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What is Xcaret?
- Xcaret
- is the most famous Mexican theme park. It opened in 1990 and is definitely one of the things to do while in Playa del Carmen. It has a great location right next to the blue turquoise Caribbean Sea and offers visitors live shows, water activities and the chance to get up close and personal with nature.
Xcaret park has 80 hectares (200 acres) full of activities and attractions, so one day may not be enough to visit it all. To help you get the most out of your time, we’ve put together a guide to what to do in Xcaret and some tips to save money during your visit.
Top 10 things to do in Xcaret.
Mexico espectacular.
Without a doubt, Mexico Espectacular (Spectacular Mexico night show) is one of the best shows about Mexican culture.
It’s a journey through Mexican history, with 300 actors, awesome scenarios and impeccable costumes that’ll transport you to a Mayan ball game, the painful conquest by the Spaniards, the independence period and the Mexican civil war, ending with a sample of the music and dance of different parts of the country.
México Espectacular show.
The show is presented every day at 7:00 pm. By that time you are probably going to be tired and most likely thinking of heading home, but no do not miss it.
This show alone is worth your ticket price. Trust me, you are going to love it.
Aviary.
Xcaret aviary.
Xcaret’s Aviary is one of the best kept secrets in the area. It opened in 2015 and features habitats that are truly impressive, with 1,500 birds that make the place feel like an Eden.
Hummingbird. Photo by RivieraMaya.mx
Hummingbirds, royal eagles, macaws, jungle, forest, wetlands and mangroves are just one part of the experience. Even if you’re not usually into aviaries, you’ll definitely enjoy this one.
Underground rivers.
Xcaret Underground Rivers.
Floating on one of the three rivers is a great way to tour the park. You’ll be passing underground rivers, avoiding bats and crossing mangrove canals before finally arriving at a beautiful beach.
Subterranean river.
Can’t swim? Don’t worry, the rivers have a very light current and your life vest will make you feel confident and safe in the water.
Reef aquarium.
Coral reef aquarium.
The Mexican Caribbean is home to the second largest coral reef in the world. At Xcaret Coral Reef Aquarium, you’ll get to experience a slice of this amazing underwater world.
The aquarium is home to over 5,000 marine organisms in 500 semi-natural coral structures, all surrounded by a constant flow of seawater.
You’ll be amazed by the colours and shapes of these beautiful creatures, which will stay with you for a long time.
Mexican cemetery and Guadalupe chapel.
Xcaret Guadalapu chapel. Photo by RivieraMaya.mx
The connection between Mexicans and death and Mexican religious devotion is really well shown at Xcaret with the Mexican cemetery and Guadalupe chapel.
The Mexican cemetery is on a little hill with circular walking trails that have 365 tombs (yes, one for every day of the year) and a staircase with 52 steps (exactly, one for every week of the year).
Each tomb has its own unique design and decorations, representing the beliefs and values of the Mexican people.
Mayan town.
Mayan Village. Courtesy of Xcaret.
Xcaret is all about Mayan culture. In the Mayan town, you’ll get to see what life was like for the Mayans.
You can learn how to prepare some traditional food, make handicrafts, or even watch a Mayan dance performance.
Butterfly pavillion.
Xcaret’s Butterfly pavillion. Photo by RivieraMaya.mx
Xcaret’s Butterfly Pavilion is probably one of the best things in the park, but no one seems to know it. There are 20 different species of multicolour butterflies and it is 3,500 m² big, so it’s a really enjoyable space to walk around.
You will find some feeding points where you can see the butterflies within a very short distance.
Jaguar’s island and tropical fauna.
Jaguars Island.
Xcaret is home to a huge range of animals and plants. As you walk through its labyrinth of trails, keep your eyes peeled for macaws, primates, deer, giant turtles, dolphins, flamingos and even jaguars. And don’t forget to take a selfie with a macaw, the park’s emblem.
Mayan ruins.
Xcaret Archaeological Zone.
Xcaret was a trading centre and port 2000 years ago, and you can still see pyramids and low buildings all around the park. Take your time to read the descriptions as you pass by, take a picture and remember the important relationship between nature and humans.
Scenic tower.
Xcaret scenic tower.
The Scenic Tower stands an impressive 80 metres high and can rotate 360 degrees, making it the perfect spot to soak in the views of the Riviera Maya and Caribbean sea.
Tips to get the most out of your ticket
The Xcaret tickets aren’t really cheap, but it is totally worth it and you can get a great value out of your ticket.
- The cheapest way to get your hands on a ticket is to buy one in advance on the official site. It’s as easy as that. Also, check out our Xcaret coupons section.
- Arrive early. The park opens at 8:30 am.
- Make a plan. One day is not enough to visit the whole park, but it is enough to visit the main highlights, make a list of the places you personally want to visit and check out their schedules.
- Get familiar with the map. Download the Xcaret map mark the places you want to visit and plan your route and schedule.
- The food inside is delicious, but if you are on a budget:
- Eat well before entering the park so you can save money on restaurants and spend it on other activities.
- Buy a package with food included. It’ll be cheaper than buying the food directly in the restaurants.
- If you are planning to visit other Xperiencias Xcaret parks (Xplore, Xelha, etc) it’s worth buying a combo with these parks included.
