Belize: Safe Vacation Spot?

Belize is a popular tourist destination, with its Latin culture, Caribbean Rasta vibe, and old English feel. However, it is important to be aware of safety concerns when visiting. The country has a high violent crime rate, with gang-related activities and sexual assaults being common, even in tourist areas and during daylight. While tourists are less likely to be targeted for violent crimes, they are often victims of opportunistic thefts, pickpocketing, and scams. To stay safe, it is recommended to avoid isolated areas, be aware of your surroundings, avoid wearing valuable items, and join organised excursions.

Violent crime in Belize

Belize is a beautiful country with a lot to offer tourists, from its Latin culture to its Caribbean Rasta vibe and old English feel. However, it is important to be aware of the risks of violent crime in the country.

Belize has a high rate of violent crime, including sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder, which occur even during daylight hours and in tourist areas. Much of this violent crime is gang-related, and it is recommended that travellers exercise caution when travelling to the south side of Belize City, where much of the gang activity is concentrated. The local police often lack the resources and training to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents, and most crimes go unresolved and unprosecuted.

In 2022, there was a general increase in major crimes compared to the previous year, with a 100% increase in reported instances of rape and a 30.4% rise in unlawful sexual intercourse. Young people are the primary victims of murder, with two in five victims of homicide between the ages of 18 and 29. Firearms are the main weapon used in murders, with eight out of ten murders committed with a firearm.

Belize's geographical position makes it a passageway for human trafficking throughout Central America. Victims are recruited and exploited both within the country and abroad, and the groups most at risk are females, children, and migrants from Central America, Mexico, and Asia. Migrants are often exploited in agriculture, domestic work, and retail work, while women and children are exposed to sex trafficking.

Drug cartels and gangs also contribute to the violent crime rate in Belize. Mexican cartels, such as the Sinaloa Cartel and MS13, control the illicit drug trade, and local gangs operate as their suppliers. Belize is a transit point for drugs such as heroin, cocaine, and synthetic drugs, and gang violence over the drug trade has led to a series of drug-related homicides.

To reduce the risk of becoming a victim of violent crime in Belize, it is recommended to follow safety tips such as avoiding isolated areas, being aware of your surroundings, not wearing flashy items, and not walking or driving at night.

Petty theft in Belize

Petty theft is a common issue in Belize, so it's important to be vigilant with your belongings. Tourists are usually easy targets for pickpockets, so keep your valuables secure and out of reach when in crowded areas. Avoid wearing flashy items like jewellery, watches, or expensive clothing, and don't wave your phone around. Most petty thefts are crimes of opportunity, so try not to provide the opportunity.

If you're spending the day at the beach, don't leave your belongings unattended while swimming or walking along the sand. Locals and tourists alike can easily swipe your valuables. Carry a spare wallet with only a small amount of cash, and keep the rest locked up back in your accommodation. That way, if you do get robbed or pickpocketed, they won't get your real wallet with all your cash and cards.

Be extra careful when using public transportation, especially at night. Theft is common on night buses, so avoid them if possible. If you need to get somewhere after dark, take a taxi instead. Ask your accommodation to call a reputable driver for you, and make sure the taxi has a green licence plate, indicating that it's authorised.

It's also important to be cautious when visiting Belize City, which has the highest crime rate in the country. Avoid sketchy neighbourhoods, especially at night, and stick to the main tourist areas.

Safety for solo travellers in Belize

Belize is a great place for a solo traveller, but it's important to be aware of a few key risks. The crime rate in Belize, including violent crime, is high. Tourists are less likely to be deliberately targeted for violent crime but can be victims of opportunistic thefts, pickpocketing and scams.

Avoiding Crime in Belize

• Avoid isolated areas, especially at night.
• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowds.
• Don't wear flashy items or jewellery.
• Don't leave your items unattended.
• Carry a spare wallet with a small amount of cash.
• Avoid public transport at night.
• Be careful on public transport.
• Don't walk around in secluded urban areas.
• Don't get drunk.
• Always keep an emergency stash of cash.
• Don't flash your cash.
• Hire a guide if you're heading into the jungle.
• Understand local laws.
• Catch a taxi after dark.
• Don't do drugs.
• Don't pay for sex.
• Take a good medical kit with you.
• Protect yourself against mosquitoes.
• Know what to do in natural disasters.
• Stay in well-reviewed hostels and guesthouses.
• Do your research.
• Try not to stand out as a tourist.
• Stick to restaurants, accommodations, and ATMs that are in public view.
• Don't go to the beach at night.
• Be aware of your surroundings.

Safety on the Roads

• Avoid driving at night.
• Avoid driving in the rain.
• Only use licensed taxis.
• Avoid buses.
• Avoid hitchhiking.

Other Tips

• Get travel insurance.
• Keep your money safe.
• Be aware of scams.
• Be aware of the risk of Zika.
• Don't drink tap water.
• Be careful with food.
• Be aware of LGBTQ+ safety.
• Be aware of BIPOC safety.

Safety for female travellers in Belize

Belize is generally considered a safe place for female travellers, especially if you're new to solo travel. However, it's important to take some basic precautions to ensure your safety. Here are some detailed tips to help you stay safe during your trip to Belize:

• Be aware of your surroundings: Stay vigilant and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots.
• Avoid isolated areas: Try to stay in well-lit, populated areas, especially at night.
• Don't wear flashy items: Avoid displaying signs of wealth, such as expensive jewellery or watches. Keep your valuables secure and out of reach.
• Use reputable transportation: Avoid public buses at night, and use licensed taxi services instead. If you're a solo female traveller, travel with other people at night, even in taxis.
• Take standard safety precautions: Keep your accommodation secured, and don't leave your belongings unattended, especially on beaches or in other tourist areas.
• Stay informed: Check travel advisories and warnings from your home country for the latest information on safety in Belize.
• Be cautious in Belize City: Stick to the touristy parts of Belize City, as the city has a high crime rate and some sketchy neighbourhoods.
• Avoid walking alone at night: While street harassment is not a widespread issue in Belize, it's still recommended that solo female travellers avoid walking alone at night.
• Be cautious around water: While swimming or snorkelling, never leave your belongings unattended.
• Buy travel insurance: Protect yourself in case of injury, illness, theft, or travel delays or cancellations.
• Be cautious with money: Carry a spare wallet with a small amount of cash, and keep the rest of your money and cards locked up in your accommodation.
• Avoid drugs and illegal activities: Drug penalties are harsh in Belize, and you don't want to end up in jail.
• Stay informed about health risks: Use mosquito repellent and take other necessary precautions to protect yourself from diseases like Zika.
• Be cautious with food and water: Avoid tap water, and be cautious when trying street food.

Overall, Belize can be a safe place for female travellers, but it's important to stay vigilant and take reasonable precautions. By following these tips, you can help ensure that your trip to Belize is both enjoyable and safe.

Safety for LGBTQ+ travellers in Belize

Belize is a socially conservative country with a strong religious presence, and public displays of same-sex affection are rare and considered somewhat shocking. Homosexuality was only decriminalised in 2016, and while the country has taken steps to promote itself as an inclusive destination, LGBTQ+ travellers should be aware of the following:

• Public displays of affection could lead to unwanted attention.
• Discrimination and harassment are still a possibility, and LGBTQ+ travellers should take safety precautions, especially when travelling alone at night.
• While Belize has a vibrant LGBTQ+ community, queer relationships are not legally recognised in the country.
• Dating apps are not recommended for LGBTQ+ people in Belize due to conservative attitudes.

However, there are a number of must-see destinations in Belize that are considered LGBTQ+-friendly:

• Ambergris Caye, the largest island in Belize, is a centre for gay-friendly nightlife and ecotourism.
• Caye Caulker, just south of Ambergris Caye, is a popular spot for LGBTQ+ travellers, offering budget-friendly options and beaches perfect for kayaking, sailing, and windsurfing.
• San Ignacio, located in western Belize, is known for its vibrant cultural scene and is relatively gay-friendly.
• San Pedro Town is considered the most gay-friendly destination for tourists in Belize, with a thriving gay nightlife during the high season.

Overall, Belize is generally considered a safe and exciting destination for LGBTQ+ travellers, with a vibrant community and organisations that promote LGBTQ+ rights. However, it is important to be mindful of cultural norms and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and harassment-free trip.

Frequently asked questions