Belize Safety Guide: Key Tips for Savvy Travellers 2025

Belize is renowned as a premier Caribbean destination, offering breathtaking scenery and vibrant culture. However, it is essential for prospective visitors to find a balance between relishing the paradise that Belize presents and implementing necessary precautions to safeguard their well-being. This extensive guide consolidates the latest crime statistics, government advisories, and practical insights to empower travellers with the information they need to explore Belize’s exquisite beaches, verdant jungles, and remarkable ancient ruins while ensuring their safety remains a top priority.

1. Key Insights into Crime Rates and Trends in Belize

As of 2024, Belize recorded a homicide rate of 21.7 per 100,000 inhabitants, reflecting a modest increase from the previous year's statistic of 21.5. Notably, the first half of 2025 saw a significant decrease in homicides by 29 percent, with only 41 cases reported compared to 58 during the same period in 2024. According to the CompStat report from the Belize Police Department, overall major crimes experienced a decline of 9 percent, falling from 536 in H1 2024 to 489 in H1 2025. This positive shift in crime rates is attributed to substantial reductions in murder (–29 percent), robbery (–15 percent), and theft (–26 percent), indicating a growing sense of safety for both residents and visitors.

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. Critical Government Travel Advisories for a Safe Visit to Belize

U.S. Department of State: At present, Belize is classified as Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution due to the existence of violent crimes, which encompass sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder. Specifically, the Southside of Belize City is rated as Level 3: Reconsider Travel—it is strongly recommended to steer clear of non-tourist areas situated south of Haulover Creek. Source: U.S. Department of State
Government of Canada: Canadian nationals are advised to exercise a high degree of caution throughout the country, along with guidance 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 holds one of the highest global murder rates per capita; serious gang-related violence largely impacts the Southside of Belize City. Nonetheless, other regions, including San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Placencia, and San Ignacio, generally remain safe for tourists who exercise proper 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-related activity, which significantly contributes to the elevated rates of violent crime. It is advisable to avoid non-tourist neighbourhoods, especially after dusk, to ensure personal safety.
Border Zones: Regions in proximity to borders are currently experiencing a surge in smuggling and cross-border violence, particularly with Guatemala, which travellers should remain aware of.
Petty Crime Hotspots: Locations such as San Pedro are known for incidents of pickpocketing and credit card fraud. It is essential to protect your PIN when utilising ATMs and to prefer machines located within banks for added security.

4. Proactive Safety Recommendations for Travellers Exploring Belize

Boosting Your Personal Security During Your Travels

Stay alert: It is vital to refrain from walking alone at night, particularly in urban centres like Belize City and Belmopan, where the likelihood of crime is heightened.
Safeguard your valuables: Always make use of hotel safes for important possessions and keep wallets and mobile phones concealed to dissuade potential thieves.
Exercise caution with drinks: Never accept food or beverages from strangers, as this could lead to perilous 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 Visitors to Belize

Road Conditions: Be aware that the majority of secondary roads in Belize are unpaved and poorly illuminated. It is advisable to drive exclusively during daylight hours and to ensure your fuel tank is always filled before embarking on longer journeys.
Public Transport Precautions: Public buses often lack appropriate maintenance—it's prudent to avoid them if possible. When opting for licensed taxis, keep in mind they are not regulated by meters; therefore, negotiate your fare beforehand to prevent any misunderstandings.
Ferry Safety Measures: When travelling between the cayes, ensure that life jackets are readily accessible and that vessels are not overcrowded to guarantee safe passage.

Ensuring Safety While Engaging in Adventure Activities

When partaking in adventure activities such as scuba diving, zip-lining, and cave tubing, always select reputable operators. Verify their safety records and equipment standards to ensure your well-being; consider acquiring travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation.
Only swim in designated areas; riptides are frequent, and lifeguards are often scarce, making it vital to prioritise safety while in the water.

Important Health Precautions for Visitors to Belize

Vaccination Recommendations: While there is no entry requirement for yellow fever, it is highly advisable to receive vaccinations for hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, and rabies prior to travelling to Belize. For comprehensive information, refer to the CDC guidelines.
Mosquito Protection: Considering the year-round risk of diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, and Zika, it is imperative to utilise EPA-approved insect repellent, don 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” concerning food and water consumption. Carry oral rehydration salts to effectively manage traveller’s diarrhoea and remain hydrated.

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

Women travelling solo should exercise heightened caution to avoid isolated areas and dimly 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 avoid public displays of affection in order to ensure personal safety.
Children travelling alone or with only one parent need to possess 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. How to Access Emergency Services and Consular Support in Belize

In case of emergencies, always dial 911 for immediate 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 assist with issues 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 remain informed and receive necessary assistance.