Belmopan, Belize: Safe And Sound Or Crime-Ridden?

Belmopan is considered one of the safest cities in Belize. It has good nightlife, well-laid-out streets, avenues, and paved roads. The city has a population of over 20,000 people, making it the fastest-growing population center in Belize. It is located 82 kilometers (51 miles) west of the old capital of Belize City and is relatively quiet. Belmopan is a popular destination for retirees looking for a safe city with easy access to essential services. It is also a hub for call centers, with large four-story buildings housing thousands of workers. The city has good road signage, pedestrian ramps, exercise paths, and wide-open green spaces. Belmopan is a one-hour drive from Belize City and is located near the Belize River Valley, with a view of the Mountain Pine Ridge mountains.

Belmopan is safer than Belize City

Belmopan was constructed with British aid following the devastation of Hurricane Hattie in 1961, which demolished approximately 75% of the homes and business places in Belize City. The inland location of Belmopan was chosen to be safe from tropical cyclones and to provide an industrial area. The city has well-laid-out streets, avenues, and paved roads, and is one of the few places in Belize with branches and ATMs of all banks operating in the country. It is also a hub for call centres, with large four-storey buildings housing thousands of workers.

Belize has fairly high levels of violent crime, and travellers are advised to exercise caution, especially when travelling to the south side of Belize City. Violent crimes such as sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murders are common, even during daylight hours and in tourist areas. The local police lack the resources and training to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents, and most crimes remain unresolved and unprosecuted.

In contrast, Belmopan is considered one of the safest cities in Belize. While the country as a whole may have safety concerns, Belmopan stands out as a relatively secure option. The city has evolved into a thriving centre with good nightlife, well-maintained infrastructure, and a growing population. It is a popular destination for retirees seeking a safe and quiet environment with easy access to essential services.

To summarise, while Belize as a country faces challenges with violent crime and gang-related activities, Belmopan offers a safer alternative to Belize City. With its inland location, well-planned infrastructure, and thriving economy, Belmopan provides a more secure environment for both locals and tourists.

Belmopan is a hub for ecotourism

Belmopan is the capital of Belize and a hub for ecotourism. Located in the Cayo District, it is one of the safest cities in Belize. The city boasts a diverse range of natural attractions, from lush rainforests to majestic mountains, making it an ideal destination for those seeking adventure and exploration.

Belmopan's journey to becoming an ecotourism hub began after Hurricane Hattie devastated the former capital, Belize City, in 1961. The Belize government, led by Premier George Price, made the strategic decision to relocate the capital inland to Belmopan, which sits on high ground and is less susceptible to tropical cyclones. This move not only ensured the safety of the capital but also opened up new possibilities for ecotourism development.

Belmopan and the surrounding Cayo District offer a plethora of ecotourism activities. The Guanacaste Park and St. Herman's Blue Hole National Park provide opportunities for hiking, swimming, and exploring well-maintained jungle trails. The Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve and Chiquibil National Park are ideal for hiking, birdwatching, and horseback riding. The dirt roads in this region are also perfect for mountain biking enthusiasts.

In addition to its natural attractions, Belmopan has a diverse range of accommodations, restaurants, and cultural experiences. The city is known for its ethnically diverse cuisine, with influences from various cultures in Belize. From formal sit-down restaurants to small food stalls, visitors can enjoy the country's national dish, Rice and Bean with Stew Chicken, as well as Mestizo favourites like Panades, Garnaches, Salbutes, and Tacos.

Belmopan also offers a range of accommodation options, from motel-like establishments within the city to luxurious resorts just outside it. The Sleeping Giant Rainforest Lodge, Caves Branch Jungle Lodge, and Banana Bank Jungle Lodge are popular choices for those seeking a unique jungle experience.

The city's safety, convenient location, and natural surroundings make it a popular stop for travellers exploring other destinations in Belize. Belmopan is also a hub for call centres, attracting investors from North America, the Middle East, and Asia due to the country's low minimum wage and favourable business environment.

In conclusion, Belmopan, the capital of Belize, has transformed itself from a sleepy town to a thriving ecotourism hub. With its diverse natural attractions, cultural offerings, and convenient location, it has become a sought-after destination for travellers seeking adventure, exploration, and a deeper connection with nature.

Belmopan has a thriving nightlife

Belmopan, Belize, has a thriving nightlife, with plenty of options for those looking for an exciting evening out. La Cabana is a popular spot, known for its vibrant dance floor, lively atmosphere, and delicious food. It transforms into a club at night, with aggressive male dancers, sexy female dancers, and awesome drinks. La Cabana is located on the Hummingbird Highway and is a great place to visit for an unforgettable night out.

For those looking for a more relaxed evening, Belmopan also offers Puccini's Junction, a great spot to unwind and socialise. The Bullfrog Inn is another popular choice, known for its raucous karaoke nights. If you're looking for a fun night of singing and socialising, the Bullfrog Inn is the place to be.

Additionally, there are restaurants along the George Price Highway that offer a great evening out. Belmopan's nightlife caters to a variety of tastes, from dancing and clubbing to relaxed socialising and karaoke. The city's nightlife scene adds to its appeal, making it an enjoyable destination for both locals and tourists alike.

Belmopan is a safe city for retirees

Belmopan, the capital of Belize, is a safe city for retirees. The city has a low crime rate and is known for being a tolerant place where people with different skin colours, ethnic backgrounds, religions, or sexual orientations can feel secure. Tourists and retirees can feel safe walking around during the day, but it is recommended to avoid walking alone at night.

Belmopan is also a popular retirement destination due to its tropical climate, English-speaking population, and affordable cost of living. The city offers retirees easy access to essential services, healthcare facilities, and cultural attractions. There are also nearby Mayan ruins and nature spots to explore, such as the Mayan ruins of Xunantunich and the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve.

However, it is important to take standard safety precautions, such as not leaving valuables in your car and not walking alone at night. Additionally, public transportation in Belmopan is limited, so having a personal vehicle can be convenient, but driving in Belize can be challenging due to poor road conditions in some areas. Overall, Belmopan is a safe and attractive option for retirees seeking a relaxed lifestyle in a tropical location.

Belmopan is a one-hour drive from Belize City

Belmopan is Belize's capital city and is located approximately 41 miles or 66 kilometres from Belize City. The driving distance between the two cities is around 48 miles or 77 kilometres and takes about an hour.

Belize is a relatively safe destination for tourists, especially if they stick to popular tourist areas and take standard precautions. However, it is important to be cautious as the country has a high crime rate, with violent crimes such as sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murders being common, even during the day and in tourist spots. Belize City in particular has a high crime rate, with a homicide rate of 105.1 per 100,000 people, making it one of the cities with the highest homicide rates in the world. Most violent crimes are gang-related, and gangs control parts of Belize City that even the police avoid.

To stay safe in Belize, it is recommended that you avoid travelling alone, especially at night, and stick to well-known tourist areas. Be vigilant and aware of your surroundings, especially around banks and ATMs, and avoid wearing expensive items or jewellery. It is also advised to carry only a small amount of cash and avoid carrying bank cards. In the event of a robbery, it is important to comply and not resist.

Frequently asked questions