Belize Camping: Paradise Or Peril?

Belize is a beautiful country with a lot to offer, from its stunning beaches and lush jungles to its rich cultural heritage. However, when it comes to safety, there are some concerns that travellers should be aware of.

Belize has a high crime rate and serious problems with violent crimes and gang activity, particularly in Belize City and the Southside of Belize City, where gang-related violence, including murders and shootings, are common. Tourists are not usually the targets of these crimes, but it is still important to exercise caution and be vigilant.

In addition to violent crimes, petty theft and pickpocketing are also common in Belize, especially in crowded tourist areas. It is important to keep an eye on your belongings and avoid wearing flashy items or jewellery.

When it comes to transportation, public buses and taxis are generally considered unsafe and unreliable. It is recommended to stick to well-known companies for ferry travel and to avoid travelling at night if possible.

The quality of medical care in Belize is also a concern, with public health institutions being underfunded and under-equipped. Private hospitals, mostly located in Belize City, are likely to provide better healthcare.

Overall, while Belize is not considered a very safe country, with proper planning and precautions, travellers can still enjoy a safe trip to this beautiful country.

Avoid isolated areas, especially at night

Belize is a beautiful country with a lot to offer, but it's important to be aware of potential dangers, especially when camping. Here are some tips to help you avoid isolated areas, especially at night:

• Do your research: Familiarize yourself with the safest areas in Belize, such as Caye Caulker, Corozal, and San Pedro. These areas are popular among tourists and known for their relaxed atmosphere and natural beauty.
• Stick to well-lit, populated areas: Avoid secluded urban areas, alleys, or isolated spots, especially after dark. Stay on the main roads and stick to busy areas with other tourists.
• Be cautious in Belize City: Belize City, the former capital, has a high crime rate and is considered the most dangerous place in Belize. If you must visit, stick to tourist areas during the day, and take a taxi instead of walking, especially at night.
• Be vigilant in tourist sites: While most crimes in Belize don't target tourists, theft and pickpocketing are common in popular tourist destinations like San Pedro, Caye Caulker, and Placencia. Always keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
• Travel in groups: When exploring nature reserves or going off the beaten path, it's best to travel in groups and hire a registered guide. This is especially important in forested areas near the Guatemalan border, where gang activity is prevalent.
• Be aware of local laws: Understand the local laws and customs to avoid any trouble with the police. For example, public drinking is illegal in Belize.
• Stay informed: Keep up-to-date with local news and travel advisories to be aware of any potential dangers or areas to avoid.
• Use reputable campsites: Choose well-reviewed and established campsites with good security measures in place. This will help ensure your safety and give you peace of mind during your stay.
• Be cautious after dark: Avoid walking alone on isolated beaches or roads at night. If you need to get somewhere, take a taxi or travel with a group.
• Keep a low profile: Try not to stand out as a tourist. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry or carrying large amounts of cash. Dress modestly and try to blend in with the local culture as much as possible.

Be vigilant about your belongings

While camping in Belize, it is important to be vigilant about your belongings. Here are some tips to help you keep your valuables safe:

• Use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business. Avoid using ATMs in isolated or poorly lit areas, especially at night.
• Keep your valuables out of sight and secure them in a safe place, such as a money belt or a hidden pocket. Avoid wearing expensive jewellery or displaying your wealth, as it may attract unwanted attention.
• Be cautious when visiting tourist destinations such as San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Placencia, and San Ignacio, as these areas are known for theft.
• Only use established and reputable accommodation and campgrounds. Avoid staying in isolated or unfamiliar areas.
• When travelling, keep your belongings with you at all times. Do not leave them unattended, especially in crowded places or when swimming at the beach.
• Consider carrying a spare wallet with a small amount of cash, while keeping the rest of your valuables locked up in your accommodation.
• Be vigilant and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowds and tourist areas, as pickpocketing is common.
• Avoid wearing flashy items such as jewellery or watches, and try to blend in with the local dress code to avoid attracting attention.
• If you must carry valuables, keep them secure and out of reach, such as in a hidden pouch or money belt.
• Consider purchasing travel insurance to protect yourself in case of theft or loss of belongings.

Don't wear flashy items

Belize is a beautiful country with a lot to offer, from its stunning beaches to its lush jungles. However, it's important to take some precautions to ensure a safe trip. Here are some tips to avoid attracting unwanted attention and protect yourself from theft:

• Avoid wearing flashy items such as expensive jewellery, watches, or clothing with designer logos. Keep your overall appearance low-key and casual to blend in with the locals.
• Leave your valuables at home or in a secure location. This includes items such as expensive electronics, jewellery, and other keepsakes that you wouldn't want to lose or have stolen.
• When going out, only carry the essentials and limit the amount of cash and credit cards you take with you. Use a money belt or a hidden pouch to keep your valuables safe and concealed.
• Be vigilant and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded spaces and tourist areas. Keep an eye on your belongings at all times and don't leave them unattended, as petty theft can occur.
• When travelling, opt for a small to mid-sized backpack or daypack to hold your essentials and water. Avoid carrying purses or bags that can be easily snatched by thieves.
• If you must bring valuable items, consider using an anti-theft neck wallet or a hidden money belt to keep them out of sight. These products are designed to protect your financial information from electronic theft as well.
• Stay informed about the areas you plan to visit. Research in advance and ask locals or hotel staff for advice on which neighbourhoods or areas to avoid.
• When visiting cities like Belize City, avoid isolated or deserted areas, especially at night. Stick to well-lit, busy streets and travel in groups whenever possible.
• Be cautious when using public transportation. Only use licensed and registered taxis with green license plates. Avoid taking unofficial taxis or travelling alone on public buses.

Avoid travelling after dark

Belize is a beautiful country to visit, but it's important to be aware of potential dangers and take precautions to ensure a safe trip. One important precaution is to avoid travelling after dark. Here are some reasons why:

• Violent crimes, such as sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder, are common in Belize, even during daylight hours and in tourist areas. The risk of becoming a victim increases after dark, especially in isolated areas.
• Gang activity is prevalent in Belize, and gang members often use weapons to resolve disputes. Clashes between gangs occur frequently as they fight for control of territories, and tourists could find themselves in the wrong place at the wrong time.
• The police capacity to respond to violent incidents is limited, and many crimes remain unsolved. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid situations where you might need police assistance.
• Muggings and purse snatchings are common, especially in urban centres like Belize City. Criminals often operate in groups and target individuals travelling alone, and the risk of such incidents increases after dark.
• Public transportation in Belize is generally unsafe and unreliable. Travelling at night adds an extra layer of risk, as it can be more difficult to identify licensed taxis or spot potential dangers.
• Driving in Belize can be dangerous due to poorly maintained roads, reckless drivers, and poor street lighting. These risks are amplified after dark, making it harder to navigate and increasing the chances of accidents.
• If you plan to visit remote areas or go hiking, it is crucial to avoid travelling after dark. Trails might not be well-marked, and weather conditions can change rapidly, making it easier to get lost or encounter unexpected hazards.

Don't carry large amounts of cash

While Belize is considered a relatively safe destination for tourists, it's important to take some basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Here are some reasons why you shouldn't carry large amounts of cash while camping or travelling in Belize:

• Petty theft and pickpocketing are common in Belize, especially in tourist areas. By not carrying large sums of cash, you reduce the risk of losing a significant amount of money if you become a victim of theft.
• Carrying large amounts of cash can make you a target for criminals. Flashing cash or appearing wealthy can attract unwanted attention and increase the likelihood of being robbed or scammed.
• It is generally recommended to use ATMs or credit cards for transactions in Belize. Most establishments accept major credit cards, and ATMs are widely available, especially in tourist areas. By using these payment methods, you avoid the need to carry large amounts of cash.
• Carrying large amounts of cash can be inconvenient and risky. It adds weight and bulk to your wallet or purse, making it more difficult to keep track of and increasing the chances of loss or theft.
• In the event of loss or theft, carrying large amounts of cash offers no recourse for recovery. When cash is lost or stolen, it is usually gone for good. On the other hand, if your credit card is lost or stolen, you can quickly report it and minimise potential losses.
• Carrying large amounts of cash can be a hassle when it comes to currency exchange. Exchanging large sums of money can be time-consuming and may result in unfavourable exchange rates. It's generally more convenient and flexible to use ATMs or credit cards, which provide you with the local currency directly.
• By not carrying large amounts of cash, you promote safety and peace of mind during your trip. Knowing that you don't have a significant amount of cash on you can reduce anxiety and allow you to focus on enjoying your travel experiences.

Frequently asked questions