Belize Safety Tips for Savvy Travelers in 2025

Belize is celebrated as a top-tier Caribbean destination, but it's crucial for potential visitors to fully appreciate the stunning paradise that Belize offers while also taking essential precautions to ensure their safety and wellbeing. This comprehensive guide contains the latest crime statistics, government advisories, and firsthand accounts to equip travellers with the vital insights needed to navigate Belize’s spectacular beaches, lush jungles, and awe-inspiring ancient ruins while prioritizing their safety and security.

Table of Contents

1. Discover the Latest Crime Rates and Safety Trends in Belize

In 2024, Belize reported a homicide rate of 21.7 per 100,000 residents, indicating a slight uptick from the previous year's rate of 21.5. However, during the first half of 2025, a remarkable 29 percent decrease in homicides was observed compared to the same period in 2024, dropping from 58 to 41 incidents. According to the CompStat report from the Belize Police Department, major crimes overall also decreased by 9 percent, falling from 536 in H1 2024 to 489 in H1 2025. This encouraging trend reflects significant reductions in murder (–29 percent), robbery (–15 percent), and theft (–26 percent), indicating an overall improvement in safety for both locals and visitors.

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 Visit to Belize

U.S. Department of State: Currently, Belize is designated as Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution due to the presence of violent crime, including sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder. Particularly, the Southside of Belize City is classified as Level 3: Reconsider Travel—it is advised to avoid non-tourist areas located south of Haulover Creek. Source: U.S. Department of State
Government of Canada: Canadian tourists should exercise a high degree of caution throughout Belize, with specific advice to avoid non-essential travel to Southside Belize City due to ongoing gang-related 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 on a per capita basis; gang-related violence primarily affects the Southside of Belize City. However, regions like San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Placencia, and San Ignacio generally remain safe for travellers who take necessary precautions. Source: UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

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

Belize City (Southside): This area is infamous for gang activity, which greatly contributes to elevated violent crime rates. It is highly recommended to avoid non-tourist neighbourhoods, especially after dark, to ensure your personal safety.
Border Regions: Areas near the borders are experiencing increased smuggling and cross-border violence, particularly with Guatemala, which necessitates heightened vigilance from travellers.
Petty Crime Hotspots: Locations such as San Pedro are known for incidents of pickpocketing and credit card fraud. It’s crucial to cover your PIN when using ATMs and prefer machines located within banks for enhanced security.

4. Proactively Enhancing Your Safety While Exploring Belize

Boosting Your Personal Security During Your Stay

Stay alert: It is important to avoid walking alone at night, particularly in urban areas like Belize City and Belmopan, where the likelihood of crime is higher.
Protect your valuables: Utilize hotel safes for important items, and keep wallets and mobile phones out of sight to discourage potential thieves.
Be wary of spiked drinks: Reject any food or drinks offered by strangers, as this can lead to dangerous 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.

Crucial Transportation Safety Tips for Travellers in Belize

Road Conditions: Be aware that many secondary roads in Belize are unpaved and poorly illuminated. It is advisable to drive only during daylight hours and ensure your fuel tank is full before embarking on longer trips.
Public Transport Awareness: Public buses often lack proper maintenance—it's best to avoid them whenever possible. When using licensed taxis, remember they do not use meters; thus, negotiating your fare in advance is wise to avoid disputes.
Ferries Safety: When travelling between the cayes, make sure that life jackets are available and that the vessels are not overcrowded to ensure safe passage.

Engaging in Adventure Activities Safely in Belize

When participating in adventure activities such as scuba diving, zip-lining, and cave tubing, always choose reputable operators. Check their safety records and equipment standards to ensure your wellbeing; consider obtaining travel insurance that includes medical evacuation coverage.
Only swim in designated areas; be aware that riptides can be dangerous, and lifeguards are often few, making it crucial to prioritize safety while in the water.

Essential Health Precautions for Travellers Visiting Belize

Recommended Vaccinations: 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 detailed information, consult the CDC guidelines.
Mosquito Prevention: Given the year-round risk of diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, and Zika, using EPA-approved insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved clothing, and sleeping under mosquito nets is crucial to minimize exposure.
Water Safety Protocols: Follow the principle of “boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it” when it comes to food and water. Carry oral rehydration salts to effectively manage traveller’s diarrhoea and ensure proper hydration.

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

Women travelling alone should exercise extra caution to avoid isolated areas and poorly lit streets, as there have been reports of harassment in certain locales.
Members of the LGBTQ+ community might face social stigma in Belize; it is wise to refrain from public displays of affection to ensure personal safety.
Children travelling alone or with only one parent must carry 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 Obtain Consular Support in Belize

In case of emergencies, always dial 911 for immediate 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 assist with matters such as arrests, detention, or other emergencies. For further details, visit U.S. Embassy Belmopan.
Ensure you register in your government’s traveller-registration program, such as STEP for U.S. citizens or the Registration of Canadians Abroad for Canadians, to receive important updates and assistance.