Belize Safety Guide for Savvy Travellers in 2025

Belize is celebrated as a leading Caribbean destination, but it is crucial for prospective visitors to strike a balance between enjoying the paradise that Belize offers and taking essential precautions to ensure their safety. This comprehensive guide presents the most current crime statistics, government advisories, and practical insights, empowering travellers to discover Belize’s stunning beaches, lush jungles, and extraordinary ancient ruins while prioritising their security and well-being.

1. Detailed Exploration of Crime Rates and Trends in Belize

As of 2024, Belize reported a homicide rate of 21.7 per 100,000 inhabitants, which marks a slight rise from the previous year's figure of 21.5. However, there was a notable decrease in homicides by 29 percent during the initial half of 2025 compared to the same timeframe in 2024, with 41 cases documented versus 58. According to the CompStat report from the Belize Police Department, overall significant crimes also experienced a decline of 9 percent, dropping from 536 incidents in H1 2024 to 489 in H1 2025. This encouraging trend is attributed to significant reductions in murder (–29 percent), robbery (–15 percent), and theft (–26 percent), indicating improved safety for both local 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 Safe Visits to Belize

U.S. Department of State: Currently, Belize is rated as Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution due to the occurrence of violent crime, which includes sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder. Notably, the Southside of Belize City is classified as Level 3: Reconsider Travel, and it is advisable to avoid non-tourist areas located south of Haulover Creek. Source: U.S. Department of State
Government of Canada: Canadians are advised to exercise a high degree of caution while travelling throughout Belize, as well as 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; serious gang-related violence primarily affects the Southside of Belize City. In contrast, regions such as San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Placencia, and San Ignacio typically remain safe for tourists who exercise necessary caution. Source: UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

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

Belize City (Southside): This area has gained notoriety for gang activity, which significantly contributes to higher rates of violent crime. It is prudent to steer clear of non-tourist neighbourhoods, particularly after dark, to ensure your personal safety and security.
Border Zones: Regions adjacent to the borders are facing increased smuggling and cross-border violence, especially with Guatemala, which travellers should be aware of and approach with caution.
Petty Crime Hotspots: Destinations like San Pedro are known for incidents of pickpocketing and credit card fraud. Always remain vigilant by concealing your PIN when using ATMs and prefer machines located within banks for enhanced security.

4. Effective Safety Strategies for Travellers Exploring Belize

Boosting Your Personal Security During Your Travels

Stay alert: It is vital to avoid walking alone at night, particularly in urban areas such as Belize City and Belmopan, where the likelihood of crime is significantly increased.
Protect your valuables: Always utilise hotel safes for your important belongings and keep wallets and mobile phones out of sight to deter potential thieves and opportunistic criminals.
Be wary of spiked drinks: Never accept food or drink from strangers, as this could lead to dangerous situations that jeopardise your safety and well-being.

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.

Safe Transportation Recommendations for Travellers

Road Conditions: It is important to recognise that most secondary roads in Belize are unpaved and poorly lit. It is advisable to travel only during daylight hours and ensure that your fuel tank is always full before embarking on long journeys.
Public Transport Caution: Public buses often lack proper maintenance—it's best to avoid them when possible. When using licensed taxis, remember that they are not regulated by meters; therefore, it is wise to negotiate your fare in advance to prevent any misunderstandings.
Ferries Safety: When travelling between the cayes, ensure that life jackets are readily available and that vessels are not overcrowded to guarantee a safe passage.

Ensuring Safety While Participating in Adventure Activities

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 acquiring travel insurance that covers medical evacuation for added peace of mind.
Only swim in designated areas; riptides are common, and lifeguards are frequently absent, making it critical to prioritise safety while enjoying water activities.

Important Health Precautions for Travellers Visiting Belize

Vaccination Recommendations: Although there is no entry requirement for yellow fever, it is highly recommended to receive vaccinations 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 crucial to use 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 proper hydration.

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

Women travelling alone should exercise increased caution to avoid isolated areas and poorly lit streets, as there have been reports of harassment in certain regions.
Individuals from the LGBTQ+ community may face 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 must 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 Assistance in Belize

In emergencies, always call 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 provide assistance with issues such as arrests, detention, or other emergencies. For more details, please visit U.S. Embassy Belmopan.
Ensure that you register with 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 necessary assistance.