Xcaret Park Review: Is this iconic Riviera Maya adventure park worth it? (2023)

What is Xcaret?

Where is Xcaret park?

How do you pronounce Xcaret?

Why visit Xcaret?

Who is Xcaret suited for?

Xcaret is probably best suited for families with smaller children. There are no age limits at Xcaret–and kids under 4 are free!

It’s a great place to bring babies, toddlers, and small children to enjoy the park’s numerous kids activities, shallow pools, and animal encounters.

With its greater accessibility, Xcaret is also well-suited for multi-generational families if traveling with both children and grandparents, as its paths are much easier to navigate with strollers and wheelchairs.

But at the same time, Xcaret is not just for kids. It’s also a fun and interesting excursion for adults that are nature lovers and appreciate cultural attractions.

Visitors can learn about Mexican history and Mayan culture in a fun, colorful, and interactive environment.

And the Xcaret México Espectacular production is a true highlight for all ages!

Who is Xcaret not suited for?

If you’re an adult who is easily annoyed by kids and strollers, Xcaret may not be the best adventure park for you.

With its many kid-friendly attractions and activities, the park can get pretty noisy and chaotic with children and families. 

On the physical side, if you’re not able to walk or stand for long periods of time, you may also have a tough time enjoying all that Xcaret has to offer.

The park is huge and there’s a lot of walking involved, as well as some standing in line. 

And if you don’t like culture or history, you probably won’t appreciate all the educational exhibits and shows at Xcaret, which is a more relaxed experience and has a larger focus on sightseeing than adventurous activities. 

If you prefer more adrenaline-pumping activities, there are other parks (like Xplor or Xel-Ha) that may better suit your interests.

Xcaret Activities Quick Overview

Here’s a quick overview of the activities at Xcaret Playa del Carmen. Scroll down for detailed descriptions and reviews of these activities!

Included Xcaret Park Activities

• Kids Activities: Coral Reef Aquarium, Sea Turtles, Jaguars Island, Butterfly Pavilion, Aviary, Regional Fauna, Children’s World

• Nature Lovers: Natural Museum of Orchids and Bromeliads, Manatee Lagoon, Tropical Jungle Trail

Optional Xcaret Park Activities

Xcaret Pros and Cons

Xcaret Tickets

Xcaret Admission

Xcaret Plus Admission

Xcaret Total Admission

Xcaret at Night Admission

Which Xcaret tickets should you buy?

The main differences between the Xcaret admission tickets are around food and activities.

Xcaret Basic vs Xcaret Plus

Deciding between the Xcaret and Xcaret Plus admission tickets comes down to how much you think you’ll spend on food.

The basic Xcaret admission ticket does not include any food, so you’ll still need to pay for lunch and drinks at the Xcaret restaurants at a-la-carte prices.

This might save you a few dollars, but honestly you’ll probably be there all day long, so having a meal included is a nice added benefit.

Xcaret restaurant prices are above average so you can expect to spend around $30+ USD per person (not including alcohol).

With the Xcaret Plus admission, you’ll also get lockers (normally $5.99 USD) and snorkel gear (normally $10.99 USD) included and won’t have to pay for those separately.

For around $44 USD more, the Xcaret Plus Admission provides good value.

🎟️ I personally went with the Xcaret Plus admission ticket and appreciated the fact that I didn’t have to pay for much else throughout the day. 

Xcaret Plus vs Xcaret Total

Deciding between the Xcaret Plus and Xcaret Total admission comes down to added activities.

Basically if you want to do Adrenalina (Speed Boat), Sea Trek, Stingray Sea Trek, or Sharks, a Hands On Adventure! then purchase the Xcaret Total admission ticket.

The Xcaret Total Admission ticket is only around $33 USD more than the Xcaret Plus ticket, so it’s a great deal as those 4 premium activities are about $75 USD each if purchased separately.

If you want to do any of the other premium water activities other than those 4 options, you’ll need to add those on separately.

How to Book Xcaret Tickets

How to Save Money on Xcaret Park Tickets

There are a few different Xcaret discounts available–take advantage of these automatic discounts outlined below to get the best Xcaret deals and avoid paying full price for admission.

🦜 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

Create your own package

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. 

🎨 Wondering what it’s like to stay at an Xcaret hotel? Find out in my Hotel Xcaret Arte review!

Resident Discounts

Xcaret also offers a special discount for Mexico and 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 get the best price and be eligible for the discount. For foreigners living in Quintana Roo, Temporary and Permanent Resident Cards are accepted.

Xcaret Arrival Experience

Here’s what you can expect to experience when you first arrive at Xcaret nature park:

Ticketing and Check-in

Once you arrive at Xcaret park, you’ll have to stand in line at the ticket window to sign a liability waiver and exchange your ticket voucher for your wristband. 

Be sure to bring your printed ticket voucher, as well as a photo ID. Electronics vouchers on your phone are not accepted.

Sign Up for Optional Activities

Once you enter the park, you’ll be directed to a line to sign up for the optional activities (at an extra cost).

This is where you can purchase add-ons and schedule the times for extra activities like Sea Trek, Snuba, Stingray Encounter, Adrenalina Speed Boat, etc. 

Travelista Tip: If you’re interested in any of the optional activities, sign up for them online in advance. The line is extremely long at the park entrance to book the optional activities. 

Locker Rooms

After making your way past the main entrance, you can head to the locker rooms to store your belongings.

Lockers are not included in the Xcaret basic admission so you’ll need to pay $5.99 USD plus a $10 USD refundable deposit for the use of lockers.

However, if you purchase the Xcaret Plus admission ticket, you’ll have access to an exclusive “Xcaret Plus” area of the park with complimentary lockers, restrooms, changing rooms, showers, and snorkel equipment rental. 

You’ll be given a locker key to hold onto–be sure not to lose it as the replacement fee is pricey! 

Lockers are large enough to hold a medium sized backpack and you can easily return to the locker rooms throughout the day to retrieve your belongings. 

Xcaret Park Map

Most of the park’s water activities take place at the “Caleta” which is the oceanfront lagoon, where you’ll find beaches, snorkeling, and natural pools.

If you get lost, you can simply follow the colored lines on the ground which will guide you to the activities. 

Travelista Tip: Download the Xcaret app to your phone here for an interactive park map and detailed activity information.

Xcaret Park Review: Activities

Here’s a detailed look at each activity and my honest Xcaret park reviews:

Aviary

You’ll get to see colorful parrots, toucans, macaws, eagles, king vultures, and many different bird species.  You might even get to see some live hatchings! 

I thought the Aviary was one of the most beautiful parts of Xcaret Park Mexico.  With free flowing waterfalls and many different levels connected by stone paths and hanging bridges, it feels like a lush tropical jungle.

There aren’t a ton of hands-on activities but lots of photo and bird watching opportunities.  All of the kids were absolutely thrilled!

🦅 Related Reading: What is the National Animal of Mexico?

Archaeological Sites

These are interesting spots to learn about the Mayan culture but they are not that large or interactive and quite honestly look a little fake. 

You’ll get to see small pyramids and structures but nothing as large or as grand as the pyramids of Tulum or what you’ll see on a Chichen Itza Ruins tour. 

“Bridge to Paradise” Mexican Cemetery

I was fascinated by the colorful tombs and headstones and spent quite a bit of time just walking around and admiring the creativity and all the minute details.  

You’ll get to learn about the Mexican traditions of celebrating loved ones that have passed rather than mourning their deaths. 

  🪦 Is the Xcaret cemetery real? The Xcaret cemetery is not real and no one is actually buried there–it’s rather a recreation of a traditional Mexican cemetery. 

Butterfly Pavilion

You’ll also get to see and learn about caterpillars in various stages of development.

You’ll want to climb to the top of the stairs to see the most butterflies! And you’ll even have the opportunity to attract them with small plates of fruit that are scattered around the enclosement. 

I thought the Xcaret Butterfly Pavilion was beautiful but I’m not a huge fan of butterflies and it was very hot and humid!  It is probably best suited for children and nature lovers. 

Children’s World

The Children’s World of Xcaret is a fun area for kids under 12 years of age to have fun on slides, suspension bridges, tunnels, and cenotes.

I didn’t visit Xcaret with kids so I can’t properly rate Children’s World but it looked like a fun and unique place that kids would love.

Coral Reef Aquarium

It’s an interesting place to learn about the underwater world that is unique to the Mexican Caribbean without descending to the bottom of the sea.

I thought the Xcaret Aquarium was interesting but it could have been a little more interactive.

Kids will love seeing the large and colorful fish and there are small ponds with crabs, starfish, and other marine life that you can see up close. 

Hacienda Henequenera

You’ll get to explore this cultural recreation with an expansive courtyard, shops, and exhibits that are adjacent to the Chapel of our Lady of Guadalupe.

The Hacienda Henequenera is a colorful and interesting cultural site but there aren’t many interactive activities so it’s just a short stroll. 

Horse Exhibition

You’ll get to see traditional performances by charros and adelitas (women jockeys) riding magnificent Aztec horses.

I really enjoyed the Horse Exhibition and was impressed by the talent and precision of the riders and horses.  With traditional Mexican music and a live emcee, it’s a fun and colorful production. 

Jaguars Island

When I visited, it was very hot and the jaguars were resting in the shade and were difficult to see.

It’s kind of like a large cat exhibit at a zoo and there are also observatory-type binoculars you can use for a closer look. 

Main Plaza

After entering the park, you’ll wind up in the Main Plaza, which is a building at the main entrance where you’ll find a large Xcaret gift shop, plus food and handicrafts, the Silver Mine, and the Mexican Wine Cave.

This is not really an attraction, but rather a shop and meeting point, and also where you can sign up for the optional activities. 

Manatee Lagoon

Mayan Village

Within the houses, you’ll also get to browse traditional Mexican handicrafts and souvenirs such as hats, jewelry, and baskets. 

I thought the Mayan Village was cool to see and was tempted to buy some of the unique souvenirs!

Papantla Flyers

The Papantla Flyers is a traditional ceremony where native performers descend down a tall pole hanging by their ankles. 

I didn’t get a chance to see the performance at the pole near the Xcaret Plus area as it only happens a few times a day.  

However, they also perform at the Xcaret Mexico Espectacular production, which was very impressive.  I’ll never understand how they make it look so easy!

Paradise River

You’ll get to sail aboard a comfortable raft along a short river and admire different natural sites along the way.

I enjoyed the Paradise River activity and thought it was a relaxing activity.  The boat does not go very fast so be prepared for a leisurely ride! 

Regional Fauna

I thought the pink flamingos were probably the most impressive and make for a colorful photo op!

Sea Turtles

I thought it was interesting to see the sea turtles and learn about the different species. The largest turtles were huge and easy to spot!

But at the same time, it was kind of sad to see so many turtles confined to small pools. 

Scenic Tower

The Scenic Tower was one of the first activities I did at Xcaret and it was probably one of my favorites. 

It was a clear day and getting to see the entire region from that high up was very impressive. Plus the inside of the cabin is air conditioned and very comfortable!

St. Francis of Assisi Chapel

I thought the chapel was beautiful but there is not much to see and do once you climb up to the entrance.

Underground Rivers

There are many photo ops along the way and towards the end of the river you can get out to take a photo in front of the large Xcaret sign before exiting near the beach area. 

The Underground Rivers were probably my favorite activity at Xcaret because they are really the only adventurous activity at the park that’s included in the basic admission. 

The rivers are pretty long and it can be strenuous at times with lots of swimming but you can lay back and float if you need to take a break. 

Xcaret’s Aquatic Paradise

There are beautiful areas of shallow beachfront where you can swim and relax, as well as opportunities for snorkeling in the lagoon. 

I thought Xcaret’s Aquatic Paradise was very beautiful and picturesque with bright blue and green hues.  The natural pools are located right on the ocean, offering stunning views and unique swimming areas.  

However, this is also one of the most crowded places in the whole park so the Xcaret snorkeling areas are pretty busy and congested. 

Xcaret Mexico Espectacular

The production will take you on a journey through the country’s history and its different cultural regions.

I enjoyed the Xcaret Mexico Espectacular and thought it was unique and interesting. 

You’ll get to see recreations of historical landmarks in Mexican history such as ancient Mayan ball games, the arrival of the Spanish, and the Industrial Revolution.  

You’ll then get to see dances and performances unique to the different regions and states of Mexico. I thought it was really impressive but you will probably be very tired after a long day at Xcaret!

Other Activities

Optional Activities

• Adventure Kids: A unique and safe adventure for kids, where they can interact and feed small stingrays, and then snorkel with them in a natural lagoon.

• Sharks, A Hands On Adventure!: A shark encounter where you can get in the water with nurse sharks and watch them swim near you.

• Stingray Encounter: A stingray encounter and snorkeling experience where you can touch, feed, and swim with stingrays in a shallow pool. 

• Stingray Sea Trek: An underwater walk and stingray exploration experience wearing a Sea Trek helmet which allows you to breathe normally under the water.

• Sea Trek: An underwater walk and exploration experience at a depth of 16.4 feet wearing a Sea Trek helmet which allows you to breathe normally under the water.  I personally did this experience and would highly recommend it! I got to see loads of fish and stingrays. 

• Snuba Reef: An underwater Snuba experience that combines snorkeling and scuba diving where the oxygen tank floats on the surface, allowing you to move under the water more freely without being an expert diver.

• Temazcal: An ancestral ritual in a sweat lodge heated by hot stones and led by a shaman who conducts a traditional ceremony for healing, relaxation, and releasing toxins.

• Snorkeling Tour: A reef snorkeling experience at the INAH coral reef, very close to the coast of Xcaret where you can see a variety of coral, tropical fish, and marine species.

• Xpa Xcaret: A jungle spa experience where you can treat yourself to a relaxing massage and feel the peace of nature. 

• Paraxute: A parasailing experience at a height of up to 300 ft (100 m) with views of the Caribbean Sea and the Mayan jungle from up above.

• Xcaret Mexico Espectacular Dinner: A seven-course dinner and front row seating at El Gran Tlachco theater during the Xcaret México Espectacular.

• Wine Pairing at Xcaret Wine Cellar: A 5-course wine tasting event with select wines from the Xcaret Wine Cellar. 

⚠️ The premium activities at Xcaret offer the opportunity to interact with dolphins, stingrays, and sharks held in captivity.  While these animals are part of protected rescue programs, I typically don’t like to recommend activities that involve the mistreatment of animals.  Of course, everyone can make their own decision but I encourage you to keep that in mind when choosing your activities at Xcaret. 

Xcaret Park Review: Food and Beverage 

Xcaret offers over 15 food and beverage outlets and dining options across its expansive grounds from buffet restaurants to beach bars to coffee shops.

Xcaret Restaurants

Most of the restaurants at Xcaret are buffet-style offering unlimited dining and non-alcoholic beverages. 

Menu options include a range of Mexican food, international cuisine, and seafood.

But even with a focus on elevated gastronomy, you’ll still be able to find burgers and hot dogs!

If you purchase the Xcaret Plus admission with food included, you’ll be able to choose a buffet meal in one of the park’s restaurants.

Any additional purchases throughout the day can be made a-la-carte (Xcaret food prices at the buffets are around $30 USD per person). 

These are the restaurants at Xcaret:

• La Orquidea Coffee Shop
• La Cocina Restaurant
• El Manglar Restaurant
• El Yucateco Restaurant
• La Caleta Restaurant
• La Laguna Restaurant
• Dos Playas Restaurant
• La Peninsula Restaurant
• La Isla Restaurant
• Mexico Espectacular Dinner
• Pairing at Xcaret Cellar

In addition, premium food and beverage experiences can be purchased like the 7-course Mexico Espectacular Dinner and the Wine Pairing at Xcaret Cellar.

Most of the Xcaret buffet restaurants seemed to have similar menus, so choosing a restaurant really comes down to location and convenience. 

I personally ate at La Peninsula restaurant, which I chose for the oceanfront views.  I thought the Xcaret food was pretty mediocre, but it hits the spot when you need to refuel after the activities. 

Xcaret Bars

There are also a couple of bars located around the park where you can purchase alcoholic beverages.  You can also order alcoholic drinks at the restaurants for an additional charge. 

I ordered a margarita from the La Cucaracha Bar while waiting for the Horse Exhibition to begin and it was actually very tasty and not overpriced!

Xcaret Snack Bars

If you get hungry throughout the day, you can also pick up some snacks at a snack bar or coffee shop throughout the park.  

At these stands, you can purchase food items like chips, slushies, bottled water, juices, and other refreshments.

Xcaret Review: Services and Amenities

Here’s an overview of the services and amenities available at Xcaret:

Lockers

The basic admission does not include lockers so you’ll need to pay $5.99 USD plus a $10 USD refundable deposit for the use of lockers.

If you purchase the Xcaret Plus admission ticket, you’ll get complimentary lockers in the exclusive Plus area.  Lockers are large enough to hold a medium sized backpack.

Equipment

Xcaret includes the use of life jackets for water activities. With the basic admission, snorkeling gear rental costs $10.99 USD and requires a refundable deposit of $25 USD.

The Xcaret Plus ticket includes complimentary snorkel gear with a refundable deposit.

Restrooms, Changing Rooms, and Facilities

In terms of facilities, Xcaret eco park also has several rest areas, dressing rooms, restrooms, WiFi, ATMs, and free parking.

Gift Shops

Gift shops are also located around the park where you can purchase park photos, souvenirs, swimwear, and gear (like water shoes).

Photo Pass

What’s cool about Xcaret is that there are cameras and “Xelfies” photo opportunities seamlessly embedded all over the park to get the best shots. 

Tracking technology is inserted in your wristband so you’ll have to scan your wristband at the photo spots and then you’ll be able to review them all at the end of the day.

A Photo Pass can be added to your admission package upon purchase, or you can purchase them at the park gift shops on the day of the visit. 

The Xcaret photo package can be expensive but is a great way to capture your memories if you don’t have a GoPro or waterproof camera. 

📸 I personally purchased the Xcaret photopass and thought it was worth it! You can see a lot of my Xcaret photos throughout this post.

Xcaret Alternatives

If you’re looking for Xcaret alternatives, there aren’t really any other adventure parks that offer the size or range of activities.  

But if you’re looking for more adventurous activities, then I would recommend visiting one of the other Xcaret adventure parks like Xplor or Xel Ha. 

What to Wear to Xcaret Park

• Swimsuit: Wear a swimsuit if you plan on doing any of the water activities or you just want to take a dip at the Xcaret beach.  I usually always wear a one-piece bathing suit to be most comfortable when wearing life vests and equipment.

• Water Shoes: Bring water shoes to protect your feet while in the water and while walking to the different activities.  Water shoes are especially great to have in the Xcaret Park Underground River or if you choose to do any of the premium water activities.

• Waterproof Shorts: I would also recommend wearing athletic or waterproof shorts to throw on over your swimsuit while you’re eating at the restaurants or in between activities.

• Rashguard: Another item that’s nice to have is a rashguard, which is a swim shirt to protect you from the sun and keep you warm in the water. The Underground Rivers are pretty cold and rash guards are recommended.

What to Bring to Xcaret Park

• Sun Hat: Bring a sun hat or visor to protect your face and shoulders from the sun when walking around Xcaret.  It can be very hot and there are areas with little shade.

• GoPro or waterproof phone case: Bring a GoPro or waterproof phone pouch to take pictures throughout the day.  There are a lot of photo opportunities around the park.

• Towel: Bring your own beach towel to save money and dry off after the water activities. Towels are not included at Xcaret so you’ll need to pay $3.99 USD plus a $10 USD refundable deposit for use of a towel.  These microfiber beach towels are a great option because they are lightweight and dry quickly. 

• Water Bottle: Xcaret involves a LOT of walking and temperatures can be hot all year round. Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day – they are water stations around the park where you can fill up your bottle. 

• Change of Clothes: Bring a change of clothes to change into at the end of the day after the water activities. You’ll definitely want to have a dry change of clothes for the Xcaret Mexico Espectacular production. 

• Money: Xcaret is not all inclusive and depending on which type of ticket you purchase, there will likely be added costs throughout the day.  Bring cash or a credit card to pay for extras like equipment rental, snacks, drinks, alcoholic beverages, souvenirs, or optional activities.

Tips for Visiting Xcaret

• Upgrade to the Xcaret Plus admission ticket: I personally went with the Xcaret Plus admission ticket, which includes a buffet lunch.  You will likely be there all day long (8:30AM-10:30PM) so you’re going to need to eat at least once-if not twice! Plus, you’ll have access to the exclusive Plus area with complimentary lockers and snorkel equipment. 

• Don’t forget your printed tickets:  When booking Xcaret tickets online, you will be sent an email confirmation with your ticket voucher.  You will need to print your tickets and present them at the ticket office when you arrive.  Electronic tickets are not accepted. Be sure to print your tickets at home or they can usually be printed at the front desk of your hotel. 

• Be prepared for a long day: A visit to Xcaret will be a very long day starting early in the morning to late at night.  Be prepared for the heat and lots of walking – get a good night’s rest and don’t drink a lot the night before!

• Sign up for the optional activities ahead of time: If you’re interested in doing any of the premium activities, I would recommend signing up for them ahead of time online.  The line to sign up for activities at the park was extremely long.

• Bring a water bottle: Xcaret is very hot so bring a water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day and save money from having to purchase bottled water.  There are water bottle stations to fill up around the park. 

• Buy the photo pass ahead of time: You’ll get a discount on the photo pass if you add it to your package when buying tickets online.  Consider this if you think you’ll want Xcaret park pictures.  Just remember to scan your wristband and utilize as many of the photo opportunities as possible on the day of your visit. I personally bought the Xcaret photo package and thought it was worth it!

Visiting Xcaret Park: FAQs

Xcaret Mexico Review Final Thoughts – Is Xcaret worth it?