Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary

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Trails sign at the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary and Jaguar Preserve

Located in the tropical forests of the Stann Creek District, the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for being the first Jaguar Preserve in the world and a top hiking destination in Belize.

The nature reserve spans over 128,000 acres, making it one of the largest protected areas in all of Belize. An estimated 200 jaguars live in the preserve, however, they are shy and the chances of seeing jaguars are slim. But don’t let that keep you away since there’s plenty of plants and wildlife to see!

Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary tour

Visitor Center at the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary

Visitors can explore dozens of hiking trails at the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary where they’ll discover spectacular waterfalls, beautiful mountain views, and plenty of wildlife beyond the rare jaguar sighting.

The wildlife sanctuary is home to numerous plants and animals, including margays, deer, ocelots, pumas, howler monkeys, tapirs, and around 330 species of native and migratory birds.