Belize Travel Advisory: What You Need To Know Before You Go

Is it Safe to Travel to Belize?

The US State Department currently advises US citizens to exercise increased caution when travelling to Belize due to the risk of violent crime, including sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder, which are common even in broad daylight and in tourist areas. The advisory warns that gang activity is prevalent and that local law enforcement faces challenges in effectively responding to serious criminal incidents. As a result, Belize has been given a Level 2 travel advisory, with Belize City elevated to Level 3.

Travellers to Belize are advised to take precautions such as being vigilant of their surroundings, avoiding walking or driving at night, and refraining from displaying signs of wealth. While tourists are not usually targeted, it is important to follow safety recommendations as violent crime is a major concern in the country.

Crime and gang activity

The UNICEF report highlights the need for a cultural shift in Belize, encouraging adolescents to speak out against abuse and find safe channels to do so. It is important to empower young Belizeans to expose violations of their rights and to include marginalized groups, such as socially excluded girls and boys, in decision-making processes.

Belize's high rate of violent crime and gang activity has had a significant impact on the youth, with many experiencing trauma and living in fear. The report also highlights the need for improved access to technology for adolescents, as it can help them participate in society and share their knowledge, needs, and concerns.

The Sustainable and Child Friendly Municipalities Initiative (SCFM) is a positive step towards addressing these issues. It brings together various stakeholders to improve the lives of children and adolescents and ensures their participation in social policy and decision-making.

Police response to crime

Belize is protected by the Belize Police Department, which has more than 1000 sworn officers and nearly 150 civilian employees. In the case of an emergency, you can contact the police by dialling 911. If you don't require an immediate police response, you can email the police force at [email protected].

The US State Department advises citizens to exercise caution and vigilance when travelling to Belize, due to a high prevalence of crime. Violent crime, such as sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder, are common even during daylight hours and in tourist areas. Belize has one of the highest per capita murder rates in the world. A significant portion of violent crime is gang-related, and Belize has around 40 active gangs operating throughout the country. Most crimes remain unresolved and unprosecuted, as local police lack the resources and training to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents.

The US State Department advises citizens to avoid travelling to the Southside of Belize City, where much of the country's violent crime occurs. The area is a battlefront for frequent (and armed) inter-gang conflict. The border areas between Belize and Honduras and Belize and Guatemala also see increased criminal activity.

The Government of Canada advises travellers to exercise a high degree of caution and avoid non-essential travel to Southside Belize City. The Government of Australia also advises a "high degree of caution overall" due to the high crime rate.

To avoid becoming a victim of crime in Belize, it is recommended that you remain aware of your surroundings at all times, avoid travelling after dark, maintain a charge on your cellphone, and do not physically resist any robbery attempts. It is also important to avoid displaying signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewellery.

Travel health information

The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Belize: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, yellow fever, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia, influenza, and COVID-19.

It is recommended that you consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic, preferably six weeks before you travel, to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Be sure that your routine vaccinations are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination. Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

There is a risk of hepatitis A in Belize. The disease can be contracted by ingesting contaminated food or water, eating food prepared by an infected person, or through close physical contact with an infected person. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is recommended that travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g. through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) get vaccinated.

Measles is highly contagious and can quickly spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air. Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected when travelling internationally.

The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. The flu occurs worldwide and the flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

Zika virus is spread by the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito. These mosquitoes bite during the day and night. Zika can be passed from a pregnant woman to her fetus. Infection during pregnancy can cause certain birth defects.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses before travelling. While vaccination provides better protection against severe illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus.

There is no risk of yellow fever in Belize.

Rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats, in Belize. If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, so you may need to return to your home country for treatment.

Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives, or those travelling for a long period of time. Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.

Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

Dengue is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites. Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms and, in some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal. There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

American trypanosomiasis (Chagas disease) is a risk in Belize. It is caused by a parasite spread by infected triatomine bugs. The infection can be inactive for decades, but humans can eventually develop complications causing disability and even death. Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from triatomine bugs, which are active at night, by using mosquito nets if staying in poorly-constructed housing. There is no vaccine available for Chagas disease.

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets or caves.

Food and Water Precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water. Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick. Remember: boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!

Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.

Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs.

Travellers' Diarrhea

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread by eating or drinking contaminated food or water. The risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Entry and exit requirements

The entry and exit requirements for Belize are subject to change, so it is important to verify the latest information with the relevant authorities before travelling. Here is an overview of the entry and exit requirements for Belize as of July 2024:

Passport and Visa Requirements:

• Your passport must be valid for the length of your stay in Belize.
• US citizens do not need a visa for stays of 30 days or less. For longer stays, you must have your passport re-stamped and pay additional fees.
• Canadian citizens with a regular passport must ensure their passport is valid for at least six months beyond their expected departure date from Belize.
• Visa requirements may vary depending on the type of passport used for travel. It is recommended to check with transportation companies and authorities for the most up-to-date information.

Onward or Return Ticket:

All visitors to Belize may be required to show proof of an onward or return ticket upon entry.

Sufficient Funds:

You must be able to demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover the costs of your stay in Belize.

COVID-19 Requirements:

It is recommended to refer to the Department of State's COVID-19 page for the latest information and requirements regarding international travel.

Travel Insurance and Vaccinations:

It is strongly advised to obtain comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuations. Additionally, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional and ensure that your routine vaccinations are up to date before travelling to Belize.

Travelling with Minors:

If travelling with children, you may need to provide birth certificates and documentation establishing that you have the permission of both parents to travel. This is especially important if the children are not travelling with both parents.

Customs and Border Crossings:

When crossing borders by road, use only official border crossings, and avoid travelling at night. Customs officials may ask to see a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds.

Driving in Belize:

You can drive in Belize with a valid Canadian or US driver's licence for up to three months. However, it is recommended to obtain an International Driving Permit. Driving conditions in Belize can be hazardous due to poorly maintained roads and reckless drivers. It is advised to avoid driving at night and to always keep your vehicle locked and secured.

Other Considerations:

• Belize has a state of emergency in specific locations due to high crime levels, including Southside Belize City, Northside Victoria Street, and Roaring Creek Village. Security forces have the authority to restrict movement, conduct searches, and detain persons during the state of emergency.
• A nightly curfew is in place for minors under 18 years old from 6 pm to 6 am.
• Belize has unresolved territorial disputes with Guatemala and Honduras, so it is important to stay informed about border areas and only use official border crossings.
• Drug and human trafficking, organised crime, and gang activity are prevalent in Belize, especially in Southside Belize City.
• There is a risk of natural disasters such as hurricanes, tornadoes, and flooding during certain times of the year. Stay informed about weather conditions and follow the instructions of local authorities.
• It is illegal to damage coral reefs in Belize, and violations can result in severe penalties, including fines and jail time.
• Belize is a signatory to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. You must have a permit to collect, possess, or export plant and animal products.
• Always carry valid identification and keep a copy of your passport and other important documents in a secure place.
• Be cautious when using ATMs and credit cards to prevent fraud and theft.
• Be aware of cultural differences and legal requirements, such as greeting people with "Good morning" before asking for directions or making requests.
• Tipping culture varies, with 15-20% being appropriate in restaurants and bars, while hotel staff typically receives 5-15%.

Public transport safety

Public transport in Belize is generally considered unsafe and unreliable. The country's public transport system is mainly comprised of repurposed North American school buses, which are noted for their sturdiness rather than their comfort or safety features. Buses are often crowded, and it is not uncommon for passengers to have to stand. Additionally, buses are not always timely and can take up to three hours to reach their destinations.

Buses

When using buses in Belize, it is recommended that you:

• Pre-plan your departure time and arrive early at the bus stop, as there is usually a long line for buses.
• Aim for express buses, which tend to be less crowded and ensure the safety of your luggage.
• Ask the bus conductor for the estimated time of arrival at your destination. They are knowledgeable about the routes and can provide valuable recommendations.
• Take into consideration the day of the week you are travelling, as weekends usually have less frequent bus routes.
• Avoid taking the last bus of the day, as it tends to be very crowded and take much longer than earlier buses.

Taxis

Taxis are widespread throughout Belize and can be found in every town. They are identifiable by their green license plates. However, it is advised that you:

• Ask your hotel or travel agent for a trusted taxi driver, as this can ensure your safety and potentially get you a cheaper trip.
• Haggle the rates, as taxi drivers will often be willing to cut you a fair deal.
• Tell the driver about your plans, as they may have valuable recommendations on the best times to travel and the ease of accessing your location.
• Ask the driver if they would be willing to stick around and wait for you if you need a return trip.
• Shop around, as different drivers may offer different prices.

Ferries

Ferries, or water taxis, are commonly used for travel between the cayes and the mainland. It is recommended that you:

• Try to sit on the upper deck of commercial boats for the best views and a breezy ride.
• Be friendly with the locals, as they may be throwing a party that you can join!
• Buy tickets ahead of time to avoid losing your luggage and ensure you get a seat.
• Spend as much time as you like at your destination, as return tickets are typically valid for up to three months.
• Remember to bring sunscreen and take lots of photos!

Frequently asked questions