Planning a trip to the Riviera Maya and wondering which Xcaret parks are worth your precious vacation time and money? You’ve come to the right place! In this blog we will show your the 7 best Xcaret Parks Ranked and how to save big.
As frequent visitors to this incredible collection of nature-themed adventure parks, we’re here to give you the inside scoop on what makes each one unique, help you decide which are the best fit for you, and even share some invaluable tips on how to save money on your tickets and make the most of your visit.
What Are The Xcaret Parks?
The Xcaret parks are a collection of eco-archaeological and adventure parks located in the Riviera Maya, Mexico, primarily near Playa del Carmen and Tulum. Developed by Grupo Xcaret, these parks are designed to showcase Mexico’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and biodiversity, while offering a wide range of activities for all ages and interests.
As frequent visitors to this incredible collection of nature-themed adventure parks, we’re here to give you the inside scoop on what makes each one unique, help you decide which are the best fit for you, and even share some invaluable tips on how to save money on your tickets and make the most of your visit.
Each park has its own distinct theme and focus, providing unique experiences that range from exploring underground rivers and ancient Mayan sites to ziplining through the jungle, driving amphibious vehicles, and enjoying traditional Mexican fiestas. They are known for their high quality, excellent service, and commitment to sustainability and conservation. Keep reading, as we’ll share our ultimate favorite and why.
How Many Parks Are In Xcaret Mexico?
Currently, there are seven main Xcaret parks that offer distinct experiences:
- Xcaret Park: The original and flagship park, known for its cultural shows, underground rivers, and natural attractions.
- Xel-Há Park: A natural aquatic park focusing on snorkeling, coves, and river exploration.
- Xplor Park: An adventure park featuring zip lines, amphibious vehicles, underground rafts, and swimming.
- Xplor Fuego Park: The nighttime version of Xplor, offering the same thrilling activities under the stars.
- Xenses Park: A park designed to challenge your senses with optical illusions and unique sensory experiences.
- Xoximilco Park: A floating fiesta on traditional trajineras (gondola-like boats) with live music, food, and drinks.
- Xavage Park: (Temporarily closed) An adrenaline-pumping park with extreme activities like whitewater rafting, monster trucks, and jet boats.
- Xenotes Oasis Maya: A tour that takes you to various cenotes (natural sinkholes) for different aquatic adventures.
While Xcaret Arte and Hotel Xcaret Mexico are luxury resorts that offer unlimited access to the parks, they are not parks themselves but rather accommodations that enhance the Xcaret experience. This guide will focus on the eight primary parks and their offerings. We have not yet visited them but we are eager to have the full experience in the properties
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Where Are The Xcaret Parks Located?
The Xcaret parks are strategically located along the Riviera Maya, a stunning stretch of coastline in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo. This region is famous for its white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, ancient Mayan ruins, and lush jungle.
Most of the parks are situated in close proximity to popular tourist destinations like Playa del Carmen and Tulum, making them easily accessible for visitors staying in these areas or even Cancun.
- Xcaret, Xplor, Xplor Fuego, Xenses, are all clustered together just south of Playa del Carmen and Xavage (close to Puerto Morelos) This makes it incredibly convenient if you plan to visit multiple parks, as their entrances are often just a short drive from one another.
- Xel-Há is located further south, closer to Tulum, and is known for its expansive natural inlet.
- Xoximilco is situated closer to Cancun, making it a great option for those staying in the hotel zone there.
- Xenotes Oasis Maya is a tour that takes you to various cenotes located in the jungle between Cancun and Playa del Carmen, often with round-trip transportation included from your hotel or meeting point.
Even though we call ourselves Xcaret Experts, while we have visited all of the parks, we have not yet done the experiences, but soon we will be sharing the experience here.
Are The Xcaret Parks Worth It?
This is a question we get asked constantly, and my answer is an emphatic YES!
While the Xcaret parks are definitely an investment, they offer an unparalleled vacation experience that justifies the cost for many reasons:
- Unforgettable Experiences: Each park delivers unique and memorable activities you simply can’t find elsewhere. From swimming in underground rivers to ziplining through the jungle canopy or experiencing traditional Mayan rituals, these are once-in-a-lifetime adventures.
- Immaculate Facilities: Grupo Xcaret is renowned for its attention to detail. The parks are impeccably clean, well-maintained, and designed with visitor comfort and safety in mind.
- All-Inclusive Nature (for most): Many of the parks, especially Xel-Há, Xplor, and Xplor Fuego, operate on an all-inclusive model where food, drinks, and most activities are covered in your admission price. This means no hidden costs or constant reaching for your wallet, allowing you to relax and enjoy.
- Focus on Nature and Culture: Unlike typical amusement parks, Xcaret parks deeply integrate Mexico’s natural environment and rich cultural heritage into their offerings. You’re not just having fun; you’re learning, exploring, and connecting with the destination.
Xcaret Parks Ranked - Which one is the Best?
This is the moment you’ve been waiting for! Based on our personal experiences, the variety of offerings, value for money, and overall visitor satisfaction, here is our ranking of the Xcaret parks. Remember, the “best” park ultimately depends on your preferences, but this should give you a solid starting point.
Xplor Park (Best for Adventure Seekers)
- What it is: An adrenaline-pumping adventure park set entirely in the jungle, focusing on thrilling activities.
- Why it’s #1: Xplor delivers pure, unadulterated fun. Think multiple circuits of zip lines (including the tallest in the Riviera Maya!), driving amphibious vehicles through caves and jungle paths, paddling rafts through subterranean rivers, and swimming in breathtaking cenotes. All activities are designed for maximum excitement and immersion in nature. Last but not least because we’ve been here more times than Xcaret Park, and the waterslide is our favourite ride of all the parks.
- Don’t Miss: The zip lines (especially the water landing!), the amphibious vehicles, and the underground river swim. And our ultimate favourite, the Toboganxote (waterslide)
- Food/Drinks: All-inclusive buffet-style restaurant with delicious and hearty food, plus unlimited non-alcoholic drinks and smoothies. In the morning, you can get a light breakfast with smoothies and cookies.
- Who it’s for: Adventure lovers, thrill-seekers, families with older children (minimum age for some activities is 6, and minimum weight for zip lines applies).
🪖 Read our full Xplor Park Blog Here
Xcaret Park (Overall Best for Culture & Variety)
- What it is: The original and largest park, offering a comprehensive blend of culture, nature, and entertainment.
- Why it’s #2: Xcaret is truly a masterpiece. It’s an eco-archaeological park where you can swim in underground rivers, explore a traditional Mayan village, visit a jaguar island, marvel at a butterfly pavilion, and witness the breathtaking “Xcaret México Espectacular” night show – a dazzling journey through Mexican history and folklore. It offers an incredible diversity of experiences, appealing to all ages and interests.
- Don’t Miss: The Xcaret México Espectacular show, the underground rivers, the Voladores de Papantla (flying men) ceremony, and the Hacienda Henequenera.
- Food/Drinks: Not all-inclusive. There are many restaurants with different cuisines; you pay as you go. Consider purchasing the Xcaret Plus admission that included a unlimited lunch buffet, 1-alcoholic beverage, and unlimited soft drinks.
- Who it’s for: Everyone! Families, couples, culture enthusiasts, nature lovers. You can easily spend an entire day, or even two, here.
Xel-Há Park (Best for Aquatic Nature Lovers)
- What it is: A natural aquatic park centered around a stunning inlet, perfect for snorkeling and water-based activities.
- Why it’s #3: Xel-Há is a natural paradise. The main draw is the massive inlet where a river meets the Caribbean Sea, creating a vibrant ecosystem teeming with marine life perfect for snorkeling. Beyond that, you can float down the river on an inner tube, cliff jump, zip line into the water, explore cenotes, and enjoy beautiful walking trails.
- Don’t Miss: Snorkeling in the inlet, floating down the lazy river, and the scenic overlook from the lighthouse waterslide, which is quite cool.
- Food/Drinks: All-inclusive with multiple restaurants offering various cuisines (Mexican, international), plus unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Recently, Xel-Há introduced the Xel-Há Light admission, which only includes access to the facilities and unlimited soft drinks. In our opinion, this package is not worth the price. We highly recommend getting the all-inclusive package.
- Who it’s for: Families, couples, snorkelers, nature enthusiasts, anyone looking for a relaxing day filled with water activities.
💦 Visiting the all-inclusive Xel Ha water park? Here’s what you must know
Xenses Park (Most Unique & Mind-Bending)
- What it is: A half-day park designed to challenge your senses and perceptions through optical illusions and immersive sensory experiences.
- Why it’s #4: Xenses is truly one-of-a-kind. It’s not about big thrills but about mind-bending fun. You’ll walk through a “town” where everything is uphill but feels downhill, navigate a pitch-black sensory cave, fly like a bird on a zip-line, and slide down a waterslide that empties into a mud river. It’s clever, quirky, and offers fantastic photo opportunities.
- Don’t Miss: The Town, the Slidester (waterslide), the Bird Flight (zip line), and the Xensatorium (sensory cave).
- Food/Drinks: Not all-inclusive. There’s a small snack bar with light bites, fresh juices, and smoothies (paid separately).
- Who it’s for: Everyone, especially those looking for something different, families with children, and anyone who enjoys optical illusions and interactive exhibits. It’s a great half-day activity.
🤯 Read Our Full Dedicated Xenses Park Blog Here
Xoximilco Park (Best for Mexican Party Experience)
- What it is: A vibrant, floating fiesta on traditional Mexican trajineras (gondola-like boats), celebrating Mexican culture, music, food, and tequila.
- Why it’s #6: Xoximilco is pure joy and celebration! Inspired by the famous Xochimilco in Mexico City, this park offers a lively evening of cruising through canals on beautifully decorated boats, each with its own personal host, live music (mariachi, marimba, norteño), traditional Mexican dishes, and unlimited tequila, beer, and soft drinks. It’s an immersive cultural party.
- Don’t Miss: The live music performances, dancing on your trajinera, and sampling all the different Mexican dishes.
- Food/Drinks: All-inclusive, with a multi-course tasting menu of traditional Mexican dishes served onboard, plus unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Additionally, there is an option for premium drinks at extra cost (champagne, premium tequila bottles, etc).
- Who it’s for: Adults, groups of friends, couples, and anyone looking for a vibrant, fun, and authentic Mexican party experience. Not ideal for young children, even though they are allowed.
🥃 Read Our Full Dedicated Xoximilco Cancun Park Blog Here
Xplor Fuego Park (Best for Nighttime Adventure)
- What it is: The nighttime version of Xplor, offering the same thrilling activities during the night and torchlight.
- Why it’s #5: Xplor Fuego takes the excitement of Xplor and adds a magical, mystical twist. Ziplining through the dark jungle with only the stars and fiery torches illuminating your path is an exhilarating experience. The underground rivers and caves take on a new, more adventurous feel at night. It’s an excellent option for those who want a unique adventure and perhaps have busy daytime plans.
Image Courtesy of Xcaret Group
We would like to be transparent with you: we have not personally had this experience, but based on the official Xcaret page and other resources, this nighttime experience appears similar to the daytime one.
- Who it’s for: Adventure lovers, thrill-seekers, couples looking for a unique date night, and those who prefer activities in the cooler evening hours.
Get over 400 of our favourite activities, sites, restaurants & secret spots in The Riviera Maya Mexico, on Google Maps!
Xavage Park (Most Extreme & High-Octane)
As of this blog post, Xavage Park is still closed. The park shut down in November 2024 and hasn’t announced a reopening date yet. We’ll be keeping a close eye on any updates and will let you know. Subscribe to our newsletter to be the first to hear about it!
- What it is: The most extreme adventure park in the Xcaret collection, focusing on high-octane, adrenaline-pumping activities.
- Why it’s #7: If you’re an extreme sports enthusiast, Xavage is your playground. It offers activities like rafting (the only one in Cancun/Riviera Maya!), driving monster trucks, jet boat rides with 360-degree spins, challenging rope courses, and kayaking. It’s designed to push your limits and get your heart racing.
Image Courtesy of Xcaret Group
- Don’t Miss: Whitewater rafting, the jet boats, and the Monster Truck circuit.
- Food/Drinks: All-inclusive buffet with international cuisine, plus unlimited non-alcoholic drinks.
- Who it’s for: Serious adrenaline junkies, extreme sports enthusiasts, and individuals (or groups) seeking intense, high-impact activities. May be too intense for some and has stricter age/weight requirements for safety.
We really enjoyed this park, and we hope it will open eventually. This could be our 2nd favourite hands down.
Watch Our Xcaret Parks Reviews in This YouTube Video 👇
Which Is The Best Xcaret Park?
The “best” Xcaret park truly depends on what you’re looking for in your vacation! There isn’t a single answer that fits everyone, but I can guide you based on common interests:
- For the Ultimate Mexican Culture & Nature Immersion (and First-Timers): Xcaret Park. This is the flagship for a reason. It offers an unparalleled blend of cultural shows, archaeological sites, underground rivers, and wildlife. It’s a full day (or two!) of diverse experiences that celebrate everything Mexico. If you only have time for one, choose Xcaret.
- For Adrenaline Junkies & Thrill-Seekers: Xplor Park (Day): Xplor offers incredible zip lines, amphibious vehicles, and underground rivers – a fantastic all-around adventure.
- For Water Lovers & Snorkelers: Xel-Há Park. This natural aquatic park is a paradise for swimming, snorkeling, and floating in a stunning inlet. It’s incredibly relaxing and beautiful.
- For Unique & Mind-Bending Fun: Xenses Park. If you’re looking for something completely different that plays with your senses and perception, this half-day park is a blast.
- For a Lively Mexican Party & Cultural Night Out: Xoximilco Park. Perfect for adults and groups looking for a vibrant evening of music, dancing, food, and tequila on a traditional trajinera.
- For a Magical Nighttime Adventure: Xplor Fuego Park. Experience all the thrills of Xplor but under the stars and torchlight, creating a mystical and exciting atmosphere.
Our Personal Recommendation (if you can only pick one): Xplor Park. We absolutely love the adrenaline, and ever since they introduced that massive waterslide, we truly turned into Xplor fans. Plus, you have a huge buffet included! Who doesn’t like an all-you-can-eat buffet?
If you have more time, consider pairing a cultural/nature park with an adventure park (e.g., Xcaret + Xplor) or a relaxing water park (Xcaret + Xel-Há).
How To Save Money On Xcaret Tickets?
Xcaret parks are an investment, but there are several smart strategies you can employ to save money on your tickets:
- 1️⃣ Book in Advance (Online): This is the number one rule.
- 21+ Days in Advance: You typically get a 10-15% discount when booking at least 21 days before your visit. This is often the best discount you’ll find.
- 7-20 Days in Advance: You might still get a smaller discount (e.g., 5-10%).
- Booking at the Gate: Almost always the most expensive option.
- 2️⃣ Purchase Bundles/Packages: If you plan to visit multiple parks, buying a package deal (e.g., Xcaret + Xplor, Xcaret + Xel-Há) almost always works out cheaper than buying individual tickets. Xcaret offers various combinations.
- 3️⃣ “Half Day” Options (for Xenses, Xplor Fuego): Xenses is a half-day park, and Xplor Fuego is an evening park. These are generally less expensive than the full-day parks, offering a more budget-friendly adventure.
- 4️⃣ Look for Hotel Xcaret or Xcaret Arte Deals: If you’re considering a luxurious stay, booking at Hotel Xcaret Mexico or La Casa de la Playa (adults only) or Xcaret Arte (adults only) includes unlimited access to all Xcaret parks with round-trip transportation. While the resorts are pricey, if you plan to visit many parks, the value proposition can be excellent.
- 5️⃣ Avoid Third-Party Resellers (usually): While some reputable tour operators might offer similar prices, it’s generally best to book directly through the official Xcaret website to ensure you get the best rates and legitimate tickets. Be wary of significantly “cheaper” deals from unofficial sources.
- 6️⃣ Understand All-Inclusive vs. Pay-As-You-Go:
- Parks like Xel-Há, Xplor, Xplor Fuego, and Xoximilco are all-inclusive for food and drinks. Factor this into your budget, as it saves you money on meals and beverages inside the park.
- Xcaret Park and Xenses are not all-inclusive for food (though Xcaret Plus includes one meal). Be prepared to pay for meals
How To Get To The Xcaret Parks?
Getting to the Xcaret parks is quite straightforward, thanks to the well-developed tourism infrastructure of the Riviera Maya. You have several convenient options:
Xcaret's Own Transportation (Recommended for Convenience)
- Round-Trip Bus Service: When you purchase your tickets directly from the Xcaret website, you can often add round-trip transportation from your hotel in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, or Tulum for an additional fee. This is highly recommended for convenience. The buses are comfortable, air-conditioned, and reliable.
- Pick-up Points: Xcaret has designated pick-up points at various hotels and specific meeting locations, so check their website for the schedule and nearest stop to you.
- Schedules: Buses typically depart in the morning for the parks and return in the late afternoon/evening after the park closes (or after the Xcaret México Espectacular show for Xcaret Park).
Rental Car
- Freedom & Flexibility: Renting a car gives you the most flexibility in terms of arrival and departure times, and allows you to visit multiple parks or other attractions easily.
- Driving: The main highway (Highway 307) connecting Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum is well-maintained and easy to navigate. The parks are well-signposted.
- Parking: All Xcaret parks offer ample, secure parking (included with your ticket).
🚗 Looking for an affordable rental? Here are the best options!
Taxi or Ride-Sharing Services
- Convenience: Taxis are readily available from any hotel or town in the Riviera Maya. Ride-sharing apps like InDrive (availability can vary) might also be an option in certain areas.
- Cost: This can be a more expensive option, especially for longer distances (e.g., Cancun to Xcaret). Agree on the fare before you start your journey. If you travel with a party of 3-4 it could be more affordable.
- Return Trip: For the return, taxis are usually waiting at the park exits, or the park staff can help you call one.
Colectivos (Shared Vans - Budget Option)
- Most Economical: Colectivos are shared public minivans that run frequently along Highway 307 between Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum. They are the cheapest option.
- How to Use: Catch a colectivo from designated stops in Playa del Carmen or Tulum (e.g., the main colectivo stand near the highway in Playa del Carmen). Tell the driver “Xcaret” (or the specific park), and they will drop you off at the highway entrance. You’ll then usually have a short walk or sometimes a complimentary shuttle from the highway to the park entrance.
- Limitations: They don’t offer door-to-door service, can be crowded, and might not be ideal if you have a lot of gear or young children. Not recommended for Xoximilco (due to location) or late-night returns from Xcaret.
- Our honest opinion: This form of transportation can be quite dangerous. The drivers often go over the speed limits and, as we mentioned, they tend to overcrowd the vehicles. Because of this, there is high vulnerability in case of an accident. Use at your own risk.
Xcaret Parks Tips & Recommendations
To make your Xcaret park experience as enjoyable and stress-free as possible, here are some essential tips and recommendations:
- Book in Advance! (Reiterated)
- Arrive Early: Get to the park right when it opens. This allows you to enjoy the most popular attractions with fewer crowds and get a head start on your day.
- Wear Comfortable Water Shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, and many activities involve water.
- Bring Biodegradable Sunscreen & Insect Repellent: Xcaret parks are eco-friendly, and only biodegradable products are allowed to protect the delicate ecosystems. You can buy them at the parks, but it’s cheaper to bring your own.
- Pack Light & Smart: we recommend bringing; swimsuit, towel, change of clothes, hat & sunglasses, waterproof phone case/action camera, small backpack
- Use Lockers: All parks offer lockers (sometimes included with Xcaret Plus or other all-inclusive parks). Use them to store your valuables and a change of clothes.
- Consider the Photo Pass: Xcaret parks have an excellent photo system with cameras strategically placed throughout the attractions. You simply scan your bracelet, and the photos are captured. You can purchase a photo pass for your group, which includes all digital photos. It’s a great way to get high-quality pictures without worrying about your own camera. We love all of our Xcaret Park photos.
- Check Height/Weight Restrictions: If traveling with children (or even adults who might be close to limits), check the restrictions for specific activities (especially zip lines and thrill rides) on the park’s website beforehand to avoid disappointment.
- Check the souvenir stores: they have the most incredible items in the entire region! Don’t spend your money on 5th Avenue in Playa del Carmen or at any of the Cancun markets. We bet you’ll get your money’s worth here.
Xcaret Parks Frequent Asked Questions
How many Xcaret Parks are there in Mexico?
There are 8 different Xcaret parks in the Riviera Maya: Xcaret, Xplor, Xplor Fuego, Xel-Há, Xenses, Xoximilco, Xavage, and Xenotes. Each one offers a totally different experience—some are all about adventure, others focus on nature, water activities, or Mexican culture. The best park for you really depends on what kind of day you’re after! We recommend watching our full comparison guide to get a feel for what each park is like.
Are The Xcaret Parks worth it?
If you’re heading to the Riviera Maya and you’re into nature, culture, or adventure, the Xcaret Parks are definitely worth it. They’re not the cheapest, but the experiences are super unique and really well put together. Just make sure to pick the park that fits your vibe best. You can watch our full Xcaret Playlist to see what each one is like before you go.
Which Xcaret Parks are the best?
What is the admission price to Xcaret Parks?
Ticket prices for each Xcaret Park vary depending on the park and the package you choose. For the most accurate and up-to-date prices, we recommend visiting the Official Xcaret Website and checking their ticket page before booking.
What’s included with your Xcaret ticket?
Each Xcaret park offers something a little different, but most tickets include access to the main attractions, shows, life jackets, inner tubes, and rest areas. Some parks also include food and drinks, while others don’t. For all the details and the latest prices, it’s best to check the official Xcaret ticket page.
What should I bring to Xcaret Park?
Lockers are available at all the Xcaret Parks, so you’ll have a safe spot to store your things while you explore. We recommend bringing water shoes, reef-safe sunscreen, and a waterproof phone case—and for a full list, check out our Xcaret Parks packing guide.
Where are Xcaret Parks located?
The Xcaret Parks are in Mexico’s Riviera Maya, between Cancun and Tulum, and most of them are super close to Playa del Carmen. They’re easy to reach whether you’re staying at a resort, in an Airbnb, or even visiting for the day from a cruise ship.
Is transportation to the Xcaret Parks included?
Transportation to the Xcaret Parks isn’t automatically included with your ticket, but you can easily add it during the booking process online. You could take a taxi or drive yourself, but the official Xcaret transport is honestly the easiest and safest option—just don’t forget to select it when you’re buying your tickets on the official website.
Can I visit more than one Park in a day?
Yes, you can visit more than one Xcaret Park in a day—but we don’t recommend it. Each park is packed with activities and experiences, and you’ll get the most value by spending a full day at just one. Read our Xcaret Park reviews to learn more about each park.
Can I get a discount on my Xcaret Tickets?
The easiest way to save money on Xcaret tickets is by booking early. If you buy your tickets at least 7 days in advance, you’ll usually get a 10% discount. Book 21 days or more ahead, and the discount can go up to 15%. These early-bird savings are more common for parks like Xel-Há, Xplor, and Xenses—not always for the main Xcaret park.
You can also check out our Xcaret park reviews, where we often share the latest discount codes and tips. Just make sure to book directly through the official Xcaret website to get the best prices and avoid any sketchy third-party sellers.
By following these tips, you’re sure to have an unforgettable and seamless adventure at the incredible Xcaret parks!
If you enjoyed this blog, please let us know what you think in the comments. Feel free to ask any questions we might have missed. Share this with your friends and family who are thinking of visiting the Xcaret Parks. 👇
