Belize Safety Guide: Essential Travel Tips for 2025

Belize is recognised as a premier Caribbean destination, yet it is essential for prospective travellers to find a harmonious balance between embracing the paradise that Belize presents and taking vital precautions to safeguard their well-being. This extensive guide provides a detailed overview of the latest crime statistics, government advisories, and personal experiences to empower visitors with the information they require to explore Belize’s breathtaking beaches, verdant jungles, and magnificent ancient ruins while prioritising their safety.

1. Analyse Crime Rates and Trends in Belize for Informed Travel Decisions

As of 2024, Belize has reported a homicide rate of 21.7 per 100,000 inhabitants, reflecting a minor increase from the previous year's rate of 21.5. Notably, there was a significant decrease in homicides by 29 percent during the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, with recorded cases dropping from 58 to 41. According to the CompStat report from the Belize Police Department, there was also an overall reduction in major crimes by 9 percent, falling from 536 incidents in H1 2024 to 489 in H1 2025. This positive trend indicates substantial declines in serious crimes such as murder (–29 percent), robbery (–15 percent), and theft (–26 percent), suggesting an enhanced sense of 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. Stay Informed: Essential Government Travel Advisories for a Safe Journey to Belize

U.S. Department of State: Currently, Belize is classified as Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution due to the widespread nature of violent crime, which encompasses sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder. Specifically, the Southside of Belize City has been designated as Level 3: Reconsider Travel—it is strongly recommended to steer clear of 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 entire country, with specific recommendations to avoid non-essential travel to Southside Belize City due to persistent 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 per capita globally; serious gang-related violence primarily impacts the Southside of Belize City. Nevertheless, areas such as San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Placencia, and San Ignacio typically remain safe for tourists who exercise appropriate caution. Source: UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

3. Recognising High-Risk Areas and Common Crimes in Belize: A Guide for Tourists

Belize City (Southside): This particular region is notorious for gang activity, which significantly contributes to the prevalence of violent crime. It is highly advisable to avoid non-tourist neighbourhoods, especially after dark, to ensure personal safety.
Border Zones: Areas adjacent to the borders are witnessing an uptick in smuggling and cross-border violence, particularly involving Guatemala, which is something travellers should remain aware of.
Petty Crime Hotspots: Locations such as San Pedro have been reported for incidents of pickpocketing and credit card fraud. Always ensure that you shield your PIN when using ATMs and prefer machines located inside banks for enhanced security.

4. Proactive Safety Strategies for a Secure Experience While Visiting Belize

Enhancing Your Personal Security During Your Travels

Maintain vigilance: It is imperative to avoid walking alone at night, particularly in urban environments like Belize City and Belmopan, where the risk of crime tends to be elevated.
Secure your valuables: Always make use of hotel safes for important items and keep wallets and phones concealed to deter potential thieves.
Be cautious of spiked drinks: Never accept food or beverages from strangers, as doing so 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.

Transportation Safety Guidelines for a Secure Journey in Belize

Road Conditions: It’s important to be aware that most secondary roads in Belize are unpaved and inadequately lit. It is advisable to drive only during daylight hours and to ensure your fuel tank is always filled before setting off on longer journeys.
Public Transport Caution: Public buses frequently lack proper maintenance—it's advisable to avoid them when possible. When opting for licensed taxis, keep in mind that they are not regulated by meters; hence, negotiate your fare beforehand to prevent 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.

Participating in Adventure Activities with Safety in Mind

While 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 safety; consider acquiring travel insurance that includes medical evacuation coverage.
Only swim in designated areas; riptides are common, and lifeguards are often not present, making it crucial to prioritise safety in aquatic environments.

Essential Health Precautions for a Safe Visit to Belize

Vaccination Recommendations: Although there is no entry requirement for yellow fever, it is highly advisable to receive vaccinations against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, and rabies prior to travelling to Belize. For comprehensive information, 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: 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 Considerations for Women, Children, and LGBTQ Travellers: Ensuring Safety and Comfort

Women travelling alone should exercise additional caution by avoiding 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 guarantee personal safety.
Children travelling unaccompanied 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. Accessing Emergency Services and Consular Support in Belize: A Practical Guide for Travellers

In case of emergencies, always dial 911 for immediate 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 issues such as arrests, detention, or other emergencies. For further details, visit U.S. Embassy Belmopan.
Ensure 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 remain informed and receive necessary assistance.