Xcaret National Park

This was the highlight of our stay in Mexico. This is sort of a cross between Disney World and a zoo with a Mexican flair. The interesting part is that signs are not everywhere. The visitor is expected to be responsible and pay attention at Xcaret. I loved this about it. We had a map that was accurate and they do have signs that are accurate but you really have to be careful and pay attention or expect to wander aimlessly for a while.

Travel Tip: Book your Swim with the Dolphins, horseback riding or ocean snorkeling online! Xcaret key attractions fill up early and that way you can get them in when you want them!

My kids thought the best thing of our whole trip was the river that winds through the entire Xcaret. They provide you with life jackets and a locked bag for your non water proof stuff. The bag gets taken to where you get out of the river. Snorkeling equipment is extra. We did not get the snorkeling stuff and felt we saw it all as the actual sea life is limited. You then float down this river that goes underground at points and comes out at different spots along the park. Once we came out and saw deer grazing near by or the macaws were winging over head. We went through some caverns with big rock pillars in the middle of the channel. Sheers cliffs to either side was very common. Once we came out and found our selves inside a building with a large stained glass window overhead. All along there was spots to get out so if this is not as neat for you, you can just shorten it up. The last leg you go through a channel cut into a mangrove area. Large birds are perched to the sides and you can see crabs here and there. You then come out to a man made lagoon where they might be some good snorkeling and the end of the trip. My 11 year old could not wait to share this with his grandparents and repeatedly said this was the best part of our trip. We all enjoyed it and I would do it again.

The rest of the park is fantastic in that they blend native cultures with wildlife so that if one doesn't grab you the next thing will. The sea turtle area is very touching when you realize that people are actively killing these great creatures. The ocean area is very nice and has a great petting area. They also have a non petting area that could use better signage for idiots like me (sorry again).

Do not miss the night time show. They recreate the ancient game played by the Mayans. Also they have dances and more. We did the Sunday night one which is abbreviated and about all we could handle after a full day but I think the regular show is held in a very spectacular building.

I am sure I missed stuff as there is tons to see and do at this place and I cannot recommend it more highly. My youngest enjoyed the dolphins most but I have link below to our experience with them.

links to the other stuff we did while there:

Xcaret Occidental - Chichen Itza - Swim with the Dolphins - Carmen Del Playa