My Mexico Travel Diary: Visiting Xcaret, Mexico

My Mexico travel diary, following my adventures in Mexico. Read all about my visit to the eco-archaeological water park, Xcaret, Mexico.

Though I’ve come to the end of my posts talking all about what I got up to on Trek America’s Mexican BLT tour, as many of you know, I stayed on a few days after the tour. The reason for this was so that I still had a little experience of travelling/being in a new place/country alone, and also because I really wanted to visit Xcaret Park.

Xcaret Park was actually one of the first things that sold me on Mexico and it was the reason why I first thought about staying on after the tour. I had to go alone, but this was a fun learning curve for me!

I was super nervous but I persevered. The worst part was getting there. Being the only one being picked up from my hostel, I was naturally anxious. I was worried I’d be forgotten about or that I wouldn’t understand where to meet back for the coach afterwards.

It was actually all fine though! I did worry at one point when we stopped in what seemed like an abandoned small shopping mall to collect our tickets. I think it was just because it was early in the morning though and not open to the public.

Anyway. We were soon on our way and a lovely man who spoke really good English explained everything to me. He explained what my wristband involved, where to meet afterwards and all those logistics. He also gave me some recommendations on how to explore the park. I was grateful for this, as I had just one day to explore it all!

My Visit to Xcaret Park, Mexico

I was so sad I didn’t have time to do everything. What I did manage to pack in made it an amazing day overall though! I swam two of the underground rivers, which are essentially both underground and open-air rivers that run around the park. They’re entirely natural and are a fun way to see the different nature. Some of the caves had bats in them! And one of the rivers runs through the reconstructed Mayan village too.

Another favourite part was visiting the Mexican cemetery and seeing all the bright and beautiful graves. I really love the tradition of the graves representing the personalities of those lost. Unfortunately, the weather was rainy for a few hours so the photos I did get simply do not show the colours justice.

I also managed to walk around the Mayan village and the rest of the park in awe as even without taking part in any of the attractions. There’s so much to see, including spotting the many animals around the park. I also took a ride on the scenic tower to see the surrounding nature from high up and took a very relaxing ride on the Paradise riverboat. It had just stopped raining so I was the only one on there! But it was so beautiful.

Finally, as the day drew to a close, everyone headed to the main arena for the much anticipated Xcaret Mexico Espectacular, a show which is made up of performances of Mexico’s history, legends and festivities. More than 300 actors take part with original costumes and the set design is amazing – this show is definitely one to see and you’d be mad to miss it. At the end, when everyone stood up to give a standing ovation, I even felt a little emotional!

My Review of Xcaret, Mexico

After, it was time to head back. By the time I arrived back at my hostel, I’d been gone for over twelve hours. I was exhausted but happy. Xcaret Park is unlike anything I’ve ever done before. People describe it as a sort of Mexican Disneyworld and I have to agree with that. Though pricey, it’s well worth it, especially as there’s something for everyone. If you’re looking to go, however, do ask around as you’ll get entry cheaper elsewhere. I booked through my hostel. My ticket price included transport there/back a meal/an unlimited buffet and access to a VIP guest area. I think the VIP area was just more changing rooms though.

I already want to go back and I also want to visit some of the other parks. However, I’m glad I chose Xcaret as the other parks are more varied. One is nature-focused, whereas another is adrenaline-focused and includes tons of water sports for example. Xcaret had a bit of everything which I loved.

If you are ever in Mexico, do not miss your opportunity to visit Xcaret. It will be something you’ll never forget!