Belize Safety Guide for Savvy Travellers in 2025

Belize is celebrated as a top-tier Caribbean destination, yet it is vital for prospective visitors to strike a balance between indulging in the breathtaking paradise that Belize offers and taking the essential precautions necessary to protect their well-being. This comprehensive guide encapsulates the most recent crime statistics, government advisories, and real-life perspectives, empowering travellers to navigate Belize’s stunning beaches, lush jungles, and extraordinary ancient ruins while prioritising their safety and security.

1. Detailed Examination of Crime Rates and Trends in Belize

As of 2024, Belize has recorded a homicide rate of 21.7 per 100,000 inhabitants, indicating a slight rise from the previous year's figure of 21.5. Remarkably, there was a substantial decline in homicides by 29 percent during the first half of 2025 compared to the same timeframe in 2024, with 41 cases reported versus 58. According to the CompStat report from the Belize Police Department, there has also been an overall major crime reduction of 9 percent, decreasing from 536 incidents in H1 2024 to 489 in H1 2025. This encouraging trend is attributed to significant reductions in murder (–29 percent), robbery (–15 percent), and theft (–26 percent), indicating improved safety for both residents and tourists.

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 a Safe Trip to Belize

U.S. Department of State: Currently, Belize is classified as Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution due to the prevalence of violent crime, which includes sexual assaults, home invasions, armed robberies, and murders. Specifically, the Southside of Belize City is designated 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 advised to exercise a high degree of caution throughout Belize, with further 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 per capita; serious gang-related violence predominantly affects the Southside of Belize City. Conversely, regions such as San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Placencia, and San Ignacio generally remain safe for travellers who take appropriate precautions. 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, significantly contributing to heightened violent crime rates. It is advisable to steer clear of non-tourist neighbourhoods, particularly after dark, to ensure personal safety.
Border Zones: Regions adjacent to the borders are experiencing increased smuggling and cross-border violence, especially with Guatemala, which travellers should be mindful of and approach with caution.
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 enhanced security.

4. Proactive Safety Strategies for Travellers to Ensure a Secure Experience in Belize

Enhancing Your Personal Security During Your Travels

Maintain vigilance: It is essential to avoid walking alone at night, particularly in urban settings such as Belize City and Belmopan, where the risk of crime is heightened.
Secure your valuables: Always utilise hotel safes for your important belongings and keep wallets and phones out of sight to deter potential thieves.
Be cautious of spiked drinks: Never accept food or beverages from strangers, as this could lead to perilous situations that 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 Recommendations for Travellers Navigating Belize

Road Conditions: Be aware that most secondary roads in Belize are unpaved and poorly lit. It is advisable to travel only during daylight hours and ensure your fuel tank is always full before embarking on longer journeys.
Public Transport Caution: Public buses often lack adequate maintenance—it's best to avoid them when possible. When using licensed taxis, remember that they are not regulated by meters; thus, it is wise to negotiate your fare beforehand to avoid misunderstandings.
Ferries Safety: When travelling between the cayes, ensure that life jackets are readily available and that vessels are not overcrowded to guarantee safe passage.

Engaging in Adventure Activities with Safety in Mind

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

Essential Health Precautions for Travellers Visiting Belize

Vaccination Recommendations: Although there is no entry requirement for yellow fever, it is highly recommended to get vaccinated against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, and rabies prior to travelling to Belize. For comprehensive information, refer to the CDC guidelines.
Mosquito Protection: Given the year-round risk of diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, and Zika, it is crucial to use EPA-approved insect repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and sleep under mosquito nets to minimise exposure.
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 adequate hydration during your visit.

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

Women travelling solo should exercise heightened caution to avoid isolated areas and poorly lit alleys, as there have been reports of harassment in certain regions.
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.
Children travelling alone or with only one parent must possess notarised parental consent letters, as immigration officials in Belize enforce this regulation rigorously.

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 Assistance During Your Stay in Belize

In emergencies, always dial 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 help with issues such as arrests, detention, or other emergencies. For more 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 remain informed and receive necessary assistance during your travels.