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About Xel-Há: water park in Tulum
If you haven’t visited this paradisiacal place in Riviera Maya, perhaps you want to know more about Xel-Há. It is a wondrous park that houses an iconic natural inlet that is home for several flora and fauna species, plus being relevant among the Maya during their splendor times.
Since ancient times, the Maya discover this magnificent natural place. Xel-Há means “where water is born” since several underground rivers flow into the inlet at this wonder of nature.
Xel-Há inlet
Due to its geography, the Xel-Há’s inlet served during the pre-Columbian era as shelter harbor, commerce spot, pilgrimage point, and refugee for sailors, besides being a food reserve in case of a storm or bad weather.
A story from the Maya states that the gods had joined their wisdom, dreams, and love for the beauty to create a scenery that joins the best of nature in the same spot and named it Xel-Há. Once it was created, the gods were so pleased that they decided to share it with all the mortal creatures.
To take care of it and the elements that surround it, the gods named three guardians: “Huh” the iguana (Guardian of Earth), “Chuc Kay” the pelican, (Guardian of Air), and “Kay Op” the parrotfish (Guardian of Water). There is a belief that nowadays, these guardians watch the park and everybody who visits it.
Xel-Há is a wonder of nature and one of the best parks in Playa del Carmen's surroundings. Since 1995, it has a sustainable tourist model that offers activities and attractions for the whole family.
Activities at Xel-Há
This all-inclusive park in Riviera Maya has an astounding beauty. To its enormous inlet, flow several underground rivers that are part of the largest system in the world with more than 600 mi of streams below the surface. It is also home for many flora and fauna species, such as four different varieties of mangrove that have significant importance among the Mexican Caribbean ecosystem.
At Xel-Há, you will discover what is snorkeling since you can dip into the water to enjoy this activity as much as you want. You will pick the right pair of fins and mask for you, plus getting a free snorkel only for you. The beginning of the river is the best point of departure, starting in the mangrove zone. You can pick an inflatable tube for one or two guests and relax while letting the stream takes you.
Along the river, there are several exits and places to stop by, such as the Cliff of Courage, where you can climb up a 16-ft wall and jump off the top. Try Trepachanga, where you put your balance and skills on the test by crossing two parallel, suspended ropes over the river. At Salpichanga, you will glide through a zip-line that ends splashing in the refreshing waters of the Xel-Há’s inlet.
Remember to visit the Scenic Lighthouse to enjoy the best view of Xel-Há and its surroundings. You can either descend by one of its four waterslides that end into a natural pool or just staying at the viewpoint at the top.
Xel-Há celebrates its 25th anniversary
It’s Xel-Há’s 25th birthday and a great time to return to this natural wonder south of Playa del Carmen. Learn about its flora and fauna programs at this all-inclusive park in Riviera Maya.
Celebrate nature with the guided tours where besides learning about the ecosystem, you will find out its sustainability efforts and how we can contribute to help to preserve the environment.
Discover how an ecosystem can reuse its resources at Secrets of the Jungle, plus knowing how we can live peacefully and in harmony. During the Treasures of the Inlet guided tour, you might learn about the species inhabiting the beautiful Xel-Há’s cove, its conservation programs, and the relevance of the food chain.
Getting to Know the Manatee is an enjoyable experience to approach these noble specimens known for being the most peaceful mammals in the world, plus the origin of several myths. At Traditions of the Mayab, nature and Maya culture meet for you to discover the relevance of species such as the Ceiba tree or the Melipon bee within their cosmic vision. Ask for these tours at your arrival since they have limited spaces and are subject to availability, plus being included with your admission.
Xel-Há and the environment
This marvelous park is home for Queen Conch Sanctuary, a place where for more than a decade and along with prestigious universities, this species has been studied and being census of the specimens living at the inlet. Also, find an outstanding nursery that houses more than 270 species of native plants, some of them threatened by deforestation due to the urban growth and overexploitation of natural resources. Xel-Há has a strict relocation policy from many years ago to prevent development that affects flora.
Chacah’s Garden is another must-visit spot at the park where many famous guests were invited to plant one of these trees, which has major significance in the region and among the ancient Maya. Visit the Meliponary, which is a space with a colony of these stingless bees that was sacred for the former settlers and produces delicious honey. Twice a year, there is a traditional ceremony before starting the harvest season.
Xel-Há All-Inclusive
At Xel-Há park, you will have unlimited snorkel, food, and beverages. Enjoy one of its four restaurants where you can find an endless international buffet, a grilled-specialties option (open seasonal), or even a delicious selection of the Mexican gastronomy that includes several dishes from the Yucatan area. Refresh yourself at a bar and taste one of the delightful beverages that are served only here.
Why visiting a water park in Cancun when Xel-Há gives you the best natural spots, water activities, and much more! Spend a day full of emotions along with your family. Just enjoy the buffet restaurants and the astonishing sceneries by nature.
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HOW CAN I SAVE?
50%
By purchasing 7-20 days in advance your admission or tour to Xel-Há.
It does not apply to combinations of two or more parks or tours.
By purchasing at least 21 days in advance your admission or tour to Xel-Há.
It applies for packages of 2 parks or tours.
On the purchase of combinations of three or more parks or tours.
Restrictions apply.
For children between the ages of 5 and 11.
Kids under the age of 4 get free admission.
Restrictions apply.
10% OFF purchasing 7-20 days in advance,
15% OFF purchasing at least 21 days in advance.
Prices are subject to changes without prior notice.
