Get ready for an adventure at Cockscomb Basin, where the wildlife is as wild as it gets—and finding it takes a bit of patience and a dash of luck. For the best chance to spot some of the jungle’s elusive residents—maybe even a jaguar, or one of the other big cats—try a nighttime trek. A few hours spent in the sanctuary after dark will give you the best odds of catching a glimpse of these magnificent creatures. Want to boost your chances even more? Sign up for a longer hike with a guide who knows where to look!

But it’s not just the jaguars you’ll be hunting for. Cockscomb is home to an incredible variety of wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for pumas, margays, ocelots, and a range of other jungle cats, as well as coatis, kinkajous, deer, peccaries, and the ever-curious tapir. These mountain cows might look like a quirky mix of horse, hippo, cow, and elephant, but they’re a true Belizean treasure. And don’t forget—the basin is home to nearly 300 species of birds, mammals, and reptiles, all living their wild lives in this lush, tropical paradise.

So, if you’re up for a bit of mystery and excitement, Cockscomb Basin is waiting to surprise you!