Belize Safety Guide for Savvy Travelers in 2025

Belize is celebrated as a top-tier Caribbean destination, offering visitors a stunning paradise filled with natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. However, it is crucial for potential tourists to experience the magnificent landscapes of Belize while also adopting essential precautions to protect their health and safety. This comprehensive guide provides the most recent crime statistics, government advisories, and personal insights to equip travellers with the vital information needed to explore Belize’s spectacular beaches, lush jungles, and awe-inspiring ancient ruins while ensuring their safety and security.

1. Stay Informed: Current Crime Rates and Trends in Belize

As of 2024, Belize has reported a homicide rate of 21.7 per 100,000 residents, showing a slight increase from last year’s rate of 21.5. However, there has been a remarkable decrease in homicides by 29 percent during the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, with 41 incidents reported versus 58. According to the CompStat report from the Belize Police Department, there was also a notable 9 percent decline in overall major crimes, dropping 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 a positive shift in safety for both residents 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. Key Government Travel Advisories for a Safe Visit to Belize

U.S. Department of State: Currently, Belize is classified as Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution due to the prevalence of violent crime, including sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder. Specifically, the Southside of Belize City is rated as Level 3: Reconsider Travel—it is strongly advised to avoid non-tourist zones situated south of Haulover Creek. Source: U.S. Department of State
Government of Canada: Canadian travellers are advised to exercise a high degree of caution throughout the country, with recommendations 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 per capita; serious gang-related violence primarily affects the Southside of Belize City. However, areas such as San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Placencia, and San Ignacio generally remain safe for travellers who take appropriate safety measures. Source: UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

3. Identifying High-Risk Areas and Common Crimes in Belize

Belize City (Southside): This area is infamous for gang activity, which significantly contributes to the high rates of violent crime. It is highly recommended to avoid non-tourist neighbourhoods, especially after dark, as they pose increased risks to personal safety.
Border Zones: Regions near the borders are experiencing increased smuggling and cross-border violence, particularly with Guatemala, and travellers should remain vigilant in these areas.
Petty Crime Hotspots: Locations such as San Pedro are known for incidents of pickpocketing and credit card fraud. It is crucial to keep your PIN secure when using ATMs and to prefer machines located within banks to enhance your safety.

4. Proactive Safety Measures for Tourists Visiting Belize

Enhancing Personal Security While Enjoying Your Stay

Stay alert: It is imperative to refrain from walking alone at night, particularly in urban centres like Belize City and Belmopan, where crime rates are typically higher.
Protect your valuables: Always utilize hotel safes for storing important possessions, and keep wallets and mobile devices hidden to deter potential thieves from targeting you.
Be wary of drinks: Avoid accepting food or beverages from strangers to prevent dangerous 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 a Secure Travel Experience

Road Conditions: Be aware that most secondary roads in Belize are unpaved and inadequately illuminated. It is advisable to drive only during daylight hours and to ensure that your fuel tank is full before embarking on longer journeys.
Public Transport Safety: Public buses often suffer from poor maintenance; thus, it is wise to avoid them whenever possible. When using licensed taxis, remember that they are not regulated by meters, so it’s best to negotiate your fare beforehand to avoid any misunderstandings.
Ferry Safety Precautions: When travelling between the cayes, ensure that life jackets are accessible and that vessels are not overcrowded to ensure safe transit.

Participating in Adventure Activities While Prioritizing Safety

When engaging in adventure activities like scuba diving, zip-lining, and cave tubing, always choose reputable operators. Confirm their safety records and equipment standards to guarantee your well-being; consider obtaining travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation.
Only swim in designated areas; riptides are common, and lifeguards are often scarce, making it vital to prioritize your safety while enjoying the water.

Essential Health Precautions for Visitors to Belize

Vaccination Recommendations: While there is no entry requirement for yellow fever, it is strongly recommended to receive vaccinations against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, and rabies prior to travelling to Belize. For detailed information, refer to the CDC guidelines.
Mosquito Protection Measures: Due to the year-round risk of diseases like dengue, chikungunya, and Zika, it is crucial to apply EPA-approved insect repellent, wear long-sleeve clothing, and sleep under mosquito nets to minimize exposure.
Food and Water Safety Guidelines: Follow the principle of “boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it” concerning food and water. Carry oral rehydration salts to manage traveller’s diarrhoea effectively and ensure proper hydration.

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

Women travelling alone should exercise increased caution and avoid isolated areas and poorly lit streets, as harassment has been reported 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 just one parent must have notarized 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 emergencies, always dial 911 for immediate assistance, whether it involves 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 issues such as arrests, detention, or other emergencies. For additional information, visit U.S. Embassy Belmopan.
Make sure to register in your government’s traveller-registration program, such as STEP for U.S. citizens or the Registration of Canadians Abroad for Canadians, to stay informed and receive necessary assistance.