Belize Safety Guide for Savvy Travellers in 2025

Belize is widely celebrated as a premier Caribbean destination, but it remains crucial for prospective visitors to strike a balance between enjoying the stunning paradise that Belize embodies and taking the necessary precautions to protect their safety. This comprehensive guide provides up-to-date crime statistics, government advisories, and practical insights, empowering travellers to discover Belize’s spectacular beaches, lush jungles, and extraordinary ancient ruins while placing their safety and security at the forefront of their travel plans.

1. Thorough Examination of Crime Rates and Trends in Belize

As of 2024, Belize has recorded a homicide rate of 21.7 per 100,000 inhabitants, which marks a slight increase from the previous year's figure of 21.5. However, during the first half of 2025, there was a significant reduction in homicides by 29 percent compared to the same timeframe in 2024, with 41 cases documented versus 58. The CompStat report from the Belize Police Department indicates that overall major crimes also experienced a decrease of 9 percent, declining from 536 incidents in H1 2024 to 489 in H1 2025. This encouraging trend is attributed to notable decreases in murder (–29 percent), robbery (–15 percent), and theft (–26 percent), suggesting 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 rated as Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution due to the prevalence of violent crime, which includes sexual assaults, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder. Specifically, the Southside of Belize City is categorised as Level 3: Reconsider Travel, and it is advisable to steer clear of non-tourist areas located south of Haulover Creek. Source: U.S. Department of State
Government of Canada: Canadians are strongly encouraged to exercise a high degree of caution while travelling throughout the nation, with advisories 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; the serious gang-related violence primarily affects the Southside of Belize City. Conversely, 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 notorious for gang activity, which significantly contributes to elevated violent crime rates. It is wise to avoid non-tourist neighbourhoods, particularly after dark, to ensure personal safety and security.
Border Zones: Regions adjacent to the borders are experiencing increased smuggling and cross-border violence, particularly with Guatemala. Travellers should remain vigilant and approach these areas with caution.
Petty Crime Hotspots: Locations such as San Pedro have reported incidents of pickpocketing and credit card fraud. It is advisable to remain alert by shielding your PIN while using ATMs and opting for machines situated inside banks for enhanced security.

4. Effective Safety Strategies for Explorative Travellers in Belize

Strengthening 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 notably heightened.
Secure your valuables: Always utilise hotel safes for important belongings and keep wallets and phones concealed to deter potential thieves.
Be wary of spiked drinks: Never accept food or beverages from strangers, as this could result in dangerous situations that compromise your safety and security.

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 Tips for Savvy Travellers

Road Conditions: Be aware that many secondary roads in Belize are unpaved and poorly illuminated. It is advisable to travel only during daylight hours and ensure that your fuel tank is always filled before embarking on longer journeys.
Public Transport Caution: Public buses often suffer from inadequate maintenance—it's advisable to avoid them when possible. When using licensed taxis, keep in mind that they are not regulated by meters; therefore, it's wise 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.

Participating in Adventure Activities Responsibly

When engaging 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 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 frequently unavailable, making it critical 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 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 vital to apply EPA-approved insect repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and sleep under mosquito nets to minimise exposure.
Water Safety Guidelines: 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 effectively manage traveller’s diarrhoea and maintain adequate hydration levels.

5. Important 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, particularly those less frequented by tourists.
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 and comfort.
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 to protect minors.

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 immediate assistance, whether for medical, fire, or police services in Belize.
The U.S. Embassy located in Belmopan, alongside the Canadian Honorary Consul in Belize City, can provide support with issues such as arrests, detention, or other emergencies. For more information, visit U.S. Embassy Belmopan.
Be 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 remain informed and receive necessary assistance during your travels.