A Comprehensive Guide to Xcaret Cancun

Pronounced ish-ka-ret, Xcaret eco-park as it’s widely known, is spread over 250 acres and is the jewel of all the attractions the River Maya can offer. Situated just over a couple of kilometers, it sits towards the south of Playa del Carmen. Doesn’t matter if you are traveling alone, with friends, or family, as there are things to do which are attractive to any age group. Believe it or not, it might be nigh impossible to visit all the attractions and do all the activities in just one visit. From adrenaline-pumping activities to places where you can soak yourself in Mexican culture at its finest, are numerous.

You can visit the regional wildlife breeding area and aviary, which houses numerous indigenous colorful birds and animals. If you are a birder and interested in ornithology, then the bird sanctuary is a place you definitely shouldn’t miss. From scarlet macaws, toucans, flamingos to other fascinating creatures, this bird paradise will truly amaze you. The sanctuary has also made it to the Guinness Book of World Records, for the birth of more than a hundred macaws due to an intense breeding program. Other places in the park that are worth a visit would be the butterfly pavilion, coral reef aquarium, and the underground river. You can swim down the underwater caves for a fascinating experience. The Xcaret national park is a place where you can lose all track of time while exploring its myriad secrets.

Apart from the birds and aquarium, the Xcaret national park also hosts a number of animals. There are several trails which you can follow that will lead you to various kinds of wildlife which call Xcaret Cancun their home. If you are on the Tropical Jungle Trail, then you will arrive at an island inside the park called Monkey Island. Rightly named due to the high population of these simians, this island is also home to the spider, and howler monkeys. Both of them are endangered species, and their numbers have plummeted since the last century. Conservation efforts and breeding programs are on, and you can see these cheeky devils swinging from tree to tree, entertaining everyone with their antics. Go a bit further, and you will reach the lagoon. Near here are ancient and enigmatic cave which house a huge population of bats. If you go during the day you will find them inside the caves, hanging upside down and storing their energy for the night. This is the time they will come out to hunt for fruits and insects which is part of their diet.

Also calling Xcaret Cancun home is the Tapir. A rare and funny looking animal that is under threat today largely due to human activities are quite friendly and if you are lucky might even allow you to approach them. An interesting fact here is that the animal’s appearance has remained unchanged for millions of years. The muzzle resembling a small trunk helps them catch scents and hold food like fruits and vegetation. In some ways, it acts as the Tapir’s “hand”.

The area of Xcaret Cancun and Yucatan is also known worldwide as “The Land of Pheasant and Deer”. Largely so because the region holds one of the highest deer populations in the world. Although feeding them is prohibited in order to not disrupt the natural cycle, you can approach them and study their features from a safe distance.

Mexico is a country with a rich cultural heritage and traditional customs. The place where the Mayan civilization rose thousands of years ago, has now been converted into an open museum where you can see Mexican culture at its most raw form. This section of Xcaret Cancun lies a replica of a Mayan village, where you can observe the way the Mayans lived so many years ago. Notice the architectural styles which inspired modern Mexican building methods through houses constructed of hemp and wood. Don’t forget to visit the cemetery which lies here. The decorations and the multiple activities which can be done here truly show Xcaret Cancun as a place of wonder and amazement. There is also an archaeological dig site deep within Xcaret Cancun national park. Long ago this was an important port for the Mayans, and also served as a center for the celebration of major ceremonies. During the post-classic period between 1400 to 1517, this site was at the height of its power and ruled the Mayan empire. Known in the olden days as Pole, this place was also the main spot from where pilgrims headed to the Cozumel island. They would do this to pay respects to the goddess Ixchel whose shrine is located on the island.

If you want to understand and observe more of Mexican culture and heritage, be sure to visit the Hacienda and Folk Art Museum which has a lot of history regarding the Yucatan peninsula. The museum’s fantastic location inside Xcaret Cancun is quite helpful as it makes visiting the Hacienda Henequenera quite easy. Deriving its name from the crop Henequen (sisal), also known as “oro verde”, this building houses a lot of information on how the crop was sourced, processed, and traded. The architecture of the building is very 19^th century and will give you a glimpse at how the rich would have lived then. It’s also chock full of Mexican folk art which makes it function as a folk art museum.

If you are in Xcaret Cancun for a few days, then don’t forget to attend its many mini-shows. The mini-shows talk about the rich heritage of Mexican culture and take you through its history. With performers enacting important events from the past of Xcaret Cancun, the entire experience is quite enjoyable. Look out for the fire breathers and exotic shamanic dancers who awe the crowds with their fantastic feats and performances. These mini-shows also give you an insight into the everyday lives of the Mayan people and is something which is a must-see if ever in Xcaret.

Although Xcaret Cancun is famous for its Mexican heritage and the eco-park, there are a few other outdoor activities that you can do. If you are interested in swim and snorkel then there are several rivers and beaches you can head to. The area inside the Xcaret Cancun has many underground rivers that are always lush with crystal clean water, and you can easily take a dip there while you explore. In fact, you can rent some gear and go snorkeling in the river itself. With the entire area lit up by natural light from air vents, the entire experience is surreal.

If you are observant, then you can even notice coral formations that have become fossilized with the rocks. This proves a fascinating theory that many years ago this area was part of the main sea. Nevertheless, there are in total, three main underground rivers. They are the Blue River, Manatee, and the Mayan River. Flowing right next to beautiful mangrove forests, they open into the sea. A few things which you might find interesting regarding these rivers would be the depth, which is nearly seventeen feet underground, and average depth, that comes to around five feet. So be sure you rent lifejackets as untowardly incidents are known to happen. Even if you are a professional swimmer, you will not be allowed in without one.

There are many beaches in Xcaret Cancun which act as a nice retreat after a grueling day. Quiet inlets, lagoons, and natural pools are everywhere so don’t forget to carry your swimsuit with you all the time. There is nothing better than enjoy the Mediterranean sun under the cool shade of the Palapa trees. White sand, calm waters, and a beach bar service are enough to pamper you throughout the remainder of your day.

Be sure not to give your full attention to the beaches as there are several natural pools scattered everywhere as well. These are always full of water from the sea and are fantastic places for a swim. You can even snorkel down here to watch all the underwater wildlife, which consists of colorful fish, and turtles. You can even go down a water slide, or cross over to the opposite bank of the pool by leveraging two ropes that are kept over the water. After you are done, complete your water sojourn with a visit to the many lagoons. Located right in between the Xcaret Cancun jungle and beach, these lagoons are called home by a variety of tropical birds. If you are feeling adventurous, then dive right into the water and get amazed by the many passages and underwater caves. That’s some good exercise before relaxing into a hammock and calling it a day.

Let’s face it. Dolphins are creatures everyone likes to meet in the open oceans. Believe it or not, there are areas in Xcaret Cancun which provide you with the experience of dancing with these dolphins in pools. Doesn’t matter if you are a local visiting just for a day or a tourist holidaying for a few weeks, the swim with dolphins is guaranteed for a fee. However, it’s advisable to go for this experience if you are spending a few days as the entrance fee is very expensive. If you are there just for a couple of hours, then it’s not worth it.

The dolphin attraction in Xcaret Cancun is open three times a day and it’s best that you plan ahead. They generally range from 11:30 in the morning to 3:30 in the afternoon, after which it closes. You will be given a few basic instructions for fifteen minutes, and the rest of the 45-minute tour will be with the dolphins. With a maximum capacity of about six people, all children under eight years of age or under the height of 3.6 feet has to be accompanied by adults. If you are suffering from diabetes, claustrophobia, or are pregnant, then you will not be allowed in.

The nightly show is particularly exciting to watch. A place where you can get your family, but be sure to have some rest as children generally tire out by the time this takes place. Named Mexico Espectacular, the show really is marvelous and exciting. Taking you on a trip back in time, this will enrich your knowledge of Xcaret Cancun by showing you how Mexican culture evolved over time from Prehispanic times to modern days. Focussing mainly on traditional music, dances, and activities, you can even treat yourself to a ball game that originated thousands of years ago. Mariachis, Voladores, and folk dancing, this place is just brilliant to end your trip to the Xcaret Cancun national eco-park.

Xcaret is a brilliant place for children. This is largely due to the Children’s World park which has a lot of kid-friendly activities guaranteed to keep the young ones busy while you explore the rest of Xcaret. The secret adventure park has loads of climbing nets, obstacle courses, and labyrinths that are surrounded by greenery. If the kids prefer splashing around, then take them to the Cenotes which is a natural oasis in Xcaret. If they are below six years of age, then there are sandboxes, wading pools, and water jets, which have been made available in the region especially for them.

Entry fee to Xcaret is around USD $79 with an additional charge of around USD $10 if you need a pick-up and drop-off from and to your hotel. A private tour might cost a little less if you are just a couple, and might even get you a few extra hours inside Xcaret Cancun. The night show is included in this fee, but you might have to pay extra for the add-on activities like the sanctuary, heritage arts museum, and swimming with dolphins. It’s best that you book the dolphin tour online and in advance as there is a lot of demand for it, and you might not get it if you try and purchase tickets after your arrival at Cancun.

Getting to Xcaret is relatively quite simple. All you have to do is book a car, bus, or taxi. You can even go by Collectivo which is a special bus. This bus will drop you on the highway which is plied by “The Flinstones” bus. This second bus will pick you up from the highway and take you directly to Xcaret Park. With these buses plying the route every ten minutes or so, getting one is easy if you plan ahead. However, a taxi from Cancun to Xcaret will cost you around USD $80 to USD $100 so be sure to have some cash in hand. After 7 PM there are no more collectivo buses available. Be ready to fork out around USD $3 if you are catching a public bus from Cancun to Playa Del Carmen.

There are a lot of places in Xcaret Cancun which serve up a delicious meal for you and your family. The Xcaret Mexico Espectacular offers a complete seven-course meal which will leave you stuffed and contented. All the dishes are made through traditional Mexican recipes and processes thereby preserving the rich flavor of the cuisine. With glasses of sparkling wine and unlimited alcoholic beverages, you will certainly not be disappointed.

There are several places you can put up in Xcaret which are close to the park. With many comfortable and affordable hotels scattered around the region, booking a place isn’t very difficult. However, during the season there is a mad rush, so be sure to plan in advance and book your stay. A few hotels which offer fabulous deals and views would be Hotel Xcaret Mexico, Vidanta Riviera Maya, and Occidental Xcaret. There are also many AirBnBs available with warm and kind hosts who will be more than happy to help you plan your day as well! Try to see if there are any vacancies at the Hacienda Xcaret Studio which is an oasis hiding behind very high walls. The cultural experience you will be subjected to through the interior design and landscaping will make your jaw drop. The hosts Glen and Esther are AirBnB super hosts and will take care of everything while you enjoy your sojourn with Xcaret.

There you have it! Everything that you will need to know before booking that flight ticket to Xcaret. Although this guide is comprehensive enough, it’s always advisable to do your own research as well.