16 Best Things to Do in Belize 🇧🇿: San Ignacio, Caye Caulker & More Attractions

Getting There. My journey to Xunantunich started in San Ignacio, a lively town close to the Guatemala border. I hopped in a shared taxi for about $15 BZD ($7.50 USD) and enjoyed a 20-minute ride through the lush jungle landscape. The highlight before even reaching the ruins? Crossing the Mopan River on a hand-cranked ferry — a quirky, fun experience that’s totally unique to this place. The ferry ride is free, but tipping the operator a couple of Belize dollars is always appreciated.

The Hike and Entrance. Once across the river, there’s a gentle uphill walk of about 1 mile (roughly 20 minutes) to the entrance. If you’re not feeling up to the walk, you can hitch a ride with a local or another visitor. The entrance fee is $12.50 USD (or $25 BZD), and you’ll want to pay attention to the opening hours: 8AM–5PM. Restrooms are available only at the parking area, so plan accordingly before heading in.

Common Tourist Mistakes:

• Not bringing enough water or sunblock — shade is limited.
• Forgetting to use the restroom before entering the site.
• Only visiting El Castillo and skipping the smaller temples and plazas, which are just as fascinating.

⭐️ Best Activities

• Xunantunich and Inland Blue Hole Tour – Dive into Belize’s past and present on this full-day adventure. Climb the ancient Mayan ruins of Xunantunich, then cool off with a swim at the stunning Inland Blue Hole. Expect expert guides, local history, and a jungle picnic — plus plenty of laughs along the way! Perfect for families, history buffs, and anyone who loves a good jungle story.

First Impressions. The Great Blue Hole is a massive underwater sinkhole, perfectly round and rimmed by a necklace of coral. When I first saw it from the window of a small plane, I was stunned by the deep indigo center surrounded by bright turquoise water. The color shift is so dramatic it almost looks unreal, like a giant eye staring up from the sea. From above, you see the atoll’s reef stretching out in all directions, dotted with tiny fishing boats and the occasional dolphin pod.

How to Experience It. You can view the Blue Hole by air or by boat. I tried the scenic flight, which cost about $230–$300 USD (460–600 BZD). Flights leave from Caye Caulker or Ambergris Caye, and Placencia. The plane circles the hole several times, so everyone gets a perfect view. Helicopter tours are available from Belize City and cost more, but offer a unique perspective and more time above the water. If you prefer being on the ocean, full-day boat trips are available from the same departure points and typically cost $250–$350 USD (500–700 BZD). These boat trips often include stops at nearby barrier reefs for the best snorkeling.

Great Blue Hole, Belize

What Makes It Unique. The Great Blue Hole is not just a deep hole in the ocean — it’s a collapsed limestone cavern system, formed thousands of years ago when sea levels were much lower. Diving here feels like exploring another planet. The silence is almost total, broken only by the sound of your own bubbles. Even if you stay on the surface, the sheer size and color of the Blue Hole are mesmerizing.

⭐️ Best Activities

• Belize: See & Experience it ALL in 10 Days, 1st Class Custom Tours – The ultimate Belize experience! Over 10 days, enjoy a custom itinerary that covers the very best of the country. From ancient ruins to lush jungles and vibrant cities, transportation is arranged for a seamless, unforgettable adventure.

Underwater Wonderland. Hol Chan Marine Park is a sanctuary for marine life, stretching over 6 square miles just off the coast. The name means “little channel” in Mayan, and that’s exactly what you’ll find — a natural cut in the reef, alive with color and movement. I slipped into the water and was instantly surrounded by schools of parrotfish, angelfish, and butterflyfish. The clear, shallow depths (from 5 to 9 meters) made it easy to spot sea turtles grazing in the seagrass beds and eagle rays gliding along the sandy bottom.

Zones and Wildlife. The reserve is divided into four main areas: the reef zone, seagrass beds, mangroves, and Shark Ray Zone. Each zone offers a different experience. In the Hol Chan Cut (Zone A), I floated above vibrant marine formations and watched moray eels peek out from crevices. The seagrass beds (Zone B) were quieter, with manatees and juvenile turtles feeding in the calm water. The mangrove zone (Zone C) is less visited but crucial for young fish to grow safely. Shark Alley (Zone D), just a few minutes away by boat, is where I found myself swimming with nurse sharks and southern stingrays — an adrenaline rush, but completely safe if you follow your guide’s instructions.

Hol Chan Marine Reserve, Belize

Tour Options and Prices. You can’t enter the reserve without a licensed guide, and spaces are limited to protect the ecosystem. Most tours last about 2.5 to 3 hours and include stops at both Hol Chan and Shark Ray Zone. Expect to pay $90–$110 USD (180–220 BZD) for a half-day diving tour, which usually covers your guide, equipment, and refreshments. There’s also a $10 USD (20 BZD) park fee, paid on arrival.

⭐️ Best Activities

• Hol Chan Full-Day Snorkel Tour: Shark & Ray, Turtles, Shipwreck, and Manatees – Dive into Belize’s underwater wonders! Snorkel with sharks, rays, turtles, and even spot manatees. A full day of marine adventure, perfect for ocean lovers and thrill seekers.

Adventures Underground. Actun Tunichil Muknal, also known as the ATM Cave, is a wild adventure in the Tapir Mountain Nature Reserve. My journey started with a 45-minute hike through the forest, crossing three rivers — one up to my waist! The excitement grew as we reached the cave’s mouth, a cool pool shaded by trees. We swam into the entrance, headlamps ready, feeling the water’s chill and the thrill of the unknown.

Inside the Cave. Moving deeper, the route became a real challenge. We scrambled over rocks, squeezed through narrow gaps, and waded through water up to our chests. The cavern is dark, echoing with the sound of dripping water and the crunch of gravel underfoot. Our guide kept us safe and pointed out sparkling stalactites and stalagmites along the way. Here’s what you can expect inside:

• Tight passages and slippery rocks
• Swimming and wading in cool water
• Climbing over boulders
• Crawling on hands and knees in some spots

Sacred Maya History. The cavern opens into dry chambers filled with history. I saw ancient pottery, stone tools, and even human skeletons — evidence of Maya rituals. The “Crystal Maiden,” a full skeleton covered in glittering minerals, is the most famous. Our guide shared stories about Maya beliefs and the meaning of these offerings. Standing there, I felt the weight of history and the mystery of the place.

Practical Details and Prices. Access is only allowed with a certified guide, and cameras are not permitted to protect the site. Most tours cost about $125 USD (250 BZD) per person and include entrance, helmet, headlamp, and lunch. Tours usually leave from San Ignacio or Belmopan and take a full day.

Hilltop History. Cahal Pech, meaning “Place of Ticks” in Yucatec Maya, sits on a hill overlooking the Macal River in the Cayo District. This site is one of the oldest Maya settlements in the region, dating back to around 1200 BC. As I made my way up the short but steep path from the town, I could feel the anticipation build. The panoramic views from the top are worth the climb, offering a sweeping look over the Belize River Valley and the twin towns nearby.

Exploring the Ruins. The site is compact but packed with history. There are over 30 structures, including temples, palaces, two ball courts, and a ceremonial altar. I wandered through seven small plazas, ducking into cool tunnels and climbing stone stairs that led to different levels. The tallest temple rises 77 feet, and standing atop it, I imagined the ceremonies that once filled these courtyards. Unlike larger sites, Cahal Pech feels intimate — sometimes I was the only person there, which made the experience even more special.

What to See and Do. Here’s what stood out during my visit:

• Seven plazas to explore, each with its own character
• Tall temple pyramids with panoramic views
• Ball courts and a sweat house
• A small museum with artifacts and a model of the site
• Shady spots perfect for a mid-morning break

Practical Details and Prices. Cahal Pech is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Entrance costs $10 BZD ($5 USD) per person. You can explore on your own or hire a guide at the entrance for about $30 USD, which is helpful if you want to learn more about Maya history. Facilities include toilets, parking, and a small visitor center. Bring cash, as cards aren’t accepted.

Epic Scale and Setting. Caracol is hidden deep within the Chiquibul Forest Reserve, surrounded by pine and broadleaf trees. The drive here is an adventure — expect a two-hour trip from the nearest town, with the last stretch on a gravel road. I recommend a 4×4 vehicle, especially in the rainy season, or joining a guided tour that often includes stops at Rio On Pools or Big Rock Waterfall for a refreshing break. The remoteness means you’ll share the site with just a handful of other explorers, making it feel like a true discovery.

Ancient Wonders. Once the largest Maya city in Belize, Caracol was home to over 100,000 people at its peak. The site covers nearly 25,000 acres, with the central core featuring three plazas, two ball courts, and a network of causeways. The highlight is Caana, the “Sky Place” — a temple rising 143 feet above the plaza and still the tallest manmade structure in Belize. Climbing to the top, I was rewarded with panoramic views of the forest canopy and distant mountains. The scale is humbling, and the silence is broken only by birds and the occasional monkey.

Caracol, Belize

What to See and Experience. The main plaza is vast, and the layout reveals the city’s advanced planning. Guides often share stories about the Maya’s engineering, city planning, and even water management — reservoirs and canals are still visible today. Exploring Caracol, I found more than just temples. There are:

• Ball courts where ritual games once echoed
• Residential complexes with hints of daily Maya life
• An astronomical observatory used for tracking the stars
• Hieroglyphic stelae and altars with stories of ancient rulers

Entry Fees and Tours. Entry to Caracol is $10 BZD ($5 USD) per person, cash only. Guided tours from nearby towns usually cost $120–$150 USD per person and include transportation, lunch, and stops at nearby natural sites like Rio On Pools or Rio Frio Cavern. The site closes early, around 2pm, so plan for an early start.

Go Slow Lifestyle. Caye Caulker’s motto is “Go Slow” — and it’s easy to see why. The island is only about a mile wide and four miles long, so you can walk or bike everywhere. I loved renting a bicycle (about $10 USD/20 BZD per day) and exploring the sandy streets, pastel-colored shops, and friendly local cafes. The north side is wilder, with mangroves and birdlife, while the south is home to most bars, restaurants, and tour operators. The relaxed pace makes it simple to unwind and soak up the Caribbean vibe.

Snorkeling Adventures. If you do just one thing here, make it a diving tour. Caye Caulker sits right on the edge of the Mesoamerican reef, the second-largest in the world. I joined a full-day tour with Salt Life Eco Tours for $90 USD (180 BZD), which included stops at Hol Chan Marine Reserve, Coral Gardens, Shark Ray Alley, and even a manatee-spotting area. The water was crystal clear, and I swam alongside sea turtles, rays, nurse sharks, and schools of colorful fish. Half-day tours are cheaper (around $45 USD/90 BZD) and still offer plenty of marine life.

Other Must-Try Experiences:

• Kayak or paddleboard along the coast (rentals from $10 USD/20 BZD per hour)
• Join a sunset cruise with rum punch and reggae music
• Feed tarpon at the dock — watch out, they jump!
• Visit Stingray Beach to see and gently touch southern stingrays
• Explore the artisan market for handmade crafts and souvenirs

River Journey and Wildlife. Lamanai is one of the few Maya sites in Belize you can reach by boat, and the journey up the New River is half the fun. My tour began with a shuttle to Orange Walk, then a 1.5-hour boat ride weaving through mangroves and open lagoons. Along the way, I spotted crocodiles sunning on the banks, iguanas in the trees, and flocks of herons and kingfishers darting over the water. The guides were quick to point out spider monkeys and screaming monkeys, whose calls echoed through the forest canopy.

Exploring the Ruins. Lamanai means “Submerged Crocodile” in Maya, and the site is set right on the edge of the New River Lagoon. The ruins are spread out under the shade of giant ceiba and fig trees, making the walk between temples a cool, pleasant experience. There are over 50 structures to explore, but the highlights are the Mask Temple, Jaguar Temple, and the High Temple, which rises 125 feet above the plaza. Climbing to the top, I was rewarded with sweeping views over the lagoon and the surrounding forest.

Lamanai, Belize

Must-See Temples and Museum. Here’s what stood out for me:

• Mask Temple: Famous for its giant stone masks of ancient rulers
• High Temple: Offers a panoramic view from the summit
• Jaguar Temple: Features jaguar-shaped decorations
• Ball Court: Where Maya games and rituals took place
• On-site Museum: Displays artifacts and explains the history of Lamanai

Tour Options and Prices. Most visitors book a guided river tour, which includes transport, entrance, lunch, and a guide. Expect to pay around $90–$110 USD (180–220 BZD) for a full-day package. If you go on your own, the entrance fee is $5 USD (10 BZD), paid at the visitor center. Lamanai is open daily from 8am to 5pm, and tours usually last 2–3 hours on site.

Getting There and First Glance. Secret Beach is located on the west coast of Ambergris Caye, about 7 miles from the main town area. The journey itself is part of the adventure: I rented a golf cart for $40–$60 USD (80–120 BZD) per day and followed a dusty road through mangroves and lagoons, spotting birds and the occasional iguana along the way. The drive takes about 45 minutes, but the scenery and anticipation make it fly by. When you arrive, you’re greeted by a lively Caribbean scene — music, laughter, and the gentle sound of shallow turquoise waves.

The Water and Scenery. The water at Secret Beach is what really sets it apart. It’s crystal clear, warm, and shallow for a long distance — perfect for floating, swimming, or just wading out with a cold drink in hand. The sandy bottom is soft underfoot, and you can walk out quite far before the water reaches your waist. I brought an inflatable raft, which made lounging in the water even more relaxing. If you’re traveling with kids, the calm sea here is ideal.

Ambergris Caye, Belize

Beach Clubs and Food. Secret Beach has evolved from a quiet local spot into a vibrant area packed with beach clubs, restaurants, and bars. Some of the most popular are Blue Bayou and Pirates Not So Secret Beach. Each club offers lounge chairs, umbrellas, and full menus with fresh seafood, Belizean classics, and tropical cocktails. Prices for drinks range from $5–$10 USD (10–20 BZD), and meals are usually $10–$20 USD (20–40 BZD). There’s also a row of colorful food kiosks near the waterpark, where you can grab affordable local snacks like rice and beans or fry jacks.

⭐️ Best Activities

• 4-Hour Guided Jet Ski Tour to Secret Beach, Blue Bayou & Sandbar – Zoom across turquoise waters on a thrilling jet ski adventure, stopping at Secret Beach, Blue Bayou, and a sandbar for swimming, sunbathing, and unforgettable views. With top-rated guides, small group sizes, and rave reviews about hospitality, this is the most fun way to explore Ambergris Caye’s hidden gems.

Wildlife Sanctuary and Rescue. The Zoo and Tropical Education Center is much more than a typical zoo — it’s a sanctuary for rescued native animals. Every species here is found in Belize, and most residents were orphaned, injured, or saved from illegal trade. I loved how the enclosures are designed to look like natural habitats, filled with lush plants and plenty of space for the animals to roam. The zoo’s mission is to inspire visitors to care about wildlife and their habitats, and you can feel that passion everywhere you look.

What You’ll See. Walking the shaded trails, I spotted tapirs (Belize’s national animal), black screeching monkeys, jaguars, ocelots, and even a harpy eagle. The birdlife is amazing — scarlet macaws, keel-billed toucans, and the rare Jabiru stork. There are also crocodiles, snakes, and colorful frogs. The zoo is home to more than 150 animals representing over 43 native species. Here’s a quick list of highlights:

• Jaguars, pumas, and margays
• Tapirs and kinkajous
• Howler monkeys and spider monkeys
• Scarlet macaws, toucans, and parrots
• Crocodiles and iguanas

Belize Zoo, Belize

Educational Experiences. The zoo offers interactive learning for all ages. I joined a guided tour and learned about each animal’s rescue story and how the zoo helps with rehabilitation. Kids can participate in meet-and-greet sessions with tapirs or jaguars for a small fee (about $5 USD/10 BZD per animal). The zoo also hosts a Tapir Happy Hour, where you can feed the tapirs their favorite snacks. Handwritten signs around the zoo share fun facts and conservation messages, making the visit both educational and entertaining.

Accessibility and Comfort. The Zoo is fully accessible to people with physical disabilities, with smooth paths and shaded resting spots. It’s open every day from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM), and until 4:30 PM on Sundays. Current entrance prices:

Adventure on the River. Cave tubing is one of the most popular family activities in Belize, and I can see why. The experience starts with a gentle hike through lush rainforest, following a well-marked path along the Sibun River. Our guide pointed out tropical plants and explained how the Maya used them for food and medicine. The anticipation built as we reached the riverbank, where everyone received a sturdy tube, helmet, and life jacket. Even younger kids (as young as five, with special tours) can join, making it a true family adventure.

Floating through Ancient Wonders. Once in the water, we linked our tubes together and let the current carry us downstream. The river winds through a series of natural tunnels, with sunlight filtering through leafy openings above. Rock formations — stalactites and sparkling crystals — hung overhead, and our guide used a headlamp to show us ancient markings left by the Maya. The float was calm and relaxing, with occasional splashes and laughter from the kids. Some sections open up to the sky, while others are dim and echo with the sound of water dripping on stone.

Cave Tubing, Belize

What to Expect:

• 30–45 minute rainforest hike (easy, but wear sturdy shoes)
• Safety briefing and equipment fitting
• Floating through two or more natural tunnels
• Guided interpretation of Maya history and local wildlife
• Optional swimming breaks and time to explore the riverbank

Tour Options and Prices. Most tours include round-trip transport, gear, and a friendly guide. Prices range from $75–$91 USD (150–182 BZD) per adult, with discounts for children and families. Some tours combine tubing with ziplining or a visit to a Maya archaeological site in Belize like Xunantunich, making for a full day of adventure.

Colorful Streets and Culture. San Pedro Town buzzes with energy and Caribbean flair. I enjoyed exploring the narrow streets, where pastel houses, lively murals, and local shops line every block. The Papo BELIZE mural is perfect for a photo, and the artisan market at Truck Stop is a great place to browse handmade jewelry, art, and crafts. The House of Culture offers free exhibits and sometimes drumming workshops — ideal for families wanting to learn about Garifuna and Mestizo heritage.

Public Beaches and Waterfront. Belize’s “Queen’s Land” rule means all beaches up to 66 feet from the water are public. I loved strolling along the sandy shoreline, stopping at different docks to watch pelicans and fishermen at work. The beaches are perfect for sunbathing, reading, or people-watching. Secret Beach is a bit farther out but worth the trip for its shallow, clear water and festive vibe. Sunset walks along the waterfront are a must — watching the sky turn gold over the waves is unforgettable.

San Pedro Town, Belize

What You Can Do:

• Walk the public beaches and piers
• Browse the artisan market at Truck Stop
• Visit Belizean Arts Gallery and Belizean Melody Art Gallery
• Watch the Hermit Crab Races at NautiCrab Bar
• Join the Chicken Drop at Wahoo’s Lounge
• Explore the House of Culture and join a drumming session
• Enjoy sunset at the lagoon or beachfront

Art and Events. San Pedro’s creative community is everywhere. I stopped by Belizean Arts Gallery to see paintings, ceramics, and Garifuna drums by local artists. Belizean Melody Art Gallery hosts free paint parties for adults and kids every Thursday — no experience needed, just show up and have fun. The Truck Stop is the social heart of the island, with free movie nights, trivia, and sunset gatherings by the lagoon.

Budget Tip: Bring your own snacks and drinks to the beach or lagoon. Most public spaces are free, and you can enjoy live music or sunset views without spending extra.

Insider Tip: Rent a golf cart to reach quiet spots like Mexico Rocks or Tranquility Bay Beach. Early mornings are peaceful for walks, while evenings are best for joining the local crowd at community events.

Traditions and Community Spirit. Easter in Belize is a vibrant mix of faith, culture, and celebration. The holiday stretches over four days, from Good Friday to Easter Monday, and is the longest public holiday in the country. I noticed how every community, from Benque Viejo Town to the coastal villages, comes alive with both solemn processions and joyful gatherings. Many families travel to the coast or quieter cayes, while towns fill with music, food stalls, and laughter.

Good Friday. Good Friday is marked by reverence. In Benque Viejo, I joined locals for La Semana Santa, a week-long commemoration highlighted by the creation of sawdust tapestries called “Alfombras de Acerin.” Volunteers spend hours before dawn crafting these colorful carpets, which line the streets for the Passion procession. The morning features a live Passion Play, with dramatic reenactments of Christ’s journey and processions through the decorated streets. Traditional meals are central to the day — fish burgers, Garifuna sere (a rich fish soup with coconut milk and plantains), and hot cross buns are favorites.

Easter in Belize

Holy Saturday. The mood shifts on Saturday with the famous Cross Country Classic, a 140-mile cycling race from Belize City to the west and back. The whole country tunes in, cheering for cyclists and celebrating Belizean athleticism. Towns like San Ignacio and Santa Elena host Easter fairs, complete with music, dance, and local food. I enjoyed sampling sweet breads and watching children play traditional games at the fairgrounds.

A Belizean Summer Tradition. Lobster season in Belize officially opens in July, and the entire country celebrates with lively Lobster Festivals that have become one of Belize’s finest summer events. These festivals are held in three main locations: the island of Ambergris Caye, the peninsula in southern Belize, and the isle in Belize known as Caye Caulker. Each festival is a unique blend of culinary adventure, music, and community spirit, drawing visitors from all over the world and making them a highlight in any Belize adventure guide  .

Festival Highlights and Food. The heart of these festivals is the food. Local chefs and fishermen transform the Caribbean spiny lobster into every dish imaginable — grilled lobster tails, lobster ceviche, lobster tacos, and even lobster pizza. Food stalls line the beaches and streets, and the aroma of fresh seafood fills the air. I sampled lobster kebabs at the Placencia Lobsterfest and tried lobster-stuffed jalapeños at the Caye Caulker celebration. San Pedro’s Lobster Crawl is a must: you hop from restaurant to restaurant, collecting stamps in a “passport” for a chance to win prizes. The festival menus are creative, and prices are much lower than what you’d pay in the US or Europe — often $10–$20 USD per plate.

Lobster Festivals in Belize

Ancient Maya Trading Center. Altun Ha is one of Belize’s best archaeological sites and a favorite for anyone interested in Maya history. Located in northern Belize, less than an hour’s drive from the coast, it’s a must for any Belize itinerary. The site’s name means “Water of the Rock” in Yucatec Maya, and it once served as a major trading center, linking the Caribbean coast with the lowlands of Guatemala. As I wandered the grounds, I was struck by the scale — Altun Ha covers about five square miles, with plazas, temples, and residential ruins.

The Temple. The most famous structure is the Temple of the Masonry Altars, also called the Temple of the Sun God. This 54-foot-high temple sits at the heart of the site and is open for climbing. From the top, I enjoyed a panoramic view of the ancient city and the green forest beyond. The temple is famous for the discovery of a jade head representing Kinich Ahau, the Maya sun god — now a national symbol and featured on Belizean currency.

Altun Ha, Belize

Exploring the Ruins Altun Ha’s plazas and temples are open for exploration, and you’re allowed to climb the main structures. Local guides share stories about Maya rulers, rituals, and the city’s role in ancient trade. At the entrance, vendors sell crafts, snacks, and drinks — perfect after a hot day. I recommend trying the chicken with rice and beans at Jungle Lab Cafe, just outside the site.

• Sturdy shoes for climbing
• Water and snacks (site prices can be high)
• Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
• Camera for photos from the temple top

⭐️ Best Activities

• Altun Ha Mayan Temples and Cave Tubing Paradise With Lunch – Dive into Belize’s history at the Altun Ha Mayan ruins, then float through ancient caves on a tubing adventure. This full-day tour includes round-trip transport, a delicious local lunch, and expert guides who make history come alive. Expect a fun hike, plenty of wildlife, and unforgettable stories along the way — a must-do for explorers and families alike!

Wildlife and Nature Encounters. Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary is a paradise for nature lovers and one of Belize’s top reserves. Located in southern Belize, this protected area is famous as the world’s first jaguar preserve. I set off early for my Belize tour, eager to spot wildlife along the network of trails. The sanctuary is home to tapirs, ocelots, howler monkeys, and more than 300 bird species — including toucans and scarlet macaws. If you’re lucky, you might even spot fresh jaguar tracks in the mud, a thrilling reminder that this is true wilderness.

Hiking Trails and Waterfalls. The sanctuary offers a variety of hiking options, from short nature walks to challenging treks up to Ben’s Bluff for panoramic views of the Maya Mountains. My favorite was the Tiger Fern Trail, which winds through lush forest and ends at a double waterfall — perfect for a refreshing swim. The River Overlook Trail is easier and offers great chances to see birds and butterflies. The air is filled with the scent of wild ginger and the sound of rushing water, making every step feel like an adventure.

Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, Belize

• Sturdy shoes or hiking boots
• Insect repellent and sunscreen
• Water bottle and snacks
• Binoculars for birdwatching
• Swimsuit for waterfall pools

Local Culture and Conservation. Cockscomb isn’t just about wildlife — it’s also a place to learn about the Maya communities living nearby. Guided tours often include visits to local villages, where you can try traditional foods and learn about medicinal plants. The sanctuary’s visitor center has exhibits on conservation and the importance of protecting jaguars and their habitat. I found the staff passionate and eager to share stories about the reserve’s history and successes.