Belize Safety Guide for Savvy Travelers in 2025

Belize is widely recognized as a top Caribbean destination, but it is crucial for potential visitors to appreciate the stunning paradise that Belize offers while also taking essential precautions to protect their well-being. This comprehensive guide presents the latest crime statistics, government advisories, and firsthand accounts aimed at equipping travelers with the vital knowledge necessary to explore 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 Trends in Belize for Informed Travel

As of 2024, Belize documented a homicide rate of 21.7 per 100,000 residents, indicating a slight increase from the previous year's figure of 21.5. It is noteworthy that there was a remarkable drop in homicides by 29 percent during the first half of 2025 in comparison to the same timeframe in 2024, with only 41 incidents recorded as opposed to 58. According to the CompStat report from the Belize Police Department, there was also a decline in overall major crimes by 9 percent, decreasing from 536 in H1 2024 to 489 in H1 2025. This encouraging trend is credited to significant reductions in murder (–29 percent), robbery (–15 percent), and theft (–26 percent), marking a positive development 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. Review Essential Government Travel Advisories for a Safe Trip to Belize

U.S. Department of State: Currently, Belize is classified as Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution due to the incidence of violent crime, which includes sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder. Notably, the Southside of Belize City is rated as Level 3: Reconsider Travel—it is advisable to avoid non-tourist areas situated south of Haulover Creek. Source: U.S. Department of State
Government of Canada: Canadian travelers 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; the serious gang-related violence predominantly affects the Southside of Belize City. However, other areas such as San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Placencia, and San Ignacio generally remain safe for travelers who take necessary precautions. Source: UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

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

Belize City (Southside): This area is infamous for gang activities that significantly lead to elevated violent crime rates. It is highly recommended to avoid non-tourist neighborhoods, especially after dark, to ensure your personal safety.
Border Zones: Regions near the borders are experiencing increased smuggling and cross-border violence, particularly with Guatemala, which travelers should remain alert about.
Petty Crime Hotspots: Locations such as San Pedro are known for incidents of pickpocketing and credit card fraud. Always ensure to cover your PIN when using ATMs and prefer machines located within banks for enhanced security.

4. Adopt Proactive Safety Measures While Traveling in Belize

Enhancing Your Personal Security During Your Travel Experience

Stay alert: It is vital to avoid walking alone at night, particularly in urban areas like Belize City and Belmopan, where the risk of crime tends to be higher.
Protect your valuables: Always utilize hotel safes for your important belongings and keep wallets and mobile phones out of sight to deter potential thieves.
Exercise caution with drinks: Never accept food or beverages from strangers, as this could 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.

Vital Transportation Safety Tips for Travelers

Road Conditions: Be aware that most secondary roads in Belize are unpaved and poorly lit. It is wise to drive only during daylight hours and ensure your fuel tank is always full before setting out on longer journeys.
Public Transport Caution: Public buses often lack proper maintenance—it's advisable to avoid them if possible. When using licensed taxis, keep in mind they are not regulated by meters; therefore, it is best to negotiate your fare in advance to prevent misunderstandings.
Ferries Safety: When traveling between the cayes, ensure that life jackets are easily accessible and that the vessels are not overcrowded to guarantee safe transit.

Participating in Adventure Activities with a Focus on Safety

When engaging 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 safety; consider obtaining travel insurance that includes medical evacuation coverage.
Only swim in designated areas; riptides are common, and lifeguards are often scarce, making it crucial to prioritize safety while in the water.

Essential Health Precautions for Travelers Heading 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 before traveling to Belize. For comprehensive information, consult the CDC guidelines.
Mosquito Protection: Given the year-round risk of diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, and Zika, it is essential to use EPA-approved insect repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and sleep under mosquito nets to minimize exposure.
Water Safety Guidelines: Follow the principle of “boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it” regarding food and water. Carry oral rehydration salts to effectively manage traveller’s diarrhoea and ensure you remain adequately hydrated.

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

Women traveling alone should exercise increased caution to avoid isolated areas and poorly lit alleys, as there have been reports of harassment in certain locations.
Members of the LGBTQ+ community may face social stigma in Belize; it is advisable to refrain from public displays of affection to ensure personal safety.
Children traveling alone or with only one parent must possess 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. What Steps to Take for Accessing Emergency Services and Consular Support in Belize

In case of 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 provide support with issues such as arrests, detention, or other emergencies. For further information, visit U.S. Embassy Belmopan.
Make 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.