North and Central America and Caribbean

Terrorism

There is a low threat from terrorism in Belize. But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be in public areas, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. 

 

For more general information see terrorism abroad. 

Crime

There have been incidents of violent crime and physical assaults, including armed robbery and rape, targeted at tourists.  Armed criminal gangs from Guatemala have been known to operate in the past around densely forested areas of Belize and close to a number of tourist sites. These incidents are uncommon and the Belize Defence Force patrols these areas. For more general information see rape and sexual assault abroad.

 

Mugging is a risk to travellers especially in Belize City and other urban and tourist centres. Muggings can occur at any time: day or night. Avoid dark alleys, keep valuables out of sight, do not wear jewellery. Where possible you should travel in groups. You should use a qualified guide for trips off the beaten track.

 

When a crime is reported to the police they will take a statement and investigate the matter. This may take several weeks. You can pay a fee at any point during the process to receive a copy of the report on completion. Regardless of where you gave a statement, payment for a copy of the report can only be made at the main police stations: Corozal, Orange Walk, Belize City, San Pedro, Belmopan, San Ignacio, Benque Viejo, Dangriga and Punta Gorda.

 

For more general information see victims of crime abroad.

   

Political situation

Belize Country Profile

 

Political demonstrations can occur in Belize City and Belmopan, often at short notice. They are less frequent than in the past, and most are peaceful, though some demonstrations have resulted in civil disorder. You should avoid getting caught up in demonstrations.

You should monitor local media and avoid large gatherings of people or demonstrations.

Local travel

There have been a number of adventure sports-related incidents resulting in injuries to and fatalities of foreign tourists. Some of these incidents involved water sports such as snorkelling and diving. Severe weather conditions and inadequate safeguards being applied by local tour operators have been cited as causes.  You should consult weather forecasts locally and ensure that you use registered and licensed operators before undertaking any sporting activities.

You should exercise particular care when travelling in the Belize/Guatemala border area because of the ongoing dispute between the two countries. You are advised to use only the officially recognised border crossings.

You can find more information on local travel on the Belize Tourism Board's website.

Road travel

You can use your UK Driving Licence or an International Driving Permit to drive in Belize for visits under three months.  For longer stays, an International Driving Permit is required.

Road traffic accidents are a common occurrence and local driving standards are poor. You should take great care when driving.

 

For more general information see driving abroad.