Belize Safety Guide for Savvy Travellers in 2025

Belize is widely celebrated as a top Caribbean destination, yet it is crucial for prospective visitors to strike a balance between enjoying the paradise that Belize offers and taking essential precautions to ensure their safety. This comprehensive guide includes the most recent crime statistics, government advisories, and authentic insights, empowering travellers to explore Belize’s stunning beaches, lush jungles, and incredible ancient ruins while maintaining a focus on their safety and well-being.

1. Comprehensive Overview of Crime Rates and Trends in Belize

As of 2024, Belize reported a homicide rate of 21.7 per 100,000 inhabitants, marking a slight rise from the previous year’s statistic of 21.5. However, a remarkable reduction in homicides of 29 percent was observed during the first half of 2025, with 41 cases documented in comparison to 58 cases from the same period in 2024. The CompStat report from the Belize Police Department indicates an overall decline in major crimes by 9 percent, decreasing from 536 incidents in H1 2024 to 489 in H1 2025. This encouraging trend is primarily attributed to significant reductions in murder (–29 percent), robbery (–15 percent), and theft (–26 percent), signalling improved safety for both residents and visitors 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 Belize

U.S. Department of State: Currently, Belize is classified 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 rated as Level 3: Reconsider Travel, making it advisable to steer clear of non-tourist areas located 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, alongside 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. In contrast, regions such as San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Placencia, and San Ignacio typically remain safe for travellers who adopt appropriate caution. Source: UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

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

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

4. Effective Safety Strategies for Travellers Exploring Belize

Improving Your Personal Security During Your Travels

Maintain vigilance: It is essential to avoid walking alone at night, especially in urban areas like Belize City and Belmopan, where the risk of crime is considerably heightened.
Secure your valuables: Always utilise hotel safes for important items and keep wallets and phones out of sight to deter potential thieves.
Be cautious of spiked drinks: Never accept food or beverages from strangers, as this could lead to dangerous situations that compromise 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 Travellers

Road Conditions: Be aware that most secondary roads in Belize are unpaved and poorly lit. It is advisable to travel only during daylight hours and ensure your fuel tank is always filled before undertaking longer journeys.
Public Transport Caution: Public buses often lack adequate maintenance—it’s wise to avoid them when 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 misunderstandings.
Ferries Safety: When travelling between the cayes, ensure that life jackets are readily accessible and that vessels are not overcrowded to guarantee 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 choose reputable operators. Check their safety records and equipment standards to ensure your well-being; consider obtaining travel insurance that covers medical evacuation for added peace of mind.
Only swim in designated areas; riptides are common, and lifeguards are often unavailable, making it critical to prioritise safety while in the water.

Vital 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 essential 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.

5. Special Considerations for Women, Children, and LGBTQ+ Travellers

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.
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.
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.

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 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 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 programme, such as STEP for U.S. citizens or the Registration of Canadians Abroad for Canadians, to stay informed and receive necessary assistance.