Orange Walk, Belize: Safe Haven Or Safety Concern?

Orange Walk, Belize is generally considered a safe place to visit, with violent crime being rare. However, it is important to remain vigilant as petty theft is common. Walking around during the day is deemed safe, but it is not recommended to walk at night. The town is known for its diversity, with Mestizos, Yucatec Mayas, Creoles, Mennonites, Chinese, Taiwanese, Indians, and other Central American cultures coexisting peacefully. Orange Walk has a rich history, having been occupied by the Maya civilization, Spanish explorers, British colonizers, and Mexican refugees throughout the centuries. Today, it offers a unique mix of cultural experiences, natural beauty, and ancient ruins.

Violent crime is rare in Orange Walk, but there is a lot of petty theft

Orange Walk in Belize is a generally safe place to visit, with violent crime being rare. However, the area does experience a lot of petty theft, so it is recommended that you keep your valuables secure at all times and be vigilant.

To avoid petty theft, it is advisable to keep your luggage and valuables secure and out of sight when exploring Orange Walk. Ensure that your windows and doors lock properly in your accommodation, and use any safes provided. It is also recommended to avoid flashing valuables and walking alone at night.

Overall, the chances of robbery are low in Orange Walk, especially if you do not provoke dangerous situations. Tourists with a different skin colour, ethnic background, religion, or sexual orientation can feel safe, as Orange Walk is a tolerant place.

In addition to petty theft, there is also a risk of property crime, such as car theft and items being stolen from vehicles. Therefore, it is advised not to leave valuables in your car.

By taking these precautions and being aware of your surroundings, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable visit to Orange Walk, Belize.

Walking in groups in Orange Walk is generally safe

Walking in groups in Orange Walk, Belize, is generally safe. The town has a population of around 13,000 people and is a great place to slow down and relax. It is known for its diversity, with Mestizos, Yucatec Mayas, Creoles, Mennonites, Chinese, Taiwanese, Indians, and other Central American cultures coexisting harmoniously. The area is also home to more than 50,000 people, making it the third most populous district in Belize.

The people of Orange Walk are friendly and happy to chat with visitors. The town is small enough that you can walk everywhere, and walking anywhere in the town is considered safe, especially in groups. The downtown area, in particular, is best explored on foot. The market area between Corozal Road and Main Street comes alive early in the morning, with small to medium shops and restaurants opening their doors. Be sure not to miss the carts selling delicious breakfast tacos!

While Orange Walk is generally safe, it is important to take some basic precautions. Violent crime is rare, but petty theft can occur. Keep your valuables secure, and be cautious when walking alone at night. Overall, Orange Walk is a welcoming and safe place to visit, and walking in groups can enhance your sense of safety and make your experience even more enjoyable.

Orange Walk is a tolerant place, and tourists with a different skin colour, ethnic, religious or sexual orientation can feel safe

Orange Walk is a safe place for tourists of all backgrounds. While crime levels have increased in recent years, tourists with a different skin colour, ethnic, religious or sexual orientation can feel safe because Orange Walk Town is a tolerant place. The chances of being attacked in Orange Walk are very low.

However, it is important to remain vigilant, as violent crime and petty theft are common in Belize. Tourists are advised to avoid walking or driving at night, and to be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs. It is also recommended not to display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewellery.

Belize has a high crime rate, with a homicide rate of 31 incidents per 100,000 people, and the country is a transit point for guns, heroin, and cocaine trafficked by international cartels. Belize City, in particular, has a high homicide rate, and is home to powerful street gangs.

Despite this, tourists are often safer than locals in Belize because they have the choice of avoiding bad areas, and there is a designated tourist police force to protect foreigners.

The best way to get around Orange Walk is by walking

Orange Walk is a small, quiet town in Belize with a population of around 13,000 people. It is considered a safe place to backpack and travel, with violent crime being rare. However, it is recommended to be cautious of petty theft and to keep valuables secure. Walking is the best way to get around Orange Walk, as the town is quite compact and there is no need for public transportation. The well-paved streets and speed bumps make it a pleasant and safe place for pedestrians.

In addition to walking, there are other transportation options available. Local buses connect Orange Walk to Belize City and Corozal Town, operating approximately every half-hour. Taxis and minibuses are also available for travel within the town and to surrounding areas. However, taxis can be expensive, with a minimum fare of 7 BZD and a rate of 6 BZD per kilometer. Car rentals are also an option, but they are not necessary due to the small size of the town.

Orange Walk offers a range of attractions for visitors. It is known for its diverse culture, scenic location on the New River, and delicious street food. The town is also a great base for exploring nearby ruins, such as Altun Ha and Lamanai, which were once major Mayan cities. Nature lovers can visit the Shipstern Conservation and Management Area, which is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including all five cat species found in Belize.

Overall, Orange Walk is a safe and charming destination that can be easily explored on foot, making it a convenient and enjoyable place to visit.

The town is known for its diverse street food scene

Orange Walk is a small, quiet town in Belize, located north of Belize City. With a population of just 13,000 people, it is a place to slow down and relax. The town is known for its diverse street food scene, which reflects the unique blend of cultures found in Orange Walk. Mestizos make up the majority of the population, but you can also find Mayas, East Indians, Chinese, and Creoles, each bringing their own distinct flavours and cooking techniques to the local cuisine.

One of the most popular street foods in Orange Walk is Elma's Tacos. These rolled tacos are made with fresh corn tortillas and filled with chicken, minced cabbage, and a bit of habanero sauce. They are typically sold for breakfast or lunch and are a staple in Mestizo communities. People from all over Belize visit Orange Walk just to eat these delicious tacos.

In addition to its street food, Orange Walk also offers a variety of restaurants serving up a mix of local and international cuisine. Maracas Bar and Grill, located on the New River, is a trendy spot known for its blend of Caribbean and Latin American flavours. Cocina Sabor is another popular restaurant in South-west Orange Walk that serves a blend of local and international dishes in a comfortable and inviting atmosphere.

For those looking for a taste of authentic Belizean food, Luigi's Restaurant offers a wide range of dishes that incorporate Belizean flavours with international cuisine. From fresh seafood to mouthwatering steak, there is something for everyone at Luigi's. The Deck Tapas Bar & Bistro is another great option for locally influenced tapas and innovative cocktails, offering beautiful views of the New River.

Whether you're looking for tasty street food or a sit-down meal, Orange Walk's diverse food scene has something to offer everyone. The town's blend of cultures and flavours makes it a unique and exciting culinary destination in Belize.

Frequently asked questions