Reconsider travel to Belize due to COVID-19. Exercise increased caution in Belize due to crime. Some areas have increased risk.

Read the Department of State’s COVID-19 page before you plan any international travel.  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 4 Travel Health Notice for Belize due to COVID-19.  

Limited transportation options are available, and some businesses are operating, usually with significant restrictions. Quarantine measures or entry restrictions are in place for certain U.S. citizen travelers. Visit the Embassy's COVID-19 page for more information on COVID-19 in Belize.

Violent crime – such as sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder – are common even during daylight hours and in tourist areas. A significant portion of violent crime is gang related. Due to high crime, travelers are advised to exercise caution while traveling to the south side of Belize City. Local police lack the resources and training to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents. Most crimes remain unresolved and unprosecuted.  

Read the country information page.

If you decide to travel to Belize:

• See the U.S. Embassy's web page regarding COVID-19.
  
• Visit the CDC’s webpage on Travel and COVID-19.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Avoid walking or driving at night.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.
• Review the Crime and Safety Report for Belize.
• U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.

Belize City- Reconsider Travel

U.S. citizens should avoid traveling to Belize City. Historically much of the violent crime in Belize occurs in the Southside of Belize City and is gang related. This area (south of Haulover Creek Canal and continuing south to Fabers Road) does not overlap the typical tourism areas.  All visitors should maintain an elevated level of due diligence and reduce their exposure to crime-related risks by practicing good safety and security practices.  

Last Update: Reissued with updates to crime information.