Maya Center - Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary & Jaguar Preserve

Covering 98,000ac/39,000ha of lush tropical forest, Cockscomb Wildlife Sanctuary is Belize's prime spot for wildlife observation. Cockscomb first became a protected area in 1984, and was then classified as a jaguar preserve in 1986. While up to eight jaguars have been recorded in the reserve, visitors have a very slim chance of spotting one. However, several other species of birds and wildlife are commonly spotted, including ocelots, pumas, jaguarundis, otters, tapirs, anteaters, monkeys and snakes. The 290 recorded species of birds include toucans, parrots and the rare scarlet macaw.

The most important feature about Cockscomb is its trail network, the most extensive of any reserve in Belize. The trail network covers 12mi/20km