Near Hamanasi is the world’s first jaguar preserve, the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary. Ringed on three sides by the Maya Mountains and towering Victoria’s Peak, the Basin’s 128,000 acres is also home to jaguarundi, margays, ocelots, pumas, deer, howler monkeys and tapirs.

This trip begins with a stop at the traditional village of Maya Center where Mayan arts and crafts are for sale. The park offers a wide variety of hikes, including to a waterfall where you can dip in the refreshing waters. Our knowledgeable guides identify the numerous plants, birds and fauna of the pristine rainforest. With over 290 recorded species of birds this park is ideal for birders. As jaguars and other cats are nocturnal, it is unlikely that you will see them, but you can spot fresh tracks. Bring your binoculars as you trek through this rainforest you’ll see a plethora of birds and perhaps an elusive jaguar!