Cockscomb Basin and the Jaguars

The Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, set beneath the rugged Maya Mountains in southern Belize, holds the distinction of being the world's first nature reserve created to protect the jaguar. This lush expanse of tropical rainforest shelters the greatest concentration of jaguars in the region, along with pumas, tapirs, howler monkeys and a spectacular wealth of birds. Though the big cats are elusive and rarely seen, the reserve offers wonderful jungle hiking, swimming holes, waterfalls and river tubing amid pristine, richly alive forest.

What you actually see

• The rainforest trails - the network of jungle hiking paths.
• The waterfalls and pools - the swimming holes and river tubing.
• The wildlife - the birds, monkeys, tapirs and, elusively, jaguars.
• Victoria Peak view - the vista toward Belize's high summit.

When to go

November to May, the dry season, for the best hiking, firm trails and river conditions; wildlife, especially birds, is active in the early morning. The jaguars are nocturnal and extremely shy, so sightings are very rare, and the reserve is enjoyed for its forest and trails rather than guaranteed big-cat encounters.

Honest expectations

Despite being a jaguar preserve, actually seeing a jaguar is extremely unlikely, as they are elusive and nocturnal, so visitors should come for the superb rainforest hiking, birdlife, waterfalls and river tubing rather than expecting big cats. Trails range from easy to strenuous. As a slice of pristine, protected Central American rainforest alive with wildlife and adventure, though, it is genuinely rewarding.

Nearby

The coastal town of Hopkins and the beaches of the south are within reach.