ECO-PARKS OF RIVIERA MAYA

Playa del Carmen is blessed with some of the most amazing and diverse natural attractions anywhere in the world.  From the wildly popular commercial tourist attractions like Xcaret and Xel Ha to the wild and serene nature preserves of Rio Lagartos and Sian Kaan, these parks are incredible places to visit and spend a day or more.  Xcaret is a favorite for families, with so much to do and see, while Xel Ha is more laid back, and popular with everyone for it's fabulous natural beauty and excellent snorkeling.  Come join us for a tour or excursion to these natural wonders in Playa del Carmen!

   
Xcaret Playa del Carmen's premier tourist attraction - Xcaret is amazing!
   
Punta Venado 1,300 acres of wonderland, over 2 miles of unspoiled virgin beaches!
   
Rio Lagartos Famed for it's pink flamingos and pink natural salt baths - beautiful!
Xel Ha One of the top attractions in the area, Xel Ha is truly a paradise!
   
Sian Ka'an Biosphere A UNESCO World Heritage Site.  Mexico's largest nature preserve!
   
Punta Laguna Playa del Carmen's only monkey reserve.  See monkeys in nature!

Our Advice: Xcaret is the 2nd biggest tourist attraction in Playa del Carmen behind only Chichen Itza, with Xel Ha close behind.  Make sure to see one or both of these on your vacation.

PLAYA DEL CARMEN ECO PARKS FAQ's

Q: I'M ON A CRUISE SHIP - CAN I VISIT THESE PARKS?
A: Xcaret is the easiest one to visit on a cruise stop, as it is only 10 minutes south of Playa del Carmen.  Punta Venado is nearby, and also a very good choice.  Xel Ha is a bit further away, about 45 minutes south of town, so you'll have less time there.  The others are really too far away to consider for a cruise stop.

Q: WHAT IS THE BEST PARK FOR FAMILIES WITH KIDS?
A: Our recommendation would be Xcaret.  There is so much to do there it's almost unreal.  Many animals to see and fun things for kids. 

Q: DO I NEED TO USE BIODEGRADABLE SUNSCREEN?
A: Yes.  All water activities in Playa del Carmen require that you use only biodegradable sunscreen.  See our biodegradable sunblock page for more information.

Q: WHICH IS BETTER - XCARET OR XEL HA?
A: Depends on who you ask.  Xel Ha is not as crowded or as big, and has better snorkeling.  It also has an all-inclusive package which Xcaret does not.  Xcaret is bigger, more crowded on cruise days, and more expensive, but has a fun night show and more activities and attractions than Xel Ha.

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