Is Belize City Safe for Solo Female Travelers? Safety Rating and Reviews

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Belize City

Belize City, particularly its southern districts, can have frequent occurrences of petty crime such as pickpocketing and theft. At night, it's advised not to walk alone and be cautious of your surroundings. Ensure to use reputable tour companies for excursions. Unwanted attention can also be prevalent, however, by taking necessary precautions, it can certainly be navigated solo.

2.5 /5

Based on research and crime data

Safety at night:Unsafe

Belize City possesses a certain amount of charm but it has a reputation for high crime rates, particularly after dark. As a solo female traveler, extra precautions should be taken. Walking alone at night is not advised due to the risk of pick-pocketing, mugging, or other forms of street crime. Stick with groups when possible, try to stay in well-populated areas and definitely avoid isolated areas. It's better safer to use reliable forms of transportation such as taxis instead of walking, particularly during the night time.

Public transportation: Moderate

Public transportation in Belize City, mainly consists of buses, mini-vans, and water taxis. Locals usually use these means of transportation and they are relatively reliable. However, it's important to note that there may be some issues with overcrowding, especially during peak hours. As a solo female traveler, it's always important to stay alert about your surroundings just like you would do in any country. Also, bus terminals can be busy places, therefore, it's crucial to keep an eye on your belongings to avoid petty theft. Nonetheless, the locals are generally friendly and helpful.

Street harassment: Moderate

Belize City does have some reports of street harassment, including catcalling and unwanted attention. However, having an assertive attitude and avoiding less crowded areas often works. Keep in mind though, most of the harassment is verbally inclined and not usually aggressive or violent. As with all travel, take common safety measures and stay vigilant, particularly during the night.

Petty crimes:High

Belize City experiences a higher level of petty crimes compared to other regions in Belize. As a solo female traveler, you should be extra cautious, especially when walking around the town, visiting markets, or using public transportation. These crimes mainly include pickpocketing, bag snatching, and purse thefts. Always keep your belongings in sight, avoid displaying expensive items, and aim to blend in with the locals as much as possible. Also, it's highly recommended to use well-known taxi services for transportation in the city rather than using local buses or walking at night.

Tap water:Unsafe

While Belize City is generally a safe travel destination, it's advisable to avoid drinking tap water. To minimize health risks such as water-borne illnesses, it's often recommended to drink bottled or purified water during your stay. This includes when brushing your teeth or washing fruits and vegetables. Often, local residents boil tap water before consumption, but as a traveler it's generally safer and more convenient to stick with bottled water.