Belize Safety Guide: Essential Tips for Savvy Travellers 2025

Belize is celebrated as a premier Caribbean destination, yet it is vital for prospective travellers to find a balance between relishing the heavenly landscape that Belize presents and implementing essential safety precautions to safeguard their wellbeing. This extensive guide compiles the latest crime statistics, government advisories, and authentic experiences to empower tourists with the information needed to explore Belize’s breathtaking beaches, vibrant jungles, and impressive ancient ruins while keeping their safety as 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, reflecting a slight rise from the previous year's rate of 21.5. Notably, there was a significant reduction in homicides by 29 percent during the first half of 2025 when compared 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 was also a 9 percent decline in overall major crimes, decreasing from 536 in the first half of 2024 to 489 in the same timeframe in 2025. This positive trend indicates a noteworthy decline in serious crimes such as murder (–29 percent), robbery (–15 percent), and theft (–26 percent), suggesting improved 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: At present, Belize has a rating of Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution due to the ongoing risk of violent crime, which encompasses sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder. Specifically, the Southside of Belize City is classified as Level 3: Reconsider Travel—it is advisable to avoid non-tourist areas situated south of Haulover Creek. Source: U.S. Department of State
Government of Canada: Canadians are encouraged to exercise a high degree of caution throughout the country, with specific recommendations to avoid non-essential travel to Southside Belize City due to the persistent gang‐ and drug-related violence. Source: Government of Canada
UK FCDO: The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office highlights that Belize ranks among the highest globally for murder rates per capita; the severe gang-related violence predominantly affects the Southside of Belize City. Nevertheless, tourist-friendly areas such as San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Placencia, and San Ignacio generally remain safe for visitors who exercise appropriate caution. Source: UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

3. Recognising High-Risk Areas and Common Crimes to Avoid in Belize

Belize City (Southside): This region is notorious for gang-related activities that substantially contribute to the violent crime rates. It is advisable to steer clear of non-tourist neighbourhoods, particularly after dark, to ensure personal safety.
Border Zones: Areas adjacent to the borders are witnessing an uptick in smuggling and cross-border violence, particularly concerning Guatemala, which travellers should remain vigilant about.
Petty Crime Hotspots: Locations such as San Pedro have been flagged for incidents of pickpocketing and credit card fraud. Always ensure to shield your PIN when utilising ATMs and prefer machines located inside banks for heightened security.

4. Proactive Safety Measures for Travellers Exploring Belize

Enhancing Your Personal Security While Enjoying Your Trip

Maintain heightened vigilance: It is essential to refrain from walking alone at night, especially in urban settings like Belize City and Belmopan, where the likelihood of crime is elevated.
Secure your belongings: Always utilise hotel safes for storing important items and keep wallets and mobile phones out of sight to deter potential thieves.
Be wary of spiked drinks: Avoid accepting food or drinks from strangers, as this could lead to precarious 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 a Smooth Journey

Road Conditions: Be aware that most secondary roads in Belize are unpaved and inadequately lit. It is advisable to drive only during daylight hours and to ensure your fuel tank is always full before embarking on longer journeys to avoid being stranded.
Public Transport Awareness: Public buses often suffer from a lack of maintenance—it's best to avoid them if possible. When opting for licensed taxis, remember they typically do not utilise meters; therefore, negotiating your fare in advance is prudent to prevent misunderstandings.
Ferries Safety: When travelling between the cayes, confirm that life jackets are readily accessible and that the vessels are not overcrowded to ensure safe passage.

Engaging in Adventure Activities with Safety in Mind

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

Essential Health Precautions for Travellers Venturing to Belize

Vaccination Recommendations: Although 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 detailed information, refer to the CDC guidelines.
Mosquito Protection: Given the year-round risk of diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, and Zika, it is imperative to use EPA-approved insect repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and sleep under mosquito nets to minimise exposure to these threats.
Water Safety Guidelines: Adhere to the rule of “boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it” regarding food and water safety. Carrying oral rehydration salts can help manage traveller’s diarrhoea effectively and ensure you stay hydrated.

5. Important Considerations for Women, Children, and LGBTQ Travellers

Women travelling alone should exercise additional caution to avoid isolated areas and poorly lit alleys, as there have been reports of harassment in some 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 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 Support in Belize

In the event of emergencies, always dial 911 for immediate assistance, whether for medical, fire, or police services within Belize.
The U.S. Embassy based in Belmopan and the Canadian Honorary Consul in Belize City can offer assistance with issues such as arrests, detention, or other emergencies. For further details, visit U.S. Embassy Belmopan.
Ensure that you 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 support.