Visitors coming... Xcaret or Xel-Ha?

[John]

Ok, Libby and I have been here for over 2 years now, and it's almost sad to admit that we have not yet visited Xcaret or Xel-Ha. However, in early February, a large portion of our family will be coming for a visit. We'll finally get to make a trip to one or the other.

I'm looking for the good and bad qualities of both. How expensive are they, how crowded are they, etc.

There will be about 10 adults and 5 children, ages 4-12.

Thanks in advance for your replies.

John

[ami]

Originally Posted by John

Ok, Libby and I have been here for over 2 years now, and it's almost sad to admit that we have not yet visited Xcaret or Xel-Ha. However, in early February, a large portion of our family will be coming for a visit. We'll finally get to make a trip to one or the other.

I'm looking for the good and bad qualities of both. How expensive are they, how crowded are they, etc.

There will be about 10 adults and 5 children, ages 4-12.

Thanks in advance for your replies.

John

I'd skip both and go to Tulum. But that's only because I'm not a fan of the wildlife in captivity thing, unless there's a kick ass habitat. That being said, I've heard good things about both. Xcaret is supposed to have a killer night show, so there's alot of bang for your buck there. Xel-ha is supposed to be very natural and has alot of cool marine life, so I dunno. I'm sure you won't go wrong either way.......but if someone put a gun to my head I'd prolly pick Xcaret.

I probably didn't help you at all, hehe.

How's it going? Last time I saw you was August, right? I wish you guys luck with your new venture!

[Libby]

Hi Anita! I think John and I feel the same way about Xcaret & Xel-Ha, and that's why we haven't been there. But I do think that those parks would be a great way to introduce newbies to the best the area has to offer. Especially with children, it's a convenient way to get a sense of this area without having to traipse all over the place searching out cenotes, ruins, snorkeling, beaches, etc. Personally, I like the traipsing, but I don't have a whining 5 year old.

Oh, and we are for sure taking them to see Tulum! We also plan to give the parents a break one day and take the kids to either Crococun Zoo or Aktun Chen -- 2 more things we haven't done yet.

August sounds about right. Hope to see ya next time you're in town! Thanks for the well wishes and support!!

[ami]

Originally Posted by Libby

Hi Anita! I think John and I feel the same way about Xcaret & Xel-Ha, and that's why we haven't been there. But I do think that those parks would be a great way to introduce newbies to the best the area has to offer. Especially with children, it's a convenient way to get a sense of this area without having to traipse all over the place searching out cenotes, ruins, snorkeling, beaches, etc. Personally, I like the traipsing, but I don't have a whining 5 year old.

Oh, and we are for sure taking them to see Tulum! We also plan to give the parents a break one day and take the kids to either Crococun Zoo or Aktun Chen -- 2 more things we haven't done yet.

August sounds about right. Hope to see ya next time you're in town! Thanks for the well wishes and support!!

I'm going to try to get down at the end of February, so hopefully we can do dinner/hang out then!

[Shammy]

Hey John!

Xel Ha is more of a day filled with water based activities - a lot of snorkeling and being in the water. Older kids usually get a kick out of seeing all the fish, but sometimes younger kids don't want to get in the water (cold, fish are scary , etc). Xcaret is more of a "Mexican Disneyland" kind of place - more land based activities. Animal exhibits, a butterfly garden, and the opportunity to snorkel is also there as well. Plus, there is the night show at Xcaret, which for many is quite a thrill. Perhaps talk it over with the parents of the kids as they know their children best - if they are true water bugs or would prefer being on dry ground more than in the water.

Hope that helps!

[banzoomba]

We went to Xcaret way back in 2000 so I am sure its changed alot, but we enjoyed it....and spent pretty much a whole day there......a few highlights were the horse show, Monica used to show horses and was very impressed.We also liked the the evening music show our tour guide was taken with emotion during a few songs and he was moved to tears.

[Beachnutt]

I really enjoyed both for different reasons. Xcaret may be a long day with young children, especially if you stay for the night show (a must see). I know I was pooped.

[MsRubio]

Originally Posted by banzoomba

We went to Xcaret way back in 2000 so I am sure its changed alot, but we enjoyed it....and spent pretty much a whole day there......a few highlights were the horse show, Monica used to show horses and was very impressed.We also liked the the evening music show our tour guide was taken with emotion during a few songs and he was moved to tears.

Yes I loved the horses...and all the shows were spectacular...including the Ball game....it demonstrates the ancient game by comparing the culture heritage of the Mexican people and the Mayan culture. It takes place at sunset, and is announced by the wooden drums....very dramatic...worth staying til the end of day to see.

[Libby]

Originally Posted by MsRubio

Yes I loved the horses...and all the shows were spectacular...including the Ball game....it demonstrates the ancient game by comparing the culture heritage of the Mexican people and the Mayan culture. It takes place at sunset, and is announced by the wooden drums....very dramatic...worth staying til the end of day to see.

Ooh, thanks for mentioning the ball game! We'll make sure to stick around for that.

[Maureena5]

If you do choose Xel-ha, here's some advice for getting a really fabulous spot to hang out for the day. This spot is away from the crowds with it's own snorkeling platform. There's a Palapa, table ledge & there are 7 to 8 lounge chairs there (not everyone needs a chair as most often some people will be in the water, some out for a hike, etc...). The closest restaurant (La Terraza), snorkel rental desk & bathrooms are just a short walk away. We would walk down, order drinks for our group & the waiter would carry them down for us (almost like having a Cabana Boy!).

This spot is located just past the Children's Playground area. To get there turn right after going through the entrance turnsyles, follow the main path past all the restaurants & keep going. It's a bit of a walk, but believe me this spot is worth it. Shortly after you pass the playground, take the first narrow path on the left.

I reccommend you arrive as soon as the park opens at 9am (before the large tour buses arrive). Send one or two people ahead with 8 towels or clothing items to place on the chairs (it's hard to herd a large group quickly). Give directions for the rest of the group to find you.

One last note, if you purchase your tickets online there's a 10% discount.

Whatever you choose, Enjoy!

[Maureena5]

One more thought......if you arrive later that 9am, it's still possilbe to get this beautiful spot because it is a bit hidden. Also, many people stop & check out all the attractions nearer to the entrance (Dolphins, birds, the first Snorkel rental/locker area, etc..). Be the hare, not the turtle. This spot is a beautiful, "island-like oasis! There are also a lot of Parrot Fish in this area because Parrot Fish Pond is nearby.

Maureen

[Libby]

Awesome! Thanks for the insider's scoop, Maureen!