Belize Safety Guide: Must-Know Tips for 2025 Travelers

Belize emerges as a premier Caribbean destination, and for those considering a trip, it is vital to find the right balance between enjoying the natural paradise that Belize presents and taking essential safety precautions. This detailed guide offers the latest crime statistics, government advisories, and firsthand insights, ensuring travelers are well-equipped with the information necessary to explore Belize’s breathtaking beaches, vibrant jungles, and magnificent ancient ruins while keeping their safety as a top priority.

1. Analyzing Crime Rates and Safety Trends in Belize

As of 2024, Belize recorded a homicide rate of 21.7 per 100,000 inhabitants, reflecting a slight increase from 2023's rate of 21.5. However, there was a remarkable decrease in homicides by 29 percent during the first half of 2025 when compared to the same period in 2024, with recorded cases dropping from 58 to 41. According to the CompStat report from the Belize Police Department, overall major crimes also saw a reduction of 9 percent, decreasing from 536 incidents in the first half of 2024 to just 489 in the same timeframe in 2025. This decline is largely due to significant reductions in homicide (–29 percent), robbery (–15 percent), and theft (–26 percent), indicating a promising trend in overall safety for both residents and tourists.

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. Crucial Government Travel Advisories for Visiting Belize

U.S. Department of State: Presently, Belize is rated as Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution, which is a warning due to the ongoing issues related to violent crime, including sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder. Notably, the Southside of Belize City is rated as Level 3: Reconsider Travel, and it is highly recommended to avoid non-tourist areas located south of Haulover Creek. Source: U.S. Department of State
Government of Canada: Canadians are urged to exercise a high degree of caution while traveling throughout the country, with specific recommendations to avoid non-essential travel to the Southside of Belize City, which is experiencing ongoing gang and drug-related violence. Source: Government of Canada
UK FCDO: The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office issues warnings regarding Belize's high murder rate per capita, primarily due to serious gang-related violence that affects the Southside of Belize City. However, popular tourist areas such as San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Placencia, and San Ignacio generally maintain safety for travelers who exercise proper caution. Source: UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

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

Belize City (Southside): This area is notorious for gang activity that significantly contributes to the overall violent crime rates. It is advisable for travelers to steer clear of non-tourist neighborhoods, especially after dark, to enhance personal safety.
Border Regions: Areas near the borders are seeing increased incidents of smuggling and cross-border violence, particularly with Guatemala, which travelers should remain vigilant about.
Petty Crime Hotspots: Locations such as San Pedro have reported incidents of pickpocketing and credit card fraud. It is vital to always shield your PIN when using ATMs and to prefer machines located inside banks for added security.

4. Essential Safety Strategies for Travelers Exploring Belize

Enhancing Your Personal Security While Traveling

Maintain vigilance: It is crucial to avoid walking alone at night, particularly in urban areas like Belize City and Belmopan, where the risk of crime tends to be higher.
Secure your valuables: Always utilize hotel safes for important items and keep wallets and phones out of sight to deter potential thieves.
Be cautious of spiked drinks: Never accept food or drinks from strangers, as this could lead to dangerous situations and 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.

Safety Guidelines for Transportation in Belize

Road Conditions: Be aware that most secondary roads throughout Belize are unpaved and poorly lit. It is advisable to drive only during daylight hours and to ensure your fuel tank is always full before embarking on longer journeys to avoid being stranded.
Public Transport Precautions: Public buses often lack proper maintenance; therefore, it is best to avoid them whenever possible. In instances where licensed taxis are used, remember that they are not regulated by meters; thus, it’s advisable to negotiate your fare in advance to prevent misunderstandings later.
Ferry Safety: While traveling between the cayes, ensure that life jackets are easily accessible and that the vessels are not overcrowded to guarantee safe passage.

Ensuring Safety While Engaging in Adventure Activities

When participating in adventure activities such as scuba diving, zip-lining, and cave tubing, always opt for reputable operators. Investigate their safety records and equipment standards to ensure your safety; consider obtaining travel insurance that covers medical evacuation for additional peace of mind.
Only swim in designated areas; riptides can be hazardous, and lifeguards are often scarce, making it essential to prioritize personal safety while in the water.

Vital Health Precautions for Travelers to Belize

Vaccination Recommendations: While there are no entry requirements for yellow fever, it is highly recommended that travelers get vaccinated against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, and rabies before heading to Belize. For detailed information, refer to the CDC guidelines.
Mosquito Protection: Given the year-round risk of diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, and Zika, it is important to use EPA-approved insect repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and sleep under mosquito nets to minimize exposure to bites.
Water Safety Guidelines: Adhere to the rule of “boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it” regarding food and water safety. Carry oral rehydration salts to effectively manage traveler’s diarrhea and ensure that you stay hydrated during your travels.

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

Women traveling alone should exercise extra caution to avoid isolated areas and poorly lit alleys, as there have been reports of harassment in certain regions of Belize.
Members of the LGBTQ community may face social stigma in Belize; thus, it is advisable to avoid public displays of affection to ensure personal safety and comfort.
Children traveling alone or with only one parent are required to have notarized parental consent letters, as immigration officials in Belize enforce this regulation stringently to protect 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. How to Access Emergency Services and Consular Assistance in Belize

In case of emergencies in Belize, always dial 911 for immediate assistance, whether it involves medical, fire, or police services that you may require.
The U.S. Embassy located in Belmopan and the Canadian Honorary Consul in Belize City are available to provide assistance with issues such as arrests, detention, or other emergencies. For more information, please visit U.S. Embassy Belmopan.
Ensure you enroll in your government’s traveler-registration program, such as STEP for U.S. citizens or the Registration of Canadians Abroad for Canadians, to stay updated and receive necessary assistance while traveling.