Belize Safety Guide: Smart Travel Tips for 2025

Belize is renowned as a premier Caribbean haven, yet it is essential for prospective tourists to find a harmonious balance between soaking in the enchanting paradise that Belize presents and implementing vital precautions to ensure their safety. This detailed guide compiles the latest crime statistics, governmental advisories, and firsthand experiences to empower travellers with the information required to traverse Belize’s breathtaking beaches, verdant jungles, and majestic ancient ruins while keeping their safety a top priority.

1. In-Depth Analysis of Crime Rates and Trends in Belize

As of 2024, Belize recorded a homicide rate of 21.7 per 100,000 inhabitants, indicating a slight rise from the previous year's figure of 21.5. However, it is noteworthy that there was a significant 29 percent reduction in homicide rates during the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, with only 41 cases reported against 58. The latest CompStat report from the Belize Police Department indicates a general decrease in major crimes by 9 percent, from 536 in the first half of 2024 to 489 in the same timeframe in 2025. This positive shift is attributed to substantial decreases in murder (–29 percent), robbery (–15 percent), and theft (–26 percent), illustrating a more secure environment 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. Crucial Government Travel Advisories for Visiting Belize

U.S. Department of State: At present, Belize is designated as Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution due to the prevalence of violent crime, which encompasses incidents such as sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder. Specifically, the Southside of Belize City is rated as Level 3: Reconsider Travel, and it is advisable to steer clear of non-tourist areas situated south of Haulover Creek. Source: U.S. Department of State
Government of Canada: Canadians are urged to exercise a high degree of caution throughout the country, with recommendations to avoid non-essential travel to Southside Belize City owing to ongoing gang and drug-related violence. Source: Government of Canada
UK FCDO: The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office cautions that Belize ranks among the countries with the highest murder rates globally on a per capita basis; the severe gang-related violence primarily impacts the Southside of Belize City. Nevertheless, regions like San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Placencia, and San Ignacio are generally considered safe for travellers 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 district is notorious for gang-related activities that significantly contribute to elevated violent crime rates. It is advisable to avoid non-tourist neighbourhoods, especially after dark, to enhance personal safety.
Border Areas: Regions adjacent to the borders are witnessing increased smuggling and cross-border violence, particularly involving Guatemala, which travellers should remain vigilant about.
Petty Crime Hotspots: Locations such as San Pedro have reported incidents of pickpocketing and credit card fraud. Always make it a practice to shield your PIN while using ATMs and opt for machines located inside banks for enhanced security.

4. Proactive Strategies for Ensuring Safety While Travelling in Belize

Boosting Your Personal Security During Your Travels

Maintain vigilance: It is essential to refrain from walking alone at night, particularly in urban locales like Belize City and Belmopan, where the likelihood of crime is considerably heightened.
Secure your valuables: Always utilise hotel safes for your important belongings and keep wallets and mobile devices out of sight to deter opportunistic thieves.
Be cautious of spiked drinks: Never accept food or beverages from unfamiliar individuals, 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 Secure Travel in Belize

Road Conditions: It is imperative to acknowledge that most secondary roads in Belize are unpaved and inadequately lit. Therefore, it is advisable to drive exclusively during daylight hours and ensure that your fuel tank is filled before embarking on longer journeys.
Public Transport Precautions: Public buses often lack proper maintenance—it's prudent to avoid them whenever possible. When using licensed taxis, remember that they are not regulated by meters; hence, negotiate your fare prior to the journey to prevent any misunderstandings.
Ferries Safety: When travelling between the cayes, ensure that life jackets are readily accessible and that the vessels are not overcrowded to facilitate safe travel.

Engaging in Adventure Activities with Safety in Mind

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

Crucial Health Precautions for Travellers Heading to Belize

Vaccination Recommendations: While there is no entry requirement for yellow fever, it is strongly advised to receive vaccinations for hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, and rabies prior to your trip 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 use EPA-approved insect repellent, wear long-sleeved attire, and sleep under mosquito nets to limit exposure.
Water Safety Guidelines: Adhere to the principle of “boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it” regarding food and water consumption. Carry oral rehydration salts to effectively manage traveller’s diarrhoea and ensure you remain hydrated.

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

Women travelling alone should exercise additional 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 face social stigma in Belize; it is advisable to refrain from public displays of affection to safeguard personal safety.
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 Support in Belize

In emergencies, always dial 911 for immediate assistance, whether it concerns medical, fire, or police services in Belize.
The U.S. Embassy located in Belmopan and the Canadian Honorary Consul in Belize City are available to assist with matters such as arrests, detentions, or other emergencies. For further information, visit U.S. Embassy Belmopan.
Ensure that you enrol 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 essential assistance.