Day-trip guide
Cockscomb Basin jaguar preserve.
Rainforest hikes, waterfalls, and tubing on the South Stann Creek — one hour from The Toucan Inn.
Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary is the world's first jaguar preserve — 128,000 acres of protected rainforest in the Maya Mountains. Even without spotting a cat, it's the best rainforest day out in Southern Belize.
Getting there
About an hour from The Toucan Inn: north on the Southern Highway, then a signed dirt road inland at Maya Centre village. You pay the park fee and pick up a guide at the Maya Centre Craft Centre before continuing to the trailheads.
What to do there
- Ben's Bluff — steep climb to a ridge view over the basin.
- Tiger Fern trail — moderate hike to twin waterfalls.
- River tubing — a gentle float on the South Stann Creek.
- Wari Loop & Rubber Tree trails — short, easy walks for wildlife-watching.
What to bring
Sturdy shoes, insect repellent, swimwear under your clothes for the waterfalls, at least 2 litres of water, a light rain layer, and cash for the park fee, guide, and lunch at Maya Centre.
Best time of day
Leave The Toucan Inn by 7am to reach the park at opening and hike before the day heats up. Back at the inn for a late-afternoon pool dip and dinner at The Nest.