Full guide to Xcaret: the best eco theme park in the Riviera Maya

The name Xcaret comes from the Mayan language and means “small cove”, a tribute to the area’s natural geography, where several underground rivers flow into the Caribbean Sea.

Though the site still preserves vestiges of pre-Columbian architecture, the recreational park was officially founded in 1990, within the municipality of Solidaridad, Quintana Roo. Spanning more than 80 hectares and offering around 50 attractions, Xcaret is dedicated above all to preserving local biodiversity and reviving Mexico’s traditional culture through immersive experiences. 

This extraordinary nature theme park unfolds through several colour-coded routes, each offering a different type of adventure. Depending on the trail you choose, you may encounter lush jungles, pristine beaches, winding underground rivers, and even remnants of ancient civilizations. 

The Black Trail is the longest trail in Xcaret. It starts in the Plaza Principal and winds through natural, cultural and recreational areas leading to the mouth of the underground rivers. It’s a perfect trail for anyone who wants to explore the park on foot and at a more leisurely pace, spending time enjoying its most iconic locations.

Along the route you will see:

• ·         Lienzo Charro, an arena for a traditional Mexican equestrian event called a charreada.
• ·         Jalisco Restaurant, serving traditional cuisine.
• ·         Tropical Rainforest Trail, an immersive walk.
• ·         Rio Paraíso tour, a boat trip along the river surrounded by tropical trees and plants.
• ·         Living Orchid and Bromeliad Museum, with a wide range of endemic species.
• ·         Entrance to the Underground Rivers, and a chance to swim among caves and rock formations.
• ·         Dances, Totonac Rituals and Papantla Flyers.
• ·         Monkey, flamingo, deer and tapir habitats.
• ·         Children's World, with water activities and games.
• ·         Pre-Hispanic vestiges, a reflection of local Mayan culture.
• ·         Sea Trek with Stingrays, a guided diving activity.
• ·         Manatee Lagoon, where you can join in with conservation activities.
• ·         Oxaca Restaurant, regional cuisine specialising in flavours from the south.
• ·         Exit of the Underground Rivers, end of the tour. 

The Blue Road leads into the Xcaret marine world, allowing visitors to discover the extraordinary biodiversity that lives in the seas of Mexico. The perfect tour for anyone who loves the oceans and underwater life.

Along the route you will see:

• ·         Open Theatre, an open-air space surrounded by tropical scenery for concerts and events.
• ·         Folkloric Exhibit, a show featuring Mexican music, dance and traditions.
• ·         Pre-Hispanic vestiges, Mayan remains that highlight their relationship with the Caribbean coast.
• ·         Coral Reef Aquarium, to view live coral, sponges, tropical fish and other species that inhabit the Mesoamerican Reef System.
• ·         Swimming with sharks, a guided experience with nurse sharks.
• ·         Sea Turtles, an area dedicated to the conservation of Caribbean turtles. 

The White Trail is one of the most extensive trails in Xcaret. Unlike the other trails, every step here reveals a tradition, trade or vestige that takes you deep into the culture of Mexico. This tour is perfect for anyone aiming to enjoy a more cultural experience.

Along the route you will see:

• ·         Mayan Ball Game, a replica of the ancient field on which ritual games were played.
• ·         Discovering Mexico exhibition, bringing together art, objects and traditional items.
• ·         Bridge to Paradise Cemetery, an artistic cemetery inspired by the Day of the Dead.
• ·         Crypt of Sighs, a space inspired by the Mayan underworld.
• ·         Chapel of Saint Francis of Assisi, a small colonial-style church with spectacular views.
• ·         Clay Workshop, to learn more about traditional techniques for shaping clay.
• ·         Temazcal Pre-Hispanic Village, replica of an ancient steam bath for physical and spiritual purification.
• ·         Pre-Hispanic dances and indigenous ceremonies with music, drums and traditional costumes.
• ·         Wool Workshop, explaining the artisan process of carding, spinning and natural dyeing.
• ·         Aviary, to see endemic bird species.
• ·         Butterfly Garden, an enclosure in which hundreds of tropical butterflies fly freely.
• ·         Plaza del Vitral, with scenes of nature and Mexican culture.
• ·         Coconut Workshop, where you can learn how the fruit can be used.
• ·         Ceramics Workshop, with a demonstration of modelling and glazing techniques.
• ·         Chocolate Workshop, explaining the whole process around cocoa.
• ·         Bakery, an aromatic corner where traditional bread is prepared.
• ·         Jaguar Island, a space dedicated to the most iconic feline in Mesoamerica.