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Inspiring the Children of Akumal

The jaguar—an ancient symbol of our biodiversity and silent guardian of the jungle—faces growing threats that endanger its survival in the region. In response, Eco-Bahia strengthens its commitment to environmental education, fostering knowledge and empathy among new generations who will inherit the responsibility of protecting our natural heritage.

To celebrate International Jaguar Day, the Environmental Education team visited the Hekab Be Educational Center in Akumal to host the children’s rally “Tracking the Jaguar.” This fun and educational experience brought together 30 boys and girls, who learned through games, challenges, and discovery about the importance of jaguar conservation and its role in maintaining ecosystem balance.

Four stations to learn and protect

The rally was designed around four themed stations, each created to spark curiosity, encourage critical thinking, and strengthen the emotional connection between children and this iconic feline.

Forest tracks

Through real images of jaguar tracks, distribution, anatomy, and even its teeth, the children learned to identify the jaguar as a key species of the rainforest. With an educational memory game, questions, ideas, and new knowledge emerged naturally.

Silent hunter

Balancing a ball on a spoon held in their mouths, the participants experienced firsthand the focus, stealth, and precision that define this majestic predator. The activity combined fun with reflection on the natural abilities that help jaguars survive in the wild.

A refuge we must protect

Using the “wheel of knowledge” and by creating a collective mural, the groups reflected on what the jaguar needs to thrive: healthy forests, water, prey, biological corridors, and the absence of human threats. Each image added to the mural represented a shared commitment to jaguar conservation.

Jaguar guardians

As they assembled a jaguar puzzle, the groups discussed simple yet meaningful actions to protect this species: keeping the environment clean, respecting wildlife, caring for nature, and talking at home about the jaguar’s importance. Small commitments that, together, can create lasting impact.

Planting awareness from childhood

Activities like this rally show that conservation begins with education. When children connect with the jaguar through play, surprise, and discovery, core values such as respect, empathy, and environmental responsibility are strengthened.

At Eco-Bahia, we will continue promoting programs that connect children with their natural surroundings. Our commitment is to support informed, conscious, and engaged communities working to protect wildlife, in partnership with Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts.

Because protecting the jaguar means protecting our jungle, our history, and our future.