Belize, located on the northeastern coast of Central America, is bordered by Mexico to the north, Guatemala to the west and south, and the Caribbean Sea to the east.
Known for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant culture, Belize attracts over 1.2 million visitors annually.
Most arrive by cruise ships, with Belize City being the largest port in the seaside country.
Belize was historically home to a thriving Mayan civilization, which is evident in its numerous ancient ruins, such as Caracol and Altun Ha.
After centuries of colonization by Spain and Britain, it became a British Crown colony known as British Honduras before gaining independence in 1981.
Today, Belize is the only Central American country where English is the official language.
However, Spanish and Kriol are widely spoken.
Belize draws visitors thanks to its biodiversity, from the depths of the jungle to underwater rivers to the Belize Barrier Reef.
With more than 400 offshore islands, there’s a beach near a coral reef within reach for any visitor.
If you’d rather explore the Mayan ruins or spot a jaguar in the jungle, there’s an excursion perfect for any Central American adventure.
Choosing to visit Belize for its beauty is a no-brainer.
But there are a lot of other safety concerns to think about when taking a trip to this Caribbean destination.
Advertencias y Peligros en Belize
RIESGO GENERAL: MEDIO
The risk in Belize is at the low end of medium, but that is largely due to specific risks in one part of a large city. However, the country does have a mixed bag of safety issues versus sensational things to do.
RIESGO EN TAXIS Y TRANSPORTE: MEDIO
Treat this as a medium risk, if for no other reason than to be hypervigilant about what rides you use. Taxis are common, but not all of them are legit. Look for the signature licensing signs required in each port city. Rental cars are an option, but there's a medium risk there, too, given how dangerous it is to drive in Belize.
RIESGO DE CARTERISTAS: MEDIO
This is another medium risk, especially in busy tourist areas. Don't leave bags unattended, and don't carry around valuables like a camera or a smartphone. Tuck those away where nobody can see them.
RIESGO DE DESASTRES NATURALES: MEDIO
Belize faces risks from hurricanes and tropical storms, particularly during the Atlantic hurricane season (June to November). Flooding and storm surges can occur, especially in coastal areas. Visiting during the wet season can also mean rough water on rivers or cave raft tours.
RIESGO DE ASALTO: ALTO
While petty theft is a concern in tourist areas, robberies are more likely in the neighborhoods outside the visitor corridors. Don't carry valuables, stay off the streets at night, and always travel in groups. Leave valuables in your room or on the cruise ship.
RIESGO DE TERRORISMO: BAJO
Belize has a low terrorism risk compared to many other countries. There have been no significant incidents targeting locals or tourists. However, I could argue that the drug trade and organized crime warrant a higher risk factor, especially since these criminals care very little about people who get caught in the crossfire.
RIESGO DE ESTAFA: MEDIO
Scams in Belize often target tourists and can include overpriced tours, counterfeit goods, or inflated taxi fares. Some may pose as guides offering unlicensed services. Always use reputable operators, confirm prices upfront, and avoid overly persistent vendors. I've read several stories from visitors who claim the local police aren't very helpful when scams are reported. Be sure to contact your embassy as well if you think you're facing a scammer.
RIESGO PARA MUJERES VIAJERAS: MEDIO
Belize is generally a safe place for women travelers who follow the standard safety guidance. Don't draw unwanted attention to yourself, avoid walking around alone, and don't accept drinks from strangers. Stick with reputable accommodations and tour operators.
RIESGO DE BEBER AGUA DE GRIFO: MEDIO
Tap water is hit or miss in Belize, and you should always request bottled water, even in the tourism-focused areas. The CDC website details concerns about travelers' diarrhea in Belize. Even if the water is safe by the country's standards, it could still contain bacteria that your body isn't used to. Treat this as a medium risk and stick with bottled water.
Lugares más Seguros para Visitar en Belize
The official tourism site is travelbellize.org.
Before planning a trip, I recommend reading the «What’s New in Belize’s Tourism Industry» section.
It’s also worth noting that anytime the word «caye» is in a title, it is pronounced «key.»
These are small, low-lying islands or sandbars, typically located on or near the country’s extensive barrier reef system.
These islands are made of coral and sand and are surrounded by clear, turquoise waters, making them ideal for snorkeling, diving, and beach getaways.
Beach lovers should head to Ambergris Caye or Placencia for pristine waters, snorkeling, and island vibes.
Caye Caulker offers a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for enjoying fresh seafood and colorful sunsets.
If you are visiting Belize on a cruise, you’ll likely stop at one of two ports.
- Belize City Cruise Port (Tourism Village): Ships anchor offshore, and passengers take smaller boats to the mainland. The Tourism Village offers shops, restaurants, and transportation for popular excursions.
- Harvest Caye: A private island owned by Norwegian Cruise Line, located in southern Belize near Placencia. This exclusive port features beaches, a pool, restaurants, and easy access to mainland adventures.
- Port Coral: Located on Stake Bank Island near Belize City, the newest Belize cruise destination opened in 2024. It features beaches, restaurants, shops, and adventure activities like zip-lining.
Start with the Great Blue Hole, a world-famous diving site and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This stunning natural wonder is perfect for experienced divers or those who enjoy a boat ride to admire its beauty.
The Great Blue Hole is located at Lighthouse Reef, one of four «atolls» in the Western Hemisphere, with two others in Belize: Turneffe Atoll and Glover’s Reef Atoll.
An atoll is a ring-shaped coral reef, island, or series of islets that partially or completely encircles a lagoon.
On land, the Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave offers an incredible journey through underground rivers to explore ancient Mayan artifacts and skeletal remains—a unique mix of history and adventure.
For less intense caving, try the Barton Creek Cave canoe tours.
Belize’s lush jungles are teeming with life, and guided tours are the safest way to see exotic wildlife and plants.
Don’t miss a stop at the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, home to jaguars and miles of hiking trails.
Nearby, you can zipline through the jungle canopy or float down a river on a relaxing tubing adventure.
History buffs will love exploring Mayan ruins like Xunantunich, Caracol, and Altun Ha in the Cayo District.
To learn even more, visit the Museum of Belize in Belize City, which features exhibits on Mayan culture, colonial history, and Belizean art.
Lugares a Evitar en Belize
While Belize as a country has a Level 2 (of 4 levels) travel advisory, the U.S. State Department considers Belize City to be a Level 3 risk.
That’s the category where you are asked to reconsider travel.
The warning says the south side of the city is riddled with crime, usually related to gang or drug activity.
Specifically, the most concerning area is south of the Haulover Creek Canal to Fabers Road.
While that’s not a typical tourist area, Belize City is not a place to wander around aimlessly.
Stick close to the ship or book excursions via your cruise line.
Those heading to San Pedro should know that the State Department claims credit card fraud rings are active in this region.
In the Cayo District near Caracol to the south, you might face a higher risk of an armed robbery.
Tips de Seguridad para Viajar a Belize
- Most tourism-focused cities in Belize have a Tourism Police Unit that handles traveler safety, vendor licensing, and tour guide permit verifications. The Belize Tourism Board website provides more information about the police.
- When it comes to getting emergency management information, remember the phrase «Finding Nemo.» NEMO is the name of the National Emergency Management Organization. Follow them on Facebook by searching for «National Emergency Management Organization-NEMO.»
- In 2024, the country experienced record numbers of road accidents. Roads can be poorly lit or maintained, with unmarked speed bumps and wandering animals. Avoid night driving, especially in rural areas. Always be on the lookout for motorcycles, and if you’re driving one, please wear a helmet.
- You’ll need bug spray to ward off the mosquitoes, especially in the jungles, but you should also know about some other predators that you likely don’t have at home. One is a bullet ant, named for the painful stinger that causes extreme pain for up to 24 hours. Snakes, spiders, and jaguars are also found here, but the big cats generally stay away from people. Ideally, don’t go into the jungle without a large group of people.
- Do not attempt to go cave tubing alone. Hire a legitimate guide, as recommended by your cruise line or travel agent. You will be given a helmet and life vest, which must be worn at all times on the water. Bring water shoes to help protect your feet.
- Golf carts are a popular way to get around in Belize, especially on islands like Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker. You’ll need to be either 18 or 21 years old and have a driver’s license. Please review all safety laws and check the functionality of the cart before you drive off.
- If you plan to do excursions during a port stop, book those through the cruise line. While some vendors might be at the port offering big discounts, you have no way of verifying whether they are legitimate tour operators.
- Divers should know about the recreational limits, which cap scuba drops to 130 feet. If you’re eyeing the Great Blue Hole for a dive, you should know that only the most experienced divers should attempt this, and you won’t be able to reach the bottom due to the depth restrictions.
- If you’re planning to fish in Belize, you’ll need a fishing license, even for catch-and-release. They’re easy to get online or in person, and you can choose from daily, weekly, or monthly options. Also, check for seasonal restrictions. For example, lobster season is closed from March 1 through June 30. Some fish, like grazers, are protected and illegal to take from the water.
- Please review the health advisories and warnings from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In Belize, the main health concerns are giardia, cysticercosis, typhoid fever, and travelers’ diarrhea. Eating cooked food and drinking bottled water can help avoid most health issues.
Entonces… ¿Qué tan Seguro es Realmente Belize?
Belize is one of several countries that oppose the travel warnings issued by the U.S. State Department and the United Kingdom.
However, the data provided to dismiss the claims was only taken from July through September 2024, when major crimes were down 16% and down 3% year over year.
As noted earlier, the Belize and Cayo Districts had the highest percentage of murder rates, with Belize having the lion’s share of criminal activity during the time of the research.
However, that percentage was also down by nearly a third compared to the previous year.
Also, despite the 80 homicides that happened in 2024, that’s still the lowest number since 2005.
However, if you do a basic Google search for «tourist death in Belize,» several reports will come up of people murdered either by direct attacks or caught in the crossfire of another fight.
While crime concerns shouldn’t stop you from visiting Belize, it’s important to stay in tourism-focused areas with trusted guides.
Common sense and exemplary personal safety steps will go a long way toward enjoying your time in Belize.
¿Cómo se Compara Belize?
| País | Índice de Seguridad |
|---|---|
| Belize | 43 |
| Dominican Republic | 54 |
| Afganistán | 14 |
| Albania | 75 |
| Argelia | 44 |
| Angola | 48 |
| Argentina | 70 |
| Buenos Aires | 60 |
| Córdoba | 61 |
Información Útil
Visados
Most countries do not require a visa in order to enter Belize. Make sure your passport is valid for at least 3 months past the date of your arrival. You may be asked to present a return ticket with sufficient funds to cover your stay. If you are not sure about your visa status, visit www.doyouneedvisa.com which will let you know whether or not you need visa based on your nationality and the country you want to visit.
Moneda
Belize dollar is the official currency in Belize. ATMs are widely available throughout the country, and credit cards are accepted in most establishments such as hotels, restaurants and shops.
Clima
Belize’s climate can be described as sub-tropical, with high humidity that is most noticeable and prominent along the coastline. The best time to visit Belize is from late November to mid-April, during the country’s dry season.
Aeropuertos
Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport is the busiest airport in the country, serving Belize's largest city, Belize City along the eastern coast of Central America. It is located about 30 minutes drive from Belize City's centre, in Ladyville.
Seguro de Viaje
Just like anywhere else, we recommend getting travel insurance when traveling to Belize, since it covers not only the costs of medical problems, but also theft and loss of valuables.
Temperaturas medias en Belize
Temperaturas máximas y mínimas
| Temperatura / mes | enero | feb. | marzo | abr. | mayo | jun. | jul. | agosto | set. | oct. | nov. | dic. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Máx. °C | 26 | 31 | 34 | 35 | 33 | 33 | 34 | 34 | 32 | 31 | 28 | 28 |
| Mín. °C | 18 | 19 | 19 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 22 | 22 | 23 | 22 | 20 | 20 |
| Máx. °F | 79 | 88 | 93 | 95 | 91 | 91 | 93 | 93 | 90 | 88 | 82 | 82 |
| Mín. °F | 64 | 66 | 66 | 70 | 72 | 73 | 72 | 72 | 73 | 72 | 68 | 68 |
Belize is a safe place should you stay in the tourist areas
I have family in Belize and have been many times.
I won’t say that is going to as safe as going to New York, but in my experience it is about the same going to Mexico. Just use some common sense and keep your wits about you and you should be fine. As a tourist, stay in the well known touristy areas and you should be pretty safe.
Many of the violent crimes on tourists I’ve seen is because people specifically go into the brush «for the gram» and encounter things that they shouldn’t; it is still a Central American country so it should be treated as such. As long as you don’t go looking for trouble or places that you shouldn’t, than you should be fine.
Beautiful and moderate, I agree with Gabe
Belize, in all, is extremely beautiful. And, although the crime rate is moderate, visit the beaches and it will look crazy good.
An exciting place to visit
I agree that Belize City can be a little unsafe at times but I actually liked the excitement it has. I wouldn’t travel certain areas at night because it’s dangerous but in the day time, it is a beautiful place to visit.
Nice views
Belize City wasn’t the first city on my list and I actually read your review before I went there. I did a proper research before going and that helped me to avoid any trouble. Would I go back? Yes, probably. The views are very nice.
The Islands are safer than the city
Many people reading this page are likely visiting Ambergris Caye or Caye Caulker (or similar). These places are much safer than the Belize City considering they are small, self-contained islands that cater to tourism.
Standard cautions still apply while traveling abroad, but the islands are a lot less stressful than the mainland in terms of safety.
43...Really????
I have visited Belize many times and have never had a bad experience.
I find the people incredibly welcoming and friendly and have never felt “unsafe” in any of the many places I’ve visited. Like most tourists, I’ve spent time in San Pedro on Ambergris Caye, and Caye Caulker. I’ve visited The Stan Creek and Cayo Districts and stayed in both San Ignacio and Belize City.
In Belize City, just like any other city, you need to pay attention to your surroundings and be careful to not present yourself as an easy target but this is the case in Belize City, New York City, Boston, Baltimore, or any other metro area. If you do that, you’ll be fine. Belize is a wonderful country and a great place to visit.
I’ve traveled there several times with my wife and most recently with my two daughters ages 22 and 19.
We had a great time climbing Myan ruins and zip lining in the jungle, cave tubing, and snorkeling on the reef… never once did we feel as though we were in any sort of danger.
To be fair, we are from a large city, and “street smarts” come naturally but to give Belize a rating of 43 is simply unfair.
I disagree. In Belize you are guilty until proven innocent. I was charged with assault because a rapist broke into our hotel room and tried to rape a girl who was with us and I chased him down and tackled him and waited for police to come arrest him. instead they let him go and arrested me for assault. I was in Jail for two weeks until they finally found the guy and he happened to have a bunch of my things that he stole from me. If it was not for that I would likely have been in Prison for years awaiting trial.
Looking to go
Oh my gosh!
I’m wanting to visit there for a vacation. I’m from a small town in Alabama.
I’ve already heard that Belize city is bad as far as crime.
Where did you stay?
I traveled to Belize for 2 months and most of the time it was great.
However one night a man broke into our hotel room in the middle of the night and tried to rape one of the girls with us.
I chased him out and down the street and tackled him. I held him until Police arrived only to get arrested for assault and they let the robber and rapist go. I was held in Jail for nearly two weeks because in Belize you are guilty until proven innocent. They finally found the guy and he had a bunch of my items that he had stolen.
I had to go to court and prove they were my belongings. Once that happened they arrested him and set me free.
If they would have never caught that man I would likely have been in prison for years awaiting trial. That happened on Cay Caulker which is considered one of the safest Islands.
Silly to consider a LEVEL 4 NO TRAVEL by US State Department Medium risk
medium risk? State Department says this is a LEVEL 4 DO NOT TRAVEL. Rape and crime and abduction goes un prosecuted. This is is silly review of safety for this area of the world.
I looked at State Department Travel and Belize is a Do Not Travel due to COVID. Like so many people, your lack of information is driving this country to the ground.
Belize is one of the safest countries I have visited multiple times.
Mugged on Caye Caulker 2011 broken wrist
I have to laugh at any review saying this country is anything near «safe».
In February 2011 on «safe» Caye Caulker, I was mugged on a beach near the airport part of the island.
It was 11 PM but there were people maybe 100 feet away in cabanas sleeping.
Two thugs 18 and 15 crept up behind me on cat feet and put me in a headlock, BREAKING MY LEFT WRIST.
The little cretins wanted my $125 camera or whatever they presumed I had in my pocket.
I yelled my bloody head off and they ran.
They were caught the next day but within 48 hours were let go because I couldn’t make an absolutely positive identification.
I had treatment on Ambergris Cay by orthopedic surgeon but ultimately on returning to the states had to have surgery on the wrist.
It is weak and not all that great to this day, almost 11 years later.
I have followed 7newsbelize.com for years and the amount of crime and chaos and murder in that country from one end of the other is stupendous.
It is no barefoot paradise, that’s for sure. If you don’t believe me, then check out 7newsbelize.com for a while. You’ll get an eye full. Or google Jon Berg Belize and the story is archived and still viewable on the net.
Crazy crimes
Your absolutely right Jon. Shocking to check that website and crimes. Expat who moved there in 2019 killed and burnt in his new house near to US embassy.
Gotta watch your back
As a general rule, I NEVER let my guard down, no matter what country I’m visiting. Let’s be honest, their high crime rate is a well-known fact. Add corruption to the mix and you’ll want to stay out of trouble as much as possible. If I see a street fight you can bet I won’t feel the need to break it up, I just mind my own business. Intervening would only make things worse and I would probably get into trouble. It’s one thing to be a native and do this and another to be a tourist.
The Belize district – Belize city is included here – is insanely dangerous, I wouldn’t venture around here at night. Street gangs are everywhere even more so during the night and they’re notoriously vicious. The police don’t seem to care enough to do something about this or to at least keep it in check so it’s best to avoid night time activities.
A friend advised me to avoid paying with my credit card so I just used cash, even in restaurants and spas. It involved a lot more hassle but I had peace of mind knowing my card was safe. In fact, I’ve seen this method being recommended by several countries, to avoid paying with your credit card whenever possible, skimming is a real threat.
Corozal is my go-to city, Almond Tree Hotel Resort being an amazing place to stay. Excellent food, friendly staff and decent prices.
If you have the misfortune to bump into sketchy characters, interact as little as possible with them. If you’re being mugged just give them the money, there’s no point in risking your life. It’s best not to put yourself in a spot where you can be robbed which means paying attention to your surroundings but this isn’t always possible. Plus, their local authorities don’t have tourists as their number one priority.
My last point would be to always have insurance. It can be so well worth it I can’t even stress this enough. I had the misfortune of having an allergic reaction that required two day hospitalization which could have cost me several hundreds if I didn’t have insurance.
So, watch your pockets, no night-time walks, pay attention to your surroundings and don’t walk with your eyes in your phone and you should be safe.
Beautiful people, beautiful country
I consider myself to be a seasoned traveler, for both work and pleasure, I served in the Army in Belize in the ’70s and even then, Belize City was not safe at night, mainly petty crime, and muggings, we were advised to always travel in pairs.
I have been back a number of times on holiday, and also have family there in the «South Side» of Belize.
I think the article is about right in its description of Belize City, sticking to the main traffic areas in the daytime is as safe as anywhere in the world, but at night, I would not venture out in the city on my own.
The rest of the country is a lot safer, but no matter where you are, be it in Belize or some other country, you should always be aware of those around you, and take appropriate precautions.
My biggest problem with Belize is that the police are not to be trusted, there is corruption at the top and all sorts of problems with the patrolling officers.
I would still recommend Belize as a place to visit, it is a beautiful country, with many things on offer, overall, the people are some of the friendliest I have ever met, and their hospitality is most welcoming.
One final note, beware of the women, they are very clever, and one managed to trap me into a marriage which I have been unable to escape from for over 40 years 🙂
My Experience
I have traveled in Belize 5 times and stayed in places you don’t expect to find tourists, and traveled all around the country. One of the safest places I have visited with welcoming and genuine people.
Traveled All Around the Country
I have traveled in Belize twice. First time (solo female traveler) took the boat from Livingston, Guatemala to Punta Gorda, Belize. Stayed the night in Punta Gorda. Then bussed around the country staying in Hopkins and Placencia on the coast then cut inland to San Ignacio. Exited the country by land to Flores, Guatemala. Second time, entered from Flores with a friend and went straight to Caye Caulker. Afterwards we took a local bus up out of the country to the Chetumal, Mexico border. I found the traveling to be easy and enjoyable. I did not feel like I had to be on high guard.
Belize Backpacker 1989-2002
My husband and I have travelled Belize and Guat, since 1989-2002 and never ever had a problem
We enjoyed the culture, the people and the food…it was an amazing experience made a lot of good friends who we still communicate with today.
I agree with keep your wits about you, dont go off in the dark, and keep your eyes open all the time
Its no different than any large city in the US, or Canda