Is Belize Safe to Visit?

Last Updated: 8/29/23 | August 29th, 2023

Relaxing on a picturesque beach, exploring Mayan ruins, snorkeling the world’s second-longest barrier reef. Belize is full of amazing and adventurous things to do. The country is one of the most unique destinations in Central America and among my favorite countries in the region.

It’s also where I did my first solo backpacking trip and, since that first trip, I’ve loved every minute I’ve spent there.

From the Latin culture of the interior to the Caribbean Rasta vibe of the coast to the old English feel of some of the islands, Belize is a mash-up of vibrant and historic cultures. The country is popular with backpackers, vacationers, dive enthusiasts, and honeymooners alike, offering something for every travel style and interest. Plus, with English as the country’s primary language, there’s no language barrier.

Understandably, tourism is on the rise.

Pre-pandemic, Belize saw an all-time high of 1.7 million visitors — which is a lot for a country of just over 400,000 people. Tourism will no doubt continue to increase here as well, as violent crime has been steadily declining.

Most concerns about safety in Belize are due to Belize City’s status as a hotspot for gang activity and corresponding violent crime. However, tourists will mostly be spending their time in much safer areas elsewhere.

But just because the country is generally safe doesn’t mean you can let your guard down, as petty theft is still an issue. In this post, I’ll share some tips to help you stay safe during your visit to Belize.

 

10 Safety Tips for Belize

1. Avoid isolated areas – If you’re somewhere isolated, you’ll be at a greater risk of getting robbed, especially at night and in the cities. Try to stay where the crowds are — that’s the best way to avoid being singled out by potential muggers.

2. Be aware of your surroundings while in crowds – While sticking to where the crowds are can help you avoid getting mugged, it also makes you a target for petty theft. Tourists are usually easy targets for pickpockets, so when you’re in popular tourist areas make sure your valuables are secure and out of reach.

3. Don’t wear flashy items – Petty theft is the most common threat in Belize so remove any jewelry or watches and don’t wave your phone around. Do your best to blend in so you don’t become a target for pickpockets. Most petty thefts are crimes of opportunity. Don’t provide the opportunity.

If you happen to find yourself a victim of armed robbery, follow the instructions of the robber and give up your valuables; these material items can be replaced. Your life cannot. I learned this lesson the hard way in Colombia.

4. Don’t leave your items unattended – If you are spending the day on the beaches of Placencia Peninsula, Hopkins Village, or Caye Caulker, do not leave your belongings unattended while swimming or walking along the sand, as locals and tourists alike can easily swipe your valuables.

If you can, find friends at your hostel to hit the beach with so you can take turns watching over each other’s things while you swim and relax.

5. Carry a spare wallet with only a small amount of cash – Bring a spare wallet and only carry the minimum cash needed for the day in it. Keep the rest locked up back in your accommodation. That way, if you get robbed or pickpocketed they won’t get your real wallet (where you’ll keep the rest of your cash and cards)

6. Avoid the bus at night – If you need to get somewhere at night, take a taxi. It will be safer than any public transportation. Have your accommodation call the taxi for you so you can be sure you’re getting a reputable driver. Make sure you get in a taxi with a green license plate, as those indicate authorized taxis. If you’re a solo female traveler, make sure you travel with other people at night (even in taxis).

7. Be careful on public transit – If you must take public transit, keep your valuables on you and well secured, especially on “chicken buses” (colorfully decorated school buses that have been converted to public transportation for goods and people). Theft is common on night buses, so avoid them if you can. (Buses also tend not to run on time, and sometimes they are extremely slow, packed, or both. Be prepared for the experience!)

8. Don’t do drugs – Cartels in Belize have made life very difficult for the local population. Don’t support them by buying their products. Drug penalties are also harsh in the region, and you don’t want to end up in jail. Skip the drugs.

9. Stick to the touristy parts of Belize City – Belize City (the largest city in the country) has the highest crime rate in the country and has some sketchy neighborhoods that have been taken over by local gangs. There are areas, however, that are relatively safe, such as the main tourist part of town. If you don’t wander too far from there, you should be fine.

10. Buy travel insurance – Travel insurance protects you if you get injured or ill, are a victim of theft, or must deal with delayed or canceled flights. It’s a worthwhile investment and can save you thousands of dollars. Don’t risk traveling without it. I always buy travel insurance before I leave home!

I recommend SafetyWing for travelers under 70, while Insure My Trip is the best choice for travelers over 70.

You can use this widget to get a quote for SafetyWing:

For more information on travel insurance, check out these posts:

• What Does Travel Insurance ACTUALLY Cover?
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies
• How to Buy the Best Travel Insurance

 

Is There a Risk of Zika in Belize?

Belize has a history of Zika virus transmission, but there is currently no evidence of an ongoing outbreak. While the risks are low, travelers are advised to take the following precautions:

• Use mosquito repellent on your body (on top of any sunscreen) to prevent bites, and sleep under a mosquito net to avoid getting bit when you’re asleep.
• Wear breathable garments that cover your arms and legs.
• Keep doors and windows closed as much as possible to prevent mosquitoes from entering your room.
• Pregnant women or couples considering pregnancy should consult a healthcare practitioner prior to travel.

 

Is Hitchhiking Safe in Belize?

Hitchhiking in Belize is quite common, easy, and — most importantly — safe. My friends and I hitchhiked throughout the country and saw lots of locals doing it too. Hitchwiki has a lot of information on hitchhiking in Belize to help you get started.
 

Is the Street Food Safe in Belize?

Yes! The best and most affordable way to experience the local cuisine is through their street food, which has Afro-Caribbean and Mexican cultural influences. Sample conch fritters, ceviche, or coconut curry and enjoy the variety of delicious flavors!

When in doubt, always look for places with high turnover and lots of locals. If the locals eat there, you know it’s probably safe.
 

Is the Tap Water Safe to Drink?

Belize’s Ministry of Health has taken steps toward making tap water drinkable for locals. However, during the rainy season, some areas experience flooding, which may contaminate the tap water. The best way to make sure your drinking water is safe is to bring a Lifestraw for your reusable water bottle. This way you’ll be able to purify the tap water, so you don’t get sick — and avoid single-use plastic bottles in the process.
 

Are the Taxis Safe in Belize?

Taxis are safe — and preferred — when getting around at night. You can ask your hostel or hotel to call a taxi for you (Uber and other ride-sharing apps don’t exist here). Be sure to take authorized taxis (they have green license plates). Use your smartphone and track the route on your offline map, and if the driver seems to be going off said route, speak up and ask why they’ve decided to take this direction instead. At the end of the day, always trust your gut: if a taxi driver seems shady, stop the cab and get out.

If you’re a solo female traveler, I suggest traveling with a friend or another traveler at night, just to be safe.
 

Is Belize Safe for Solo Travelers?

Solo travel in Belize is safe. Aside from petty theft, the people involved in incidents tend to be drinking or doing drugs or taking part in illegal activity. Skip the drugs and drink responsibly.
 

Is Belize Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Belize is a safe place for solo female travelers, especially if you’re new to solo travel. It is one of the safer countries in this region. However, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be careful. Always be aware of your surroundings and have a downloaded map so you can find your way home. Don’t flaunt any valuables, and avoid taking taxis alone at night.

If you’ve done your research and still have concerns, I’d suggest asking to join other groups at hostels when going out or sticking to group travel or tours, just to be safe.

Here are a few helpful posts on safety written by our solo female travel experts:

• How to Stay Safe as a Solo Female Traveler
• 8 Myths About Solo Female Travel Debunked
• 10 Common Questions About Solo Female Travel
• Women Shouldn’t Be Afraid to Travel Alone

***

I loved my time in Belize. The country may be small, but it has so much to offer, from dense jungles to massive caves and, of course, the famous Belize Barrier Reef, where the marine life is astonishing, and Blue Hole (one of the best places to go scuba diving in the world.) The toughest challenge for you will be deciding what to do first!

While Belize is considered generally safe for traveling and backpacking, there’s no denying that some precautions should be taken. Read and follow this safety guide, and your experience in Belize will be a safe, fun, and memorable one.