How to Visit Xcaret, Xplor, and Xel-Há — Transportation & Insider Tips

The Riviera Maya is home to some of the most famous eco-parks in the world. Xcaret, Xplor, and Xel-Há offer unique experiences ranging from snorkeling in cenotes to zip-lining above the jungle. If you’re planning a visit from Playa del Carmen, here’s a complete guide on how to get there, what to bring, and insider tips to make the most of your day.

1. Getting to the Parks: Shuttle & Parking Options

A) Xcaret

Distance: ~10 km south of Playa del Carmen
Driving Time: ~15–20 minutes
Parking: Free parking for guests
Shuttle Options:
- Many hotels in Playa offer direct shuttle services (~$10–$15 USD round trip).
- Xcaret also offers official shuttles that pick up from select hotels.
- Uber/taxis: ~$150–$200 MXN from downtown Playa.

Tip: Pre-book your shuttle if visiting during peak season (December–April) to avoid long waits.

B) Xplor

Distance: ~7 km south of Xcaret
Driving Time: ~25–30 minutes from Playa
Parking: Free parking available
Shuttle Options:
- Xplor offers direct shuttle pick-ups from Playa hotels.
- Private taxi or Uber is also possible (~$200–$250 MXN each way).

Tip: Xplor is mostly adventure-based (zip-lines, amphibious vehicles), so plan your transportation accordingly; parking is available if you drive yourself.

C) Xel-Há

Distance: ~50 km south of Playa del Carmen
Driving Time: ~45–50 minutes
Parking: Free parking for visitors
Shuttle Options:
- Many local tour operators offer round-trip shuttles (~$25–$35 USD per person).
- Rental car or taxi is possible, but less common due to distance.

Tip: Xel-Há is less crowded in the morning. Arrive early to enjoy calmer waters.

2. Insider Tips for Arrival & Best Times

Arrival Time

Xcaret: Arrive at 8:30–9:00 AM to enjoy attractions before the midday crowds.
Xplor: Arrive at 8:00–8:30 AM — popular for early zip-line reservations.
Xel-Há: Arrive at 8:30–9:00 AM to secure lockers, float gear, and parking.

Avoiding Crowds

Visit on weekdays if possible
Avoid Mexican holidays if you can
Pre-book tickets online for faster entry

Shuttle/Drop-Off Tips

Confirm the pickup location with your hotel or tour operator
Allow extra travel time for morning traffic on Highway 307
Keep your ticket confirmation and ID handy

3. What to Bring With You

Swimsuit & Towel: Wear your swimsuit under your clothes if possible
Water Shoes or Sandals: The parks have rocky areas and water activities
Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Mandatory for parks to protect coral and wildlife
Waterproof Bag: For phones, wallets, and cameras
Change of Clothes: Especially for Xplor (zip-lines and splash rides)
Snacks & Water: Optional; most parks have restaurants, but you can bring small snacks
Cash or Card: For lockers, photos, souvenirs, and extras

Optional:

Waterproof camera or GoPro for underwater and zip-line photos
Light rain jacket (especially May–October)

4. Transportation Cost Estimates

Park	Shuttle	Taxi/Uber	Parking
Xcaret	$10–$15 USD round-trip	$150–$200 MXN	Free
Xplor	$10–$20 USD round-trip	$200–$250 MXN	Free
Xel-Há	$25–$35 USD round-trip	$450–$600 MXN	Free

Tip: Shuttles are usually cheaper than taxis, especially for families or groups.

5. Insider Tips for a Smooth Visit

Lockers: Most parks offer lockers — essential for Xplor
Food & Drinks: Xel-Há has all-inclusive food & drink; Xcaret offers multiple dining options
Photo Packages: Optional, but great if you don’t want to carry your own camera
Timing: Start with water activities early, then explore trails, attractions, and shows later
Shows: Xcaret’s “Xcaret México Espectacular” is a must-see — arrive early to secure good seating

6. Summary

Visiting Xcaret, Xplor, and Xel-Há from Playa del Carmen is simple with shuttle services, taxis, or rental cars. To maximize your day:

Arrive early to avoid crowds
Bring swimsuits, water shoes, and reef-safe sunscreen
Use official shuttles for convenience and safety
Plan your meals and photos in advance
Pre-book tickets online for faster entry

With the right planning, you can enjoy a full day of adventure, water fun, and cultural experiences without the stress of transportation.

About the Author

Hi, I’m Matt from Nasplaya, your go-to guide for living, investing, and thriving in Playa del Carmen and the Riviera Maya. In 2008 my husband and I quit our jobs in Boston, Massachusetts, sold everything we owned and drove to Playa del Carmen, Mexico to start North American Standards (Nasplaya), our property management, vacation rental and real estate company. Now 17+ years later, I am sharing our experience helping expats and property owners navigate the local market. I share honest insights, practical tips, and insider knowledge to make your move—or your investment—a success.

From finding the best schools and maximizing rental income to understanding local regulations and uncovering hidden gems, my goal is to give you clear, actionable advice you can trust. When I’m not exploring the beaches or scouting the newest rental opportunities, I’m sharing stories, guides, and strategies that help you make the most of life in paradise.

Follow along for expert tips, local updates, and everything you need to live, invest, and enjoy the Riviera Maya to the fullest.

North American Standards (NAS Playa)
Property Management • Rentals • Real Estate
📍 Playa del Carmen, Mexico
🌐 www.nasplaya.com 🔑 Rentals: rentals@nasplaya.com
📊 Sales: buy@nasplaya.com 🏘 Property Management: bookings@nasplaya.com