Belize Safety Guide for Savvy Travellers in 2025

Belize is celebrated as a top-tier Caribbean destination, yet it is crucial for prospective visitors to strike a balance between enjoying the heaven that Belize offers and taking vital precautions to ensure their safety. This comprehensive guide encompasses the latest crime statistics, official government advisories, and real-life observations, empowering travellers to discover Belize’s stunning beaches, lush jungles, and awe-inspiring ancient ruins while placing a premium on their safety and security.

1. Comprehensive 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 rise from the prior year’s rate of 21.5. However, a noteworthy decline in homicide cases by 29 percent was observed during the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, with 41 incidents reported in contrast to 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 the first half of 2024 to 489 in the first half of 2025. This encouraging trend results from significant reductions in murder (–29 percent), robbery (–15 percent), and theft (–26 percent), suggesting an improved sense of 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. Essential Government Travel Advisories for Visiting Belize

U.S. Department of State: Currently, Belize is designated as Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution due to incidents of violent crime, including sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and homicides. Specifically, the Southside of Belize City is rated as Level 3: Reconsider Travel, prompting visitors to steer clear of non-tourist areas located south of Haulover Creek. Source: U.S. Department of State
Government of Canada: Canadians are strongly advised to exercise a high degree of caution throughout the country, alongside 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 globally per capita; serious gang-related violence predominantly affects the Southside of Belize City. Conversely, areas such as San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Placencia, and San Ignacio typically remain 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, significantly contributing to heightened violent crime rates. It is advisable to avoid non-tourist neighbourhoods, especially after dark, to ensure personal safety and security.
Border Zones: Regions adjacent to the borders are experiencing increased smuggling and cross-border violence, particularly with Guatemala, which travellers should approach with caution and awareness.
Petty Crime Hotspots: Areas like San Pedro are known for incidents of pickpocketing and credit card fraud. Remain vigilant by shielding your PIN when using ATMs and favour machines located within banks for added security and peace of mind.

4. Effective Safety Strategies for Travellers Exploring Belize

Improving Your Personal Security During Your Belize Adventure

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 is notably heightened.
Protect your valuables: Always utilise hotel safes for storing important belongings and keep wallets and phones concealed to deter potential thieves and opportunists.
Be cautious of spiked drinks: Never accept food or beverages from strangers, as this could lead to perilous 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 Tips for Travellers in Belize

Road Conditions: Be mindful 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 consistently full before embarking on longer journeys.
Public Transport Caution: Public buses often lack proper maintenance—it’s advisable to avoid them when feasible. When using licensed taxis, remember that they are not regulated by meters; thus, it is wise to negotiate your fare beforehand to prevent misunderstandings or disputes.
Ferries Safety: When travelling between the cayes, ensure that life jackets are readily available and that vessels are not overcrowded to guarantee safe passage across the waters.

Engaging in Adventure Activities with Safety in Mind

When participating 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 and security.
Only swim in designated areas; riptides are prevalent, and lifeguards are often unavailable, making it critical to prioritise safety while in the water.

Important Health Precautions for Visitors to Belize

Vaccination Recommendations: Although there is no requirement for yellow fever vaccination, it is highly advisable to get vaccinated against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, and rabies before travelling to Belize. For comprehensive details, refer to the CDC guidelines.
Mosquito Protection: Given the continuous risk of diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, and Zika, it is crucial to utilise EPA-approved insect repellent, wear long-sleeved garments, and sleep under mosquito nets to minimise exposure to these vectors.
Water Safety Guidelines: Adhere to the principle of “boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it” when it comes to food and water consumption. Carry oral rehydration salts to effectively manage traveller’s diarrhoea and ensure you remain adequately hydrated during your stay.

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 and unwanted attention in certain regions.
Members of the LGBTQ+ community may face social stigma in Belize; it is advisable to limit public displays of affection to ensure personal safety and comfort.
Children travelling alone or accompanied by only one parent must possess notarised parental consent letters, as immigration officials in Belize enforce this regulation stringently and without exception.

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 Support in Belize

In case of emergencies, always dial 911 for immediate assistance, whether for medical, fire, or police services in Belize.
The U.S. Embassy situated in Belmopan and the Canadian Honorary Consul in Belize City can provide assistance with issues such as arrests, detention, or other emergencies. For more information, visit U.S. Embassy Belmopan.
Be sure to 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 during your travels.