If you’re planning a trip to Cancun or the Riviera Maya, there’s one place you absolutely have to check out: Xcaret! Think of it as a mix between a natural paradise, cultural experience, and adventure park—all in one stunning location. I booked my experience through my hotel. I went as an individual for the day my girlfriend was working. This place is full of families and couples, it is perfect for everyone!
Whether you want to float through underground rivers, snorkel in a tropical lagoon, explore Mayan ruins, or see an incredible Mexican cultural show, Xcaret has something for everyone. So, grab your swimsuit, some sunscreen, and let’s dive into why this place is so special!
🌿 What is Xcaret?
Xcaret (pronounced Ish-ka-ret) is an eco-archaeological park located in Playa del Carmen, just about an hour from Cancun. It’s famous for combining natural beauty, history, and adventure, making it one of the best experiences in Mexico.
At Xcaret, you’ll find:
✔️ Over 50 attractions, from cenotes and rivers to wildlife encounters
✔️ Snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing on the beach
✔️ Mayan ruins and cultural performances
✔️ A spectacular nighttime show with over 300 performers!
It’s basically the ultimate way to experience Mexico’s nature and traditions in one unforgettable day! And trust me it will take all day!
🌊 Must-Do Experiences at Xcaret
With so much to see and do, here are some top highlights you cannot miss:
Float Through Underground Rivers
One of the most unique things about Xcaret is its natural underground rivers! These crystal-clear waters flow beneath the park, and you can snorkel, swim, or just float along while enjoying the peaceful surroundings. It’s super refreshing, and the cave formations are seriously cool. There are two riverways and both end up at the same exit. This takes around 30 minutes to float into the Xcaret main area. I would advise to do this first so you can spend the rest of the day to explore the site.
Life jackets and snorkelling gear are included, so no need to bring your own! The one thing I would bring with me is a waterproof phone case. You can buy these at the location but they are expensive!
Floating through Xcarets underground river
Explore Mayan Ruins & a 19th-Century Hacienda
Xcaret isn’t just about adventure—it’s also packed with history and culture! Stroll through ancient Mayan ruins which are on site, or visit a beautifully restored Mexican hacienda to get a glimpse into Mexico’s past.
If you love exploring, take some time to wander—you never know what hidden gems you’ll find!
3. See Amazing Wildlife Up Close
Xcaret is home to some incredible animals, all in natural settings. You can spot:
🦋 Giant butterflies at the butterfly pavilion
🦜 Colorful macaws flying freely
🐢 Adorable sea turtles (big and small!)
🐬 Dolphins, sharks & stingrays
🐆 Jaguars & pumas (yes, really!)
And the Coatis are everywhere – a truly charismatic and inquisitive creature. Just please do consider these animals roam freely and they are not to be touched, they are still animals after all.
🌟 Extra: You can also book special experiences, like swimming with dolphins or snorkeling with stingrays, for an extra fee, these can be booked in advance or when you arrive at Xcaret front desk you can book all experiences here.
Snorkel in a Tropical Lagoon & Relax on the Beach
If you love snorkeling, head over to Xcaret’s natural lagoon, where you’ll find tropical fish swimming in the calm, crystal-clear water. Or, if you just want to relax, the park has a beautiful white-sand beach with hammocks and lounge chairs. Get here early as these do get taken up very quickly.
Discover the daytime shows
There are plenty of daytime shows and feedings that happen. From the birds to sea turtles and one not to miss is the horse show, which showcases some of Mexicos horse culture, with riders showcasing their horse and rope skills.
Be Amazed by the “Xcaret México Espectacular” Night Show
This is the grand finale of your Xcaret adventure, and trust me—you don’t want to miss it! I decided to spend extra money on Xcaret Plus ticket to have better seats and a sit down meal. The meal was about 6 or 7 small plates, that were timed to come out specifically at a certain point within the show. From local cusuine to fresh pieces of lobster, its not one to miss!
The Xcaret México Espectacular is a massive nighttime show with over 300 performers, telling the story of Mexico from ancient Mayan times to modern-day mariachi music. The costumes, the dancing, the music—it’s absolutely breathtaking and i came away from this understand just a little bit mnore about Mexico and its beautiful culture and history
Some of the costumes and set design for the nighttime show.
Tips for the night show:
- You can come to Xcaret just for the night show, which is booked seperately.
- If you choose to spend all day at Xcaret i would advise bringing a change of smarter clothes (especially if you have been in swimwear all day). I remember still feeling a little damp when sitting down and the show is a few hours.
- Be prepared for a mass exit at the end. The show holds hundreds of guests and at the end everyone will be ushered to the exit. Make sure you know where you parked or where you tour bus is located.
Tip for the daytime:
- Bring a water bottle and hydrate lots as its get super hot!
- Bring appropriate clothing for shade and maybe a waterproof bag.
- Pre-book your experiences.
- Buy a waterproof phone case as they are expensive on site.
- Prebook any food places as these also get busy
- Enjoy some of the food stalls, including getting a Michilada as big as your head.
My first time trying a Michelada!
Overall Xcaret is one of the best experiences I have had so far in Quintana Roo. You can spend all day here so make sure to come prepared!
Nomadic dani 
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