Belize Safety Guide 2025: Smart Travel Tips You Need

Belize is renowned as a premier Caribbean destination, yet it is essential for prospective visitors to find a balance between indulging in the heavenly landscapes of Belize and taking vital precautions to safeguard their well-being. This extensive guide provides the latest crime statistics, government advisories, and firsthand insights to empower travellers with the necessary knowledge to explore Belize’s breathtaking beaches, verdant jungles, and magnificent ancient ruins while prioritising their safety and security.

1. An 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, reflecting a modest increase 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 compared to the same period in 2024, with recorded incidents dropping from 58 to 41. According to the CompStat report from the Belize Police Department, there was an overall decrease of 9 percent in major crimes, falling from 536 in H1 2024 to 489 in H1 2025. This positive trend can be attributed to substantial declines in murder (–29 percent), robbery (–15 percent), and theft (–26 percent), signalling an encouraging 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. Crucial Government Travel Advisories for Visiting Belize

U.S. Department of State: At present, Belize is classified as Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution due to the occurrence of violent crime, which encompasses sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder. Notably, the Southside of Belize City has a classification of Level 3: Reconsider Travel—it is 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 nation, 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 cautions that Belize ranks among the highest globally for murder rates per capita; serious gang-related violence predominantly impacts the Southside of Belize City. Conversely, areas such as San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Placencia, and San Ignacio are generally regarded as safe for travellers 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 locality is notorious for gang-related activity, which significantly contributes to the violent crime rates. It is advisable to avoid non-tourist neighbourhoods, especially after dark, to ensure personal safety.
Border Zones: Regions near the borders are currently experiencing increased smuggling and cross-border violence, particularly with Guatemala, which travellers should be aware of for their safety.
Petty Crime Hotspots: Destinations such as San Pedro have been known for incidents of pickpocketing and credit card fraud. Always ensure to shield your PIN when using ATMs and prefer machines located within banks for added security.

4. Proactive Safety Strategies for Travellers Exploring Belize

Enhancing Personal Security While Travelling

Stay vigilant: It is essential to avoid walking alone at night, particularly in urban areas such as Belize City and Belmopan, where the risk of crime tends to be elevated.
Secure your valuables: Always utilise hotel safes for important belongings and keep wallets and mobile phones out of sight to discourage potential thieves.
Be wary of spiked drinks: Never accept food or beverages 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 Adventurous Travellers

Road Conditions: Be mindful that many secondary roads in Belize are unpaved and inadequately illuminated. It is advisable to travel only during daylight hours and ensure your fuel tank is always filled before undertaking longer journeys.
Public Transport Caution: Public buses often lack proper maintenance—it's best to avoid them whenever possible. When utilising licensed taxis, remember they are not regulated by meters; therefore, negotiate your fare in advance to avoid any misunderstandings.
Ferries Safety: When navigating between the cayes, ensure that life jackets are readily available and that the vessels are not overcrowded to guarantee safe travel.

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; consider acquiring travel insurance that includes medical evacuation.
Only swim in designated areas; riptides are common, and lifeguards are often scarce, making it crucial to prioritise safety while enjoying 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 your journey to Belize. For comprehensive details, consult 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 to these pests.
Water Safety Guidelines: Adhere to the rule of “boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it” concerning food and water safety. Carry oral rehydration salts to effectively manage traveller’s diarrhoea and ensure you remain hydrated.

5. Special 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 instances of harassment reported 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 enforce this regulation stringently.

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 While in Belize

In case of emergencies, always dial 911 for immediate assistance, whether it’s for medical, fire, or police services within Belize.
The U.S. Embassy located in Belmopan and the Canadian Honorary Consul in Belize City can assist with issues 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 essential assistance.