Belize Safety Guide: Smart Travel Tips for 2025

Belize is renowned as a premier Caribbean destination, yet it remains essential for prospective visitors to find a harmonious balance between relishing the paradise that Belize presents and taking necessary precautions to ensure their safety. This extensive guide encapsulates the latest crime statistics, government advisories, and firsthand insights to equip travellers with the understanding they need to explore Belize’s breathtaking beaches, vibrant jungles, and magnificent ancient ruins while prioritising their safety.

1. Comprehensive Analysis of Crime Rates and Trends in Belize

As of 2024, Belize recorded a homicide rate of 21.7 per 100,000 inhabitants, which reflects a slight rise from the previous year's rate of 21.5. Notably, however, there was a significant decline 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, overall major crimes also experienced a 9 percent decrease, dropping from 536 in the first half of 2024 to 489 in the first half of 2025. This positive trend is attributed to significant reductions in murder (–29 percent), robbery (–15 percent), and theft (–26 percent), indicating a hopeful outlook for 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. Crucial 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 encompasses sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder. Notably, the Southside of Belize City is assigned a Level 3: Reconsider Travel rating—travellers are strongly advised to avoid 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 strong 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 issues a warning that Belize has one of the highest murder rates globally per capita; the serious gang-related violence predominantly affects the Southside of Belize City. Nonetheless, other areas such as San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Placencia, and San Ignacio generally remain safe for travellers who exercise appropriate caution. Source: UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

3. Identifying High-Risk Areas and Common Crimes in Belize

Belize City (Southside): This area is notorious for gang activity, which significantly contributes to the elevated violent crime rates. It is recommended to avoid non-tourist neighbourhoods, particularly after dark, to ensure personal safety.
Border Zones: Areas adjacent to the borders are experiencing increased smuggling and cross-border violence, especially with Guatemala, which travellers should remain vigilant about.
Petty Crime Hotspots: Locations such as San Pedro have gained a reputation for incidents of pickpocketing and credit card fraud. It is essential to shield your PIN when using ATMs and prefer machines located inside banks for enhanced security.

4. Proactive Safety Tips for Travellers Visiting Belize

Enhancing Your Personal Security While Exploring

Maintain vigilance: 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 utilise hotel safes for important items and keep wallets and phones concealed to deter potential thieves.
Be cautious of spiked drinks: Never accept food or drinks from strangers, as this could lead to perilous situations.

Aerial view of the Great Blue Hole near the coast with people enjoying 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 Travellers in Belize

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 ensure your fuel tank is always full before embarking on longer journeys.
Public Transport Caution: 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 avoid 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.

Engaging in Adventure Activities Safely and Responsibly

When participating 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 well-being; consider purchasing travel insurance that encompasses medical evacuation.
Only swim in designated areas; riptides are common, and lifeguards are often scarce, making it crucial to prioritise safety in the water.

Essential Health Precautions for Travellers to 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 before travelling to Belize. For detailed information, check the CDC guidelines.
Mosquito Protection: Given the year-round risk of diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, and Zika, it is important to use EPA-approved insect repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and sleep under mosquito nets to minimise exposure.
Water Safety Guidelines: Adhere to the rule of “boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it” concerning food and water. Carry oral rehydration salts to effectively manage traveller’s diarrhoea and ensure you stay hydrated.

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

Women travelling solo should take extra precautions 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.
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. Accessing Emergency Services and Consular Support in Belize

In case of emergencies, always dial 911 for immediate assistance, whether it’s 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 assistance with issues such as arrests, detention, or other emergencies. For further information, visit U.S. Embassy Belmopan.
Ensure 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 assistance.