Belize Travel Risk

Exercise increased caution in Belize due to crime. Some areas have increased risk. Please read the entire Travel Advisory.

Crime

Isolated incidents of violent crime can happen even during the day and in tourist areas, though the south side of Belize City has historically had the highest concentration of violent crime. Crimes include sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder. Much of this violence is linked to gangs.

• Local police lack the resources and training to respond effectively to serious crimes.
• Most crimes remain unresolved and unprosecuted.
• Emergency medical services are usually unavailable or significantly delayed. Serious injuries or illnesses normally require medical evacuation to another country.

Due to security risks, U.S. citizens should follow the same guidance as government employees while traveling. U.S. government employees are strongly discouraged from:

• Traveling to the south side of Belize City from the Haulover Creek Canal to Fabers Road.
• Driving between cities in Belize after dark.
• Read the Travel Guidance section page for additional information on travel to Belize.

Reconsider travel to Southside Belize City due to crime.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Belize

Although there is no recent history of terrorism in Belize, attacks cannot be ruled out.

Political situation

Political demonstrations take place in Belize City and Belmopan, but most are peaceful. Follow the instructions of local authorities, monitor local media and avoid large gatherings and demonstrations.

Crime

Investigations can take several weeks, police capacity is limited and most crimes remain unsolved and unprosecuted.

Belize has one of the highest per capita murder rates in the world. Other violent crime, including armed robbery, shootings, domestic abuse and sexual assault are also a concern.

Serious gang-related violence occurs most frequently in Belize City, particularly in the area to the south of the Haulover Creek (known as Southside). Tourists are not normally the targets of gang violence, but anyone near an incident could be affected. You should:

• follow the advice of your hotel and local authorities
• be watchful of your surroundings

Armed criminals have been active in the remote forested areas of Belize, particularly the border area with Guatemala and close to tourist sites there. However, the area is patrolled by the Belize Defence Force and there have been no reported incidents involving tourists.

Tourists, in general, are vulnerable to theft of cash, credit cards, phones and other personal belongings, including in tourist destinations such as San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Placencia and San Ignacio. You should:

• avoid dark alleys
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• keep valuables out of sight
• be aware that wearing expensive jewellery could attract attention
• use a qualified guide for trips off the beaten track
• only use accommodation and campgrounds that appear genuine and established

Risk level

Belize - Exercise a high degree of caution

Exercise a high degree of caution in Belize due to high levels of violent crime throughout the country.

Regional risks

Southside Belize City - Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid non-essential travel to Southside Belize City, south of the Haulover Creek River, due to gang and drug-related violence, including murders and shootings.

Southside Belize City

Gang violence is a significant concern in Belize, especially in Southside Belize City. Gang members often use weapons to resolve disputes. Clashes occur frequently between gangs to gain control over territories for illegal activities.

Police capacity to respond to violent incidents is limited, and many crimes remain unsolved.

Tourists are not usually targeted, but you could be in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Crime

Violent crime

Violent crime is also a major concern elsewhere in the country, including in the capital, Belmopan. Belize has one of the highest per-capita murder rates in the world.

Drug and human trafficking, organized crime and street gang activity is prevalent. Violent crime occurs frequently. Incidents include:

• murders
• armed robberies
• burglaries
• assaults, including sexual assaults

Violent incidents against foreign national residents occur, including burglaries and physical assaults. These incidents sometimes occur in popular tourist areas such as:

• Caye Caulker
• Hopkins
• Placencia
• San Pedro
• San Ignacio
• Corozal
• Seine Bight

During your stay:

• always be aware of your surroundings
• avoid going out after dark
• travel in groups
• do not resist an attack
• stay in accommodations with adequate security measures
• keep doors and windows closed and locked at all times

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, occurs. Criminals may target travellers at popular tourist destinations. They often operate in groups and sometimes target individuals travelling alone.

• Keep your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, in a secure place
• Do not show signs of affluence or wear expensive jewellery
• Do not carry large sums of cash or valuables unnecessarily
• Avoid walking alone

Lost or stolen belongings abroad

伯利兹安全风险等级为黄色（中风险）。

外交部提醒在伯中国公民，密切关注当地安全形势，提高警惕，加强防范，注意安全。如遇紧急情况，请及时报警并联系中国驻牙买加大使馆。

外交部和驻外使领馆将继续密切关注海外安全形势变化，动态调整有关风险评估，并实时在中国领事服务网等平台发布、更新相应安全提醒，请持续关注。