No matter the season, ocean-themed resorts have always been one of the most popular year-round travel destinations for tourists worldwide. Xcaret, located along Mexico's Caribbean coast, stands as a prime example of such destinations in the Americas and across the globe. Covering an area of about one square kilometer, this coastal park is built on ancient Mayan ruins, blending theme entertainment, natural ecology, and cultural archaeology. With nearly 50 attractions and activities, it welcomes around 2 million visitors annually from all over the world.
Project Background
Xcaret, meaning "little inlet," spans approximately one square kilometer. The name is derived from the archaeological site it shares its location with. In 1984, Mexican entrepreneur Miguel Quintana Pali and others purchased the land. While clearing it, they discovered natural sinkholes and underground rivers formed over 3 million years of erosion. This discovery inspired them to create an eco-themed park, which was opened to the public in December 1990.
In the 30 years following its opening, Xcaret expanded, incorporating the natural beauty of the surrounding environment. It now features several other water-themed adventure parks (such as Xplor and Xsenses). Today, Xcaret is a comprehensive tourist destination combining water-based entertainment, Mayan cultural experiences, and an ecological archaeology park. Nestled in the heart of the Mayan jungle and bordered by the vast Caribbean Sea, Xcaret offers a unique and immersive experience with various themed activities that showcase both the natural landscape and cultural heritage. Additionally, Xcaret provides visitors with a chance to explore Mexico's traditions and the evolution of its cultural legacy atop ancient ruins.
Project Location
The project is situated about 75 kilometers south of Cancun, between Playa del Carmen and the ancient Mayan city of Tulum, in a lush tropical rainforest. It's approximately a one-hour drive from Cancun International Airport. Cancun is geographically close to the United States, with an average temperature of around 26°C. Its proximity to southeastern U.S. cities like Miami (just a 1.5-hour flight away), combined with its pleasant climate, easy accessibility, and affordable cost of living, make it a year-round favorite for American tourists. Each year, Cancun attracts about 4 million visitors who come to enjoy its stunning beaches.
Project Transportation
Many North American tourists prefer to rent a car and drive to their destination after arriving at the airport. For international tourists or those who don't drive, Xcaret offers a wide range of transportation options, thanks to nearly 30 years of development. These include:
Shuttle ServicesTourists can purchase round-trip shuttle services that provide safe and convenient transportation to and from various locations:
If staying at a hotel listed for shuttle service, guests can wait for their ride right at the hotel entrance.
If the hotel is not listed, tourists can use nearby pick-up points within the hotel zone.
For those staying in Airbnb rentals or other accommodations, shuttle pick-up points are available within Cancun city.
TaxisTourists can easily find 24-hour taxis in Cancun that go to the park. The cost is approximately $80 USD one-way.
Tourist BusesMany tourist bus stops are scattered across Cancun city, offering free rides on the park’s unique local bus, the “Despeinado.” Operating hours vary by season, but buses generally run from 8 AM to 10 PM, departing every half hour.
Opening Hours
Xcaret is open year-round, operating seven days a week, including holidays. The park offers two visit options:
Daytime: From 8:30 AM to 10:30 PM, costing $110 USD per person.
Evening: From 4:00 PM to 10:30 PM, priced at $90 USD per person.
Children aged 5 to 11 enjoy half-price tickets, and entry is free for those under 4. The best time to visit Xcaret is from December to April when both weather and overall visitor experience are at their peak.
Visitting Experience
Since Xcaret was rebuilt on historical ruins, it boasts a rich cultural and historical background, complemented by the unique natural beauty of the Caribbean. The park offers a wide variety of themed activities throughout the year, with different areas and experience routes spread across its nearly one-square-kilometer space. Combining the surrounding natural and cultural resources, Xcaret offers a truly immersive and unforgettable adventure.
Xcaret is divided into various thematic areas, but the layout allows different themed experiences to intersect, with no distinct entry points for each zone. For example, the entrance to the underground river adventure begins in the Rainforest Adventure area, while its exit is on the outskirts of the Water Adventure zone. On the park's map, you’ll find six main tourist routes marked by different colors. Each major activity is designed to blend with the natural and cultural characteristics of the location, and additional fees apply on top of the park's base ticket. Below are some of Xcaret's key attractions:
1.Underground River Adventure
Visitors can float through an underground river system while wearing life vests and snorkels. The water, naturally sourced from internal circulation, flows through maze-like caves and tunnels lit by natural light streaming through vents. The experience is designed to recreate an original ecosystem, and along the way, visitors can spot fossilized coral embedded in rocks, evidence that this area was once part of an ancient sea. Xcaret offers three underground river routes: Blue River, Mayan River, and Manatee River. Each flows into the sea, with flamingos residing along the riverbanks. The rivers run about 5 meters below ground, with a length of 600 meters and an average depth of 1.5 meters. Midway exits are available for those wishing to leave early.
2.Paradise River Rafting
For a drier experience, tourists can enjoy rafting on the Paradise River, floating along a scenic route through the tropical jungle. Along the banks, guests may encounter blue crabs, iguanas, and wild boars, giving them a peaceful glimpse into the Riviera Maya’s wildlife and history.
3."Vino de México Xcaret" Wine Cellar
One of Mexico’s finest wine cellars, "Vino de México Xcaret," houses 180 premium Mexican wines along with a collection of artifacts showcasing the 400-year history of Mexican winemaking. Guests can enjoy wine-tasting experiences featuring two white wines, two red wines, and a dessert wine, guided by a sommelier and chef. This wine cellar is also an ideal venue for weddings and special events for groups of ten or more.
4.Hacienda Museum
This grand estate transports visitors back to the golden age of Yucatán's haciendas. Here, guests can learn about traditional agave processing and explore Mexico's folk art through the attached museum and gift shop. The central courtyard also hosts special dining events during seasonal celebrations, offering guests a taste of exquisite Mexican cuisine.
5.Small Chapel
Perched 37 meters above sea level, this chapel honors St. Francis of Assisi and overlooks the breathtaking Mexican Caribbean. Incorporating Mayan elements in its design, including living trees at the entrance and a cross carved into a sapote tree, the chapel is a serene stop for visitors. It’s also a popular venue for weddings, with Sunday services held weekly.
6.Mayan Village
Traveling through the jungle, guests can step into an authentic Mayan village and witness the daily life of ancient Maya people. Visitors can observe traditional home-building techniques, sample local cuisine, and see artisans at work. In the evening, the village comes alive with the scent of coconut palms and the rhythm of traditional drumming, signaling the start of a vibrant dance performance.
7.Mayan Archaeological Site
Xcaret was once known as Polé, a coastal trading settlement and ceremonial center for the Mayan people. Canoes would set off annually from here to worship the goddess Ixchel at Cozumel. Visitors can explore ancient ruins scattered along the park’s small inlet and jungle paths.
8."Bridge to Paradise" Mexican Cemetery
This one-of-a-kind cemetery is a visually striking mix of Mayan symbolism and Mexican folk art. The cemetery’s spiral shape is a tribute to ancient Mayans, who believed conch shells connected them to the gods. The cemetery has seven levels (representing the days of the week), 52 steps (representing the weeks of the year), and 365 graves (representing the days of the year). The vibrant colors and unique epitaphs make each grave a work of art. The cemetery also hosts interactive programs during Mexico’s annual Day of the Dead celebrations.
9.Equestrian Show
Visitors can enjoy classic Mexican cuisine at La Cocina restaurant while watching the impressive horsemanship of Mexican cowboys (charros) and escaramuzas (female riders) on Aztec horses. Accompanied by the all-female orchestra Las Adelitas Mariachi, the show blends equestrian skills with folklore, running for about 45 minutes every afternoon.
10.Papantla Flyers Ceremony
Recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, the Papantla Flyers ceremony is one of Xcaret’s proudest cultural offerings. This ancient ritual, over 600 years old, is a prayer for rain and fertility. The performance involves five participants, with four representing the elements and one playing drums and flute at the center, symbolizing the earth. Dressed in costumes resembling birds, the dancers descend from a 23-meter pole, representing rain falling from the sky. This mesmerizing 20-minute performance is a rare and ancient tradition still alive today.
11. Sacred Mayan Journey
Every year on May 25-26, Xcaret hosts the Sacred Mayan Journey, one of the park's most important cultural events. Around 300 performers, dressed in traditional Mayan attire and makeup, reenact one of the oldest pre-Hispanic traditions. Xcaret, originally an ancient Mayan trade port, revives the ritual pilgrimage where hundreds of chosen canoeists paddle across the sea to Cozumel Island to honor the moon goddess, Ixchel. After offering their tributes, they return with the goddess' message. The canoes depart from Xcaret on May 25 before sunrise, crossing the Caribbean Sea in 6-8 hours (depending on weather), reaching Cozumel’s Chankanaab Park. The return trip occurs on May 26, with the canoes arriving back at Xcaret in the afternoon. This two-day celebration draws huge crowds, making it one of the park's most popular annual events.
12. Pre-Hispanic Dance Performance
In Xcaret’s Mayan village, surrounded by underground rivers and jungle, professional dancers perform ancient Mayan dances to the beat of powerful drums amidst incense and the aroma of copal. These dances tell the story of four priestesses praying and dancing for the nature goddess Ixmucane, symbolizing an agricultural ritual filled with Mayan cultural significance. During July, August, and special holidays like Christmas and Easter, the village also features themed performances like the "Dance of the Owls." The performances last about 25 minutes.
13. Xcaret Mexico Espectacular Show
One of the most iconic shows in all of Cancún, the Xcaret Mexico Espectacular is a breathtaking musical and dance performance featuring over 300 artists at Gran Tlachco Theater. The show takes the audience on a journey through 500 years of Mexican history, combining traditional Mayan music with modern symphonic elements. Highlights include equestrian performances, acrobatics, ancient Mayan ball games, traditional Mexican dances, mythical stories, and representations of famous historical battles. During the show, guests can enjoy a candlelit dinner in the theater. The entire experience lasts two hours.
14. Xcaret Posadas Celebration
Posadas are 400-year-old Mexican Christmas traditions that began as religious theater to teach biblical stories to the largely illiterate population of the 16th century. Over time, Posadas evolved into a festive tradition reenacting Mary and Joseph’s search for a place for Jesus’ birth. Xcaret brings this warm and family-friendly celebration to life during the Christmas season, allowing families to enjoy the beautiful Posadas tradition within the park’s festive atmosphere.
15. Festival of Life and Death Traditions
The Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos) is one of Mexico's most cherished traditions, blending Indigenous and Spanish customs. Celebrated on November 2, it honors the cycle of life and death with joy rather than sorrow. People celebrate the return of their loved ones’ spirits, offering food, music, and festivities. Xcaret hosts a Festival of Life and Death Traditions from October 30 to November 2, where visitors can immerse themselves in this vibrant cultural experience. The event includes workshops, altar displays, crafts, fairs, dance performances, and music concerts.
16. Coral Reef Aquarium
Xcaret's Coral Reef Aquarium is a unique attraction where guests can marvel at over 5,000 species of marine life, including jellyfish, snails, goldfish, rays, and starfish. What makes this aquarium special is that its coral reef ecosystems are grown entirely within the facility, using advanced techniques to recreate natural marine conditions. The aquarium is home to several coral species that thrive in its isolated tanks, allowing visitors to observe the growth and migration of marine life in a sustainable environment.
17. Jungle Aviary
The jungle aviary at Xcaret is a family-friendly activity where visitors can walk through a lush forest setting and get up close with over 1,500 Mexican birds. These include colorful macaws, toucans with vibrant beaks, and majestic vultures. The aviary is a successful conservation project that recreates the birds' natural habitats, helping to protect endangered species.
18. Orchid Greenhouse
The Orchid Greenhouse is a botanical wonder where visitors can explore a collection of 89 out of the 105 orchid species native to the Mayan region. The greenhouse uses pure water, controlled nutrients, humidity, and light to create optimal growing conditions for these rare plants, some of which take up to seven years to bloom. Visitors can interact with local flora and learn more about the region’s botanical diversity in this carefully curated environment.
19. Jaguar Island
For the ancient Maya, jaguars were sacred animals, revered for their strength, speed, and majestic beauty. At Xcaret, guests can view these powerful creatures in their natural habitat, undisturbed by enclosures. Jaguars, also known for their symbolic meaning in the Maya world, are an impressive sight, offering a rare opportunity to witness them up close.
20. Butterfly Pavilion
One of the largest butterfly pavilions in the world, Xcaret’s pavilion spans 3,500 square meters and stands 15 meters tall. The pavilion houses more than 20 species of butterflies native to the region. Visitors can stroll through the jungle section to observe shade-loving butterflies and explore sunny areas where butterflies that thrive in sunlight can be found. The ancient Maya believed that butterflies were the souls of warriors who had died in battle, adding a layer of cultural depth to this vibrant sanctuary.
21. Manatee Lagoon
In the heart of Xcaret’s tropical jungle lies a serene lagoon where two special residents live: Pompom and Nohoch, two rescued manatees. These gentle giants, weighing up to 500 kg, are closely cared for by marine mammal experts. Manatees have whale-like bodies, fins resembling those of seals, and faces similar to sea lions. Despite their large size, they are calm and gentle creatures, making this spot a perfect visit for families with children.
22. Tropical Jungle Path
The tropical jungle path connects various themed areas within Xcaret, including the Orchid Greenhouse and the entrance to Paradise River. As you walk among native trees and tropical plants, surrounded by jungle sounds, you’ll encounter ancient Mayan trees like the rubber tree, ceiba tree, and chaca tree. Along the path, visitors can also learn about the myths and legends associated with these sacred trees. Xcaret has a plan to plant over 70,000 native plants in the park’s nursery.
23. Adrenalina Speedboat (The Devil’s Ride)
This is one of the most thrilling water experiences in Playa del Carmen! The Adrenalina speedboat reaches speeds of up to 90 km/h, with 360-degree spins over the ocean waves. The ride lasts 30 minutes and can carry up to 12 people, delivering adrenaline-packed fun.
24. Snuba® Underwater Adventure
Snuba® technology is a blend of snorkeling and scuba diving, using a floating air tank connected to a breathing regulator, allowing you to swim freely underwater for longer periods without the weight of scuba gear. It's a great way to explore the Caribbean Sea and its coral reefs, with a maximum depth of 7 meters. You can choose from several Snuba® adventures, such as a family dive (up to 4 people, 1 hour) or a coral reef exploration (up to 8 people, 1 hour 20 minutes).
25. Sea Trek® Ocean Floor Walk
With a Sea Trek® helmet, you can walk on the ocean floor while breathing as if you were on land. This innovative activity takes you 3.5 meters underwater, where you’ll interact with fish and other marine life. Guided by an instructor, you’ll learn how to use the helmet and walk along a marked path on the sea floor. There’s even an optional route where you can explore the natural habitat of rays. Groups of up to 30 can participate, with each session lasting 30-40 minutes.
26. Snorkeling Tour
Families can take a boat out to the coral reefs near Playa del Carmen and enjoy snorkeling with diverse marine life. The trip includes onboard services and non-alcoholic beverages for a relaxing experience. The snorkeling depth reaches up to 4.8 meters, allowing you to see colorful coral formations and possibly even sea turtles. Each group can accommodate up to 27 people, and the tour lasts 1 hour 30 minutes (15 minutes sailing, 15 minutes of instructions, 45 minutes of snorkeling, and 15 minutes returning).
27. Dolphin Encounter
In Xcaret’s dolphin pool, families can interact closely with dolphins, swimming alongside them and enjoying playful moments like fin-shaking, dolphin kisses, and riding with them in the water. These interactions are guided, and groups range from 6 to 10 participants, with each session lasting 45 to 60 minutes.
28. Shark Swim
Swim with nurse sharks, a harmless species that can grow up to 3 meters long and weigh around 100 kg. These sharks, which feed on mollusks and small sea creatures, are known for their cute, almost smiling appearance. Guests can observe these friendly creatures up close on a shallow platform, guided by shark trainers who explain their behavior. Afterward, participants can suit up and swim with the sharks.
29. ParaXute Parasailing
Soar up to 200 meters above the Caribbean Sea with Xcaret’s parasailing adventure. While suspended in the air, you’ll get stunning views of the beach and the park. This activity can be done solo or as a pair. The ride, which can accommodate up to 4 people per boat, lasts around 12 minutes and is one of the most popular activities for thrill-seekers.
30. Mayan Temazcal Ceremony
A 500-year-old tradition from the Mayans and Aztecs, the Temazcal ceremony is a spiritual and physical cleansing experience. The word “Temazcal” comes from the Nahuatl language, combining “temal” (bath) and “calli” (house), meaning “bathhouse.” Similar to a sweat lodge, the Temazcal ritual is meant to purify both body and soul, encouraging reflection and renewal. Participants enter a small, dome-shaped structure where they are surrounded by steam created from volcanic stones and herbal water. Led by a shaman, the ceremony includes drumming and chanting, symbolizing a spiritual rebirth. The experience ends with a refreshing plunge into a natural cold-water pool. Groups can be as large as 45 people, with each session lasting 60 minutes.
31. Mayan Xpa Spa (Xpá Xcaret)
The Mayan Xpa Spa offers a tranquil and immersive experience. Guests are taken by boat to a cave surrounded by crystal-clear lagoons, where they can enjoy the soothing sounds of waterfalls and the peaceful embrace of nature. Various spa treatments, including massages, are available to help you relax and de-stress. Sessions last between 25 and 50 minutes, and each guest is offered a complimentary drink.
32. Children’s World
Children’s World is a dedicated play area designed for kids under 12, offering hours of fun for young visitors. The area features water slides, jungle tunnels, suspension bridges, climbing nets, and nature-themed playgrounds. Parents can relax in specially designed rest areas while keeping an eye on their children.
33. Scenic Tower
Standing 80 meters tall in the northern section of Xcaret, the Scenic Tower provides a breathtaking, 360-degree view of the Caribbean coast and the entire park. Whether during the day or at night, the tower offers unparalleled panoramic views. It’s open from 9 AM to 9 PM, allowing visitors to take in both daytime and nighttime scenery.
The attractions and activities highlighted above represent just a fraction of what Xcaret Park has to offer. As visitors explore the park, they are enveloped in a vibrant ecosystem where flamingos, white-tailed deer, macaws, and coatis roam freely. This seamless blend of nature with the park’s immersive design evokes a sense of harmony between the environment and the cultural heritage it celebrates. Additionally, staff dressed in traditional costumes add a dynamic, welcoming presence, enhancing the overall experience. The thoughtfully curated activities ensure that guests of all ages can revel in a joyful and rejuvenating escape.
Accommodations
Since Xcaret is located along the Caribbean coast, there are many hotels and vacation rentals nearby, offering various price ranges and convenient access to the park (most offer shuttle services). The official Grupo Xcaret hotels — Hotel Xcaret México, Hotel Xcaret Arte, and La Casa de la Playa — offer diverse lodging options to cater to families, couples, and high-end travelers.
1. Hotel Xcaret México
Rated as a 5-diamond hotel by the AAA, Hotel Xcaret México is located just a 3-minute walk from the park. With 900 suites, 11 restaurants, 3 gyms, and custom event spaces, this luxurious hotel blends modern design with Mexican cultural elements. Each suite is themed around one of the five natural elements: wind, fire, water, earth, and wood. Guests can enjoy stunning views of the ocean, rivers, pools, or jungle, and the hotel emphasizes sustainability efforts such as reducing single-use plastics and supporting Xcaret’s animal conservation programs.
Guests at Hotel Xcaret México can access all nine Grupo Xcaret parks, enjoy unlimited food and drinks, and benefit from free shuttle services between the hotel and the parks. Each suite block has its own unique theme and offerings:
Casa Viento (Wind): Perfect for families, located near a swimming pool with an octopus-shaped slide and a family-friendly restaurant, Chibalí.
Casa Tierra (Wood): Family suites with private pools and easy access to the beach and infinity pools, offering stunning views of the Caribbean Sea.
Casa Agua (Water): Focused on wellness and spa treatments, with suites featuring volcanic stone bathtubs and views of jungle rivers. Guests enjoy free access to the Muluk Spa starting from their third day of stay.
Casa Espiral (Earth): Ideal for groups, with suites near the main restaurant and conference center, offering a view of the majestic Xpiral Pyramid.
Casa Fuego (Fire): A romantic option for couples, featuring a rooftop pool with panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea, private dining options, and an exclusive fitness center.
2. Hotel Xcaret Arte
Opened in July 2021, Hotel Xcaret Arte celebrates Mexican artists and caters to adults aged 16 and over. The hotel features 900 suites, 10 bars, a spa, swimming pools, and event facilities. Guests can explore Xcaret’s parks and enjoy the hotel’s six themed areas inspired by art forms such as textiles, painting, pottery, music, literature, and cuisine.
3. La Casa de la Playa
La Casa de la Playa is an exclusive, beachfront boutique hotel that opened in December 2021. It boasts 63 suites, each with a private pool, and emphasizes privacy and luxury. The hotel is divided into three themed areas: Natural, Fiesta, and Wellness. Other amenities include two swimming pools, a spa, a mezcal bar, a chocolate factory, a wine cellar, and a library, making it one of Mexico’s top luxury boutique hotels.
Project Summary
If the ocean is a shared haven connecting different human civilizations, then the coast is where traditional culture flourishes and local life is experienced in its most charming form. This intersection of land and sea naturally invites relaxation and connection. Unlike conventional water theme parks, Xcaret integrates the rich heritage of Mayan culture with local Mexican customs, blending centuries-old flora and fauna into the experience. High-quality facilities and modern technologies cater to diverse customer needs, while the design skillfully fuses local materials with a refined visual aesthetic, creating an environment that feels both sophisticated and harmonious. As surrounding resources are further developed and the market becomes more segmented, this coastal resort will expand its influence, steadily enlarging its footprint as a distinctive seaside destination.
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