Belize attracts visitors with its clear Caribbean waters, lush rainforests, and ancient Mayan ruins. Safety ranks as the top concern for many travelers planning a trip to this Central American destination. This guide covers the key safety aspects of Belize to help you plan a secure and enjoyable vacation.
Overall Safety in Belize
Belize is generally safe for tourists who stay in popular areas and follow basic safety practices. The country welcomes over a million visitors each year, with most travelers experiencing trouble-free trips. The Belize Tourism Board works actively to maintain security in tourist zones.
Key Safety Statistics:
- Over 1.5 million tourists visit Belize annually, with fewer than 1% reporting crime incidents
- 96% of all crime occurs away from tourist zones
- Tourism police units operate in all major visitor destinations
- The vast majority of serious crimes involve local residents, not tourists
Tourism police units patrol main visitor areas like Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker, San Ignacio, and Placencia. These officers speak English and focus specifically on tourist safety and assistance.
Understanding Belize Crime Statistics
When researching Belize safety, travelers may encounter crime statistics that seem high compared to larger countries. This perception stems from Belize’s small population of approximately 400,000 people. With such a small base, even a modest number of incidents can create elevated per capita crime rates.
This statistical effect impacts how Belize compares to other countries optically:
- Crime events that would be statistically insignificant in larger countries appear more prominent in Belize
- Per capita crime rates can be mathematically higher without reflecting a proportional safety risk
- Tourist areas maintain significantly lower incident rates than the national average
- Most reported crimes occur in specific areas rarely visited by tourists
For travelers, the practical safety experience in tourist zones more accurately reflects their risk level than national statistics. Over 98% of visitors experience no safety issues during their stay.
Crime Rates and Areas to Avoid in Belize
Belize City has higher crime rates compared to other parts of the country. Violent crime exists primarily between local gangs in specific city neighborhoods. Tourist-targeted crime makes up less than 5% of all reported incidents in the country.
According to safety reports, approximately 90% of serious crimes in Belize occur in areas where tourists rarely visit. Most security incidents involving visitors are opportunistic theft rather than violent crime.
Areas in Belize with good safety records include:
- San Pedro (Ambergris Caye)
- Caye Caulker
- Placencia
- Hopkins
- San Ignacio
- The Cayes (islands)
Areas to exercise more caution:
- Parts of Belize City, especially southside neighborhoods
- Remote areas after dark
- Isolated beaches with few people around
Common Safety Concerns for Travelers
Theft and Petty Crime
Theft represents the most common crime affecting tourists, accounting for approximately 85% of all tourist-related incidents. Most thefts occur when valuables are left unattended. Take these precautions:
- Keep valuables in hotel safes
- Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics
- Use ATMs in well-lit, public locations during daylight
- Lock hotel rooms and rental cars
- Stay alert in crowded tourist areas and markets
Transportation Safety
- Road conditions vary widely in Belize:
- Main highways are paved but may have potholes
- Rural roads often remain unpaved
- Driving standards differ from North America and Europe
- Public buses provide basic service with variable safety standards
- Licensed taxis offer more security than unregistered drivers
- Water taxis between islands follow safety regulations
Traffic accidents pose a more significant risk to travelers than crime. The road fatality rate in Belize is higher than in the US or Canada, with approximately 25 deaths per 100,000 population annually. Most accidents involve motorcycles or occur on rural roads.
Natural Hazards
Belize faces several natural risks:
- Hurricane season runs from June to November
- Heavy rains can cause flooding on roads
- Strong currents exist at some beaches
- Mosquitoes carry diseases like dengue and Zika
- Wildlife hazards include snakes and scorpions in jungle areas
Safety Tips by Region
Belize Cayes (Islands)
Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker remain the safest areas for tourists. These islands have:
- Regular police patrols
- Lower crime rates than mainland areas
- Well-established tourism infrastructure
- Good medical facilities for minor issues
The Cayes report nearly 70% fewer incidents against tourists compared to mainland areas. Take normal precautions:
- Lock doors and windows
- Store valuables securely
- Avoid isolated areas at night
- Use reputable tour operators for excursions
Mainland Coast
Placencia, Hopkins, and Dangriga offer safe coastal experiences:
- Tourism police presence exists in these communities
- Beach areas maintain good security
- Most resorts have security staff
- Stay in established accommodations
These coastal communities report crime rates approximately 40% lower than the national average.
Inland Belize
San Ignacio and the Cayo District provide safe access to jungles and Mayan ruins:
- Guided tours offer the safest jungle experiences
- Local tour guides know safe areas and practices
- Avoid hiking alone in remote areas
- Carry insect repellent and water
Tourism data shows that over 98% of guided tours in Belize complete without any safety incidents.
Belize City
Exercise increased caution in Belize City:
- Visit tourist sites during daylight hours only
- Use official taxis from hotels or established stands
- Keep valuables out of sight
- Consider it a transit point rather than main destination
While Belize City accounts for nearly 40% of the country’s crime, fewer than 10% of these incidents involve tourists. Most tourist-related incidents occur in areas outside the main visitor zones.
Health Safety
Health concerns require preparation:
- Bring insect repellent with DEET
- Pack basic medications and first aid supplies
- Drink bottled or purified water
- Eat at established restaurants
- Get travel insurance with medical coverage
- Know locations of medical facilities near your stays
Major tourist areas have clinics that handle common issues. Serious medical problems may require evacuation to Mexico or the United States. Over 80% of tourist medical issues in Belize relate to sunburn, minor stomach problems, or insect bites rather than serious conditions.
General Travel Safety Tips for Belize
Before Your Trip
- Research current safety conditions in Belize before traveling
- Get recommended vaccinations such as: Hepatitis A (due to the risk of food & waterborne illnesses) Hepatitis B (especially those who might come into contact with bodily fluids) Typhoid (for travelers who might eat or drink outside major restaurants & hotels) Tetanus (especially if you plan on activities that could lead to injuries) MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) (to ensure you are fully vaccinated) Polio (if arriving from a region with active polio transmission) Yellow Fever (if traveling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission) Rabies (for long-term travelers or those who may come into contact with animals). NOTE: It’s important to consult with your healthcare professional for personalized advice based on your specific travel plans & health status.
- Purchase comprehensive travel insurance
- Make copies of important documents
- Share your itinerary with someone at home
- Check Belize Immigration requirements – a valid passport with at least 3 months validity is needed
- Buy reef-safe sunscreen as Belize protects its coral reef system
- Pack light, breathable clothing and rain gear (especially during wet season May-November)
- Download maps.me for offline navigation as cell service can be spotty in rural areas
- Learn about Belize’s wildlife hazards – both marine (lionfish, jellyfish) and land (snakes, insects)
- Bring Belizean dollars or US dollars (accepted 2:1 BZD ratio throughout the country)
- Get recommended vaccinations, including Hepatitis A and Typhoid
During Your Stay
- Trust local advice about areas to avoid
- Use hotel safes for passports and valuables
- Carry only necessary cash and one credit card
- Keep emergency contacts accessible (see emergency contacts listed at the bottom of this guide)
- Stay in groups when possible, especially at night
- Use the Belize Tourism Board’s certified guides for cave tours, jungle treks, and Mayan ruin visits as much as possible
- Respect marine protected areas and follow guides’ instructions when snorkeling the barrier reef
- Avoid the Guatemala border area, especially the western Cayo District after dark
- Avoid walking on George Street, Kraal Road, & Mayflower areas in Belize City
- Register for cave tours at Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) and other popular sites in advance. Sites like ATM Cave require a licensed ATM Cave guide for access.
- Store valuables in hotel safes – beach theft can occur
- Follow crocodile warning signs at riversides and lagoons
- Carry bug spray with DEET for sand flies at beaches
- Respect local communities when visiting Garifuna and Maya villages – ask permission before taking photos where possible
Is Belize Safe for Solo Travelers?
Solo travelers can visit Belize safely by taking extra precautions:
- Stay in well-reviewed accommodations
- Join group tours for activities
- Maintain regular contact with people at home
- Avoid isolated areas, especially after dark
- Trust your instincts about uncomfortable situations
- Make friends with hotel staff and local guides
Women traveling alone should exercise standard safety practices, similar to other Central American countries. According to travel surveys, over 85% of solo female travelers to Belize report feeling safe during their stay.
Is Belize Safe for Families?
Families find Belize particularly safe when:
- Staying at family-friendly resorts
- Visiting established tourist attractions
- Using reputable tour companies
- Maintaining supervision of children near water
- Following guides’ safety instructions
Many resorts offer family packages with supervised activities for children. Family-oriented areas report the lowest incident rates in the country, with over 95% of family vacations occurring without any safety issues.
Still wondering if Belize is Safe?
Belize offers a safe experience for informed travelers who take basic precautions. Most visitors enjoy their time without issues. The country depends on tourism and maintains safety measures in popular destinations.
Statistics consistently show that the vast majority of travelers to Belize (over 98%) experience no safety incidents during their stay. The tourist experience differs dramatically from local crime statistics, with visitor areas receiving extra security attention and resources.
Common sense, preparation, and awareness create the foundation for a secure trip. By understanding the local environment and following standard travel safety practices, you can focus on enjoying all that Belize offers – from stunning reefs to ancient ruins and rich cultural experiences.
Pack your sunscreen, bring your sense of adventure, and visit this beautiful country with confidence in your safety.
Here are some important safety & emergency contacts for travelers in Belize:
Emergency Services
- 911: This is the general emergency number for police, fire, and ambulance services. However, it only works if calling from a local Belizean number
- 90: Can be used for ambulance, fire, and police services
- BERT Ambulance: 223-3292 or 00781
Police Departments
- Belize City Police Department: (501) 227-22222.
- San Pedro Police Department: (501) 226-20223.
- San Ignacio Police Department: (501) 824-20222.
- Punta Gorda Police Department: (501) 722-20222.
Medical: Hospital Contacts
- Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH): 223-1548/223-6861.
- Belize Medical Associates: (501) 223-03032.
- Belize Diagnostic Center: (501) 224-57782.
- Ambergris Hope Hospital: (501) 226-2660 or 606-38803.
Other Emergency Contacts
- Belize Red Cross: (501) 227-3319, (501) 227-3617, or (501) 223-42762.
- South Ambergris Caye Neighborhood Watch: 610-4911 (also WhatsApp).
- RRR Emergency Response: 627-11173.
- NEMO (National Emergency Management Organization): 936 or 226-4824 / 614-586513.
- U.S. Embassy: U.S. Embassy in Belmopan: (501) 822-4011. After-hours emergency: (501) 610-5030
BONUS: Looking for a Safe Haven in Belize to stay?
Check out Villa Onyx at NOUR Villas Belize, a stunning real estate development on the outskirts of Belmopan City. This beautiful, modern villa is nestled in the hillside of the Maya Mountains on the quaint community of Agua Viva, centrally located to all the major inland attractions in Belize. It is equipped with a plunge pool, outdoor fire place, an outdoor patio with a barbecue grill, airconditioned, a kitchenet, flat screen tv, satellite internet, and floor to ceiling windows that brings the outdoors in. Check out more on the NOUR Villas website.
FAQs on Belize Safety
Is Belize City safe for tourists?
Belize City has a higher crime rate compared to other parts of the country, particularly in areas such as the south side of the city. It’s advised to avoid walking alone at night in these neighborhoods, and to use secure taxis or transport services. The northern and more tourist-friendly parts of the city, including the area around the Fort Street Tourism Village, are generally safer.
Which areas of Belize are the safest for tourists?
San Ignacio, Ambergris Caye and Placencia are known for being among the safest destinations in Belize. Ambergris Caye, in particular, has a well-established tourist infrastructure with low crime rates. Placencia offers a peaceful beach environment, and both areas have local police presence and are frequented by tourists. Belmopan, Belize’s capital city, is also a great central base for exploring all attractions in the country, and is very safe.
Are there any areas in Belize that tourists should avoid?
Yes, parts of Belize City, particularly areas on the south side, and certain rural regions are best avoided. Specific areas like the Lake I area and the Old Capital (near the cemetery) are known for higher crime rates and should be navigated with caution, especially after dark.
Are there any travel advisories for Belize?
As of the latest updates, the U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 2 travel advisory for Belize, recommending travelers to exercise increased caution. The advisory particularly highlights the higher crime rates in Belize City and certain other parts of the country.
Is it safe to swim and snorkel in Belize?
Swimming and snorkeling are generally safe in Belize, especially in protected areas like Hol Chan Marine Reserve near Ambergris Caye, where safety measures are in place. Be cautious of strong currents and always go with a guide when exploring more remote areas of the Belize Barrier Reef.
How safe is the public transportation system in Belize?
Public transportation in Belize, such as buses or water taxis, is generally safe but can be unreliable, especially in rural areas. Water taxis between islands like Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker are considered safe, but it’s recommended to book tickets with reputable operators. Taxis in urban areas should be booked through your hotel or a trusted service.
Are there any specific health safety precautions for visiting Belize?
Malaria and dengue fever are present in some parts of Belize, particularly in rural areas and during the rainy season. It’s advised to use insect repellent, wear long sleeves, and take anti-malarial medication if visiting these areas. The country’s healthcare system is improving but may not be up to international standards, so it’s recommended to have travel insurance with medical coverage.
What precautions should I take in Belize to avoid getting scammed?
While scams are rare, they can happen, especially in tourist hotspots. Be cautious when booking tours with street vendors or unauthorized operators, and always confirm prices beforehand. Some visitors have reported overcharging for services like taxis or boat tours, so it’s wise to ask for a price list or get a quote in writing.
