Belize Safety Guide: Smart Travel Tips for 2025

Belize is renowned as a premier Caribbean destination, yet it is essential for prospective visitors to find a harmonious balance between relishing the paradise that Belize presents and taking the appropriate precautions to ensure their safety. This extensive guide encapsulates the latest crime statistics, government advisories, and firsthand insights, aiming to empower travellers with the vital knowledge required to traverse Belize’s breathtaking beaches, verdant jungles, and remarkable ancient ruins while prioritising their personal safety.

1. In-Depth Analysis of Crime Rates and Trends in Belize

As of 2024, Belize recorded a homicide rate of 21.7 per 100,000 inhabitants, reflecting a minor increase from the preceding year's rate of 21.5. Interestingly, the first half of 2025 observed a significant reduction in homicides by 29 percent when compared to the same period in 2024, with reported cases dropping from 58 to 41. According to the CompStat report from the Belize Police Department, there was also an overall decline in major crimes by 9 percent, decreasing from 536 in the first half of 2024 to 489 in the first half of 2025. This positive trend can be attributed to significant reductions in murder (–29 percent), robbery (–15 percent), and theft (–26 percent), indicating an encouraging outlook on safety for both residents and visitors 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. Crucial Government Travel Advisories for a Safe Visit to Belize

U.S. Department of State: Presently, Belize is classified as Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution due to the prevalence of violent crime, encompassing sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder. Notably, the Southside of Belize City is designated as Level 3: Reconsider Travel—it is recommended to steer clear of non-tourist areas situated 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 specific 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 ranks among the highest globally for murder rates per capita; serious gang-related violence is predominantly concentrated in the Southside of Belize City. However, other regions such as San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Placencia, and San Ignacio generally maintain a safe environment for travellers who exercise appropriate caution. Source: UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

3. Recognising High-Risk Zones and Common Criminal Activities in Belize

Belize City (Southside): This particular area is notorious for gang activity that significantly contributes to elevated violent crime rates. It is advisable to avoid non-tourist neighbourhoods, especially after dark, to ensure personal safety.
Border Zones: Regions close to the borders are facing escalated smuggling and cross-border violence, particularly with Guatemala, which is important for travellers to remain aware of.
Petty Crime Hotspots: Areas like San Pedro are often associated with incidents of pickpocketing and credit card fraud. Always ensure to cover your PIN while using ATMs and opt for machines located inside banks for enhanced security.

4. Practical Safety Tips for Travellers Exploring Belize

Boosting Your Personal Security During Your Travels

Stay alert: It is crucial to avoid walking alone at night, particularly in urban settings such as Belize City and Belmopan, where the risk of crime tends to be higher.
Protect your belongings: Always utilise hotel safes for securing important items and keep your wallets and mobile phones out of sight to deter potential thieves.
Be wary 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 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 a Secure Journey

Road Conditions: Be mindful that the majority of secondary roads in Belize are unpaved and poorly illuminated. It is advisable to travel only during daylight hours and ensure your fuel tank is always topped up before embarking on longer journeys.
Public Transport Precautions: Public buses often lack adequate maintenance—it's best to avoid using them if possible. When opting for licensed taxis, remember that they are not regulated by meters; hence, it is prudent to negotiate your fare in advance to prevent misunderstandings.
Ferry Safety: When travelling between the cayes, ensure that life jackets are readily available and that the vessels are not overcrowded to ensure a safe journey.

Participating in Adventure Activities with Safety in Mind

When engaging in adventure activities such as scuba diving, zip-lining, and cave tubing, always select reputable operators. Investigate their safety records and equipment standards to ensure your protection; considering the purchase of travel insurance that includes medical evacuation is also advisable.
Only swim in designated areas; riptides are common, and lifeguards are frequently scarce, making it essential to prioritise safety while in the water.

Key Health Precautions for Travellers Visiting Belize

Vaccination Recommendations: While there is no entry requirement for yellow fever, it is highly advisable to receive vaccinations against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, and rabies prior to travelling to Belize. For comprehensive information, consult the CDC guidelines.
Mosquito Protection Measures: Given the year-round risk of diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, and Zika, it is vital to utilise 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” regarding food and water consumption. Carry oral rehydration salts to effectively manage traveller’s diarrhoea and ensure 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.
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. How to Access Emergency Services and Consular Support in Belize

In case of emergencies, always dial 911 for prompt assistance, whether it pertains to medical emergencies, fire incidents, or police services in Belize.
The U.S. Embassy located in Belmopan and the Canadian Honorary Consul in Belize City can offer assistance for matters such as arrests, detention, or other emergencies. For further details, 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 necessary assistance.