The Ultimate Guide to the Xcaret Parks in Riviera Maya Mexico (2024)
Are you interested in visiting the Xcaret parks in Riviera Maya Mexico? You’ve come to the right place!
As a travel blogger that lives in Playa del Carmen, I’ve become a resident expert on the Xcaret adventure parks.
So if you’re feeling confused or overwhelmed by the names of all the Xcaret park and tours, I’ve broken it all down for you in this post.
In this ultimate guide to the Xcaret parks, you’ll learn about what they are, how to pronounce the park names, what activities you can do at each one, transportation information, park costs, money-saving tips, and more!
Ready to learn all about the Xcaret parks? Let’s get to it, starting with a quick overview chart:
About the Xcaret Parks
First, let’s start with some of the basics on Xcaret:
What is Xcaret?
Grupo Xcaret is the name of the company that owns and operates some of the best tourist attractions in Riviera Maya, Mexico.
The company is constantly expanding but they currently operate 8 adventure parks, 4 tour experiences, and 3 all-inclusive luxury hotels.
From unique tours and activities to luxury hotels, Xcaret has an emphasis on sustainable and socially responsible tourism that lets you plan your Mexico travels in a one-stop shop.
ℹ️ Important to Know: Xcaret is the name of the overall company, but it’s also the name of one of the adventure parks.
How many Xcaret parks are there?
Currently, there are 8 Xcaret adventure parks, each offering a different type of adventure experience:
- Xcaret
- Xel-Ha
- Xplor
- Xplor Fuego
- Xavage
- Xenses
- Xoximilco
- Xibalba (Coming soon)
Grupo Xcaret also offers 4 different tour experiences:
- Xichen
- Tulum
- Cobá
- Xenotes
And 3 luxury hotels:
- Hotel Xcaret Mexico
- Hotel Xcaret Arte (adults only)
- La Casa de la Playa (boutique adults only)
🎨 Wondering what it’s like to stay at an Xcaret hotel? Find out in my Hotel Xcaret Mexico review and Hotel Xcaret Arte review!
What can you do at Xcaret Mexico parks?
Just ask and you shall get–Xcaret adventure parks offer all the Mexican Riviera experiences you can think of!
Xcaret activities range from cultural immersion (think live entertainment and archaeological exploration) to unique outdoor activities.
The outdoor activities feature white water rafting, ziplining, snorkeling and Snuba, underground river exploration, cenote swims, monster truck challenges, and so much more.
At these one-of-a-kind Mexico theme parks, you can also enjoy elevated Mexican cuisine, whether breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Where are the Xcaret adventure parks?
Refer to this map of Xcaret parks for all locations of the different Xcaret parks in Mexico.
Xcaret, Xplor, and Xenses are located just south of Playa del Carmen, while Xel-Ha is closer to Tulum, and Xavage and Xoximilco are closer to Cancun.
Xcaret Parks Map
How to pronounce the Xcaret park names
If you’re not sure how to pronounce the Xcaret park names, you’re not alone!
I’ll never forget how hard my Mexican friends laughed at me the first time I tried to say “Xcaret” 😂
But I quickly learned the key to pronouncing Xcaret park names is to sound out the ‘X’ as either “s” or “sh”.
- Xcaret = Ish-ka-ret
- Xel-Ha = Shell-Ha
- Xplor = Ish-plor
- Xavage = Sha-vage
- Xenses = Shen-ses
- Xoximilco = So-chee-meel-koh
- Xibalba = She-bal-ba
- Xenotes = Shay-know-tays
- Xichen = She-chen
How Much Do Xcaret Park Tickets Cost?
Xcaret prices vary between each park and can range from $70 USD-$175 USD per person. It’s best to check the official park websites for the most accurate prices.
💲 You can also check the Xcaret price guide to compare prices between the parks.
- Xcaret Admission: Check prices here →
- Xel-Ha Admission: Check prices here →
- Xplor Admission: Check prices here →
- Xplor Fuego Admission: Check prices here →
- Xavage Admission: Check prices here →
- Xenses Admission: Check prices here →
- Xoximilco Admission: Check prices here →
- Xenotes Admission: Check prices here →
Note that some of the Xcaret park packages come in two forms: basic admission and all-inclusive admission.
Basic admission offers a limited amount of activities, while all-inclusive offers unlimited access to all activities.
Children under 4 can enter for free, while children ages 5 to 11 have a discounted price for tickets.
How to Book Xcaret Tickets
Xcaret park tickets can be bought through the master site below, or each park’s own website.
I highly recommend booking your Xcaret tickets through their official website as it’s the safest and most secure way to book Xcaret tickets.
Plus, they allow you to create your own customized package if you’re interested in visiting more than one of the parks.
I’ve also outlined additional ways to save in the next section.
How to Save Money on Xcaret Park Tickets
There are a few different Xcaret discounts available–take advantage of these discounts outlined below to save money on Xcaret tickets and avoid paying full price for admission tickets.
🦜 Explore my Xcaret resource hub for easy access to all of my Xcaret park reviews, comparison guides, as well as current Xcaret coupons and promotional offers.
Book in advance
You can automatically save by booking online on the official park website in advance:
- 10% off – ticket purchase 7 to 20 days in advance
- 15% off – ticket purchase at least 21 days in advance
Create your own package
If you’re interested in visiting more than one of the Xcaret parks and tours, you can save by combining parks to create your own package:
- 15% off – ticket purchase for any combination package of two or more parks and tours
- 20% off – ticket purchase for any combination package of three or more parks and tours
Stay at one of the Xcaret Hotels
Staying at an Xcaret all inclusive hotel gives you all “fun-inclusive” access to the parks, meaning you get unlimited access to all of the Xcaret parks during your stay.
This is an especially great option for families if you plan on visiting more than one of the parks.
Check out the hotel websites below for more info on these all inclusive resorts:
- Hotel Xcaret Mexico
- Hotel Xcaret Arte (adults only)
- La Casa de la Playa (adults only)
Resident Discounts
Xcaret also offers a special discount for Quintana Roo residents which is valid only at the park’s ticket booths, online, or through the contact center.
Tickets for Quintana Roo residents can be purchased through the website here but it is only available in the Spanish language.
You’ll need to present an Official ID of Quintana Roo to be eligible for the discount. For foreigners living in Quintana Roo, Temporary and Permanent Resident Cards are accepted.
Xcaret Parks
Let’s take a deeper look at how the Xcaret eco-parks differ from each other so you can choose which Xcaret park is best for you.
Xcaret
- ⭐️ KNOWN FOR: Culture, History, and Wildlife
- 🏆 BEST FOR: Families with Small Children, Culture and Animal Lovers
- 🕘 PARK HOURS: Daily from 8:30AM–10:30PM
- 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Book tickets online here →
The original of Grupo Xcaret parks, Xcaret by Mexico features 50 attractions within its massive property and is considered to be one of the best Xcaret parks to visit for families.
Drawing your attention towards the country’s culture and heritage, its range of Xcaret park activities makes it the perfect choice for families.
Spend a full day out among the jungle trails, swimming in underground rivers, exploring caves, and frolicking on beaches or natural pools.
Stroll through open-air aviaries, the Butterfly Pavilion and Coral Reef Aquarium; historians will love the Mayan ruins and Mexican Folk Art Museum.
Don’t miss out on the 300-member crew whose Xcaret Mexico Espectacular production tops the list of things to do in Riviera Maya!
The nightly Xcaret show is a history lesson but fun – featuring pre-Hispanic dances and more.
You can read my full Xcaret park review for all the details!
🤑 Get 10% off Xcaret tickets with coupon code MAMAXC10! Must book by May 31, 2024.
Xel-Ha
- ⭐️ KNOWN FOR: Water Activities, Water Slides, Snorkeling
- 🏆 BEST FOR: Adults and Families with Older Children
- 🕘 PARK HOURS: Daily from 8:30AM–6:30PM
- 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Book tickets online here →
Known for aquatic adventures, Xel-Ha Park has a prime location around an inlet of the Caribbean Sea, which yields the best water activities.
Boardwalks and the Jungle Train connect all the cenotes, caves, hidden beaches, and hammock gardens. In the center lies an expansive “pool”, where red flags mark areas rich in marine life.
While swimming and snorkeling take the spotlight, this Xcaret water park isn’t just a large natural aquarium. Manmade slides, high jumps, and water ziplines add dimension to the park.
There’s even a mile-long float down the river. For land activities, check out the manatee sanctuary and Mayan port city ruins.
Definitely climb the Scenic Lighthouse water slide for panoramic views over the park!
You can read my full Xel Ha review for all the details!
Travelista Tip: Xel-Ha is the only Xcaret park that includes unlimited alcohol so it’s one of the best Xcaret parks for adults if you’re looking for a fun adults waterpark experience with a group of friends.
🤑 Get 15% off Xel-Ha tickets with coupon code XHVIVA15! Must book by June 12, 2024.
Xplor
- ⭐️ KNOWN FOR: Ziplining, ATVs
- 🏆 BEST FOR: Adults and Families with Older Children
- 🕘 PARK HOURS: Monday-Saturday from 9:00AM–5:00PM
- 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Book tickets online here →
Xplor is the first Xcaret park I ever visited and still remains one of my favorites, offering ziplines, underground caves, and ATV experiences.
Xplor by Xcaret takes you deep into the Riviera Maya jungle landscape, where naturally carved gorges are hidden within dense forest.
The sky-high zipline course was what propelled Xcaret Xplor onto the lists of “best adventure parks in Mexico”, letting you skim above the treetops and take in the views.
Some of the highest ziplines in Riviera Maya end with a vigorous drop into a cenote so be prepared to get wet!
The newest Underground Expedition activity at Xplor will have you trawling through 800 yards of subterranean trails.
Start by driving an amphibious vehicle through jungle and flooded caves, before the Rafts challenge takes you river paddling through ancient caves.
You can read my full Xplor review for all the details!
🤑 Get 15% off Xplor tickets with coupon code 5MAYOXP15! Must book by May 31, 2024.
Xplor Fuego
- ⭐️ KNOWN FOR: Nighttime Ziplining, ATVs
- 🏆 BEST FOR: Adults and Families with Older Children
- 🕘 PARK HOURS: Monday-Saturday from 5:30PM–11:00PM
- 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Book tickets online here →
After 5:30PM, Xplor Park transforms into its night-time persona when sunset hits and flickering torches and cackling bonfires signal the arrival of Xplor Fuego.
Basically, Xplor Fuego is the exact same park as Xplor–only at night!
What was scenic fun in day time is now a dramatic and mysterious landscape. It’s kind of like an “extreme night adventure”.
The same ziplines now show you starry skies, the rainforest becomes strange and haunting, and the underground rivers are illuminated only by fire torches.
End the night at Xplor Fuego with a generous BBQ buffet, and make the most of the nightscape before it closes at 11PM.
You can read my full Xplor Fuego review for all the details!
🤑 Automatically get 15% off Xplor Fuego tickets when booking at least 21 days in advance!
🆚 Related Reading: Xplor vs Xplor Fuego: Which is better?
Xavage
- ⭐️ KNOWN FOR: Extreme Adventure Activities
- 🏆 BEST FOR: Adrenaline Junkies
- 🕘 PARK HOURS: Monday-Saturday from 8:30AM–5:00PM
- 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Book tickets online here →
Located about 45 minutes north of Playa del Carmen, Xavage Park is Xcaret’s newest adventure park.
I’d equate it to an Xcaret park on steroids, since it’s where you’ll find the most adrenaline pumping activities!
Each of the extreme Xavage activities are named after animals:
- Ropes course (Howler Monkey)
- Superman-style ziplining (Hawk)
- White water rafting (Barracuda)
- Monster trucks (Puma)
- Kayaking (Crocodile)
- High speed jet boat experience (Dragonfly)
- Kids pool (Serpent)
The white water rafting and monster truck course at Xavage are intense – and probably some of the most unique experiences you’ll find at Xcaret theme parks.
You can read my full Xavage review for all the details!
🤑 Get 15% off Xavage all-inclusive tickets with transportation with coupon code 5MAYOXA15! Must book by May 31, 2024.
Xenses
- ⭐️ KNOWN FOR: Sense-Themed Activities
- 🏆 BEST FOR: Budget Travelers or Those Short on Time
- 🕘 PARK HOURS: Monday-Saturday from 8:30AM–7:00PM
- 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Book tickets online here →
If you haven’t gathered from its name, Xenses by Xcaret is all about challenging your senses – nothing is as it seems.
The unusual world teems with sensory deceptions, starting with an enormous water-jet-supported boulder at the entrance.
The charming streetscapes of Town at Xenses feel like an uphill climb when they’re actually level ground. Xensatorium takes you through forest, desert, and savanna without your sight.
The Bird Flight zipline at Xenses has you flying horizontally while mud rivers float you through stalagmite-dotted caverns.
Don’t forget crazy photo ops either! Take a photo of the clean-water drinking fountain…set inside a toilet.
You can read my full Xenses review for all the details!
🤑 Get 15% off Xenses tickets with coupon code XSAFF15! Must book by May 31, 2024.
Xoximilco
- ⭐️ KNOWN FOR: Mexican Floating Fiesta
- 🏆 BEST FOR: Party Animals
- 🕘 PARK HOURS: Monday-Saturday from 7:00PM–11:00PM
- 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Book tickets online here →
Located next to Xavage near Cancun, Xoximilco is a literal, floating fiesta!
Not your stereotypical “park”, the Xoximilco tour offers a traditional Mexican party aboard a cruise, a re-creation of the famous Xochimilco attraction outside Mexico City.
The evening begins with carnival games and live performances, followed by a scenic cruise on trajineras (flat-bottomed boats).
Local musical genres such as mariachi and norteño play background music to your Mexican dinner. Dinner is the highlight of this experience, serving tasting platters of traditional foods.
Enjoy ceviche, tamales, Oaxacan chocolate, and more. There’s also an all-night bar which serves alcoholic and fruity beverages.
You can read my full Xoximilco review for all the details!
🤑 Get 10% off Xoximilco tickets from Monday-Wednesday with coupon code XOXI10! Must book by December 31, 2024.
Xibalba Reserve
Xibalba Reserve is the latest Xcaret experience that is still under construction with an undetermined opening date.
Representing the Mayan belief of a three-tiered universe, Xibalba is the underworld – one which you’ll explore via an underground circuit.
From the sacred Ceiba tree to 59-feet deep cenotes, your tour introduces physical spaces within the Mayan cultural context.
You’ll learn about Mayan myths, Xibalba gods, and other ancient beliefs while getting to swim, snorkel, and experience stunning underground cenotes.
Xcaret Tours
Not a fan of adventure parks? Immerse yourself in the Mayan world with Xcaret tours!
These archaeological tours at Cancun and Riviera Maya offer comfortable travel on a panoramic bus, plus certified guides who lead you through famous historic sites.
Xenotes
- 📍 TOUR DESTINATION: Cenotes in Puerto Morelos
- 📅 AVAILABILITY: Monday-Saturday
- 🕘 DURATION: 8-9 hours
- 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Book tickets online here →
This unique Xcaret Xenotes tour is an all-inclusive Playa del Carmen cenote tour that brings you to four different Riviera Maya cenotes along the famous “Ruta de Cenotes” in Puerto Morelos.
Xcaret arranges a circuit of activities that include kayaking, swimming, rappelling, and ziplining, letting you experience the natural wonders of the Mexican Riviera actively.
At Lu’um Cenote, a cavern cenote with million-year-old formations, you’ll try assisted rappelling. Ziplines happen over Iik Cenote, where you can cliff jump over 20 feet high.
For kayaking, beautiful Ha Cenote treats you to a semi-open Xcaret cenote with hanging vegetation.
The most beautiful underwater gardens are found at K’aak’ Cenote, an ideal space for swimming and tubing.
And the best thing about the Xenotes Tour is that it’s all-inclusive, so round-trip transportation, equipment, and all meals and drinks are included.
You can read my full Xenotes review for all the details!
🤑 Automatically get 15% off Xenotes tickets when booking at least 21 days in advance!
Xichen
- 📍 TOUR DESTINATION: Chichen Itza Mayan Ruins
- 📅 AVAILABILITY: Monday-Saturday
- 🕘 DURATION: 12 hours
- 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Book tickets online here →
The all-inclusive Xichen by Xcaret tour brings you from Cancun or Riviera Maya to the heart of Mayan culture at the ancient ruins of Chichen Itza.
Stroll through the temples and structures with a certified Xcaret guide and learn about the mythologies behind the Pyramid of Chichen Itza.
The tour continues with a stop at a cenote for a refreshing swim, and a visit to the Valladolid downtown area. Enjoy a full-day trip that shows both ancient and contemporary sides of Yucatan!
The Xichen tour offers two different admissions:
- Xichen Clasico: Includes Chichen Itza tour, swimming at Xcajum Cenote, Panoramic Tour of Valladolid
- Xichen Deluxe: Includes Chichen Itza tour, swimming at Santuario Tsukan Cenote, Buffet meal at La Casona de Valladolid Restaurant
🤑 Automatically get 15% off Xichen tickets when booking at least 21 days in advance!
Tulum by Xcaret
- 📍 TOUR DESTINATION: Tulum Ruins + Cobá, Xel-Ha, or Xenses
- 📅 AVAILABILITY: Tuesday-Saturday
- 🕘 DURATION: 12 hours
- 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Book tickets online here →
The Tulum Xcaret tour is a combo tour that takes you to the Tulum Ruins and your choice of Cobá, Xel-Ha, or Xenses.
The Tulum Ruins is the only pre-Hispanic settlement built along the Caribbean Sea, shielded only by the surrounding wall which once served as defense.
On this all-inclusive tour, you’ll get to explore the archaeological site led by a certified guide before heading to your chosen destination.
Plus, round-trip transportation, as well as meals, drinks, and snacks are included.
Cobá by Xcaret
- 📍 TOUR DESTINATION: Cobá Ruins + Tulum Ruins or Xel-Ha
- 📅 AVAILABILITY: Tuesday-Saturday
- 🕘 DURATION: 12 hours
- 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Book tickets online here →
An ancient Mayan city which reigned before Chichen Itza, the Cobá Tour by Xcaret takes you back millions of years.
Climb to the top of Nohoch Muul, the tallest pyramid of Riviera Maya, and see how far the 50 ancient paved roads known as Sac-Be stretch. You’ll learn about past cultures, customs, and beliefs.
Once you’re done marveling over the ruins and surrounding jungle, embark on a bike ride and follow one of the Sac-Be roads for as long as you can.
The Cobá Xcaret tour is combo tour, so you can choose to continue onto Xel-Ha or the Tulum Ruins after Cobá.
Visiting the Xcaret Parks
Here’s the basic visitor information that you should know before visiting the Xcaret adventure parks:
Transportation
The Xcaret eco-parks are spread out across the Riviera Maya region so when planning your experience, you’ll need to consider how you’re going to get to the parks.
On Your Own
To get to each Xcaret park on your own, you can drive or rent a car, hire a taxi, or take the ADO bus (Xcaret and Xel-Ha only). If you drive, free parking is available on-site.
Xcaret Transportation Service
Most people opt for round-trip transportation service for the most hassle free option. Simply add this request at the time of purchase for an Xcaret all inclusive experience.
The Xcaret transportation cost varies by park but is typically around $30 USD per person and picks up from most major hotels in Playa del Carmen.
It’s important to know that transportation can only be added at the time of purchase, so be sure to add this when you’re buying your tickets.
If your hotel is not on the list of affiliated hotels, you’ll be given a list of meeting points where Grupo Xcaret’s official transport will pick you up.
Food and Drink
Xcaret is known for providing more upscale food and beverage experiences but they differ between the parks.
For instance, Xcaret Park Mexico doesn’t automatically include food and drink in their packages – you have to add it to your purchase.
On the other hand, Xel-Ha offers continental breakfast, lunch buffet, snack bar and open bar (including alcohol).
Likewise, the other Xcaret adventure parks also offer buffet lunch, unlimited snacks and non-alcoholic drinks. And even though most of the restaurants are buffet style, the food is still very good!
Facilities and Services
The exact amenities vary but you can expect all Xcaret parks to have: rest areas, dressing rooms, lockers, restrooms, WiFi, ATM, and free parking.
Gift shops are located near the entrance where you can purchase Xcaret park photos, souvenirs, clothing, and gear.
Xcaret Photos
One of my favorite takeaways from these parks is the Grupo Xcaret photos!
A Photo Pass can be added to your admission package upon purchase, which covers all group photos of up to 10 people. You can pick up your photos at the gift shops.
What’s cool is that there are cameras and “Xelfies” photo opportunities all over the parks.
Tracking technology is inserted in your helmet or wristband so they can track your photos and you’ll be able to scan and review them all at the end of the day.
The photo packages can be expensive but are a great way to capture your memories if you don’t have a GoPro or waterproof camera.
Travelista Tip: It’s cheaper to buy the Xcaret photo packages online when you’re booking your tickets rather than on the day of your visit. If you think you’re going to want park photos, be sure to add this when booking your tickets.
Tips for Visiting Xcaret Parks
To make the most of your Xcaret experience, follow these easy Xcaret tips!
- Book in advance: You’ll automatically save 15% by booking at least 21 days in advance, or 10% by booking 7-20 days in advance. It’s best to book online ahead of time to get the best deal.
- Combine the parks to save money: You get 15% to 20% off depending on how many experiences you package together.
- Consider staying at one of the Xcaret hotels: These luxury Xcaret resorts give you all “fun-inclusive” access to the parks, meaning you get unlimited access to all of the parks during your stay. This is an especially great option for families if you plan on visiting more than one of the parks. Check out all the perks and photos on the hotel websites below:
- Hotel Xcaret Mexico
- Hotel Xcaret Arte (adults only)
- La Casa de la Playa (adults only)
🆚 Related Reading: Hotel Xcaret Mexico vs Hotel Xcaret Arte: Which is better?
- Get there early and plan for a full day experience: You get to do each activity unlimited times so you’ll want to arrive early to get the most out of the price of your admission.
- Study the Xcaret parks map: When planning your day, prioritize which activities you are most interested in and plot out a route on the Xcaret park map for maximum efficiency. You’ll also want to plan your meal times around the different activities. For example, some of the more intense activities are not the best on a full stomach!
- Bring biodegradable sunscreen: Many of the parks are located in natural environments, beaches, and cenotes. Wearing biodegradable sunscreen is essential to protect these natural reserves.
- Bring a GoPro or waterproof camera: The parks are action-packed and most involve water activities so you won’t be able to use your cell phone to take photos. Bring a GoPro or waterproof camera to capture your memories.
- Wear water shoes: Pretty much all of the parks involve water activities, so having a pair of water shoes will let you run between water, beach and jungle floor comfortably and quickly.
- Wear a one-piece swimsuit and activewear: You will most likely be getting wet so I usually always wear a one-piece swimsuit and athletic shorts to be comfortable for all activities.
- Bring a towel: In addition, you’ll want to bring a beach towel to dry off after the water activities. These microfiber beach towels are a great option because they are super light weight and dry quickly.
Which Xcaret Park is the Best?
So, which is the best Xcaret park? That is a tough question to answer!
Honestly, all of the Xcaret parks are worth visiting and provide tremendous value and unique and unforgettable experiences you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
Of course, everyone will have a different Xcaret park that they like the best depending on personal preferences, whether or not you have kids, or what kind of activities you like.
But if I really had to choose, here’s my list of Xcaret parks ranked:
If you need more help deciding between the Xcaret Mexico parks, check out my comparison guides for side-by-side comparison information:
Final Thoughts: Xcaret Parks Explained
I hope this guide to the Mexico Xcaret parks was helpful if you’re interested in visiting one of these thrilling Xcaret adventure parks while visiting Riviera Maya Mexico.
I know it’s a LOT of information to digest but hopefully this Xcaret park guide has given you a better understanding of the overall Xcaret attractions and offerings to find the best Xcaret park for you.
While all the Xcaret theme parks and tours are tremendously fun, Xel-Ha is my personal favorite and the best option for water activities.
But no matter which park you choose to visit, you’re sure to have an amazing time!
Just remember to buy your park tickets on the official Xcaret website ahead of time to get the best deal!
