Belize Safety Guide: Smart Travel Tips for 2025

Belize is renowned as a premier Caribbean destination, but for those planning a visit, it is essential to find a balance between enjoying the stunning natural beauty that Belize presents and taking necessary precautions to ensure personal safety. This detailed guide provides an overview of the latest crime statistics, government advisories, and firsthand insights, equipping travellers with essential knowledge to explore Belize’s breathtaking beaches, vibrant jungles, and remarkable ancient ruins while prioritising their safety.

1. Analyzing Crime Rates and Trends in Belize for 2024

As we enter 2024, Belize has reported a homicide rate of 21.7 per 100,000 inhabitants, reflecting a slight increase from the previous year’s rate of 21.5. However, a significant decline in homicides was observed, with a drop of 29 percent during the first half of 2025, registering 41 cases compared to 58 in the same period of 2024. According to the CompStat report from the Belize Police Department, there was also an overall decrease in major crimes by 9 percent, falling from 536 incidents in H1 2024 to 489 in H1 2025. This positive trend in safety for both residents and visitors is attributed to notable reductions in murder (–29 percent), robbery (–15 percent), and theft (–26 percent).

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. Key Government Travel Advisories for a Safe Journey to Belize

U.S. Department of State: Currently, Belize is rated as Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution due to the high prevalence of violent crime, including sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder. Specifically, the Southside of Belize City is classified as Level 3: Reconsider Travel—it is advisable 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 nation, with recommendations to avoid non-essential travel to Southside Belize City due to ongoing gang-related and drug 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. However, other 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 Criminal Activities in Belize

Belize City (Southside): This region is notorious for gang activity, which significantly contributes to the higher rates of violent crime. For personal safety, it is advisable to avoid non-tourist neighbourhoods, particularly after dark.
Border Zones: Areas near the borders are increasingly experiencing smuggling and cross-border violence, particularly with Guatemala, which travellers should remain mindful of.
Petty Crime Hotspots: Locations such as San Pedro are known for incidents of pickpocketing and credit card fraud. Always ensure to shield your PIN when utilizing ATMs and, if possible, prefer machines located inside banks for enhanced security.

4. Proactive Safety Measures for Enjoying Your Trip to Belize

Enhancing Your Personal Security While Travelling in Belize

Stay vigilant: It is crucial to avoid walking alone at night, especially in urban centres like Belize City and Belmopan, where the risk of crime is heightened.
Secure your valuables: Always use hotel safes for storing important items and keep wallets and mobile 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.

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 in Belize

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 embarking on longer journeys.
Public Transport Caution: Public buses often lack proper maintenance—it’s best to avoid them if possible. When using licensed taxis, remember that they are not regulated by meters; therefore, negotiate your fare in advance 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.

Engaging in Adventure Activities Safely in Belize

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

Essential Health Precautions for Travellers Visiting Belize

Vaccination Recommendations: While there is no entry requirement for yellow fever, it is highly recommended to be vaccinated against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, and rabies prior to travelling to Belize. For detailed information, 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 reduce exposure.
Water Safety Guidelines: Adhere to the rule 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 proper hydration.

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

Women travelling solo should exercise extra 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 must have 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 While in Belize

In case of emergencies, always dial 911 for immediate assistance, whether it’s 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 assistance for issues such as arrests, detention, or other emergencies. For more information, visit U.S. Embassy Belmopan.
Ensure you enrol 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 necessary assistance.