If you’re planning a family vacation and want to ensure your kids have a blast while discovering the magic of the Riviera Maya, visiting Xcaret with kids is an excellent choice. This theme park offers activities for all ages, from exploring underground rivers to interacting with animals in a safe and fun environment.
Join us as we explore how to make the most of your visit with the best tips and recommendations.
Family visit to Xcaret
1. Is it a good idea to visit Xcaret with kids?
Absolutely yes! Xcaret is a park designed to provide unique experiences for both adults and little ones. Plus, children up to 4 years old get free admission, making it a fantastic option for families.
The park also offers family-friendly amenities such as stroller rentals, rest areas, and restaurants with kid-friendly meal options, making it easier for families with young children to enjoy their visit.
2. Tips for visiting Xcaret with kids
To make the most of your day at Xcaret with kids, don’t miss these helpful tips:
- Arrive early: Xcaret is a large park, and some of the most popular attractions can get crowded quickly. Arriving early allows you to enjoy activities at a relaxed pace and avoid long lines.
- Plan your route: The park offers so many options that it can be hard to know where to start, and some activities close earlier than others. Review the Xcaret map before your visit and plan your day accordingly.
- Take strategic breaks: Make use of rest areas and shaded spots to keep the kids comfortable and avoid exhaustion. Taking a short break for hydration and a snack will not only recharge you but also give the kids the energy they need to keep exploring.
- Don’t forget sunscreen: The Riviera Maya sun can be strong, especially around midday. Make sure to apply biodegradable sunscreen and bring hats or scarves to protect the kids from direct sun exposure.
Wear light, comfortable clothing that allows for free movement, and consider water shoes or non-slip footwear for water activities.
- Use the park’s amenities: Xcaret offers several services to make your visit easier, like stroller rentals for young children, life vests for water activities, and lockers to store your belongings. Don’t hesitate to use these resources when needed.
- Keep safety in mind: While Xcaret’s safety measures are designed to give you peace of mind, it’s always important to stay cautious. Ensure your kids wear life vests at all times, keep them within sight—especially in crowded areas—and use designated meeting points in case anyone gets separated.
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3. What to pack for a smooth experience
Although a day at Xcaret with kids can be long, proper preparation ensures a worry-free adventure. Here’s a checklist of essential items:
- Light, comfortable clothing: The Riviera Maya’s weather is typically warm, so wear fresh, comfortable outfits that are suitable for moving around and enjoying water activities.
- Swimwear and towels: As an eco-aquatic park , swimwear and towels for the entire family are a must.
- Plastic bags or small backpacks: To complement the point above, bring a lightweight backpack or plastic bags to store wet clothes.
- Water shoes: While the park has paved pathways, some activities involve walking on wet or uneven surfaces. Water shoes are ideal for keeping feet dry and protected throughout the day.
- Biodegradable sunscreen: Xcaret requires the use of biodegradable sunscreen to protect the marine ecosystem. Bring enough for the whole family and reapply frequently, especially after swimming or sweating.
- Hats, caps, and sunglasses: The Riviera Maya sun can be intense, so hats or caps for each family member are highly recommended. Sunglasses are also essential for protecting your eyes from the sun.
- Extra clothes: Kids often get wet or dirty while playing, so having a spare set of clothes can be a lifesaver. Plus, dry clothes for the return trip are always a good idea.
- Camera or waterproof phone case: Finally, don’t forget to capture special moments, but make sure to protect your camera or phone with a waterproof case.
4. Best kid-friendly activities at Xcaret
With over 50 attractions to explore, choosing the best options for the entire family can be challenging. Don’t worry— we’ve curated a selection of the top activities for kids to enjoy during their visit to Xcaret.
Children’s World (9:00 AM - 6:00 PM)
This area is a paradise for little ones, featuring water games, slides, bridges, and tunnels where kids can run, play, and have endless fun. It’s designed to encourage physical activity and social play, with water zones for cooling off and rest areas for parents. It’s the ultimate spot for kids at Xcaret!
Paradise River (8:30 AM - 5:00 PM)
For a relaxing family experience, the Paradise River is perfect. This raft ride lets you peacefully float along a river surrounded by lush vegetation and stunning landscapes—no need to get wet! It’s a great alternative to the popular river circuits, especially for families with kids under 10.
Coral Reef Aquarium (9:00 AM - 6:00 PM)
This aquarium offers a window into the marine world, where kids can observe various species that inhabit the Caribbean’s coral reefs. They’ll see colorful fish, corals, and other marine life up close while learning about the importance of reefs for the ecosystem. It’s both educational and fascinating.
Butterfly Pavilion and Aviary (8:30 AM - 6:00 PM)
In these areas, kids can learn about local butterfly and bird species in a natural setting. Xcaret’s Butterfly Pavilion houses thousands of butterflies flying freely, offering an educational and visually stunning experience. The Aviary, on the other hand, features a variety of tropical birds for kids to observe and learn about their behaviors and habitats.
Night Show (7:00 PM - 9:00 PM)
This approximately two-hour performance is one of the park’s most iconic attractions. It brings Mexican culture to life through dances and music representing the country’s traditions and history. Despite being a nighttime event, it’s kid-friendly, with vibrant music, colors, and costumes creating a magical atmosphere for the whole family.
Adventure Kids (11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 3:00 PM)
For kids looking for an extra thrill, Adventure Kids is an add-on activity available at three times during the day. This activity features obstacles, challenges, and interactive games designed for little adventurers.
5. Where to book your family adventure at Xcaret
Visiting Xcaret with kids is a unique experience the entire family will enjoy. With so many fun and educational activities, it’s easy to see why this park is a favorite among travelers.
At Voyovoy , we offer more than just Xcaret tickets. We provide a wide range of tours and transportation options tailored to families, ensuring a safe and convenient experience so you can enjoy the park stress-free.