Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Preserve
Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Preserve
4.5
About
This reserve was established to help protect the endangered jaguar and other species native to Belize.
Duration: More than 3 hours
Meets animal welfare guidelines
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4.5
334 reviews
Excellent
222
Very good
80
Average
27
Poor
3
Terrible
2
Stevie763
Cambridge, Canada45 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
Had hoped to see Jaguars or some wildlife but saw none. Our guide, Ian, was friendly and very engaging but had limited knowledge. It was mostly a hike and the terrain would be a challenge for anyone with mobility issues. Spent $100USD each and felt ripped off at the end. We visited the Belize Zoo for $15 each and saw Jaguars, cougars, ocelots, toucans, owls, spider monkeys and more in a natural sanctuary setting.
Written 15 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
TravelFun_seekerz
92 contributions
Feb 2024 • Couples
I need to try and mix in some reviews that are less than 5* but this is not the place to start.
Wife and I actually ended up here by mistake. I'd actually intended to hit up Mayflower Bocawina National Park, but it all worked out in the end. It's a pretty rough dirt road for a few miles into the park. We drove pretty slow and enjoyed the jungle view.
Once at the park you go and pay your entrance fee at a little building with a guestbook and the ranger/host fella gives you a description of your visiting options. There are a couple waterfall hikes, one of which (Tiger's Bluff) requires a guide. There is also the option of hiking in and renting a tube to float down the river. The tube float sounded very cool, but we were feeling a hike so we did the unguided hike up to Ben's Bluff.
There is a nice little water fall and swimming hole on the way to Ben's Bluff. SOOO refreshing. The hike to the waterfall is really flat and easy.
Once you hit the water fall it's another kilometer or so up to the actual Ben's bluff. The hike up to Ben's bluff gets pretty steep. We took a couple breaks to enjoy the scenery and catch our breath. It's fascinating the way you start in a jungle rainforest at the beginning of the hike and by the end you're surrounded by pine trees like you're in California. Absolutely beautiful view from the top.
I highly recommend a visit to Cockscomb Basin. I wish we had more time to hang out. The tube float would have been cool. Will definitely return...
Wife and I actually ended up here by mistake. I'd actually intended to hit up Mayflower Bocawina National Park, but it all worked out in the end. It's a pretty rough dirt road for a few miles into the park. We drove pretty slow and enjoyed the jungle view.
Once at the park you go and pay your entrance fee at a little building with a guestbook and the ranger/host fella gives you a description of your visiting options. There are a couple waterfall hikes, one of which (Tiger's Bluff) requires a guide. There is also the option of hiking in and renting a tube to float down the river. The tube float sounded very cool, but we were feeling a hike so we did the unguided hike up to Ben's Bluff.
There is a nice little water fall and swimming hole on the way to Ben's Bluff. SOOO refreshing. The hike to the waterfall is really flat and easy.
Once you hit the water fall it's another kilometer or so up to the actual Ben's bluff. The hike up to Ben's bluff gets pretty steep. We took a couple breaks to enjoy the scenery and catch our breath. It's fascinating the way you start in a jungle rainforest at the beginning of the hike and by the end you're surrounded by pine trees like you're in California. Absolutely beautiful view from the top.
I highly recommend a visit to Cockscomb Basin. I wish we had more time to hang out. The tube float would have been cool. Will definitely return...
Written 27 February 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Greta2516
Boise, ID53 contributions
May 2021 • Couples
While there are between 1000-1200 Jaguars in the reserve they are rarely seen. The reserve is teeming with many different varieties of birds, binoculars are a must. There are hiking trails that vary from easy to extremely strenuous. Of particular interest the Boat Billed Herons and the beautiful Agami Heron.
Written 10 May 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Malissa H
18 contributions
Nov 2021 • Family
A beautiful lush jungle waiting to be explored. We traveled here with our two children (12 and 13) and hiked a few of the shorter trails. They were well makrked and maintained and we had a lot of fun exploring. Howler monkeys greeted us when we entered and exited the park. If you like birdwatching, go early as I am sure they are prolific if you don't have 2 loud adolescents with you. The river tubing also looks fun.
Written 8 November 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
thesixquinns
Port Perry, Canada101 contributions
Feb 2020 • Family
We visited the park in February with our kids and some friends. Our bus took us in to the visitor centre.
We walked the Tiger Fern Trail to the two waterfalls is is about 7 km round trip. It is a strenuous trail with much uphill, some steep sections and some loose rock. The view from the top was incredible. The waterfalls were well worth the hike and we swam in the deep pools. The second waterfall has a larger pool for swimming so be sure to walk the extra few minutes.
I suggest leaving in the morning, much of the trail is cover by canopy, which helps with the heat and there are rest benches approximately every 10 minutes. Bring plenty of water.
There are washrooms, showers and drinks for purchase at the reception. There is one outhouse on the Tiger Fern trail.
There is also a short walk into a plane crash site. Many other options for hiking and river tubing as well.
We walked the Tiger Fern Trail to the two waterfalls is is about 7 km round trip. It is a strenuous trail with much uphill, some steep sections and some loose rock. The view from the top was incredible. The waterfalls were well worth the hike and we swam in the deep pools. The second waterfall has a larger pool for swimming so be sure to walk the extra few minutes.
I suggest leaving in the morning, much of the trail is cover by canopy, which helps with the heat and there are rest benches approximately every 10 minutes. Bring plenty of water.
There are washrooms, showers and drinks for purchase at the reception. There is one outhouse on the Tiger Fern trail.
There is also a short walk into a plane crash site. Many other options for hiking and river tubing as well.
Written 22 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Riverliver
Cleveland, OH603 contributions
Feb 2020
Lots of possible trails to take and one will certainly be right for you. I did the easy, flat loop that was about an hour. Hubby did the 2 hour climb to the waterfall (he says the last part is pretty steep - and He was really sweaty when he returned!)
It was peaceful and fascinating to walk through the rainforest. We did not see any animals, but I did hear some up in the trees.
Be sure to wear bug spray. Hubby was really chewed up by some kind of biting bug (he didn’t even feel it) even tho we put Deet on his legs.
It was peaceful and fascinating to walk through the rainforest. We did not see any animals, but I did hear some up in the trees.
Be sure to wear bug spray. Hubby was really chewed up by some kind of biting bug (he didn’t even feel it) even tho we put Deet on his legs.
Written 18 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kristi G
Huntsville, AL43 contributions
Feb 2020
From the time that we stepped out of our rental, we heard birds and howler monkeys. The young lady that checked us in was super nice and friendly. We were only able to do the Tiger Fern Trail, but we would love to go back and try other trails and tubing. There is no need to book a tour, just drive there and go on your own. The trails are super easy to follow. My husband and I hike quite a bit, and this trail was not easy. Wear respectable shoes for hiking as there are many up and down and climbing aspects to this trail. Also do not forget bug spray that is strong. We saw tons of flora, birds, and smaller lizards, but alas, no larger wildlife. The waterfalls and the forests were gorgeous. Don't forget to bring a towel and swimsuit to swim in the refreshing water. The second waterfall is the most impressive and just about a 2 minute climb from the lower falls. Don't give up at the lower falls as we saw so many do, or you will miss the lovely larger falls.
Written 27 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
rodolfo j
San Ignacio, Belize273 contributions
Sept 2019
We went on a three day trek up to Victoria Peak with the MCHS adventure club. The group was a mix of students and staff. Our fantastic guide was Benedicto. This is a 3 day hike which means you need to bring everything you need to support yourself and your group. The trails were well kept and the scenery is worth the effort. The Elfin forest near the peak is itself worth the effort and definitely a trip worth taking. Benedicto, our guide was very patient and helpful and a blessing for our group.
Written 28 August 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
torres79
Arlington Heights, IL34 contributions
Feb 2021
We made the ~2 hour one-way hike thru the Tiger Fern Trail to end at the fabulous double waterfall and were not disappointed. The hike was a nice challenge, but nothing you can't do. Some might be slower, others may be faster so find your own pace. The view at the time is fantastic and then the two waterfalls are beautiful and provide a great way to cool off after the hike.
Written 11 February 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Natalie B
7 contributions
Sept 2022
Loved our hike to the waterfall! Bring old shoes/shoes you don't mind getting muddy, especially if it has been raining. The hike was beautiful and not very difficult. Cooled off in the waterfall at the end of the hike. No need for a tour guide. Double waterfall hike was closed due to heavy rainfall and we unfortunately did not see any wildlife.
Written 8 October 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi! Is there public transport to and from Hopkins? Alternatively, how much would a taxi be? Thanks!
Written 11 March 2024
Hello,
Do you know exactly where at in the park I am able to see the Macaws. I will be in the park next week looking to photograph toucans and macaws but not sure where to find then. Any information would be appreciated.
thanks,
greg
Written 8 April 2021
We're going in April. Is it better to go during the day or night? If during the day, is it better with or without a guide? If with a guide - from which tour company?
Written 6 March 2020
I would agree with the other answers about getting a guide if you want to see animals and the point on the main road. I would recommend going during the day.
My wife and I booked through our resort. They drove us there and we told them what time to pick us up. We did not book a guide. We were there 1/2 day and saw no animals, but many birds. I would imagine that a guide could help spot a few that we missed, but not that much. If you are interested in the different plants and trees, then the guide would be worth it.
A few other thing to consider:
* the place is big and there are long trails, so plan ahead on the trails you want to hike.
* the site of the airplane crash is worth seeing, but it is far from many of the trails. We asked our driver if he could drive us to the trail (which you pass on the way out) and wait 5 minutes for us. The plane is only about a 2 minute hike from the road. That worked out great for us, especially since we did it at the end of the day and we were too pooped to hoof it down the road to the trail. Ask if your driver can do that for you.
Written 7 March 2020
Approx. how much time would you allow to hike to the top and also go to the waterfall? Thank you!
Written 17 February 2020
There are two waterfalls. The closer one is 45 minutes each way. The double waterfall is about 3 hours round trip.
Written 17 February 2020
Anyone have advice on how to get BACK from Cockscomb to Placencia, if we choose to get a taxi or car from our hotel there? We have read that many of the tours are large and loud, and reduce likelihood of seeing wildlife, and my husband and I are experienced hikers/backpackers. But this is our first trip to Belize, and we aren't sure what to expect when it comes to getting a car for the afternoon/day, etc. Anyone know how to go about it, and rough costs we should anticipate?
Written 6 January 2020
Interested in staying for two nights in April and I haven't found many lodging reviews for the cabins/dorms. Would love some details/suggestions on which cabin to stay at. How are the kitchen facilities (fridge? range? kitchenware?)? Thank you.
Written 3 January 2020
We’ve stayed in „rustic cabin” which was basicaly a double room with twin beds - the rooms are „connected” by the common ceiling but when we were there there was only one more room talent. There’s only beds and a night stand, the light was very subtle so you need a headlamp or something (and to go to the toilet or kitchen when it’s dark outside. In the kitchen there is a stove for sure and some utensils etc. I cant say for sure there was a fridge because we didnt use it but i think there should be. The standards are pretty much foresty and you have to be aware of all the bugs, spiders and so on. Oh and there is only cold water but it shouldnt be a surprise :) also dont try to wąsy your clothes there because they wont get dry 😀
Written 5 January 2020
Hello! So you don't need to go on a guided tour here? Are the trails well groomed and marked? Thanks for your help!
Written 15 October 2019
I wasn’t aware they had guided trails. You definitely need transportation from the highway to the actual park which is 6 miles. That costed us $20US one way. Inside we just asked which trail had the most bang for the buck since we wanted to also tune down the river before heading back to our accommodation. We did Tiger’s eye which is marked by a small sign, and it’s a bit challenging so have plenty of water and snacks. You’ll get views of the entire Basin at the top and two lovely waterfalls if you keep following the signs once you’ve reached the top. It’s another 20 mins down to the water falls. Hope this helps!
Written 16 October 2019
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