Belize Safety Guide for Savvy Travellers in 2025

Belize is widely celebrated as a top-tier Caribbean destination, yet it remains crucial for prospective visitors to strike a balance between enjoying the heavenly landscapes that Belize has to offer and taking essential precautions to ensure their safety. This comprehensive guide provides the most up-to-date crime statistics, government advisories, and practical insights, allowing travellers to experience Belize’s stunning beaches, lush jungles, and incredible ancient ruins while prioritising their security and peace of mind.

1. Detailed Examination of Crime Rates and Trends in Belize

As of 2024, Belize has reported a homicide rate of 21.7 per 100,000 inhabitants, indicating a slight increase from the previous year’s figure of 21.5. Significantly, there was a remarkable 29 percent reduction in homicides during the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, with 41 cases logged versus 58. According to the CompStat report from the Belize Police Department, major crimes overall have also experienced a decrease of 9 percent, dropping from 536 incidents in H1 2024 to 489 in H1 2025. This encouraging trend is attributed to notable falls in murder (–29 percent), robbery (–15 percent), and theft (–26 percent), signalling improved safety for both residents and tourists alike.

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. Essential Government Travel Advisories for Belize

U.S. Department of State: Currently, Belize is designated as Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution due to the presence of violent crime, which includes sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder. Notably, the Southside of Belize City is classified as Level 3: Reconsider Travel, and 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 advised to exercise a high degree of caution throughout Belize, along with 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 on a per capita basis; serious gang-related violence primarily affects the Southside of Belize City. Conversely, regions such as San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Placencia, and San Ignacio are generally considered safe for travellers who exercise appropriate caution. Source: UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

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

Belize City (Southside): This area is notorious for gang activity, which significantly contributes to elevated violent crime rates. It is advisable to avoid non-tourist neighbourhoods, especially after dark, to ensure personal safety and avoid dangerous situations.
Border Regions: Areas adjacent to the borders are experiencing increased smuggling and cross-border violence, particularly involving Guatemala, which travellers should approach with caution and awareness.
Petty Crime Hotspots: Locations such as San Pedro are recognised for incidents of pickpocketing and credit card fraud. Always remain vigilant by shielding your PIN while using ATMs and prefer machines located within banks for added security and peace of mind.

4. Effective Safety Strategies for Travellers Exploring Belize

Boosting Your Personal Security During Your Travels

Stay alert: It is vital to avoid walking alone at night, particularly in urban areas like Belize City and Belmopan, where the risk of crime is notably heightened.
Protect your belongings: Always utilise hotel safes for important possessions and keep wallets and mobile phones out of sight to deter potential thieves and opportunists.
Be wary of spiked drinks: Never accept food or beverages from strangers, as this could lead to hazardous situations that compromise your safety and well-being.

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 Insights for Travellers

Road Conditions: It is important to note that most secondary roads in Belize are unpaved and poorly lit. It is advisable to travel only during daylight hours and ensure that your fuel tank is always topped up before undertaking longer trips.
Public Transport Precautions: Public buses often lack adequate maintenance—it's wise to avoid them when possible. When utilising licensed taxis, remember that they are not regulated by meters; therefore, it is prudent to negotiate your fare in advance to prevent any misunderstandings.
Ferries Safety: When travelling between the cayes, ensure that life jackets are readily accessible and that vessels are not overcrowded to guarantee safe passage.

Participating in Adventure Activities with Caution

When taking part in adventure activities such as scuba diving, zip-lining, and cave tubing, always choose reputable operators. Verify their safety records and equipment standards to ensure your well-being; consider obtaining travel insurance that covers medical evacuation for added peace of mind.
Only swim in designated areas; riptides are prevalent, and lifeguards are often unavailable, making it essential to prioritise safety while enjoying water activities.

Crucial Health Precautions for Travellers Visiting Belize

Vaccination Recommendations: Although there is no entry requirement for yellow fever, it is highly recommended to receive vaccinations against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, and rabies prior to travelling to Belize. For comprehensive details, refer to the CDC guidelines.
Mosquito Protection: Given the year-round risk of diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, and Zika, it is vital to use EPA-approved insect repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and sleep under mosquito nets to minimise exposure to insect bites.
Water Safety Guidelines: Follow the principle of “boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it” regarding food and water consumption. Carry oral rehydration salts to effectively manage traveller’s diarrhoea and ensure that you remain adequately hydrated.

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

Women travelling alone should exercise heightened caution to avoid isolated areas and poorly lit alleys, as there have been reports of harassment in certain regions, making awareness essential.
Members of the LGBTQ+ community may face 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 are required to possess notarised parental consent letters, as immigration officials in Belize enforce this regulation stringently, ensuring the safety of minors.

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 call 911 for prompt assistance, whether you require 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 issues such as arrests, detention, or other emergencies. For more information, 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 assistance while travelling.