Hiking Victoria Peak in Belize

April 17, 2023
by Larry Waight +

Victoria Peak is the second-highest point in Belize and is the country’s smallest (in terms of area) protected conservation area. Measuring in at 3,688 feet (1,124 meters) high, Victoria Peak commands an impressive view of southern Belize.

Why You Have to Do a Hiking Tour of Victoria Peak

The ecology of Victoria Peak is only slightly different than the surrounding Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary (CBWS), a thick, heavily-forested area replete with waterfalls at lower elevations and smaller, hardier plants found at higher elevations.

The hike to the summit of Victoria Peak offers a lot of physical challenges while allowing visitors to explore the eco-diversity of the area, which includes bird species, broad-leafed trees, and all five of Belize’s big cat species.

Indeed, Victoria Peak and the surrounding CWBS is home to the densest population of jaguars in the world. Although CWBS is home to the only jaguar preserve in the world and where other big cat species like pumas live, these animals pose little danger to humans.

Where in Belize Is Victoria Peak Located?

Victoria Peak is located in Maya Center Village, Stann Creek District, Belize.

Best Way to Get to Victoria Peak

First, enter the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary (CBWS) at its official park entrance in Stann Creek District. From there, you’ll need to hike approximately 28 kilometers (17 miles), most of it uphill through very dense terrain, in order to reach the peak.

Due to the difficulty of achieving this, it is recommended that hikers plan to spend 3-5 days in the CBWS.

Best Way to Experience Hiking Victoria Peak

The recommended way to experience this area in just 3 days is:

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Day 1 – Hike from the CBWS entrance to KM 19, camping overnight.
Day 2 – Hike from KM 19 to the top of Victoria Peak, returning to KM 19 to spend another night camping out.
Day 3 – Hike back to the campground at KM 12, and from there, follow the trail back to the CBWS entrance (“Ground Zero”).

Travel tips for those wishing to hike Victoria Peak:

Pack lightly.
Wear loose-fighting long-sleeve shirts and long pants, light footwear, and a hat to block the sun.
Bring a LOT of water.
Pack several clear, plastic bags to protect electronic equipment from moisture.
Bring a headlight, personal knife, and machete.
Pack insect repellant and soap.
Bring a small pot for cooking and/or boiling water.
Pack trail mix and other nutrient-dense foods.
Be sure to bring a camera!
Do not leave your garbage behind after the hike is over

For more information about hiking Victoria Peak, please email Belize My Travels at belizemytravels@gmail.com.

Photo by @BelizeMyTravels