Belize City is the largest city in Belize and was once the capital of former British Honduras. It is at the mouth of the Haulover Creek, which is a distributary of the Belize River. The Belize River empties into the Caribbean Sea five miles from Belize City on the Philip Goldson Highway on the Caribbean coast.
Warnings & Dangers in Belize City
OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM
Belize City is not a safe city to travel to. Here gangs are often dismantled. Avoid the southern part of the city and only walk during daylight hours.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : MEDIUM
Public transport is reasonably safe and reliable. However, watch your belongings in crowded transport. Use only licensed taxi services. Make sure the driver is using a taximeter or negotiate a fare in advance.
PICKPOCKETS RISK : HIGH
Pickpockets are common in Belize City. They are found in tourist spots, train stations, airports, and public transport. Always keep an eye on your pockets and bags.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : MEDIUM
Belize City is prone to hurricanes that cause significant damage to the city. Hurricane season, which runs from June to November. Study the weather conditions before your trip here.
MUGGING RISK : HIGH
Most of the violent crimes that take place in the country are associated with the struggle of rival gangs for territory and the showdown of drug dealers. Attacks and robberies usually happen at night, so tourists are advised to walk around the city only during the day. Be as careful as possible, and don't carry a lot of cash with you.
TERRORISM RISK : LOW
The risk of terrorism in Belize City is not high. No cases of terrorist attacks on the city have been previously recorded.
SCAMS RISK : MEDIUM
The most common scam in this city is ATM, where criminals scan your credit card. Use ATM only with banks. Also, check your bills and change carefully.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : HIGH
Women traveling alone are advised to avoid Belize City. It can be quite dangerous here. Travel in the company and avoid late-night walks.
How Safe Is Belize City for Tourists?
Belize City is a dangerous city to travel to.
The crime index is at a high level here.
The main problems are related to the theft of belongings, robberies, vandalism, and corruption.
There is also a very high level of drug trafficking.
The safest part of the city is north of the river.
Belize City is associated with drug trafficking, so local gangs are often fought here.
Because of them, both the local population and tourists suffer.
Skirmishes usually take place at night in the southern part of the city.
It is not recommended to walk alone in the city.
Use a taxi or car to get around.
Do not leave personal items unattended.
It is also better to park your car in a guarded parking lot, carefully lock it, and not leave anything inside.
There are known cases of hacking a car for the sake of a trinket inside.
Lock your accommodation also carefully, and store valuables in the hotel safe.
Don’t carry a lot of cash or expensive items with you.
In the event of an attack, give the criminals everything they demand to save their lives.
After that, you can contact the police, but it should be borne in mind that often the police cover-up gangs for bribes, and your appeal may not have any effect.
Do I Need a Visa to Visit Belize City?
Most countries do not require a visa in order to enter Belize. Make sure your passport is valid for at least 3 months past the date of your arrival. A valid passport is a must.
Which Currency Is Used in Belize City?
The Belize dollar is the official currency in Belize. It is normally abbreviated with the dollar sign $, or alternatively BZ$ to distinguish it from other dollar-denominated currencies. It is divided into 100 cents.
How's the Weather like in Belize City?
The climate in Belize City is hot, oppressive, and mostly cloudy. The best time to visit Belize is from late November to mid-April, during the country’s dry seasons.
What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Belize City?
Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport is the busiest airport in the country, serving Belize’s largest city, Belize City, along the eastern coast of Central America. It is located about 30 minutes drive from Belize City’s center, in Ladyville.
Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?
A travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country or city. Make sure you got it before starting your journey; the customs officer may ask for it.
What Are Some Things to Do in Belize City?
Belize City is a port city that is split north and south by the However Creek, which flows into the Caribbean. A 1920s manual bridge connects them, a busy intersection. On the north side is the Belize Museum, dedicated to the country’s history, with exhibits including Mayan artifacts. The Image Factory gallery features contemporary local art.
Is the Water in Belize City Safe to Drink?
Most often, tap water in Belize City is considered safe to drink.
Is Uber Safe in Belize City?
There is no Uber taxi in Belize City. You can use local taxi services
