Belize Resorts: Are They Safe For Tourists?

Belize is a popular tourist destination, with its beautiful coastline along the Caribbean Sea, vast jungles, and Mayan ruins. However, it is also filled with petty and violent crime, with gang-related violent crimes being centred in Belize City. Tourists are advised to take precautions, especially in major cities and after dark. While violent crimes rarely target foreigners, mugging and other assaults are common at night, and tourists are advised to take a cab or travel in groups if they go out after sunset.

Tourists are also advised to be vigilant of their belongings at all times, as pickpocketing and petty theft are common in Belize. It is also advised not to wear flashy items or jewellery, and to keep valuables secure and out of reach.

Avoiding isolated areas and crowds

Being in an isolated area means there are fewer witnesses, so it's best to stay where the crowds are. However, crowds also make you a target for petty theft, so it's important to be aware of your surroundings. Tourists are usually easy targets for pickpockets, so when you’re in popular tourist areas, make sure your valuables are secure and out of reach.

If you’re somewhere isolated, you’ll be at a greater risk of getting robbed, especially at night and in the cities. Avoid going out at night and stick to well-lit areas. Don't walk around in secluded urban areas and don't go to the beach at night.

If you are spending the day on the beach, do not leave your belongings unattended while swimming or walking along the sand, as locals and tourists alike can easily swipe your valuables. If you can, find friends to take turns watching over each other’s things.

Don't wear flashy items like jewellery or watches, and don't wave your phone around. Do your best to blend in so you don’t become a target for pickpockets. Most petty thefts are crimes of opportunity. Don't provide the opportunity.

If you happen to find yourself a victim of armed robbery, follow the instructions of the robber and give up your valuables. Your possessions aren’t worth your safety.

Avoiding the south side of Belize City

Belize City's south side, extending to the outskirts of the city to the Western Highway, is best avoided at all times. The area is rife with gang-related violent crime and is considered the most dangerous part of the city. The north side, in contrast, is considered the safest and most prosperous area, with good hotels, casinos, and museums.

The south side of Belize City has a couple of tourist attractions, including the historic St. John's Cathedral and the House of Culture. However, the increased risk of gang violence and other crimes means that tourists are advised to avoid this area altogether.

When visiting Belize, it is important to take precautions such as avoiding isolated areas, being aware of your surroundings, and not wearing flashy items. Tourists should also consider purchasing travel insurance to protect themselves in case of injury, illness, theft, or travel delays.

While Belize can be a great place to visit, it is important to be vigilant and take the necessary safety precautions, especially when visiting the south side of Belize City.

Avoiding the border with Guatemala

While Belize is generally considered safe for tourists, it's important to take some precautions to avoid any potential dangers, especially when it comes to the border with Guatemala. Here are some tips to help you stay safe when travelling near the Belize-Guatemala border:

• It is recommended to avoid the border with Guatemala due to historical tensions and disputes between the two countries. While the situation has improved since 2023, it is still best to avoid the border areas.
• The Belize–Guatemala border is an almost straight line, approximately 165 miles long, separating the west of Belize's territory from Guatemala. This border has been the subject of a long-standing territorial dispute between the two countries, which is yet to be fully resolved.
• There is one main highway crossing at Benque Viejo del Carmen in Belize and Melchor de Mencos in Guatemala. While this may be a convenient crossing point, it is important to remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
• The village of Arenal, located about four kilometres south of the main crossing, has homes and a football field straddling the border. Exercise caution when in this area, as the border can be less clearly defined.
• In the past, there have been instances of troops being stationed at the border by both countries, and tensions have occasionally flared up. While the situation has improved in recent years, it is still a sensitive area.
• To avoid any potential issues, it is advisable to stay informed about the current situation at the border. Check for updates and travel advisories before your trip, and follow the advice of local authorities.
• When crossing the border, ensure you have the correct documentation and visas, if required. Have your passport ready and valid for at least three months past your arrival date.
• Keep a small amount of cash with you when crossing the border, and avoid carrying multiple bank cards. Only take what you need for the day, and leave any valuables in a safe place.
• Be cautious when using ATMs near the border, as there have been reports of scams and theft. Always be vigilant and aware of your surroundings when withdrawing cash.
• Avoid travelling at night near the border. If you need to travel after dark, use licensed taxis with green license plates, and consider travelling in a group for added safety.
• Stay in well-known tourist areas and avoid isolated areas, especially after dark. Stick to popular destinations such as Caye Caulker and Placencia, which are considered safer.
• Follow the advice of local authorities and tour operators when it comes to border crossings and safety precautions. They will be able to provide you with the most up-to-date information and guidance.

Avoiding travelling at night

While Belize is generally considered safe for travelling and backpacking, it is important to remain vigilant and take certain precautions to avoid becoming a victim of crime. Violent crime is on the rise in the country, especially in urban areas like Belize City, and the country ranks consistently in the top 10 countries worldwide for homicide rates. However, tourists are rarely the target of violent crime. Petty crime, on the other hand, is one of the main dangers in Belize.

To avoid becoming a victim of crime in Belize, it is recommended that you avoid travelling at night. Here are some tips to help you stay safe:

• Use taxis instead of public transportation after dark. Ask your accommodation to call a reputable driver for you, and only use licensed taxis with green license plates.
• If you must take public transit at night, be vigilant and keep your valuables secure, especially on "chicken buses" (colourfully decorated school buses used for public transportation).
• If you are a solo female traveller, travel with a friend or another traveller at night, even in taxis.
• Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
• Avoid walking or driving at night, especially in isolated or poorly lit areas.
• If you must go out at night, stick to well-lit, busy areas with lots of tourists.
• Avoid wearing expensive jewellery or watches, and don't flash your cash or phone.
• Carry a spare wallet with only a small amount of cash, and keep the rest of your valuables locked up in your accommodation.
• If you are confronted by a mugger, do not resist. Hand over your valuables—your possessions are not worth risking your safety.

Avoiding wearing flashy items

While Belize is considered generally safe for travelling and backpacking, there are some precautions you should take to ensure your safety. One of the most common forms of crime in Belize is petty theft, so it is important to avoid wearing flashy items such as jewellery, watches, or expensive clothing. Here are some tips to avoid becoming a target for thieves:

• Do not wear any jewellery, especially if it is expensive or flashy. Leave your fine jewellery at home, as it will only bring unwanted attention to yourself.
• Do not wear a watch, especially if it is an expensive or flashy model.
• Avoid wearing expensive or branded clothing. Instead, opt for plain and modest clothing that blends in with the local style.
• Do not carry around large sums of cash or expensive electronics, such as smartphones or cameras. Only carry what you need for the day, and leave the rest in your accommodation.
• Be aware of your surroundings at all times, especially in crowded areas such as markets or tourist hotspots.
• Avoid isolated areas, especially at night, as they are more prone to robberies.
• Use a money belt or a hidden pouch to carry your cash and valuables discreetly.
• Be cautious when using ATMs, as thieves often target people withdrawing cash.
• Be wary of children, as they may be skilled pickpockets.
• Keep your belongings secure and out of reach when in crowded areas.
• Avoid wearing anything that makes you stand out as a tourist. Try to blend in with the local style and culture as much as possible.

Frequently asked questions