Jaguar Reserve

Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, established in 1990, is world renowned for being the first jaguar reserve. This “one of a kind” reserve was established as a result of jaguar studies conducted in the area by Alan Rabinowitz in 1984 to 1986. Besides being the home to Belize’s largest cat, the Sanctuary protects the headwaters of the Swasey River, South Stann Creek River and Sitee River Systems and supports an abundance of hardwood vegetation types and a diverse faunal assemblage.

Over 128,000 acres of lush jungle are ringed by the spectacular Cockscomb Mountains. The wonders and diversity are accessible to both the casual visitor and the serious naturalist through a series of nature trails. These trails vary in degrees of difficulty ranging from an easy hour-long stroll along the river to a four (4) day challenge of conquering Victoria Peak. The Victoria Peak trail is only accessible during the dry season and requires a permit and a tour guide which can be arranged through Exotic Belize Tours.

Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary is home to all five (5) of Belize’s cats: Jaguar, Puma, Margay, Jaguarundi and Ocelot. It is estimated that over 80 resident Jaguars are in the area. The preserve is believed to have the world's highest density of Jaguar as well as several other cat species. Belize’s national animal, the endangered Baird’s Tapir also inhabit the Basin and over 290 different species of birds have been recorded. No wonder why the Jaguar Preserve is leading in birdwatcher’s destination in Belize.

DETAILED ITINERARY

Start your day with a 45 minute drive to Maya Center Village through the banana field and citrus groves. Maya Center is also the entrance to the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary. We will stop briefly to sign in and to view the beautiful hand-carved slate plaques, baskets, clothing and jewelry made by the local Mayan women. The continuation of the drive is very slow, spent listening to the sounds of nature that surround us. Sometimes the call of a Keel-Billed Toucan can be heard in the distance. An occasional stop will be made for photo opportunities, as well as to view native birds, and even the occasional monkey.

At the ranger’s office, we will check in at the font desk, followed by a brief orientation and history of the park. Next we will visit the original cages built by the founder Alan Robinowitz and stop at the visitor center. The day continues as we depart on a nature trail hike with your naturalist guide. Your guide will take you on several established trails, each with its own unique characteristics. As you walk, the guide will interpret the flora and fauna that makes the preserve such an amazing place.

We will return to the ranger station for lunch and brief rest as the fun continues in the afternoon. After enjoying our home-cooked lunch we pick up our inner tubes and hike to the river. Once there, we will cool off floating down the South Stann Creek River. The current will gently take you away while you take advantage of the opportunities for taking pictures of this breath-taking jungle river float.

After the journey down the river, we will proceed with a hike to the local waterfall for a refreshing swim. You will have the chance to swim under the waterfall and receive a natural massage from the flowing water. The adventure continues with a natural waterslide, created by the flow of the river. We will slide, jump and swim our way downstream. We recommend an underwater camera with flash for this adventure. The tour doesn’t end till we get back to Placencia or at your resort.