Belize Safety Guide: Essential Travel Tips for 2025

Belize stands out as a top Caribbean destination, attracting visitors with its stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. However, for those planning a trip, it is vital to strike a balance between experiencing Belize’s breathtaking beaches, lush jungles, and incredible ancient ruins while also taking necessary precautions to ensure personal safety. This comprehensive guide offers an in-depth overview of the latest crime statistics, government advisories, and valuable local insights, empowering travellers with the knowledge they need to explore Belize confidently while prioritising their safety.

1. Understanding Current Crime Rates and Trends in Belize for 2024

As we transition into 2024, Belize has recorded a homicide rate of 21.7 per 100,000 inhabitants, which indicates a slight uptick from the previous year’s rate of 21.5. Nevertheless, a promising decline in homicides was noted, showcasing a significant reduction of 29 percent during the first half of 2025, with 41 cases reported compared to 58 in the same timeframe in 2024. The CompStat report from the Belize Police Department further highlights an overall drop in major crimes by 9 percent, decreasing from 536 incidents in H1 2024 to 489 in H1 2025. This overall improvement in safety for both locals and tourists can be attributed to marked reductions in murder (–29 percent), robbery (–15 percent), and theft (–26 percent), fostering a more secure environment for exploration.

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 a Secure Trip to Belize

U.S. Department of State: At present, Belize is classified as Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution due to the prevalent risks associated with violent crime, which includes sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder. Specifically, the Southside of Belize City is designated as Level 3: Reconsider Travel, making it crucial for visitors to avoid non-tourist areas located south of Haulover Creek. Source: U.S. Department of State
Government of Canada: Canadians are urged to exercise a high degree of caution throughout Belize, with strong 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 cautions that Belize has one of the highest murder rates in the world per capita; serious gang-related violence predominantly affects the Southside of Belize City. However, other regions such as San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Placencia, and San Ignacio are generally considered safe for travellers who exercise appropriate caution. Source: UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

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

Belize City (Southside): This area is infamous for gang activity, which plays a significant role in the elevated rates of violent crime. For personal safety, it is highly recommended to steer clear of non-tourist neighbourhoods, especially after dark when the risks are amplified.
Border Zones: Regions near the borders are increasingly facing issues related to smuggling and cross-border violence, particularly with Guatemala. Travellers should remain vigilant and cautious in these areas.
Petty Crime Hotspots: Areas such as San Pedro have gained a reputation for incidents of pickpocketing and credit card fraud. It is essential to protect your PIN when using ATMs and, whenever possible, opt for machines located inside banks to enhance security.

4. Implementing Proactive Safety Measures for Your Enjoyment in Belize

Enhancing Your Personal Security While Travelling in Belize

Stay vigilant: It is crucial to avoid walking alone at night, particularly in urban areas such as Belize City and Belmopan, where the likelihood of crime is significantly heightened.
Secure your valuables: Always utilise hotel safes for storing important belongings and keep wallets and mobile phones out of sight to deter potential thieves.
Be cautious of spiked drinks: Always refuse 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 in Belize

Road Conditions: Be mindful that most secondary roads in Belize are unpaved and poorly lit. It is advisable to drive only during daylight hours and to ensure your fuel tank is filled before embarking on longer journeys to avoid being stranded.
Public Transport Caution: Public buses often lack proper maintenance and safety standards—it’s best to avoid using them if possible. When opting for licensed taxis, remember that they are not regulated by meters; therefore, negotiate your fare in advance to prevent misunderstandings or disputes.
Ferries Safety: When travelling between the cayes, ensure that life jackets are readily available and that the vessels are not overcrowded to guarantee safe travel experiences.

Participating in Adventure Activities Safely in Belize

When engaging in adventure activities such as scuba diving, zip-lining, and cave tubing, always select reputable operators. Check their safety records and the quality of their equipment to ensure your safety; consider purchasing travel insurance that includes medical evacuation coverage.
Only swim in designated areas; be aware that riptides are common, and lifeguards are often few and far between, making it essential to prioritise safety while enjoying water activities.

Crucial Health Precautions for Travellers Visiting Belize

Vaccination Recommendations: Although there is no entry requirement for yellow fever, it is highly advisable to be vaccinated against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, and rabies prior to travelling to Belize. For detailed information, please refer to the CDC guidelines.
Mosquito Protection: Given the year-round risk of diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, and Zika, it is vital to use EPA-approved insect repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and sleep under mosquito nets to reduce exposure to these harmful insects.
Water Safety Guidelines: Follow the guideline of “boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it” regarding food and water consumption to avoid illness. Carry oral rehydration salts to effectively manage traveller’s diarrhoea and ensure proper hydration, especially in the warm climate of Belize.

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

Women travelling alone should exercise additional caution to avoid isolated areas and poorly lit alleys, as there have been reports of harassment in certain regions, which can compromise their safety.
Members of the LGBTQ+ community may face social stigma in Belize; it is advisable to refrain from public displays of affection to ensure personal safety and avoid potential conflicts.
Children travelling alone or with only one parent must present notarised parental consent letters, as immigration officials in Belize strictly enforce this regulation to safeguard children.

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 Assistance While in Belize

In case of emergencies, always dial 911 for immediate assistance, whether you require medical, fire, or police services during your stay in Belize.
The U.S. Embassy located in Belmopan and the Canadian Honorary Consul in Belize City can assist with various issues such as arrests, detention, or other emergencies. For additional information, visit U.S. Embassy Belmopan.
Ensure you enrol in your government’s traveller-registration program, like STEP for U.S. citizens or the Registration of Canadians Abroad for Canadians, to stay informed and receive necessary assistance during your travels.