Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary & Jaguar Preserve

For those seeking adventure, just a few miles north of Placencia lies the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, home to the world’s first jaguar preserve.

Although you might be lucky to spot the elusive jaguar, you will be able to experience the adventure that lies in this sub-tropical rainforest — like river tubing and basking under a refreshing waterfall.

The Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Saturday is also considered bird watcher’s paradise and is home to some endangered species like the Scarlet Macaw, Keel-Billed Toucan, Emerald Toucanet, and the King Vulture. The preserve is also home to an abundance of amphibians and reptiles, including the Red-Eyed Tree Frog. Among the mammals found in the preserve are Coatis, Tapirs, Deer, Otters, Anteaters, Armadillos, and, of course, the elusive jaguars.

A wide range of different plant species makes up the forest of the Cockscomb Wildlife Sanctuary. These include some large trees such as Ceiba, Mahogany, and Santa Maria. A large number of orchids and bromeliads can also be found here as well.

On the tour you guide will take you on the sanctuary’s well-maintained trails, covered by an umbrella of the luscious green forest canopy, pointing out medicinal plants and herbs, animal life, and habitats. Sighting the resident howler monkeys and other resident animals is not unusual, so keep your eyes open when hiking the trails!

After lunch, you will tube-float down the shallow South Stann Creek River, then hike to a small waterfall for a cool jungle dip. After this, you may brave the natural waterslide carved into the limestone mountains. Your descent along the forest trails will take you to the parking lot and your return to Placencia.