Is Belize Safe?

Belize is a remarkable country with a coral-fringed coastline of the Caribbean, an abundance of lush rainforest interiors, and various vibrant cultures. These and countless other sceneries make the country an excellent destination for a vacation!

However, the country frequently ranks high in the globe for violence resulting from border disputes with Guatemala and an upsurge in human and drug trafficking through its borders into Mexico.

Still, you can safely visit Belize; you only need to be more careful while having fun. This post will give you the tips you need to be safe in Belize. 

Naturally, this piece will cover a range of subjects, from transportation options and hotels to food and the best places to visit. Let’s get started!

How Safe is Belize? (Expert take)

If you find the idea of backpacking across beautiful countries great, then you should try out Belize. This country has the most prominent ravine in Central America, 450 offshore beaches to explore, and roughly 60% of the country is covered in forests. It’s also the home to the enormous Belize Barrier Reef, which you may explore.

Belize’s economy depends heavily on tourism, but this doesn’t imply that the country is always the safest in the world. All forms of violent crime are becoming more prevalent, particularly in populated places such as Belize District. Besides, the country has appeared in the top ten nations with the highest crime cases.

The primary drivers of the rise in violence are narcotics and human trafficking gangs. Despite this misfortune, travellers may travel to Belize with some degree of caution. 

There is no ideal safety manual, which is true of this piece. Depending on the people involved, the question “Is Belize Safe?” will always receive a different response. However, the tips in this article were produced by experienced travellers for enthusiast travellers.

The material in this safety manual was correct at the time it was written, but the world is more uncertain than ever. It can be challenging to distinguish between sensationalism and fact in light of the epidemic, the widening cultural gap, and a media that thrives on clicks.

Although this information won’t be up-to-the-minute on the most recent happenings, it should guide you in making crucial decisions.  

Is Visiting Belize Right Now Safe?

It’s no surprise that Belize is a well-liked travel destination for visitors and travellers, thanks to its many natural attractions.

Criminals in Belize don’t often target visitors. However,  in recent years, violence has risen in tourist destinations. This is thought to have resulted from the constantly widening gap between the affluent and the poor. Petty crimes are some of the most common threats in Belize.

All the northern part of Belize City is perceived as “risky” due to the active gang activities around the place. Worse yet, police in some of these “crime-ridden” areas can stop anyone and search them without giving any reason.

Due to border conflicts that date back to 1821, there has also been a constant conflict across the western edge with Guatemala. So, avoiding border regions could be wise. The majority of tourism is restricted to the Caribbean shore.

Belize’s political climate is relatively stable. The United Democratic Party (UDP) and People’s United Party (PUP) are essentially in control of politics in Belize, similar to many successful democracies in Western nations.

Travelling to Belize is simple if you learn of their current affairs and take basic safety precautions.

Safest Areas to Tour in Belize

It’s essential to do your homework and use care while deciding where to stay in Belize. You want your trip safe from getting lost in a dangerous region. According to experts, you can visit the safest destinations in Belize.

1. Corozal

Corozal district is situated at the furthest north of Belize. Corozal is among Belize’s best-kept secrets, a beautiful paradise. With a concentration on eco-tourism that allows visitors to experience the traditional way of life in Belize, this destination is quickly becoming a haven for retirees and ex-pats.

Considering the large number of foreigners residing at Corozal, it’s among the finest areas in Belize. Although pickpocketing is still a concern, it’s perhaps the most tranquil and relaxing location you can get in the nation.

Top tips: In Corozal, Belize’s undiscovered jewel, you can experience everything from beautiful beaches and crystal clear waters to wildlife preserves, animal excursions, and gastronomic episodes, all without the crowds of visitors.

2. Caye Caulker

Off Belize’s coastline lies a little island called Caye Caulker. Despite being just 8.2 kilometres long, this place is home to one thousand three hundred people.

It is a well-liked location among backpackers on a tight budget and price-conscious tourists due to its smooth vibe and reasonably low pricing. Here, you may experience paradise’s benefits without spending hefty dollars.

Living in Caulker allows you to select between exciting nightlife, a calm vacation, or exhilarating snorkelling and outdoor excursions. Nothing is off-limits at this delightful location, but you have to pay more for more fun. 

Top tip: The Caye Caulker Island offers a wide range of outdoor adventures and is an excellent place for sunbathers, snorkelers, and scuba divers. Additionally, it is situated near the incredible Blue Hole.

3. San Pedro

Ambergris is the biggest island in all of Belize, measuring 40 kilometres in length and over two kilometres in width. It is a popular tourist attraction in the country, thanks to the breathtaking scenery, gorgeous beaches, exciting nightlife, and unrivalled scuba diving.

Areas around San Pedro are more tranquil than most spots in Belize City, even though tourists often complain about increased crime. You need to be concerned about pickpocketing and petty thefts in this area. But if you can take good care of your belongings, this shouldn’t be a worry.

Top tips: San Pedro, the biggest city in Ambergris, provides delectable cuisine and exciting tourist opportunities. You can find Belize’s most vibrant and excellent nightlife.

Places You Shouldn’t Visit in Belize

Knowing the parts of Belize that aren’t very safe is essential for your safe trip. Remember, Belize is a popular tourist spot, so always be on the lookout for pickpockets and other petty thieves.

According to statistics, Belize City, the country’s previous capital, has registered the highest number of crime-related issues. Most crimes, like break-ins, assault, and murder, occur there.

You won’t have much trouble visiting Belize City, but you’ll need to be well-prepared and conduct many studies beforehand. 

Here are some spots in Belize City reputed to be particularly dangerous. Avoid them at all costs:

• Kraal Road
• George Street
• ANYWHERE at dark

20 +Top Safety Hacks for Visiting Belize

Visitors may find most parts of Belize safe, but taking caution is the easiest way to avert any crime. Expert advice for keeping safe in Belize is the most effective method to travel wisely. Here are the top tips for travelling safely in Belize;

1. Stay sober: This is the most excellent method to prevent crime; thus, becoming wasted is not a good idea.
2. Avoid wandering around in isolated urban regions: These areas are often dangerous since fewer witnesses will be there.
3. Act as though you know the place; People who appear to be lost are always considered tourists, implying wealth. This will make you a prime target.
4. Surrender your values if attacked: Simply handing over your property will boost your chances of getting out of the attack without physical abuse; your safety comes before material things.
5. Be on the lookout when strolling around: there are moments when there isn’t enough pavement, so use caution when walking about. 
6. Avoid flashing cash in public: Careless acts like showing how wealthy and clueless you are will easily attract criminals. 
7. Hire licensed local tour guides: Guides can be vital if you’re going into the forest.  These guys will help you avoid dangerous spots. 
8. Learn of the local regulations: Some laws, like the prohibition against drinking in public, can easily ruin your vacation, so learn what is and is not appropriate in the area. 
9. Make the necessary arrangements during the day: Crime is far less prevalent than daytime.
10. The reefs are AMAZING, but coral and many other water animals may injure you. Be careful around coral and different aquatic life.
11. Take a cab after nightfall; Taxis are reasonably priced, so don’t take any chances.
12. Never pay prostitutes: This act is forbidden by Belize’s law. Also, you’ll be contributing to human suffering and trafficking gangs. 
13. Don’t use drugs:  Drug consumption is illegal in the country 
14. Be ready to request help: If you are you’ve lost or someone is following you, ask for assistance  
15. Protect yourself against malaria: Despite malaria’s low prevalence here, it is better to avoid mosquito bites 
16. Prepare against disasters; Hurricane is frequent in Belize, especially from June to November, so prepare well in case one attack while you’re staying there 
17. Have copies of crucial documents; Having duplicate copies of your documents on hand while out and around can help you in many ways
18. Always lock the doors and windows when going out: Belize reports many crimes, so always keep your space safe
19. Don’t plan shopping on Sundays: You should purchase whatever supplies you need on Saturdays as businesses are closed on Sundays
20. Keep your religious opinions: Belize is still a strongly religious nation, so keep your religious ideas to yourself to avoid any conflicts 
21. Be on the lookout for wild animals: dangerous animals like snakes and scorpions are common around this place 
22. Stay hydrated and avoid too much sun: Although you may want to spend all of your time in the sun, it’s not a good idea 

Remember to follow these helpful recommendations for the simplest method to enjoy Belize without stress. In the end, being safe in this country is simple; it requires smart travel.

Is Belize Safe for Lone Travelers?

Travelling around Belize alone is safe. Travelling solo and in groups has vast differences everywhere globally, so you’ll need to give your trip plans a little more attention. Generally, your behaviour and where you stay will determine how safe you are alone in Belize.

There are some things to remember to travel safely alone in Belize.

• It’s a good idea to stay at hostels and guesthouses, according to reviews on popular travel sites. In a place with many positive ratings, wilstuff is expected; it’s common for stuff to be stolen from lodging. Also, a friendly hostel is a fantastic choice for a lone traveller since they may meet, which is a great way to connect with people from different places. 

• Do your homework. Experts’ advice will always be a scratch off the surface! So, ensure you choose well-reviewed services, such as hiking excursions and restaurants. This will help you avoid scams and other shady activities.

• You only need essential English words and phrases, and you’ll be fine. You can communicate with few words in English, place meal orders, and move about.

• Being noticed as a visitor is a surefire way to draw problems. You can get criticised or even robbed if local gang members realise you’re a lone tourist. So, try different approaches to fit in; start with trying local outfit culture. 

• Utilise services that are in the open; stick to hostels, ATMs, and even eateries that are visible to the general public. Secluded, remote areas are ideal for criminals to thrive. 

• Stay indoors at night: staying on the beach after nightfall appears fun, but it makes you an easy target for robbers. 

Belize is secure for solo visitors, but you got to be smart. Evaluating your destination will give you crucial tips for staying safe. If you follow these guidelines, travelling alone in Belize will be safe and rewarding.

Is Belize Safe To Travel For Families?

Coming to Belize with your family will be more fun. This magnificent nation provides activities for people of all ages. Besides, the population is a perfect blend of Latin America and the Caribbean.

Due to a thriving package tourist industry, there are many locations to tour in Belize for kids. You’ll have several resorts to pick from, frequent cruise ship docking, and more than 450 offshore cays that offer a variety of ideal locations. 

But is Belize safe for your family?

Belize is safe for a whole family visit, but you could use some precautions. 

First, ensure you go when it isn’t raining. Belize has many outdoor activities for you and your family, but you may only partially explore during the rainy seasons. 

But you’ll have to tackle issues like heat and bugs, regardless of the season, but the rewards are fantastic. The scenery is breathtaking, there are incredible experiences to be had, and getting about is simple.

Also, with the alarming crime rate in this country, you will have to be more careful when visiting with family. Always have eyes on the kids to ensure they aren’t lured into being victims. 

Generally, Belize is a beautiful country full of places and activities as a family. 

Is Belize Safe for Women Traveling Alone?

Solitary tourists are safe in Belize. Regrettably, you must follow some more guidelines if you’re a girl travelling alone.  

If you take the necessary safety precautions—a few outlined below—Belize may be a secure destination for female travellers travelling alone.

• Catcalling is common in most locals in Belize, regardless of your looks. Experts advise female visitors to be aware of these local customs and politely greet them with “good afternoon” or any similarly suitable greeting before continuing.

• Travel on your terms and weigh the dangers of witnessing or participating in an activity that could jeopardise your safety. Never feel obligated to take in all that others are viewing.

• If you don’t feel comfortable, reach out to people who can assist. Notify hotel employees where you’re going, tell bar workers if someone is bothering you, and meet people with doorkeepers.

• Tours are enjoyable and secure. Your hostel could provide a short strolling tour of the city. This is an excellent approach to acclimating yourself to a town. You may meet other travellers.

• Despite how exhausting it may seem, be alert at all times. Keep an eye out for odd behaviour from others around you, analyse the situation, and get out of settings that don’t feel ok.

• Getting completely intoxicated is never a good idea. However, if you want a party, get a room in a hostel with a solid reputation and assemble a fun group of travelling companions.

• Use lodging with an excellent reputation. Look for reviews from other female visitors that visited the place.

• Find out from the locals where it is safe to go and where to get meals or drinks. 

• If something doesn’t sit well with you, decline it. This is your life, your safety, and your experience.

Belize is secure for lone female travellers as long as they follow the proper guideline. It all comes down to situation awareness, avoiding wrong actions, and optimising your safety by cultivating social networks.

Is Driving Around in Belize Safe?

While Belize is mainly recognised as a liner destination, if travelling by automobile is your style, you’ll be happy to hear that driving in Belize is enjoyable and secure. Due to Belize’s small area, hiring a car should allow you to explore many beautiful parts of this country.

Belize remains a developing nation; driving standards might be lower than in other, more prominent, wealthier countries. For instance, although the roads are designated highways, they are simply typical two-lane roads.

Worse yet, most rental vehicles in Belize are old models. And a little expertise in tire changes and engine troubleshooting would be helpful. Before you commit to anything, inspect the tread and see if there is a spare.

Being stopped by local police is typical, given that there are several police checkpoints spread around the nation. Stop at these checkpoints, present your identification and insurance to the police, and continue your journey. 

There have been more checkpoints recently because of border conflicts and other problems, so be patient. 

There are also a few gas stations; you must fill up the tank when you spot one. The location of the next one is always unpredictable.

Is Boarding Taxis in Belize Safe?

Riding in a taxi in Belize is unquestionably safe. They’re significant modes of transportation and are particularly helpful at night.

Remember to only ride in authorised taxis. You can request the taxi driver’s documents or check their green registration plates. 

However, taxis do not use meters in Belize. Agreeing to a specific location fee before you enter is also essential. This will save you from getting shocking rates after reaching your destination.

Simply raise your hand when a cab signals you to hail it. Also, don’t be frightened to bargain; it’s a commonplace.

Is Traveling by Public Means Around Belize Safe?

In Belize, public transportation is generally secure, but always be on the lookout for minor episodes.  

Most buses are incredibly colourful and resemble vintage school buses in America. The buses, popularly dubbed chicken buses, are popular among travellers; they are inexpensive and can cover great distances.

Although you’ll need to be patient, chicken vehicles are a very entertaining kind of transportation. Some are often overcrowded and not necessarily in the finest shape, with people sitting in the hallways.

A common way to travel between islands is by water taxi, which runs from, to, and within the several cays.

However, water taxis are only one of the safest modes of transportation. Many are overloaded, lack life jackets, and occasionally sail in terrible weather.

Although it may appear dangerous sometimes, Belize’s bus service is safe. They could be congested and dated-looking, but your trip will be fine in most cases.

Are there Uber Services In Belize?

No, Uber does not exist in Belize. Your Uber, Lyft, or equivalent ride-sharing app won’t function in Belize. Local taxis, accessible in most places, are just one of the various transportation choices. Sometimes you won’t even need a car because everything is so close by.

Can You Drink The Water In Belize?

Drinking water aimlessly in Belize, like anywhere in the world, is only sometimes safe for your health. Substandard infrastructures in Belize aren’t the only challenges contributing to unsafe water in the country; calamities like floods, even ones that happen far away, may let all kinds of terrible stuff into the water.

You should avoid drinking Belizean tap water, but it’s safe for showering and tooth brushing. Be cautious and just consume bottled water, which is readily available everywhere.

It would be wonderful if your hotel had a filtration in the foyer. You can fill up here, so consider taking a reusable water bottle.  

Are Foods and Drinks in Belize’s Cities Safe?

The country’s many ethnic and cultural populations make Belize’s outstanding cuisine possible. 

Eating the cuisine in Belize is safe. Even though it won’t have satisfactory levels of hygiene as a sophisticated Western nation, dining in Belize won’t be a hassle if you follow a few guidelines.

• Avoid food staff that appear to have been lying all day. You have yet to learn how old or often they have been sitting around without being purchased.

• The local street cuisine is the greatest. Typically, this food is spicy, substantial, and fresh. Everything that has been prepared right ahead of you is safe.

• Most Belize cuisines are famous. It would be insane for people to dine somewhere with awful food. Similarly, no one would eat in an environment that frequently makes them feel unwell. It’s often a good idea to eat somewhere well-liked by the people everywhere you go, and Belize is no exception.

• Clean your hands before eating anything. Also,  avoid eating fruit that hasn’t been peeled yourself or those that haven’t been peeled.

• This place has a ton of delicious seafood to choose from. Don’t eat something if you have even the slightest concern regarding its level of freshness.
• Dairy goods sold on the streets seldom receive refrigeration and can spoil extremely rapidly in warm conditions. 

• If you have a terrible stomach, over-the-counter medications are readily available here.

Belizean cuisine is not only delicious, but it is also wholly secure to consume. The greatest thing you can do if you’re very concerned is to limit yourself to foods without meat or seafood, eat exclusively at your hotel or guesthouse, and keep your hands clean.

Is It Safe To Rent An Airbnb In Belize?

Renting an Airbnb is always safe in Belize, but picking the proper neighbourhood important. You may select fantastic houses using the dependable rating and rating system. You can also read in-depth descriptions of the accommodation you will reserve. You’ll be aware of what to anticipate based on recent visitor evaluations.

Bear in mind that hosts may also rate their visitors. This often ensures that both parties will visit courteously and efficiently.

Is it Safe to Live in Belize?

Belize is a safe location to live, thanks to several factors. You should stay in areas with solid security. Choose a reputable real estate company or location strongly advised by other ex-pats. 

Knowing this, you’ll need to become used to locking things and never displaying any valuables. Don’t portray your house as being filled with possible loot!

Things like water shortages and blackouts seldom occur in Belize towns.

Several ex-pat settlements are on the cays and along the Caribbean coastline. You would be fortunate if you came to Belize to live on the beach since those areas are often safer.

Are Same-sex Lovers Accepted in Belize? 

Travellers who identify as LGBTQ+ may have very varied experiences in Belize. Although many middle-old Belizeans are conservative, the youthful population is steadily evolving. The country also legalised homosexuality in 2016. 

However, same-sex lovers’ public displays of affection may meet disbelief and perhaps a few crude remarks. Because of this, it’s advised to only travel to Belize if you’re willing to keep your affair a secret.  

Frequently Asked Questions 

It may be challenging to organise a secure vacation to Belize. Because of this, here is a compiled list of the most often-asked questions about Belizean safety.

What parts are safe for visitors in Belize?

Tourists are said to find San Pedro, Placencia, and Caye Caulker to be safer destinations. If you stay in the tourist districts and avoid venturing alone, especially not towards the city’s northern section, Belize City may also be safe.

Is Belize a dangerous place to visit?

Yes, but with a bit of caution, you’ll be fine. It has among the highest murder rates per capita in the whole globe. However, visitors are rarely targeted by criminals in Belize. Touring Belize is not necessarily dangerous as long as you exercise good judgement and do some homework.

Is Costa Rica more dangerous than Belize?

When you compare crime rates in Costa Rica and Belize, they are nearly identical. However both are beautiful places to visit, but they require extra caution and study, which is worth it.

Is walking in Belize City safe?

Strolling around the city during the day is generally safe. Don’t flaunt your flashiest jewellery or fancy attire, and keep your tourist status a secret. You’ll be OK if you stay in touristy, busier places.  

Finally, are Belizean Cities Safe?

Belize is secure to visit if you take the proper safety precautions and research beforehand.

It would be a pity to miss out on the beauties of Belize due to a misunderstanding founded on violent gang conflict and border disputes with nations other than yours. Belize is a safe place to visit; there hasn’t been a significant Belize travel warning in a while, and it’s safe to travel through Belize on a backpacking trip or to go on vacation there.

When minding your pockets, you need to be more vigilant than usual, but a moneybelt will prevent that. Sometimes, thefts occur in hotels, but you can avoid this by researching the finest locations to visit in Belize. Ultimately, paying attention to your environment always pays dividends.

That’s about it in terms of advice for remaining safe in Belize. If you want to go to this nation, you should have received a ton of safety tips and guidance from this expert guide. With any luck, you’re leaving with the knowledge to make your vacation to Belize worry-free.