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Cockscomb Basin Jaguar Reserve Tour – Belize Jungle & Waterfall Adventure from Placencia

Explore the World’s First Jaguar Preserve in the Heart of the Belize Rainforest

Venture deep into Belize’s wild side on a full-day Cockscomb Basin Jaguar Reserve Tour — a guided rainforest adventure through waterfalls, wildlife habitats, and pristine jungle trails.

Located just a short drive from Placencia Belize, the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary is world-famous as the first jaguar preserve on Earth and one of the top-rated Belize jungle tours for nature lovers and photographers.

Led by certified naturalist guides, this eco-adventure blends hiking, swimming, and wildlife encounters — offering a rare glimpse of Belize’s rainforest at its most vibrant.

Highlights of the Cockscomb Basin Jaguar Reserve Tour

World’s First Jaguar Preserve – Established in 1986, this is the only sanctuary in the world dedicated to protecting the elusive jaguar.
Guided Belize Jungle Hike – Walk scenic rainforest trails surrounded by tropical plants, towering palms, and jungle sounds.
Waterfall Swim & Natural Pools – Cool off beneath cascading jungle waterfalls — one of the most refreshing experiences in Belize.
Wildlife Encounters – Spot tropical birds, howler monkeys, butterflies, and even fresh jaguar tracks along the trails.
Eco-Tour with Local Experts – Learn about Belize’s flora, fauna, and Maya heritage from licensed guides passionate about conservation.

💡 Pro Tip: Early morning tours offer the best wildlife sightings and cooler hiking conditions.

Cockscomb Basin Jaguar Preserve Tour Itinerary

Full-Day Excursion | Approx. 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Morning:

Depart from Placencia Village and enjoy a scenic drive through Southern Belize’s countryside to the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary.
After a short orientation, begin your guided jungle hike — a journey through lush trails lined with giant ferns, orchids, and tropical hardwoods.

Midday:

Arrive at one of the sanctuary’s breathtaking waterfalls. Take a refreshing swim or relax in the natural jungle pools surrounded by dense rainforest.

Afternoon:

Enjoy a picnic-style Belizean lunch before heading to nearby lookout points for panoramic views of the Maya Mountains and the Stann Creek Valley.
Return to Placencia by late afternoon, filled with memories of Belize’s untamed wilderness.

What’s Included

icensed naturalist guide
Roundtrip transportation from Placencia Belize
Park entrance fees
Picnic lunch and bottled water
Safety gear (if required for certain trails)

What to Bring

Sturdy hiking shoes or sandals with straps
Lightweight, breathable clothing
Swimsuit & towel for the waterfall swim
Insect repellent & reef-safe sunscreen
Hat, sunglasses, and reusable water bottle
Camera or binoculars for wildlife viewing
Small cash for tips or local crafts

💡 Tip: Pack dry clothes for the ride back to Placencia — the waterfall swim is worth getting wet for!

Discover Belize’s Wild Heart

The Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary is more than a national park — it’s a living example of Belize’s commitment to conservation.

Covering over 150 square miles of rainforest, it’s home to jaguars, tapirs, ocelots, toucans, and more than 300 species of birds.

Every hike reveals something new — from vibrant orchids and heliconias to the distant roar of howler monkeys echoing through the jungle canopy.

Sustainable & Responsible Travel

Ocean Breeze Beach Resort supports conservation through responsible tourism. We partner with licensed local guides and the Belize Audubon Society to ensure your visit benefits both wildlife and local communities. We keep group sizes small to preserve the sanctuary’s peaceful environment and minimize ecological impact.