Belize

Violent crime

Violent crime that may affect foreigners in Belize includes assault, rape and armed robbery.

Violent crime sometimes happens in tourist hotspots, including:

• San Pedro
• Caye Caulker
• San Ignacio Corozal
• Placencia

Gang violence is a major problem in Belize, especially in the Southside of Belize City (south of Haulover Creek Canal). Gang members often use weapons to resolve disputes. Clashes occur frequently between gangs to gain control over territories for illegal activities. You should avoid going to these areas.

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

Muggings are common, especially in Belize City and other urban centres.

Armed robberies can happen around the Mayan ruins at Caracol and near the border with Guatemala.

Your risk of harassment and violent sexual assault increases when you travel alone. Security risks increase after dark.

To protect yourself from violent crime:

• don't carry more cash than you need 
• use a reputable tour company
• don't travel alone, especially after dark
• pay close attention to your surroundings
• keep vehicle windows closed, doors locked and valuables out of sight, including when driving
• use the media to stay informed about safety or security risks

To reduce your risk of crime when taking a taxi:

• use only licensed taxis, identified by green number plates
• don't let your taxi driver pick up extra passengers

If you're a victim of violent crime, especially rape, get immediate medical attention. Belize has a high HIV/AIDS infection rate.

Petty Crime

Petty crime is common, particularly pickpocketing and bag-snatching. 

Take extra care of your valuables in:

• Airports
• Bus terminals
• Public transport
• Tourist areas

To prevent petty crime:

• Be alert after dark
• Avoid being on the streets alone
• Pay attention in crowded areas
• Use ATMs in daylight hours
• Withdraw or change money in secure areas like hotels, banks or shopping centres.

Kidnapping

Kidnapping can happen anywhere, anytime, including in destinations that are typically at lower risk.

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

More information:

• Kidnapping

Cyber security 

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

More information:

• Cyber security when travelling overseas

Demonstrations and protests

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Terrorism is a threat worldwide. Terrorist attacks could occur anywhere and at any time. Be alert to possible threats, especially in public places. Terrorists may target tourist areas or other places frequented by foreigners and where large crowds may gather.

More information:

• Terrorism

Water sports are popular in Belize. Ensure you have the correct safety equipment. Check it's in good condition. Research your tour operator. Always wear a lifejacket, even if you're a strong swimmer. Read our guidance about going overseas for sports and adventure.

Transport and tour operators don’t always follow safety and maintenance standards.

There has been several injuries and fatalities from these activities, including snorkelling and scuba diving. 

If you plan to do a tour or adventure activity:

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• only use registered and licensed operators
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Belize experiences natural disasters and severe weather, such as:

• hurricanes
• tropical storms
• earthquakes
• tsunamis
• bushfires

Medical facilities can't handle major emergencies. Be prepared to evacuate at short notice. Keep your travel documents up to date.

To protect yourself in case of a natural disaster:

• monitor weather reports, local media and other sources
• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
• follow the advice of local authorities
• keep in contact with your friends and family
• contact your tour operator, hotel or airline

Make sure your travel insurance covers trip cancellation or interruption.

More information:

• Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency
• Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System

Hurricanes and severe weather

The Caribbean hurricane season is June to November. Although tropical storms and hurricanes can happen in other months. The direction and strength of hurricanes can change suddenly.

Landslides, mudslides and flooding can also occur.

The low-lying coastal islands of Belize are vulnerable. They may be cut off from communications and outside help during hurricanes.

If you’re travelling to Belize during hurricane season, check if severe weather has affected tourist services.

If there's a hurricane or severe storm:

• you may get stuck in the area
• flights could be delayed or suspended
• available flights may fill quickly
• adequate shelter may not be available

Severe weather may also affect:

• access to ports
• road travel
• essential services, such as water, electricity and communication services

To protect yourself if a hurricane is approaching:

• know the evacuation plan for your hotel or cruise ship
• identify your local shelter
• closely monitor alerts and advice from authorities

More information:

• Belize National Meteorological Service
• National Hurricane and Tropical Prediction Center

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Belize is in an active earthquake zone.

A tsunami can arrive within minutes of a tremor or earthquake.  Be alert to warnings.

To receive tsunami alerts, register with the Global Disaster Alert and Co-ordination System.

If you're near the coast, move immediately to high ground if advised by local authorities, or if you:

• feel a strong earthquake that makes it hard to stand up
• feel a weak, rolling earthquake that lasts a minute or more
• see a sudden rise or fall in sea level
• hear loud and unusual noises from the sea

Don't wait for official warnings such as alarms or sirens. Once on high ground, monitor local media.

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won’t pay for these costs. 

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

Confirm:

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away (including if stopovers on the way to your destination are covered)

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

More information:

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips (Healthdirect Australia)

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to take medication, check if it's legal in Belize. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

You could be refused entry or prosecuted if you arrive without a prescription for your medication.

More information:

• Medication

Insect-borne diseases

Cases of Zika virus occur in Belize. The Pan American Health Organisation reports an increase in dengue cases in the Region of the Americas, including Belize, in 2023 and early 2024.

If you're pregnant, the Australian Department of Health recommends that you:

• discuss travel plans with your doctor
• consider deferring non-essential travel to affected areas.

The risk of contracting insect-borne illnesses increases in the wet season from April to November.

Other insect-borne illnesses include:

• Chagas disease
• leishmaniasis
• Chikungunya
• Malaria

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Get medical advice if you have a fever, muscle pain, rash or severe headache.

HIV/AIDS infection

The rate of HIV/AIDS infection is high.

Take appropriate precautions if you engage in activities that expose you to the risk of infection.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases are common. These include:

• hepatitis
• typhoid
• cholera
• tuberculosis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid raw and undercooked food
• check your vaccinations are up to date

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

More information:

• Infectious diseases

Medical facilities

Medical facilities in Belize City are basic. Medical facilities are very limited or non-existent in rural areas.

You may need to pay cash before doctors and hospitals will treat you, even in an emergency. 

If you become seriously ill or injured, you may need to be evacuated to the US. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

Belize has two decompression chambers in San Pedro.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter. But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Drugs

Penalties for drug offences are severe and include long prison sentences in local jails. In 2017, Belize decriminalised the use of marijuana on private property for adults in possession of up to 10g. However, it remains a federal offence to sell, grow or smoke it on public property. It’s best not to buy or sell marijuana in Belize.

More information:

• Carrying or using drugs

Death penalty

Serious crimes, such as treason and murder, can attract the death penalty.

Other laws

Illegal activities in Belize include:

• carrying pre-Columbian artefacts without a permit
• photographing official buildings

Check with local authorities before taking photos.

There are strict penalties for possessing unlicensed firearms or unlicensed ammunition, including large fines and mandatory jail sentences for repeat offenders.

LGBTQIA+ laws

In Belize, LGBTQIA+ travellers have experienced harassment and verbal or physical abuse.

Same-sex relationships were decriminalised in 2016. LGBTQIA+ travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Belize.

Consider avoiding public displays of affection.

More information:

• Advice for LGBTQIA+ travellers

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you’re overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

More information:

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Belize recognises dual nationality.

More information:

• Dual nationals

Tourist visas

Australians do not need a visa for visits not exceeding 30 days.

If you stay more than 30 days in Belize, the local immigration office must re-stamp your passport. You must pay a fee.

Entry and exit conditions can change. Contact Belize Immigration or your nearest Embassy, Consulate or High Commission of Belize for up to date and comprehensive details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

More information:

• Travel Belize
• Belize Immigration

Travel via the United States

If you're travelling through the US to Belize, you must also meet US entry or transit requirements.

More information:

• Travel advice for the US

Other requirements

The cost of your airline ticket usually includes a departure tax. If not included, you must pay a departure tax in cash (US $55.00)

You may need extra documents if only one parent or guardian is travelling with a child. Contact your nearest Embassy, Consulate or High Commission of Belize to confirm this.

More information:

• Advice for people travelling with children

Yellow fever vaccination

All travellers over one year arriving or transiting countries with a risk of yellow fever need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Belize. Some airlines may want to see one when you leave.

Find out about returning to Australia after exposure to yellow fever.

More information:

• Countries with a risk of yellow fever

Validity

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport.

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service.
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate.

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier 

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

More information:

• LGBTQIA+ travellers

The local currency is the Belize Dollar (BZD). US dollars are also accepted.

You can travel with up to $BZ10,000. You must declare higher amounts.

You can only use credit cards and traveller's cheques in large tourist facilities.

Before you travel, check with your bank whether your cards will work in Belize.

Belize has an ongoing border dispute with Guatemala. When crossing the border:

• use official border crossings
• avoid travelling at night
• pay attention to your surroundings

After heavy rains and flooding, you can become stranded in the jungle.

If you plan to visit the jungle, use a reputable tour operator and check local weather conditions.

Driving permit

To drive in Belize, you need an International Driving Permit (IDP). This permit is valid for 3 months.

You must get the IDP before arriving in Belize.

For longer stays, apply for a local driver's licence from the Belize Department of Traffic.

Road travel

Driving in Belize can be dangerous. You're more likely to be killed in a motor vehicle accident in Belize than in Australia.

Hazards include:

• poorly maintained roads and vehicles
• local driving practices, including drink driving
• poor street lighting
• cyclists running red lights and ignoring road rules
• unpaved and flooded roads
• single-lane bridges on highways

There are no emergency road services. Fuel stations aren't common and close on public holidays.

If you plan to drive in Belize, always keep your fuel tank full in remote areas.

Check you have adequate travel insurance cover before driving.

More information:

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Avoid using motorcycles because maintenance standards are poor.

Your travel insurance policy may not cover you when riding motorbikes, quad bikes or other vehicles.

Always wear a helmet.

Taxis

Licensed taxis in Belize have green licence plates. Only use licensed taxis. Arrange taxis or limousine services through your hotel to avoid unlicensed operators.

Public transport

If using public transport, be aware that buses may be poorly maintained. Service may be unreliable in rural areas.

More information:

• Transport and getting around safely

Sea Travel

Water taxis operate between the islands (cayes), barrier reef attractions and the mainland.

They can be overloaded, poorly maintained or lack necessary life-saving equipment. 

Rescue services may not be consistent with international standards.

To reduce your risk, ensure any vessels are carrying proper safety equipment and life jackets for all passengers.

More information:

• Travelling by boat

Air travel

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Belize's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

More information:

• Air travel

Depending on what you need, you could contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• employer
• airline

Fire and rescue services

Call 911.

Medical emergencies

Call 911 or go to the hospital.

Police

Call 911 or go to the nearest police station.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

Australia doesn't have a High Commission or Consulate in Belize. For consular assistance, contact the Australian High Commission in Trinidad and Tobago.

Australian High Commission, Port of Spain

18 Herbert St, St Clair
Port of Spain
Trinidad and Tobago

Phone: +1 868 235 7950
Website: trinidadandtobago.highcommission.gov.au 
Email: ahc.portofspain@dfat.gov.au 
Facebook: Australian High Commission, Trinidad and Tobago

Check the High Commission website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia