Belize Travel Safety

Precautions

Always travel in groups and ensure that personal belongings and travel documents are secure at all times. Do not show signs of affluence. Use taxis after dark instead of walking. Armed robberies occasionally occur near the western border with Guatemala, including near and around Caracol. You should only travel to these areas during daylight hours. Be cautious when visiting Mayan archaeological sites in that region, and do so only with a reputable tour guide. Only use official border crossings to enter Guatemala during the day. Cases of sexual assault against female travellers have been reported. Always travel in groups and avoid isolated areas, including unsupervised beaches, especially at night. Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances, as they may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault.

Road safety

Traffic accidents occur regularly. Avoid driving after dark, especially on rural roads. Roads are often poorly maintained and lit. Belize has four paved highways: the Western Highway from Belize City to Benque Viejo del Carmen and on to the Guatemalan border; the Northern Highway from Belize City to Corozal and on to the Mexican border; the Hummingbird Highway from Belmopan to Dangriga; and the Southern Highway from Dangriga to the resort area of Placencia and on to the southernmost town of Punta Gorda. Be careful crossing bridges on the Hummingbird and Southern Highways, since bridges are usually only one lane. Most other roads are unpaved, they can be very dusty in the dry season, whereas major puddles and mud can be a problem in the rainy season. Bicycles and livestock are often traffic hazards, especially in urban areas. Service stations are available on the three main highways connecting Belize City with Mexico, Guatemala and southern Belize. Always keep your gas tank full when in remote areas, as service stations are scarce and they usually close for holidays. There are no emergency road services. A few public telephones can be found in larger villages only. You should not stop to offer assistance to others whose vehicles appear to have broken down.

Trekking and climbing

If you intend to trek: A) never trek alone, B) always hire an experienced guide and ensure that the trekking company is reputable, C) buy travel health insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation, D) ensure that you are in good physical condition and that you have sufficient supplies, notably water, as the climate is extremely hot and humid, E) advise a family member or friend of your itinerary.

Taxis

You should only use registered taxis with green licence plates because public buses and taxis are often unsafe due to poor vehicle maintenance.

Marine transportation

Passenger boats may be unsafe.

Women's safety

Based on the crime situation of the Belize, women should be vigilant all the time and aware of the surroundings. Avoid dark or non-tourist areas at night. Instead try to be around larger crowds, whether they are fellow tourists or local citizens. Females should be cautious while dealing with strangers and acquaintances. Women may be subject to unpleasant male attention, sexual harassment and verbal abuse. Avoid flash of money or valuables in public. Exercise a high degree of precaution during travel. Due to high crime travelers are advised to exercise caution while traveling to the south side of Belize City.

Crime

Criminal activity, including armed robbery, mugging and sexual assault, is a significant problem throughout Belize. Robberies and assaults have been reported in resort areas. Criminals often operate in groups and target persons travelling alone.

LGBT

A Supreme Court ruling in 2016 decriminalised homosexual activity between consenting adults, however being open about being LGBT is generally considered to be socially unacceptable. There are no openly gay bars or clubs.

Illegal drugs

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are strict. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.

Driving

You must be over 25 to rent a vehicle. Remember to purchase sufficient car insurance. An International Driving Permit is recommended.