Belize Safety Guide: Smart Travel Tips for 2025

Belize is widely recognised as a premier Caribbean destination, renowned for its stunning natural beauty. However, it is essential for prospective visitors to balance the enjoyment of this tropical paradise with the necessary precautions to ensure personal safety. This extensive guide provides an overview of the latest crime statistics, government travel advisories, and firsthand experiences to empower travellers with the crucial knowledge required to explore Belize’s breathtaking beaches, vibrant jungles, and magnificent ancient ruins while prioritising their safety and well-being.

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

As of 2024, Belize reported a homicide rate of 21.7 per 100,000 inhabitants, indicating a slight rise from the previous year's statistic of 21.5. Notably, there was a significant decrease in homicides by 29 percent during the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, with recorded cases dropping from 58 to 41. According to the CompStat report issued by the Belize Police Department, overall major crimes also saw a reduction of 9 percent, falling from 536 in H1 2024 to 489 in H1 2025. This encouraging trend is attributed to substantial declines in murder rates (–29 percent), robberies (–15 percent), and theft incidents (–26 percent), signalling an 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 a Safe Visit to Belize

U.S. Department of State: Currently, Belize is classified as Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution due to the prevalence of violent crime, encompassing issues such as sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder. Specifically, the Southside of Belize City is rated as Level 3: Reconsider Travel—it is strongly advised to avoid non-tourist areas situated 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 specific 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 in the world per capita; serious gang-related violence predominantly affects the Southside of Belize City. Nevertheless, other regions such as San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Placencia, and San Ignacio generally remain safe for tourists who take suitable precautions. Source: UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

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

Belize City (Southside): This area is notorious for gang activity that significantly contributes to elevated violent crime rates. It is advisable to avoid non-tourist neighbourhoods, particularly after dark, to ensure personal safety.
Border Zones: Regions near the borders are experiencing heightened smuggling and cross-border violence, particularly with Guatemala, which travellers should be aware of and take caution.
Petty Crime Hotspots: Locations such as San Pedro are known for incidents of pickpocketing and credit card fraud. It is wise to shield your PIN when using ATMs and to prefer machines located within banks for enhanced security.

4. Proactive and Effective Safety Strategies for Travellers Visiting Belize

Improving Your Personal Security While Exploring Belize

Stay alert: It is vital to refrain from walking alone at night, particularly in urban centres like Belize City and Belmopan, where the risk of crime is significantly higher.
Protect your valuables: Always utilise hotel safes for important items and keep wallets and mobile phones concealed to deter potential thieves.
Exercise caution with food and drinks: Never accept food or beverages from strangers, as this could lead to unsafe 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.

Guidelines for Safe Transportation While Travelling

Road Conditions: Be aware that the majority of secondary roads in Belize are unpaved and inadequately lit. It is advisable to drive only during daylight hours and ensure your fuel tank is always full before embarking on extended journeys.
Caution with Public Transport: Public buses often lack proper maintenance—it's best to avoid them if possible. When using licensed taxis, remember 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 to guarantee safe travel.

Ensuring Safety While Engaging in Adventure Activities

When participating in adventure activities such as scuba diving, zip-lining, and cave tubing, always opt for reputable operators. Investigate their safety records and equipment standards to ensure your safety; consider obtaining travel insurance that includes medical evacuation coverage.
Only swim in designated areas; riptides are common, and lifeguards are often scarce, making it essential to prioritise safety in the water.

Vital Health Precautions for Travellers Heading to Belize

Vaccination Recommendations: While there is no entry requirement for yellow fever, it is highly advisable to receive vaccinations against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, and rabies prior to travelling to Belize. For comprehensive information, refer to the CDC guidelines.
Mosquito Protection Measures: Given the year-round risk of diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, and Zika, it is vital to utilise EPA-approved insect repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and sleep under mosquito nets to reduce exposure.
Food and Water Safety Guidelines: Adhere to the rule of “boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it” regarding food and water safety. Carry oral rehydration salts to effectively manage traveller’s diarrhoea and maintain proper hydration.

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

Women travelling alone should exercise additional care to avoid isolated areas and dimly lit alleys, as there are 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.
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 the event of an emergency, 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 support with situations such as arrests, detention, or other emergencies. For further information, 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 remain informed and receive necessary assistance.