Belize Port: Safe Passage Or Danger Ahead?

Belize is a beautiful country with a lot to offer tourists, from its stunning coastline to its lush tropical forests. However, it is important to be aware of potential safety concerns when visiting. While tourists are not usually the target of violent crimes, it is still important to exercise caution when visiting Belize, especially in certain areas.

Belize City, the country's largest urban centre, has a reputation for being unsafe. Violent crimes such as sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder are common, even during daylight hours and in tourist areas. The south side of Belize City, in particular, is known for gang-related violence and should be avoided if possible. It is recommended to take a taxi rather than walk, especially at night, and to avoid displaying signs of wealth, such as expensive watches or jewellery.

In addition to Belize City, other areas with a high level of crime include Northside Victoria Street and Roaring Creek Village. A nightly curfew is in place for minors under the age of 18 in these areas due to the high levels of crime.

While tourists are not typically targeted, it is still important to remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings at all times. Violent crimes and gang activity are prevalent throughout the country, and muggings are common, especially in urban centres. It is recommended to avoid travelling alone, especially after dark, and to use reputable tour companies.

Border areas, such as those near Guatemala, may also have higher criminal activity and violence. Criminals often target tourists around popular sites such as the Mayan ruins at Caracol. It is advised to use only official border crossings and avoid travelling at night in these areas.

Overall, Belize can be a safe place to visit with the proper precautions in place. By being vigilant, staying informed, and following basic safety guidelines, you can greatly reduce your risk of becoming a victim of crime.

Crime and safety in Belize City

Belize City is the country's largest urban centre, with a population of around 110,000. While the city has a few interesting landmarks, it is not considered particularly appealing or safe to explore alone. The city is known for its high crime rate, with violent crimes such as murder, armed robbery, home invasions, mugging, and sexual assault being a significant problem. Gang-related violence is also prevalent, especially in the south side of the city, with gang members often using weapons to resolve disputes. As such, it is recommended to avoid travelling to the south side of Belize City (south of Haulover Creek Canal).

The majority of violent crime victims in Belize are Belizeans themselves, but there has been an increase in crimes against tourists and expats in recent years. Tourists are often victims of theft, but it is rare for them to experience real violence. However, it is important to note that the police force in Belize is typically understaffed and poorly equipped, so their ability to respond to crimes may be limited.

To stay safe in Belize City, it is recommended to take the following precautions:

• Avoid walking alone at night, especially in secluded areas.
• Use licensed taxis, identified by green number plates, instead of walking.
• Don't carry more cash than you need and leave most of your wallet at home.
• Don't wear jewellery or designer clothes that make you look wealthy.
• Stay in well-reviewed accommodations and stick to busy tourist areas.
• Be vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
• Avoid public displays of affection, especially if you are a part of the LGBTQ+ community.
• Be cautious when taking public transportation, as buses may be poorly maintained and overcrowded.
• Always keep your vehicle windows closed, doors locked, and valuables out of sight.
• Avoid demonstrations and large public gatherings as they can turn violent.
• Monitor local weather reports and natural disaster alerts, as Belize experiences hurricanes and severe weather.

Violent crime in Belize

Belize is known for not being a particularly safe place to travel, especially in Belize City, where violent crime is common. The country has a high level of gang-related violence, with gang members often using weapons to resolve disputes. Criminal activity, including murder, armed robbery, home invasions, mugging, and sexual assault, is a significant problem throughout Belize.

In 2022, there were 113 murder victims in Belize, nine of whom were women. Firearms are the main weapon used in murders, with eight out of ten murders committed with a gun. Young people are the primary victims of homicide, with two in five victims aged between 18 and 29.

Belize has a local demand for guns, but the market is primarily driven by foreign demand, with the country acting as a transit point for illicit arms trafficked to Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras. Belize is also a transit point for drugs, with Mexican cartels controlling heroin flows and local gangs fighting over the movement of cocaine.

Tourists are advised to take precautions when visiting Belize, such as avoiding walking or driving at night, being vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs, and not displaying signs of wealth. The local police lack the resources and training to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents, and most crimes remain unresolved and unprosecuted.

Gang-related violence in Belize

Belize is a beautiful place to visit, with its Caribbean beaches, incredible wildlife, Mayan sites, and welcoming people. However, it is important to be aware of the risks of gang-related violence in the country, particularly in the Southside of Belize City, south of the Haulover Creek Canal.

Belize has a high level of gang-related violence, especially in certain areas of Belize City. Gang members often use weapons to resolve disputes, and clashes occur frequently as gangs try to gain control of territories for illegal activities. The Southside of Belize City, in particular, has seen a significant increase in gang violence, with the government even declaring a state of emergency in some parts in March 2024. This area has witnessed murders and shootings, and the presence of military support has been deemed necessary to enhance security.

The police capacity to respond to violent incidents is limited, and many crimes go unsolved. Muggings are common, especially in urban centres like Belize City. Armed robberies can also occur around popular tourist spots such as the Mayan ruins at Caracol and near the border with Guatemala. Therefore, it is recommended to use a reputable tour company and avoid travelling alone, especially after dark.

To protect yourself from violent crime in Belize, it is advisable to follow certain precautions:

• Don't carry more cash than you need.
• Use licensed taxis with green number plates and avoid picking up extra passengers.
• Don't walk alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas.
• Pay close attention to your surroundings and keep valuables out of sight.
• Stay informed about safety risks through the media and local sources.

While Belize offers a captivating blend of natural wonders and cultural attractions, it is crucial to stay vigilant and follow safety guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Border tensions with Guatemala

Belize and Guatemala share a border that is approximately 165 miles long. The two countries have been involved in a territorial dispute since the 1600s, with Guatemala claiming sovereignty over Belize, which was formerly known as British Honduras.

The dispute can be traced back to the 1600s and 1700s, when Britain and Spain signed several treaties regarding territories in the Americas. Both nations agreed that modern-day Belize was under Spanish sovereignty, although British settlers could use the land for specific purposes and in specific areas. The British settlers, however, expanded far beyond the agreed-upon boundaries, and when the Spanish Empire fell, Guatemala claimed that it had inherited Spain's sovereign rights over the territory.

In 1859, Guatemala and Britain negotiated the Wyke-Aycinena Treaty, which recognised British sovereignty over the region and established the modern-day boundary lines of Belize. This treaty also included an article about building a mutually beneficial road, although this road was never constructed.

Throughout the 20th century, tensions flared up intermittently between Guatemala and British Honduras. In 1931, an exchange of notes between the two nations reaffirmed the borders outlined in the 1859 treaty, and concrete monument markers were constructed to demarcate the border. However, less than a decade later, Guatemala renewed its claims on the area, citing Britain's failure to build the road as a justification for voiding the treaty.

In 1948, Guatemala threatened to invade and forcibly annex British Honduras, leading Britain to deploy troops to the region. Negotiations between the two nations continued over the following decades, with Guatemala periodically massing troops on the border and making further claims to the territory. In 1976, an earthquake struck Guatemala's capital, putting plans for an invasion on hold, and the Guatemalan government once again acknowledged Belize's independence.

In 1981, Belize finally declared its independence from the United Kingdom, later than many other former colonies due to the persistent threat posed by Guatemala. Even after Belize's independence, tensions continued, with military clashes and incidents occurring along the border. In 2016, a 13-year-old Guatemalan boy was shot by a Belizean soldier, leading to a border standoff and the amassing of 3,000 additional Guatemalan soldiers on the border. In 2019, the Belize Coast Guard was prevented from patrolling the Sarstoon River, which runs along the border, by Guatemalan navy gunboats.

In an effort to resolve the dispute, Belize and Guatemala agreed to refer the issue to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in 2008. Referendums were held in both countries in 2018 and 2019, with voters supporting the decision to send the claim to the ICJ. As of 2022, both countries have submitted their initial briefs to the ICJ, and a ruling is not expected until 2025 at the earliest.

The ongoing border dispute between Belize and Guatemala has resulted in heightened tensions and military build-up along the border, with both countries stationing troops in the region. While relations between the two nations are currently relatively peaceful, the situation remains precarious, and the outcome of the ICJ ruling could have significant implications for the geopolitical situation in the region.

Transport and safety in Belize

Transport

Belize's transport system mostly consists of buses, taxis (including water taxis), shuttles, and car rentals. The most common way of getting around for Belizeans is by bus. In larger towns and cities, there are bus terminals, while in smaller places, there are bus stops. However, the most common way of catching a bus is by flagging it down on the road.

Buses are classified as either Regular runs (usual prices) or Express runs (slightly more expensive but faster). The major national bus lines are James, WestLine and BBOC.

Belize also has an international airport, Philip Goldson International Airport, located near Belize City. Two airlines, Tropic Air and Maya Island Air, provide services within the country.

Safety

Belize is generally considered safe for tourists, but it's important to take some basic precautions. Here are some tips to stay safe while visiting Belize:

• Avoid isolated areas, especially at night, as it increases the risk of getting robbed. Stay in well-lit and crowded areas.
• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowds, as tourists are common targets for pickpockets. Keep your valuables secure and out of reach.
• Don't wear flashy items such as jewellery or expensive watches, and avoid using your phone in public. Try to blend in with the locals to avoid becoming a target for thieves.
• Don't leave your items unattended, especially on beaches or in other tourist spots.
• Carry a spare wallet with only a small amount of cash, and keep the rest of your valuables locked up in your accommodation.
• Avoid public buses at night, and opt for a taxi instead. Only use licensed taxis with green license plates.
• Be careful on public transport, especially the colourfully decorated "chicken buses". Keep your valuables secure and be vigilant, as theft is common.
• Avoid drugs and any involvement with cartels. Drug penalties are harsh, and purchasing drugs will only support criminal gangs.
• Stick to the touristy parts of Belize City, as some neighbourhoods are controlled by local gangs.
• Buy travel insurance to protect yourself in case of injury, illness, theft, or flight cancellations.
• Avoid walking alone on dark beaches or roads at night.
• Don't get intoxicated in unfamiliar places.
• Take photos of your passport and other important documents, and store them securely.
• Leave most of your wallet and valuables at your accommodation. Only carry the essentials, such as your driver's license.
• Keep an eye on your belongings at all times, especially in crowded places.
• Don't leave valuables unattended on decks or balconies, as they can be snatched by thieves.
• Stay away from drug dealers and anyone offering illegal services.
• Be vague about your accommodation details when asked by strangers.
• Be conscientious about your comings and goings, especially if you're staying in a large group. Don't advertise your whereabouts or leave your belongings unattended.
• Say no politely but firmly to anyone asking for money if you don't want to give any.
• Try to conduct your outdoor activities and travel during the day, when it's safer.
• Be vigilant and watch your belongings when using public buses.
• Never drink and drive, and always follow the local driving laws and speed limits.
• Lock up your golf cart and remove any valuables, as theft can occur.
• Ask for advice from locals or your accommodation staff if you're unsure about an area or activity.
• Be cautious when exchanging money and always count your change. Ask for prices beforehand if they're not listed.
• Book tours from reputable tour companies rather than individuals.
• Stay hydrated, use bug repellent, and wear sunscreen to protect yourself from the heat and insects.

Frequently asked questions