Belize Safety Guide for Savvy Travellers in 2025

Belize is renowned as a top-tier Caribbean destination, but it is crucial for prospective visitors to strike a balance between indulging in the tropical paradise that Belize offers and implementing necessary precautions to protect their personal safety. This comprehensive guide provides an overview of the most recent crime statistics, government travel advisories, and practical insights from seasoned travellers. With this information, adventurers can safely immerse themselves in Belize’s stunning beaches, lush jungles, and fascinating ancient ruins, all while prioritising their security and well-being.

1. Detailed Examination of Crime Rates and Trends in Belize

As of 2024, Belize's recorded homicide rate stands at 21.7 per 100,000 inhabitants, showing a slight rise from the previous year's figure of 21.5. However, there was a remarkable 29 percent decrease in homicides during the first half of 2025 compared to the same timeframe in 2024, with only 41 cases reported versus 58. According to the CompStat report from the Belize Police Department, overall major crimes also experienced a decline of 9 percent, dropping from 536 incidents in H1 2024 to 489 in H1 2025. This encouraging trend can be attributed to significant reductions 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 Visiting Belize

U.S. Department of State: Currently, Belize is classified as Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution due to the high incidence of violent crime, which includes sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder. Specifically, the Southside of Belize City is rated as Level 3: Reconsider Travel, and it is strongly advised to avoid non-tourist areas located 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 advisories 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 primarily affects the Southside of Belize City. However, regions like San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Placencia, and San Ignacio are generally deemed safe for travellers who exercise appropriate caution. Source: UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

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

Belize City (Southside): This area is notorious for gang activity, which significantly raises violent crime rates. It is advisable to steer clear of non-tourist neighbourhoods, especially after dark, to ensure personal safety.
Border Zones: Areas adjacent to the borders are experiencing increased smuggling and cross-border violence, particularly with Guatemala, which travellers should be cautious of and approach with care.
Petty Crime Hotspots: Locations such as San Pedro are known for incidents of pickpocketing and credit card fraud. Always remain vigilant by shielding your PIN when using ATMs and prefer machines located inside banks for an additional layer of security.

4. Effective Safety Measures for Travellers Exploring Belize

Strategies to Enhance Your Personal Safety During Travel

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 elevated.
Safeguard your belongings: Always utilise hotel safes for your important items and keep wallets and mobile phones concealed to deter potential thieves from taking advantage of you.
Exercise caution regarding drinks: Never accept food or beverages from strangers, as this could lead to perilous situations that may compromise your safety.

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 Tips for Travellers in Belize

Road Conditions: Be informed that the majority of secondary roads in Belize are unpaved and inadequately lit. It is advisable to travel only during daylight hours and ensure your fuel tank is always full before undertaking longer journeys.
Public Transport Safety: Public buses often lack proper maintenance—it's wise to avoid them when possible. When using licensed taxis, remember that they are not metered; therefore, it is prudent to negotiate your fare in advance to avoid any misunderstandings.
Ferries Safety: When travelling between the cayes, ensure that life jackets are readily available and that vessels are not overcrowded to guarantee a safe journey.

Engaging in Adventure Activities with Safety in Mind

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

Key Health Precautions for Travellers Visiting Belize

Recommended Vaccinations: Although there are no entry requirements for yellow fever, it is strongly advised to get vaccinated against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, and rabies prior to travelling to Belize. For comprehensive details, refer to the CDC guidelines.
Protection Against Mosquitoes: Given the year-round risk of diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, and Zika, it is vital to apply EPA-approved insect repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and sleep under mosquito nets to reduce exposure.
Water Safety Guidelines: Follow the principle of “boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it” concerning food and water consumption. Carry oral rehydration salts to effectively manage traveller’s diarrhoea and ensure proper hydration.

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

Women travelling alone should exercise increased caution to avoid isolated areas and poorly lit alleys, as there have been reports of harassment in certain regions.
Members of the LGBTQ+ community might face social stigma in Belize; it is advisable to limit 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 Assistance in Belize

In case of emergencies, always dial 911 for prompt 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 issues such as arrests, detention, or other emergencies. For further 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.