipment standards to ensure your safety; consider purchasing travel insurance that covers medical evacuation for peace of mind.
Only swim in designated areas; be aware that riptides are common, and lifeguards are often scarce, making it essential to prioritise safety while enjoying water activities.

Vital Health Precautions for Travellers Visiting 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 comprehensive details, refer to the CDC guidelines.
Mosquito Protection: Given the year-round risk of diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, and Zika, it is crucial to use EPA-approved insect repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and sleep under mosquito nets to minimise exposure while in Belize.
Water Safety Guidelines: Adhere to 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 stay hydrated throughout your stay.

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 alleyways, as there have been reports of harassment in certain regions of Belize.
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 must have notarised parental consent letters, as immigration officials in Belize enforce this regulation stringently, which is essential for hassle-free entry.

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 case of emergencies, always dial 911 for immediate assistance, whether it’s for medical, fire, or police services in Belize, ensuring you receive prompt help when needed.
The U.S. Embassy, located in Belmopan, along with the Canadian Honorary Consul in Belize City, can provide vital assistance regarding issues such as arrests, detention, or other emergencies. For further information, please visit U.S. Embassy Belmopan.
Make sure 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 essential assistance while travelling.