Night Hike at Cockscomb Basin Wild Life Sanctuary

Hopkins , Belize

Night Hike at Cockscomb Basin Wild Life Sanctuary

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About this experience

Dare to explore the rainforest after sunset? Join us for an unforgettable Night Hike in the world-renowned Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, just a short 35-minute drive from Hopkins Village. This is your chance to experience the jungle in its most mysterious and thrilling state—under the cover of night.
While spotting a jaguar is the ultimate dream (and yes, this is the world’s first jaguar preserve), it’s the journey that truly captivates. You’ll likely encounter kinkajous, coatimundis, opossums, foxes, and agoutis quietly moving through the forest. Keep your eyes peeled and your flashlight ready; scorpions, snakes, spiders, and other fascinating nocturnal critters often make an appearance. Your guide will share stories, identify animal tracks, and help you see and hear what most visitors never get the chance to.

Available options

Night Hike at Cockscomb Basin Wild Life Sanctuary

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Bottled water

Entrance fee

Snacks

Detailed itinerary

The journey from Hopkins Village to Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary takes just about 35 minutes, winding through the lush Belizean landscape until you reach one of the country's most iconic protected areas.

Leading the way is your knowledgeable local guide, whose deep understanding of the area’s flora and fauna brings the jungle to life.
As darkness falls, the rainforest comes alive. The goal for many? To spot the elusive jaguar—Cockscomb is the world’s first jaguar preserve, after all. While sightings are incredibly rare due to the jaguar's secretive nature, the possibility adds an edge of excitement to the experience.

What you are likely to encounter during your night walk are a host of fascinating nocturnal creatures. Foxes, opossums, kinkajous, agoutis, and coatimundis often reveal themselves under the cover of darkness. For insect and arachnid enthusiasts, this is prime time to observe scorpions, spiders, snakes, and other small but intriguing rainforest dwellers.

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Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

About Hopkins

Hopkins is a charming coastal village in Belize known for its rich Garifuna culture and stunning Caribbean beaches. It offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and adventure activities, making it a perfect destination for travelers seeking an authentic experience.

Top Attractions

Hopkins Beach

A beautiful stretch of white sand and turquoise waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Beach Half day to full day Free

Garnett's Pastries and Bakery

A local bakery famous for its delicious pastries and bread, offering a taste of traditional Garifuna cuisine.

Cultural 1-2 hours Budget

Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary

A unique wildlife sanctuary and the world's first jaguar reserve, offering hiking trails, waterfalls, and wildlife spotting.

Nature Full day Moderate

Sockton's Pines

A local craft shop and art gallery showcasing traditional Garifuna art and crafts, including handmade drums, jewelry, and textiles.

Cultural 1-2 hours Budget

Marie Sharp's Farm

A local farm and factory producing Belize's famous habanero hot sauce and other spicy sauces.

Food and Drink 1-2 hours Budget

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hudut

A traditional Garifuna dish made with fish cooked in a coconut broth, served with mashed plantains.

Main dish Contains fish and plantains, may contain allergens.

Johnny Cakes

Fried dough balls, often filled with cheese or sweet fillings, a popular local snack.

Snack Contains flour and may contain dairy or sugar.

Coconut Buns

Sweet buns made with coconut, a popular breakfast item in Hopkins.

Breakfast Contains flour, sugar, and coconut, may contain dairy.

Popular Activities

Hiking Fishing Wildlife spotting Beach activities Sunbathing Swimming Garifuna drumming and dance Local craft workshops

Best Time to Visit

November to April

This is the dry season with plenty of sunshine and lower humidity, ideal for beach activities and cultural events.

24-30°C 75-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Garifuna, Creole
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Belize Dollar (BZD)

Time Zone

GMT-6

Electricity

110VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Hopkins is generally safe for travelers, with a low crime rate and friendly locals. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Use reputable tour operators and taxis.
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

Getting there

By air

Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport • 130 km (80 miles)
Dangriga Airstrip • 5 km (3 miles)

By bus

Belize City Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are available to nearby towns but not within Hopkins itself. They are an affordable but less convenient option.

Taxis

Available • Apps:

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Hopkins Village Sittee River

Day trips

Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary

90 km (56 miles) • Full day

A unique wildlife sanctuary and the world's first jaguar reserve, offering hiking trails, waterfalls, and wildlife spotting.

Sittee River

15 km (9 miles) • Half day to full day

A scenic river offering tours, fishing, and wildlife spotting.

Dangriga

5 km (3 miles) • Half day

A nearby town with a rich cultural heritage, offering local markets, historical sites, and cultural experiences.

Festivals

Garifuna Settlement Day • November 19 Hopkins Seafood Festival • June

Pro tips

Visit Garnett's Pastries and Bakery for a taste of traditional Garifuna pastries.
Explore the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary for a unique jaguar spotting experience.
Try local seafood dishes, such as Hudut, at Innie's Restaurant and Bar.
Support local artisans by purchasing handmade crafts at Sockton's Pines.
Attend a Garifuna drumming and dance performance for an authentic cultural experience.