How To Spend a Full Day at XCARET Park in Playa Del Carmen, Mexico
Xcaret Park is by far one of my favorite theme parks in Playa Del Carmen, Mexico! This place offers a mixture of Mexico’s rich cultural heritage, breathtaking natural landscapes and plenty of activities. This park is a paradise for adventure-seekers and culture enthusiasts alike so prepare yourself to explore throughout the day!
Start Early: The gates of Xcaret open at 8:30 AM, and you’ll want to be there as they do. The early morning in the park is serene, with fewer crowds and cooler temperatures. If you start early, you get to explore and see a lot more things at the park, making your ticket purchase worth it!
Morning: Mayan Village
First Stop, Sacred Mayan Journey: Begin your day with a touch of the spiritual and historical by witnessing the Sacred Mayan Journey, an ancient ritual that takes place by the sea. It’s a breathtaking sight that connects you to the rich cultural tapestry of the area.
Explore the Mayan Village: After soaking in the morning’s tranquility, take a walk through the Mayan Village. It’s a living museum where the past meets the present. You’ll learn about traditional Mayan lifestyles, see their architectural ingenuity, and maybe even pick up a word or two in the Mayan language.
Midday: Dive into adventures and choose any type of water excursion(s).
Water excursions are available for an extra charge. We chose snuba water activity which is a hybrid combination of snorkeling and scuba diving. It was so fun and such a different experience! The Snuba technology consists of a visor similar to the one used for snorkeling, and a diving regulator connected to a tank floating on the surface, thus allowing you to swim underwater freely and longer. There’s no wet suit needed and the diving tank floats above the water at all times.
Duration: 60 mins
Personal scuba diving tank.
Mask, fins and weight belt (only during the activity).
Tour guided by certified guide
Snuba water activity
Lunch with a View: After your activity, you’ll have worked up an appetite. Head over to one of Xcaret’s many restaurants. Whether you’re craving authentic Mexican cuisine or something more international, you’ll find it here with a side of spectacular views. A complimentary lunch is included in the park ticket.
Underground River Expedition: After lunch, as the sun climbs higher, cool off by diving into one of Xcaret’s most enchanting attractions—the underground rivers. This is one of my favorite location at the park! There is a free life vest rack on the side, so use it at all times as the underground river is long and it can be tiring to swim the entire way. Swim through these ancient waterways, surrounded by rock formations that tell the story of the earth’s past.
Flora and Fauna Encounters: When the day is at its warmest, seek shade in the aviary, butterfly pavilion, or the coral reef aquarium. These spots are not only cooler but offer a chance to come face-to-face with some of Mexico’s most beautiful animal creatures.
Evening: A Night to Remember
Cultural Performances: As the afternoon mellows, immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Mexico with Xcaret’s renowned performances. The Voladores de Papantla and the Mayan Ball Game are must-sees, showcasing breathtaking skills and deep-rooted traditions.
Xcaret Mexico Espectacular: As the day begins to wind down, make your way to the Gran Tlachco Theater. The Xcaret Mexico Espectacular is a show that brings together over 300 artists to tell the story of Mexico’s history from the pre-Columbian era to modern times. It’s an explosion of color, music, and dance—a perfect culmination to your day.
Stroll and Star-Gaze: After the show, take a leisurely stroll through the park. By night, Xcaret transforms into a lit wonderland, with paths illuminated and the sound of the jungle all around. It’s a peaceful time to reflect on the day’s adventures.
Parting Thoughts: As you exit the park, filled with the day’s memories and experiences, you’ll understand why Xcaret is more than just a park—it’s a heartwarming journey through the essence of Mexico.
Spending a full day in Xcaret Park is an exercise in exploration, adventure, and cultural enrichment. So, when in Playa Del Carmen, let Xcaret be your gateway to an unforgettable experience. Happy exploring!
