Belize Safety Guide: Smart Travel Tips for 2025

Belize is renowned as a premier Caribbean destination, yet it is essential for prospective visitors to find the right balance between relishing the breathtaking paradise that Belize presents and taking the necessary precautions to safeguard their well-being. This all-encompassing guide provides the latest crime statistics, insights from government advisories, and practical advice to empower travelers with the information required to explore Belize’s magnificent beaches, vibrant jungles, and remarkable ancient ruins while prioritising their safety and security.

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, marking a slight increase from the previous year's figure of 21.5. However, it is noteworthy that there has been a significant reduction in homicides by 29 percent during the first half of 2025 in comparison to the same period in 2024, with reported cases dropping from 58 to 41. According to the CompStat report from the Belize Police Department, there has also been an overall decline in major crimes by 9 percent, decreasing from 536 incidents in H1 2024 to 489 in H1 2025. This positive trend is largely attributed to significant reductions in murder (–29 percent), robbery (–15 percent), and theft (–26 percent), indicating an overall improvement in 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. Key Government Travel Advisories for Safe Visits to Belize

U.S. Department of State: At present, Belize holds a rating of Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution due to the prevalence of violent crime, which includes incidents such as sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and homicide. Notably, the Southside of Belize City is classified as Level 3: Reconsider Travel—it is highly advisable to steer clear of non-tourist areas located 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 specific recommendations to avoid non-essential travel to Southside Belize City due to ongoing gang-related and drug-related violence. Source: Government of Canada
UK FCDO: The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office alerts that Belize has one of the highest murder rates per capita globally; serious gang-related violence primarily affects the Southside of Belize City. Nevertheless, other regions such as San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Placencia, and San Ignacio generally remain safe for travelers who exercise appropriate caution. Source: UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

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

Belize City (Southside): This particular area is notorious for gang activity that significantly contributes to the elevated rates of violent crime. It is advisable to avoid non-tourist neighbourhoods, especially after dark, to enhance personal safety.
Border Zones: Regions near the borders are experiencing heightened levels of smuggling and cross-border violence, particularly with Guatemala, which travellers should remain vigilant about.
Petty Crime Hotspots: Locations like San Pedro are known for incidents of pickpocketing and credit card fraud. Always ensure to shield your PIN when using ATMs and prefer machines located inside banks for added security and to mitigate risks.

4. Essential Safety Strategies for Travellers Exploring Belize

Boosting Your Personal Security While Travelling

Stay vigilant: It is crucial to avoid walking alone at night, particularly in urban areas such as Belize City and Belmopan, where the risk of crime is heightened.
Secure your valuables: Always make use of hotel safes for important items and keep your wallets and phones out of sight to deter potential thieves and opportunists.
Exercise caution regarding spiked drinks: Never accept food or drinks from strangers, as this could lead to potentially dangerous 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 Measures for Secure Travel in Belize

Road Conditions: Be aware that most secondary roads in Belize are unpaved and poorly illuminated. It is advisable to drive only during daylight hours, ensuring your fuel tank is always full before undertaking longer journeys.
Public Transport Caution: Public buses often lack adequate maintenance—it's best to avoid them if possible. When using licensed taxis, keep in mind they are not regulated by meters; therefore, negotiate your fare in advance to prevent misunderstandings.
Ferries Safety: When travelling between the cayes, ensure that life jackets are readily accessible and that the vessels are not overcrowded for safe travel.

Participating in Adventure Activities with Safety in Mind

When engaging in adventure activities such as scuba diving, zip-lining, and cave tubing, always opt for reputable operators. Check their safety records and equipment standards to ensure your safety; consider purchasing travel insurance that covers medical evacuation as an added precaution.
Only swim in designated areas; riptides are common, and lifeguards are often scarce, making it essential to prioritise safety in aquatic environments.

Key Health Precautions for Travellers Visiting Belize

Vaccination Recommendations: While 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 information, refer to the CDC guidelines.
Mosquito Protection: Given the year-round risk of diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, and Zika, it is important to utilise 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” with respect to food and water. Carry oral rehydration salts to effectively manage traveller’s diarrhea and remain adequately hydrated.

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

Women travelling solo should exercise additional caution to avoid isolated areas and poorly 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 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 uphold this regulation strictly.

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 When in Belize

In the event of emergencies, always dial 911 for prompt assistance, whether it pertains to medical emergencies, fire incidents, or police services in Belize.
The U.S. Embassy located in Belmopan and the Canadian Honorary Consul in Belize City can assist with various issues such as arrests, detention, or other emergencies. For further details, visit U.S. Embassy Belmopan.
Ensure 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 stay informed and receive necessary assistance during your travels.