Crimes In Belize – Is It Safe For Tourists? (Expat Advice)

When you’re thinking of coming to Central America, it’s common to wonder about the crime rate in the region.

Some nations are safe and others might feel considerably dangerous.

In this case, we are going to take a look at the crimes in Belize and how they stack up with the rest of the region including assessing how it might work out for a tourist.

For the most part, it is important to be cautious when coming to a place such as this. We have been to various regions and it’s still important to be vigilant as a tourist. If you are prepared, you are going to stay safe in most places.

Crimes In Belize Against Tourists

Theft

Murder (In Some Regions)

Based on what we have seen in Belize, the southern part of the nation seems to have seen a rise in murders against tourists.

In the past, it was often reserved to the locals killing each other and this had to do with gang-related activity. However, we have started to see an uptick in crimes against tourists in Belize in specific regions including the Cayo District.

This does not mean you are going to be prone to getting into a difficult situation but we do recommend to be cautious. It’s best to avoid certain regions of the country.

There have been a few examples of tourists getting into bad situations that led to them getting kidnapped and/or murdered in Belize. This would often happen near the border as that is where a considerable amount of lawlessness exists.

Of course, it’s important to note that these cases tend to be sensationalized as there are a few that stick out when tourists are involved. If you are used to living in a city that is full of crime, you are going to be fine as long as you pick and choose where you are staying in Belize.

Tips To Avoid Crime In Belize

Don’t Walk With Valuables In The Open

This is often recommended anywhere you go in Central America.

It’s common for tourists to come from nations where it’s okay to take out your phone, wallet, and/or valuables without a second thought. You should not be doing that here unless you want to openly advertise your “wealth” to the locals.

As soon as you do this, you are putting a target on your back.

Avoid Cash

We do not recommend having cash out.

Cash is going to be easy to steal and it opens you up to theft. This is what criminals in Belize are looking for including those who are going to pickpocket.

It is best to keep a card and use that.

If you are going to have cash, it’s best to keep a minimal amount that is enough for shopping.

Keep Things Simple

Do not flash everything that you own when you are walking around in Belize.

This is not just about your valuables but about your getup.

You want to look simple as that is going to allow you to blend in. This is essential as someone flashy is going to become a real target in Belize.

Don’t Drink Too Much

We always believe it’s best to moderate how much you drink when you are a tourist.

Do not get drunk to the point you are unaware of your surroundings. This is when a person is going to get into a dangerous situation.

If you are going to drink, always do it privately or in moderation. This is essential in most places including Belize.

Don’t Advertise Being A Tourist Excessively

Don’t walk around telling everyone that you are a tourist.

Yes, we know sometimes it’s going to be obvious. However, the more you advertise it, the more it’s going to make you a walking target to the locals.

It’s best to go about your business and have fun.

Secure Your Premises

The most important thing a person can do is look into securing their premises and valuables wherever they are staying.

If you are in a hotel, you should be good to go.

Just make sure you are staying at a well-reviewed hotel in Belize and securing the valuables with a lock or something to prevent theft.

If you are staying at a private location, it’s essential to keep the lights on and ensure your valuables are not out in the open.

Final Thoughts

These are the main factors to consider about the crime rate in Belize and how it’s going to impact you as a tourist.

Having stayed in Belize, it’s easier to understand what the crimes in Belize are like and what to look out for. In our eyes, if you are prepared for the experience, you are going to be good to go.

We also recommend looking at other guides such as staying in Guatemala, staying in Costa Rica, and going to key ruins in Central America.