Corozal, Belize: A Tropical Paradise, But How Safe Is It?

Located in northern Belize, Corozal is considered one of the safest places in the country, largely due to its expat population. While petty theft is still a concern, violent crime is almost non-existent in the area. However, it is worth noting that crime rates in Belize are higher than in the average US city, and the country consistently ranks highly worldwide for violence due to border tensions, drug trafficking, and human trafficking.

Violent crimes such as assault and armed robbery

Belize has consistently ranked highly worldwide for violence, due to border tensions with Guatemala and increased drug and human trafficking into Mexico via Belize. Belize City is considered the crime centre of the country, with the US Travel Advisory classifying it as a level 2 country, advising increased caution. However, tourists are generally not the target of violent crime in Belize, and areas with a high expat population, such as Corozal, are considered safer.

To reduce the risk of becoming a victim of violent crime in Corozal, it is recommended to follow local laws, integrate with the local community, and be aware of your surroundings.

Petty theft

In Corozal Town, petty theft is a known issue, with items like garden hoses being reported stolen if left outside. Houses in the town often have bars on their windows and fences surrounding their properties, a common feature in Central American countries to deter thieves. However, even with these security measures in place, theft still occurs, and some residents choose to install shards of glass on top of their walls to prevent intruders.

The good news is that the crime rate in Corozal is relatively low compared to other parts of Belize, such as Ambergris Caye, which has a worse reputation for crime. Expats living in more remote areas of Corozal, such as the Cerros Peninsula, also report feeling safer due to the limited access to their communities.

To minimise the risk of petty theft in Corozal, it is advisable to follow basic safety precautions, such as not leaving valuables unattended and being vigilant in tourist hotspots like Mayan ruins and Caye Caulker.

Safety walking alone at night

Corozal, Belize is generally considered a safe place to visit, but it's important to take precautions to ensure your safety, especially when walking alone at night. Here are some detailed instructions for staying safe while walking alone at night in Corozal, Belize:

• Avoid walking alone at night, especially in isolated areas. There is safety in numbers, so pair up with someone or stick to well-lit, populated areas.
• Take a taxi if you need to travel at night. They are inexpensive and readily available.
• Stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings at all times. Keep your wits about you to avoid becoming a target for petty crimes such as pickpocketing or purse-snatching, which can occur in larger cities like Belize City and certain parts of San Pedro.
• Avoid flashing cash or wearing fancy clothes, jewellery, or expensive accessories. Belize is known for its non-materialistic culture, and displaying wealth may make you a target.
• Use reputable and licensed transportation services. Look for green license plates, which indicate a licensed and registered taxi.
• Keep your money and valuables secure. Use a money belt or a hidden pocket to conceal your cash and valuables when walking at night.
• Stay in well-reviewed accommodations with good security measures, such as burglar bars and night security.
• Do not get complacent about locking doors and windows, especially at night.
• Avoid isolated, dirt roads that are not well-marked, as they may be higher-risk areas.
• Follow local laws and avoid public drunkenness or drug use.
• Understand the cultural differences and be respectful. Belize may have a more male-dominated culture than you are used to, and catcalling is common, although it is rarely threatening.
• Report any incidents of verbal or physical abuse to the local authorities.

Border tensions with Guatemala

Border tensions between Belize and Guatemala have been ongoing for centuries. The territorial dispute is one of the oldest in the Americas, dating back to the 1600s and 1700s when Britain and Spain signed treaties regarding territories in the Americas. Both nations agreed that modern-day Belize was under Spanish sovereignty, but British settlers could use the land for specific purposes.

The dispute continued as the Spanish Empire fell, with Guatemala claiming it inherited Spain's sovereign rights over the territory. In 1859, the Wyke-Aycinena Treaty was signed, recognising British sovereignty over the region and forming the modern-day boundary lines of Belize. However, tensions flared up again in the 20th century, with Guatemala periodically renewing its claims on the area.

In 1999, Guatemala shifted its stance once more, arguing that it had inherited claims from the Spanish Empire and the Federal Republic of Central America. This led to both countries stationing troops at the border and establishing a one-kilometre "adjacency zone" on either side of the treaty borders. In recent years, there have been confrontations between Guatemalan military personnel and Belizean Territorial Volunteers near Sarstoon Island, raising fears of greater instability in the region.

In an effort to resolve the dispute, Belize and Guatemala agreed in 2008 to hold simultaneous referendums to send the issue to the International Court of Justice (ICJ). The referendums passed in both countries by 2019, and as of 2022, both nations are presenting their cases to the ICJ. The court is not expected to rule until 2025 at the earliest.

Despite the border tensions, Corozal, located in northern Belize, is considered one of the safest places in the country due to its expat population. However, visitors should still be aware of issues such as petty theft and gang activity in other parts of Belize.

Gang activity

While tourists are not typically the targets of violent crime in Belize, gang-related activities such as drug trafficking and human trafficking have contributed to the country's high ranking in worldwide violence. The disparity between rich and poor is believed to be a factor in the increase in crimes in tourist areas. Additionally, the presence of armed guards at many archaeological sites indicates that gang activity is a concern in these areas as well.

Corozal, located 88 miles north of Belize City, is considered one of the safest places in Belize due to its large expat population. However, it is still necessary to be cautious of petty crimes such as pickpocketing. The laid-back and easy-going nature of Corozal, along with its growing expatriate community, makes it a peaceful spot in the country.

To reduce the risk of becoming a victim of gang-related crimes in Belize, it is recommended to exercise caution and maintain good situational awareness. Staying in groups, avoiding wearing valuable items, and being vigilant when carrying high-value items are essential safety measures.

Frequently asked questions