Established in 1990, the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary is world-renowned for being the first ever jaguar preserve. This unique reserve was established as a result of jaguar studies conducted in the area by Alan Rabinowitz. Aside from being home to the largest cat in Belize, the sanctuary also protects the headwaters of major life systems and supports an abundances of hardwood vegetation and a diverse faunal assemblage.
The Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary Also Protects Life Systems
Over 128,000 acres of lush jungle are ringed by the specular 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 difficulty and ranges from an easy hour-long stroll along the river to a 4-day challenge of conquering Victoria Peak. Victoria Peak is a trail only accessible during the dry season and requires a permit and a tour guide, which can be hired from the local communities buffering the sanctuary.
The trail system in the sanctuary gives breathtaking views across the Basin and waterfalls abound. If the hiking too much, relax with a swim or try tire tubing down the river. Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary is home to all five of Belize’s cats: jaguar, puma, margay, jaguarondi and Ocelot. It is estimated that more than 80 resident jaguars are in the area. Belize’s national animal, the endangered Baird’s Tapir also inhabits the Basin and over 290 different species of birds have been recorded.
With more than 20 miles of maintained trails, you are offered many opportunities for hiking and wildlife and bird watching over a variety of terrain. Two of the trails of CBWS are specifically designed educational trails with accompanying information packs and pamphlets. For those hiking on the Tiger Fern trail and the trail to Ben’s Bluff, bathing in the cooling waters is a must. More fun also in the water with swimming and tube floating in the South Stann Creek. Visitors with their own equipment can take advantage of the exciting canoeing and kayaking possibilities.
As one might expect in such a wild and remote setting, wildlife abounds – Tayra, Neotropical River Otter, Kinkajou, Baird’s Tapir, all five species of wild cat, and numerous snakes and reptiles. More than 290 species of birds have been recorded here, from the beautiful Scarlet Macaw and the majestic King Vulture to many tiny hummingbirds. The sanctuary also has an educational visitor center with interactive displays, wildlife specimens, and a spacious conference room ideal for school and other large groups.
Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary Has Camping Areas
There are three designated camping areas in the sanctuary, the first next to the sanctuary headquarters and the others are on the trails, for the more adventurous. Alternatively, it offers a wide range of accommodations. You can take your pick from a communal dormitory to the totally independent house that it all set in the picturesque jungle. If you intend to visit the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, make sure that you bring sturdy shoes, long sleeved shirt, long pants, insect repellent, sunscreen and plenty of water.