Belize Safety Guide for Savvy Travellers in 2025

Belize is celebrated as a top-tier Caribbean destination, yet it remains imperative for prospective visitors to strike a balance between enjoying the heavenly landscapes that Belize offers and taking the essential precautions to protect their well-being. This comprehensive guide encompasses the latest crime statistics, government advisories, and real-life experiences, empowering travellers to discover Belize’s stunning beaches, lively jungles, and extraordinary ancient ruins while prioritising their safety and security.

1. Thorough Examination of Crime Rates and Trends in Belize

As of 2024, Belize recorded a homicide rate of 21.7 per 100,000 residents, showing a slight rise from the previous year's figure of 21.5. Remarkably, there was a significant drop in homicides by 29 percent during the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, with 41 cases reported versus 58. According to the CompStat report from the Belize Police Department, major crimes overall also witnessed a decrease of 9 percent, dropping from 536 incidents in H1 2024 to 489 in H1 2025. This encouraging trend can be attributed to significant reductions in murder (–29 percent), robbery (–15 percent), and theft (–26 percent), indicating a safer environment for both residents and visitors.

Type of Crime	Jan–Jun 2024	Jan–Jun 2025	Percentage Change
Major crimes	536	489	–9 percent
Homicides	58	41	–29 percent
Robberies	–	–	–15 percent
Thefts	–	–	–26 percent

2. Important Government Travel Advisories for Belize

U.S. Department of State: Currently, Belize is classified as Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution due to the prevalence of 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; therefore, it is advised 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 throughout the country, with recommendations 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 mainly affects the Southside of Belize City. Conversely, regions such as San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Placencia, and San Ignacio generally remain safe for travellers who take the necessary precautions. 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 has significantly contributed to increased rates of violent crime. It is advisable to steer clear of non-tourist neighbourhoods, especially after dark, to ensure personal safety and well-being.
Border Regions: Areas adjacent to the borders are experiencing a rise in smuggling and cross-border violence, particularly with Guatemala. Travellers should remain aware and approach these regions with caution.
Petty Crime Hotspots: Locations like San Pedro are known for incidents of pickpocketing and credit card fraud. It is essential to stay vigilant by shielding your PIN when using ATMs and prefer machines located inside banks for added security against theft.

4. Effective Safety Measures for Travellers Exploring Belize

Boosting Your Personal Security While Travelling

Stay alert: It is vital to avoid walking alone at night, particularly in urban centres such as Belize City and Belmopan, where the risk of crime is elevated.
Protect your valuables: Always utilise hotel safes for important belongings and keep wallets and mobile devices out of sight to deter potential thieves from targeting you.
Be wary of spiked drinks: Never accept food or beverages from strangers, as this could lead to perilous situations that jeopardise 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.

Safety Recommendations for Transportation While Travelling

Road Conditions: Be aware that many secondary roads in Belize are unpaved and poorly lit. It is advisable to travel only during daylight hours and ensure your fuel tank is always filled before setting out on longer journeys.
Public Transport Caution: Public buses often lack proper maintenance—it's advisable to avoid them when possible. When using licensed taxis, remember that they are not regulated by meters; therefore, it is prudent to negotiate your fare in advance to prevent misunderstandings.
Ferries Safety: When travelling between the cayes, ensure that life jackets are readily accessible and that vessels are not overcrowded to ensure safe passage across the waters.

Participating in Adventure Activities with Safety in Mind

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 during your travels.
Only swim in designated areas; riptides are common, and lifeguards are frequently unavailable, making it critical to prioritise safety while enjoying water activities.

Essential Health Precautions for Travellers Heading to Belize

Vaccination Recommendations: Although there is no entry requirement for yellow fever, it is highly recommended 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 to bites.
Water Safety Guidelines: Adhere to the principle 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 ensure you remain adequately hydrated.

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

Women travelling alone should exercise heightened 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 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 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 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 provide help 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 stay informed and receive necessary assistance during your travels.