Hiking in the Cockscomb Watershed Wildlife Sanctuary - Belize
Belize is an island located in the northeastern corner of Central America. It is world renowned for the number of nature reserves around the country. More than 40% of the island's land is a protected area. The island has 14 hiking trails to explore every corner of the island. Along the trails you will come across waterfalls, rivers, mountains and breathtaking views of the reserve in general.
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There are many attractions in this country and former British colony. Some of them are: Glover Atoll, the Cayo District, Tikal, Blue Hole and of course the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary.
Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary is the nature reserve that helps protect jaguars. It's not very easy to have the option of spotting one, however you may get lucky and see them as there are about 80 of them within the reserve. It is a park of about 100,000 acres of tropical rainforest and rises from 300 metres to 3,675 metres. Although the main attraction of the park is the jaguars, there are many different types of animals to be seen as well as four other species of wild felines.
Gractical guide for hikers
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On the way to the sanctuary there are many routes that can be followed, so you can make a plan that includes different types of trails around the park.
It is very easy to walk the trails. It is possible to walk the trails individually, as the routes are well marked. There are usually not many people on the route, which allows you to observe the wildlife in more detail.
Other activities such as kayaking, canoeing and swimming are also available in the reserve.
It is a route that can be done by people of all ages, so those who like hiking and family trips can take the opportunity to do some of the routes that make it up with the youngest and oldest.
At at the end of the route there are two waterfalls where you can jump in and take a and take a bath.
The views from the campsites are spectacular, especially the last campsite offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the whole area.
Advice for hikers
It is advisable to plan well in advance. It is quite expensive to travel to the island and ask for all the passes, so good planning will help you save on costs. Also, as there are many routes on the island and many things to visit, planning well in advance will help you to make the most of your days.
Belize is a risk-free island and the routes are not complex. Therefore you can move around the island independently. Only those who are not very experienced in hiking or travelling abroad should hire a guide.
It is important to carry mosquito repellent. As it is a very humid area, there is an infinity of insects that make bites, some of them quite painful.
Jellyfish may be present in some bathing areas. Before going into the water you should make sure that there are no jellyfish or that there are not many and avoid any risk of being stung. If you want to swim, it is advisable to do so in the areas where the huts are located so that if you are stung someone can help you.
There are many places where you can spend the night. Camping is another option. The price is about the same, so you should choose according to your preferences.
As far as clothing is concerned, as there are many insects, it is advisable to wear thin clothing to be able to withstand the heat, but if possible with long sleeves to avoid bites. These clothes should also absorb sweat as there is a lot of humidity in this area. Those who intend to take a swim should bring a swimming costume. As far as shoes are concerned, as this is a very humid area with lots of bathing spots, waterproof shoes are recommended.
