Inside Xcaret: An Insider’s Guide to Mexico’s Most Exciting Ecotourism Development

– This post was written by Becky Wicks –

Xcaret in Mexico is one of those unmissable must-do-activities that people talk about, but has to be seen to be believed. From Maya culture and natural wonders to snorkelling with tropical fish and exploring verdant jungles, there is something for everyone here at one of Mexico’s most exciting ecotourism developments.

We spoke to Michel Cervantes, the Deputy Director of Customer Acquisition at Experiencias Xcaret. Michel gives us an inside look at his role, talks about the challenges his team are facing and overcoming going forward, and gives us a few tips on making the most of the park when you’re there!

Meet our insider: Michel Cervantes

Hey Michel, thanks for agreeing to join us on the blog! Can you tell us a bit about what your role involves at Experiencias Xcaret and how long you’ve been working for Xcaret?

I’m in charge of coordinating the digital marketing and web sales teams, including the direct channels and the intermediation of our products. I participate in the creation of strategies to exceed sales objectives, product positioning and brand awareness for the group’s parks, tours and hotels. I love my job; I love the different levels of creativity that are required to implement marketing and sales strategies. There is a lot of information that must be analyzed to be relevant, and when you start to see the results, it’s like magic.

Working with many talented people inside and outside Xcaret is also something that feeds me in a positive way and helps me stay current. Plus, my friends on social media think I am on vacation all the time! I always go to product testings with my team and I have had to do different types of water activities, learn about animals and nature, and try all kinds of interesting adventures and cultural activities.

I have been working for Experiencias Xcaret for nine years!

What do you see people enjoying the most often when they come to Experiencias Xcaret?

There are experiences related to nature, culture, water activities, adventure, archeology, etc. This means that there’s something for everyone at Xcaret, but everyone always has a favorite.

The two highest rated attractions of Xcaret are the underground rivers and the night show. In the river, people get to connect with nature and they have a space for mental relaxation and a little physical activity – it’s a perfect balance. The evening show takes tourists on a musical journey through the history of Mexico. It presents the best of our traditions in a very entertaining way with more than 300 artists on stage.

So what is your favorite part across the attractions?

It’s difficult to choose just one, especially now that I know the parks much better. But my favorite parts are the animal conservation programs and the most emotional acts of the evening show.

As a seasoned visitor, what tips do you have for visiting Xcaret?

Before you get there:

Definitely pre-purchase your tickets for easy access. You can also download the app to have extra information and to move easily within the park. Don’t hesitate to inquire at visitor-attention about the activities we have on offer to make a quick plan of what you want to visit.

Consider the physical state of your family when planning a visit to Xcaret; traveling with children or older adults can have mobility challenges and the park is very large. Strollers and wheelchairs can be rented. There are beautiful places where part of the family can rest while others can have fun, like the cove for snorkeling. You can also plan to separate, to engage in some different activities, and meet again later to eat or enjoy the next activity.

Xcaret can be a romantic destination, a quiet, tranquil place or an adventurous day out, depending on the type of traveler you are. It’s worth making a schedule ahead of time to make sure you cover all the activities that interest you.

When you’re at the park:

• Get there early and prepare to be in the park all day.
• Bring comfortable clothes and a bathing suit so you don’t miss the main activities.
• Bring extra cash in case you want to buy snacks, photos, souvenirs, or an extra activity.
• Follow the directions and instructions for your own protection and safety.   

Can you tell us about the food at Xcaret? People must get hungry doing all that exploring!

One of the security measures that was taken (to prevent the spread of COVID-19) was to reduce the capacity in the restaurants, however, the food is delicious. Thanks to the relationship we have with the Hotel Xcaret Mexico, which is a five-star establishment, we have a very high standard in food. I recommend that you ask where to go for a bite to eat at visitor services, and tell them your favorites, so they can point you to the right restaurant.

Are there any hidden gems at Xcaret that might surprise people?

Definitely! There is no way to know everything that happens inside the park, a single visit is never enough. Everyone can make their own experience at their own pace and leave surprised by all the details of the park.

Is there anything you wish people would stop and enjoy more?

The first time I went to the park with children I realized that there would be no way to get around most of it, so I preferred to focus on enjoying every moment. There are many things to do and they all have their charm. Perhaps the most misunderstood part is the conservation of animals. Most of them are free in their natural environment, in rehabilitation or reproduction programs.

Obviously, the COVID-19 pandemic has affected tourism in Mexico too. How is Xcaret planning to handle things going forward?

We know that the pandemic changed tourism for good, now we are finding out which changes are permanent, and which are temporary. We take the safety of our visitors and collaborators very seriously. The company always has the highest national and international standards and now we do the same with hygiene and prevention measures. We are certified by Safety Travels and we develop our own protocols which are the basis for attractions in Mexico. We want tourists to have the best experience, to feel and be safe.

Thanks Michel! We can’t wait to visit Xcaret really soon.

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Practical Information about visiting Experiencias Xcaret:

Experiencias Xcaret Parks

Xcaret Park

The Xcaret eco-park showcases the best of Mexican history and culture, packed with thrilling rides, dazzling live performances, archaeological wonders, and sumptuous traditional food.

Xel-Há Park

The glorious Xel-Há Park is an eco-friendly tropical paradise on the Caribbean coast. It’s full of incredible adventure and breathtaking natural sights.

Xplor Park

Xplor Park offers a day of Riviera Maya adventure just outside of Mexico’s popular resort area of Playa del Carmen. Visitors can ride 14 ziplines above the trees, go on underground river trips, drive on amphibious vehicle trails and more.

Xoximilco Park

Xoximilco is a Mexican culture and party experience involving live music, drinking, traditional Mexican cuisine and all the maracas and sombreros you can handle! Just 5 minutes from Cancún International Airport, it’s a great family day trip on the Maya Riviera.

Xenses Park

Xenses park doesn’t play by the rules of physics or logic. Inside this Mexican jungle paradise, you’ll find head-spinning optical illusions, thrilling rides, and more beautiful nature than you can believe!

Tour Xenotes Oasis Maya

Xenotes Oasis Maya is a natural, outdoor adventure park in Yucatán, Mexico. Visitors can swim, kayak, rappel, and zipline in four different cenotes, some of which are millions of years old.

How to get there

Park		Address
Xcaret Park	* From Cancun by bus: Autobuses Mayab and Transporte Playa Express. Autobuses Mayab are part of the ADO transportation chain. Just buy your tickets on their website. * Or buy your tickets with transport included. The pick-up service is possible from Cancun or Playa del Carmen.	Carretera Chetúmal-Puerto Juárez Kilómetro 282, 77710, Playa del Carmen
Xel-Há Park	* From Playa del Carmen by autobuses: you can take the bus on the 2nd street between 15th and 20th Avenues * Or buy your tickets with transport included. The pick-up service is possible from Cancun or Playa del Carmen.	Carretera Chetumal Puerto Juárez Km 240, locales 1 & 2, módulo B, 77780, Tulum
Xplor Park	* From Playa del Carmen by autobuses: you can take the bus on the 2nd street between 15th and 20th Avenues * Or buy your tickets with transport included. The pick-up service is possible from Cancun or Playa del Carmen.	Carretera Cancún -Tulum Km 282, Puerto Juarez, Solidaridad, 77710, Playa del Carmen
Xoximilco Park	* From Cancun by bus: Autobuses Mayab and Transporte Playa Express. Autobuses Mayab are part of the ADO transportation chain. Just buy your tickets on their website.	Carretera Federal 307 Cancún-Puerto Morelos, Mza. 01 Lote 1-02, Benito Juárez, Q.R., 77580, Puerto Morelos
Xenses Park	* From Playa del Carmen by autobuses: you can take the bus on the 2nd street between 15th and 20th Avenues * Or buy your tickets with transport included. The pick-up service is possible from Cancun or Playa del Carmen.	Carretera Chetumal-puerto juarez. Km 282, Solidaridad, 77710, Playa del Carmen
Xenotes Oasis Maya	* From Cancun by bus: Autobuses Mayab and Transporte Playa Express. Autobuses Mayab are part of the ADO transportation chain. Just buy your tickets on their website. * Or buy your tickets with transport included. The pick-up service is possible from Cancun or Playa del Carmen.	Carretera Quintana Roo Puerto Morelos – Leona Vicario km 22, Puerto Morelos, Q.R., Cancún
Xavage Park	* From Cancun by bus: Autobuses Mayab and Transporte Playa Express. Autobuses Mayab are part of the ADO transportation chain. Just buy your tickets on their website. * Or buy your tickets with transport included. The pick-up service is possible from Cancun or Playa del Carmen.	Carretera Federal 307 Cancún-Puerto Morelos, Mza. 01 Lote 1-02, Benito Juárez, Q.R., 77580, Puerto Morelos

What time does Xcaret open and close?

Park	Opening hours
Xcaret Park	Monday to Saturday from 08:30 – 22:30. It’s closed on Sundays
Xel-Há Park	Tuesday to Sunday from 08:30 – 18:00. It’s closed on Mondays
Xplor Park	Monday to Saturday from 09:00 – 17:00. It’s closed on Sundays.
Xoximilco Park	Monday to Sunday from 19:15 – 00:00.
Xenses Park	Monday to Saturday from 08:30 – 19:00. It’s closed on Sundays
Xenotes Oasis Maya	Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday. Pick up time between 8:00 – 10:00
Xavage Park	Monday to Saturday from 08:00 – 17:00. It’s closed on Sundays.

Needless to say, Xcaret Parks get very busy most days, with early afternoon being the most popular time to visit. The best time to visit Xcaret Parks is early, so you can beat the crowds and experience more of the park to yourself.

How do I get tickets for Xcaret?

You can get tickets to Xcaret Parks online, which means you don’t need to worry about lining up to pay when you’re there. Some tickets mean you can skip the line.

Park	Prices from
Xcaret Park	€90.49
Xel-Há Park	€82.26
Xplor Park	€106.94
Xoximilco Park	€82.26
Xenses Park	€57.58
Xenotes Oasis Maya	€106.94
Xavage Park	€57.58

What should I wear to Xcaret?

A lot of the rides and experiences at Xcaret’s Parks will have you out in the sun having fun, so wear lightweight clothes you can move in easily, and don’t forget your sunscreen. The best thing to wear to Xcaret is a pair of comfy shoes you don’t mind walking in, and take some flip flops, and your swimmers, in case you can’t resist those glistening blue waters.

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Looking for more Mexican holiday inspiration? Don’t miss these fun day trips from Cancún, including Xcaret and more!