Belize Safety Guide for Savvy Travelers in 2025

on July 28, 2025

Belize is celebrated as a top-tier Caribbean travel destination. However, it is crucial for potential visitors to immerse themselves in the stunning natural beauty that Belize offers while taking necessary precautions to safeguard their health and safety. This comprehensive guide presents up-to-date crime statistics, government travel advisories, and personal insights to equip travellers with the vital information needed to explore Belize’s enchanting coastlines, lush forests, and awe-inspiring historical sites, all while ensuring their security and well-being.

1. Stay Informed: Current Crime Rates and Trends in Belize

As of 2024, Belize has reported a homicide rate of 21.7 per 100,000 residents, showing a slight rise from the previous year’s figure of 21.5. Encouragingly, there was a notable decline in homicides by 29 percent in the first half of 2025, with only 41 incidents compared to 58 during the same period in 2024. The CompStat report from the Belize Police Department indicates that overall major crimes have also decreased by 9 percent, from 536 in the first half of 2024 to 489 in the same period of 2025. This positive trend can be credited to significant drops in murder (–29 percent), robbery (–15 percent), and theft (–26 percent), reflecting a more encouraging safety environment for both residents and tourists.

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 Safe Visits to Belize

U.S. Department of State: Currently, Belize is rated as Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution due to the risks presented by violent crime, which includes incidents of sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder. Notably, the Southside of Belize City is classified as Level 3: Reconsider Travel. It is advisable to avoid non-tourist areas located south of Haulover Creek. Source: U.S. Department of State
Government of Canada: Canadian citizens are urged to exercise a high degree of caution across Belize and are advised 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 warns that Belize has one of the highest murder rates globally per capita, with serious gang-related violence mainly affecting the Southside of Belize City. Nevertheless, other areas like San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Placencia, and San Ignacio tend to remain safe for visitors who take the necessary precautions. Source: UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

3. Identifying High-Risk Areas and Common Crimes Encountered in Belize

Belize City (Southside): This area is infamous for gang violence, which significantly contributes to higher rates of violent crimes. It is strongly recommended to avoid non-tourist neighborhoods, especially at night, to ensure your personal safety.
Border Regions: Areas close to the borders are experiencing increased smuggling activities and cross-border violence, particularly with Guatemala, and travellers should remain alert and cautious.
Petty Crime Locations: Tourist hotspots like San Pedro have reported instances of pickpocketing and credit card fraud. Always conceal your PIN when using ATMs and prefer machines located within bank premises for added security.

4. Proactive Safety Strategies for Enjoyable Travels in Belize

Enhancing Your Personal Security During Your Belize Adventure

Stay Alert: It is vital to avoid walking alone at night, especially in urban areas such as Belize City and Belmopan, where crime risks can be higher than in rural settings.
Protect Your Valuables: Utilize hotel safes for important items and keep wallets, mobile phones, and other valuables out of sight to deter potential thieves and pickpockets.
Beware of Spiked Drinks: Never accept food or drinks from strangers, as this could lead to dangerous situations and unwanted incidents.

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.

Crucial Transportation Safety Tips for Travellers in Belize

Road Conditions: Be aware that many secondary roads in Belize are unpaved and poorly lit. It’s advisable to travel only during daylight hours and ensure your fuel tank is full before setting out on longer trips.
Public Transport Awareness: Public buses may lack adequate maintenance—it’s best to avoid using them if possible. When opting for licensed taxis, remember that they do not operate on a meter system; it is wise to negotiate your fare beforehand to avoid disputes.
Ferry Safety: When travelling between the cayes, ensure that life jackets are available and that the vessels are not overcrowded to ensure a safe transit experience.

Participating in Adventure Activities While Prioritizing Safety

When engaging in adventure activities such as scuba diving, zip-lining, and cave tubing, always choose reputable operators. Check their safety records and equipment standards to guarantee your safety; consider obtaining travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation.
Only swim in designated areas; riptides are common, and lifeguards can be scarce, making it essential to prioritize your safety while enjoying water activities.

Essential Health Precautions for Travellers Planning to Visit Belize

Recommended Vaccinations: While there are no entry requirements for yellow fever, it is strongly advised to get vaccinated against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, and rabies prior to travelling to Belize. For detailed information, consult the CDC guidelines.
Mosquito Protection Measures: Given the year-round risk of diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, and Zika, it is crucial to apply EPA-approved insect repellents, wear long-sleeved clothing, and sleep under mosquito nets to minimize exposure.
Water Safety Practices: Follow the principle of “boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it” when it comes to food and water consumption. Carry oral rehydration salts to manage traveller’s diarrhoea effectively and ensure you stay hydrated.

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

Women traveling alone should exercise heightened vigilance to avoid secluded areas and poorly lit streets, as there have been instances of harassment reported in specific locations.
Individuals from the LGBTQ+ community may face social stigma in Belize; it is advisable to avoid public displays of affection to ensure personal safety and comfort.
Children traveling alone or with only one parent must possess notarized parental consent letters, as Belizean immigration officials enforce this regulation strictly.

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 During Your Stay in Belize

In case of emergencies, always dial 911 to receive immediate assistance for medical, fire, or police services in Belize.
The U.S. Embassy located in Belmopan and the Canadian Honorary Consul in Belize City can assist with issues such as arrests, detentions, or other emergencies. For more details, visit U.S. Embassy Belmopan.
Make sure to 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 essential assistance.