Belize Safety Guide: Essential Travel Tips for 2025

Belize is celebrated as a top Caribbean destination, and for those planning a trip, it is critical to strike a balance between experiencing the breathtaking natural beauty of Belize and taking necessary precautions to ensure personal safety. This comprehensive guide offers an in-depth look at the latest crime statistics, government advisories, and firsthand insights, empowering travellers with the essential knowledge needed to explore Belize’s stunning beaches, lively jungles, and extraordinary ancient ruins while prioritising their safety and security.

1. Understanding Crime Rates and Trends in Belize for the Year 2024

As we move into 2024, Belize has reported a homicide rate of 21.7 per 100,000 inhabitants, indicating a modest increase from the previous year’s rate of 21.5. However, there has been a notable decline in homicides, with a 29 percent reduction during the first half of 2025, recording 41 cases compared to 58 during the same timeframe in 2024. 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 incidents in H1 2024 to 489 in H1 2025. This encouraging trend in safety for both residents and visitors is attributed to significant reductions in murder (–29 percent), robbery (–15 percent), and theft (–26 percent), highlighting an improving security environment.

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 Secure Journey to Belize

U.S. Department of State: Presently, Belize is classified as Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution due to the high incidence 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 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 the entire country, with recommendations to avoid non-essential travel to Southside Belize City due to persistent gang-related and drug 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 impacts the Southside of Belize City. Nevertheless, other regions such as San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Placencia, and San Ignacio generally 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 infamous for gang activity, which significantly contributes to elevated rates of violent crime. For personal safety, it is advisable to steer clear of non-tourist neighbourhoods, particularly after nightfall when risks increase.
Border Zones: Regions near the borders are experiencing rising incidents of smuggling and cross-border violence, particularly with Guatemala, which is crucial for travellers to remain aware of.
Petty Crime Hotspots: Locations such as San Pedro are notorious for incidents of pickpocketing and credit card fraud. Always be sure to shield your PIN when using ATMs and, if possible, opt for machines situated inside banks for enhanced security and peace of mind.

4. Implementing Proactive Safety Measures for an Enjoyable Trip to Belize

Boosting Your Personal Security While Travelling in Belize

Stay vigilant: It is vital to avoid walking alone at night, particularly in urban centres like Belize City and Belmopan, where the risk of crime is heightened significantly.
Secure your valuables: Always utilise hotel safes for storing significant items, and keep wallets and mobile phones out of sight to deter potential thieves from targeting you.
Be cautious of spiked drinks: Never accept food or beverages from strangers, as this could lead to dangerous 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 Guidelines for Secure Travel in Belize

Road Conditions: Be aware that most secondary roads in Belize are unpaved and poorly illuminated. It is advisable to drive only during daylight hours and ensure your fuel tank is always full before embarking on longer journeys to prevent being stranded.
Public Transport Caution: Public buses often lack proper maintenance—therefore, it’s best to avoid using them if possible. When opting for licensed taxis, remember that they are not regulated by meters; thus, negotiate your fare in advance to avoid any misunderstandings.
Ferries Safety: When travelling between the cayes, ensure that life jackets are readily accessible and that the vessels are not overcrowded to guarantee safe and secure travel.

Participating in Adventure Activities Safely in Belize

When engaging in adventure activities such as scuba diving, zip-lining, and cave tubing, always select reputable operators. Check their safety records and the standards of their equipment to ensure your safety; consider purchasing travel insurance that covers medical evacuation as an added precaution.
Only swim in designated areas; riptides are common, and lifeguards can be scarce, making it essential to prioritise safety while enjoying the water.

Vital Health Precautions for Travellers Visiting Belize

Vaccination Recommendations: While there is no entry requirement for yellow fever, it is highly advised to be 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 vital to use EPA-approved insect repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and sleep under mosquito nets to minimise exposure and protect your health.
Water Safety Guidelines: Adhere to the guideline 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 proper hydration during your stay.

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

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, necessitating vigilance.
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 and comfort.
Children travelling alone or with just one parent must possess notarised parental consent letters, as immigration officials in Belize strictly enforce this regulation, ensuring the safety of minors.

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 While Travelling in Belize

In the event of emergencies, always dial 911 for immediate assistance, whether it’s for medical, fire, or police services in Belize, ensuring a quick response.
The U.S. Embassy located in Belmopan and the Canadian Honorary Consul in Belize City can provide assistance for issues such as arrests, detention, or other emergencies. For more information, visit U.S. Embassy Belmopan.
Ensure you enrol in your government’s traveller-registration program, such as STEP for U.S. citizens or the Registration of Canadians Abroad for Canadians, to remain informed and receive necessary assistance while abroad.