The Critter Lineup
Jungles like Olancho or Cockscomb are home to:

Snakes: Fer-de-lance (venomous), boa constrictors (harmless), and coral snakes (venomous).
Spiders: Tarantulas (mostly harmless) and orb-weavers (big but safe).
Insects: Mosquitoes, bullet ants (painful sting), and scorpions.
Others: Jaguars (rare), peccaries (wild pigs), and stingrays in rivers.

Prevention Tips
1. Stick to Trails
Wandering off-path increases your chance of stepping on a snake or spider web. Guides know safe routes.
Tip: Follow your guide’s footsteps – they spot hazards.
2. Wear the Right Gear
Boots: High-top, waterproof hiking boots protect ankles from bites.
Pants: Long, loose pants (quick-dry) block insects and brush.
Gloves: For grabbing branches or climbing (optional but handy).
Tip: Tuck pants into socks to seal gaps.
3. Watch Your Step
Snakes: They blend into leaves or roots. Look down and use a stick to probe ahead.
Spiders: Check for webs at eye level. Avoid brushing against trees.
Tip: Hike in daylight – snakes are harder to spot at night.
4. Night Hikes
Use a headlamp (Petzl Tikka, ~$30) to spot glowing spider eyes or snakes.
Stay close to your guide – they’re trained to spot nocturnal critters.

What to Do If You Encounter Critters
Snakes:
Don’t Move: Freeze if you see one. Most won’t attack unless threatened.
Back Away: Slowly step back, giving it 2-3 meters space.
If Bitten: Stay calm, immobilize the limb, and get to a hospital ASAP. Don’t suck venom or cut the wound.
Spiders:
Avoid Touching: Tarantulas are docile but can bite if cornered.
Shake Gear: Check boots or bags before use – spiders love hiding.
Insects:
Bullet Ants: Their sting hurts for 24 hours. Avoid logs or trees where they nest.
Scorpions: Check bedding or clothes. Most stings are painful but not deadly.
Jaguars/Peccaries: Rare, but if seen, stay calm, don’t run, and back away slowly.

Destination-Specific Tips
Honduras (Olancho): Fer-de-lance snakes are common near rivers. Stick to trails like Cueva del Suspiro.
Costa Rica (Corcovado): Coral snakes hide in leaf litter. Watch your step on coastal trails.
Peru (Amazon): Bushmasters (venomous) are rare but deadly. Canoe tours are safer than hikes.
Belize (Cockscomb): Jaguars are active at night. Avoid solo hikes on Outlier Trail.

First-Aid Kit
Essentials: Bandages, antiseptic wipes, painkillers, antihistamines, and a snakebite kit (like Sawyer Extractor, ~$15).
Tip: Carry a whistle to signal for help in remote areas.

Why It’s Worth It
Avoiding critters lets you focus on the jungle’s beauty – macaws, waterfalls, and monkey calls. With these tips, you’ll hike confidently and safely.