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Explore the Jaguar Preserve

Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary

The Jaguar Preserve, established in 1990, is world renowned for being the first jaguar reserve and situated within the shadows of the Maya mountains. 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. The Cockscomb Basin encompasses some 100,000 acres of tropical forest, rising from 300 to 3,675 ft. at the summit of Mt. Victoria.

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.

Your professional guide will meet you at Laru Beya for an hour drive to Maya Center Village, where you will check in and register before entering the Reserve. At the register center, you will also view (or purchase) beautiful hand-carved slate plaques, baskets, jewelry and clothing made by the local Mayan women.

Upon arrival at the reserve, you will be briefed and given orientation about the park. You will also view the original cages built by reserve founder, Alan Robinowitz. The first hike will be on an established trail, where your guide will explain the flora and fauna that makes the reserve such amazing place. You will also get to see different wildlife and different species of birds.

After the first hike on the trail, you will return back for a home cooked lunch. After lunch, the adventure continues where you will be hiking upstream with your inner tubes. After hiking upstream, you will float downstream going with the flow of the South Stann Creek River. While tubing downstream you will have opportunities for taking pictures of the this breath-taking jungle river float.

After the river floating, you will 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 fall. A natural waterslide, created by the flow of the river, is a great way to end your adventure. After the swim, you hike back to where you started and in-bound to Laru Beya. What an story to share among other hotel guests!