10 water activities for your next vacation at Xel-Há

Aquatic adventures at Xel-Há:

10 experiences you can't miss

Visiting Xel-Há will always be a good idea, of that we have no doubt. 💚

The best definition we can give to Xel-Há is: "A place to connect with you and disconnect with everything you don't need".

This is the favorite park of many. There isn't a person who doesn't want to return to this beautiful paradise. Something that makes it unique is its diversity of activities: aquatic, recreational and for children. We all have a place in our hearts to love the landscapes of the cove and the connection it generates with all the ecosystems.

If you are a fan of aquatic activities, this blog will be of great help for you to know the experiences that will make you connect with nature in a unique way.

Let's go over them one by one and at the end, you will surely want to try them all.

What to do in Xel-Há? 🐠

The activities at Xel-Há are mainly aquatic. However, it is also an excellent place to have fun and have a deep connection with the natural environment.

Here you will find a 40-meter-high slide that serves as a lighthouse lookout to admire panoramic views of the cove and the jungle. You can also hike through nature trails, slide down water zip lines, ride a bike through the park and much more, there is always something fun to do!

It's time to list our top 10 water activities you can't miss at Xel-Há:

1. Scenic Lighthouse

This is the park's favorite attraction!   

This slide is 40 meters high and is considered one of the highest in the Riviera Maya, even in all of Mexico. The 360° views are breathtaking, and the descent is full of adrenaline. For this reason, it is a favorite activity for those seeking adventure.

This slide also functions as a Lighthouse Viewpoint. If you decide that the best thing to do is to go and appreciate the views, you can do it. Our recommendation is to do it when you arrive at the park to save time in line.

Some facts you should know about the slide:

• Open every day.  
• Find it at point 13 on the map.  
• It is included in your Xel-Ha admission.  
• Hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.  
• Minimum height: 1.05 meters.
•  It is essential to know how to swim. 
• Maximum weight: 125 kg.

When entering, it is important to leave all your belongings in the locker. Upstairs you will find different Xelfies points to take the best pictures.

2. Unlimited snorkeling:

One of the best parts of the park is the unlimited snorkeling.

There is no better feeling than having the freedom to explore the river and the cove at your own pace.  

In this activity you will be able to meet many fish of different colors and sizes, as well as appreciate the effect of the halocline and thermocline in the water.

It is important to highlight that your admission to Xel-Ha includes snorkeling equipment: snorkel vest, fins and full-face mask.

Inside the cove you will see fish-shaped flags. This indicates that there is a school of fish in that area and it is ideal for snorkeling.

Some facts you should know about snorkeling:

• Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. 
• Suitable for the whole family.  
• Included in your admission to Xel-Há.  
• It is mandatory to wear a life jacket

Did you know that Xel-Há is a sanctuary for the pink snail?

This protected species inhabits the waters of Xel-Ha. We oversee preserving it through environmental education programs and constant monitoring. We inform and raise awareness about it to avoid excessive consumption by humans.

So, if you see a pink snail while snorkeling, it is very important that you do not take it out of the water.

3. Adventure World 

After snorkeling in the river, you will find Mundo de Aventura. This is the ideal place to test your balance and cool off at the same time. Here you will face a series of small water zip lines and fun obstacles that the whole family can do as many times as they want.

There are two types of attractions:  

Salpichanga: the most fun water ziplines. This hammock and sliding swings land in the water in a fast and fun way. The circuit consists of six ziplines and you can repeat them as many times as you want.

Trepachanga: this attraction will test your balance! The challenge is to walk between two ropes separated one from the other without falling into the water. It is ideal to do it with friends and see who gets farther than the others.

The most important thing will always be to have fun!

What you should know about Mundo de Aventura:

• Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.  
• Suitable for children and the whole family 
• Included in your Xel-Há admission.  
• Find it at point 27 on the map.

4. Cliff Climb and Chuc Kay Flight

If you like heights and adrenaline, Climb of Courage is the perfect place to test your courage and throw yourself into the water from 5 meters high.

You will also find a climbable crag to climb up and jump back down.

• Available from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.  
• Suitable for children and the whole family  
• Included in your Xel-Há admission.

On the other hand, Chuc Kay's Flight consists of swinging on a rope, and when you let go, you will fall into the water of a cavern. Try it as many times as you want and have fun in the process.

• Available from 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.  
• Suitable for children and the whole family  
• Included in your Xel-Há admission.

5. River tour Xel-Há

Another of Xel-Ha's must-do activities is the river tour, which is approximately 800 meters long and emerges from the subway rivers. The views of the mangrove tunnels are breathtaking! Remember that it is very important not to touch them.

You can choose this tour in two ways: with a floating tire or with a snorkel. Both offer relaxing experiences in contact with nature.

Here are some tips that will help you during your visit:

• If you go with children, the floating tire can be a good option to enjoy with the family. You can choose double tires. 
• If you like photography, don't forget to bring your camera or phone case to capture the incredible landscapes you will find in the river.   
• Smile at the Xelfies spots, these photo spots have the best angles for you and your family to have the best souvenir photo on the river.  
• Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. 
• Included in your admission to Xel-Ha. 
• Located at point 12 on the map

Now, let’s review Optional Activities:

6. Snuba Caleta

Can you imagine diving into the depths of the cove without being a professional diver? In Xel-Ha you can do it with Snuba Caleta!

The activity combines snorkeling and scuba diving thanks to professional equipment that will allow you to swim and explore the cove as if you were a diver.

In this activity you will be surrounded by fish and you will get to know the underwater world up close.

Why choose Snuba Caleta?

It's easy and safe: You don't need any previous experience or special skills. The team will provide you with all the assistance you need.

Ideal for sea lovers: You will feel the thrill of exploring the underwater world and observe marine life up close.  

It can be done by children from 8 years old: It is an excellent activity to enjoy with the family.

What you should know about Snuba Caleta:    

• 60 minutes duration.  
• Schedule: 10:00 a.m., 11:15 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2:45 p.m. and 4:00 p.m.   
• For reservations, it is important to go to the ticket office or in advance through our website.  
• This activity is included in the catalog of optional activities, therefore, it has an extra cost to your Xel-Ha admission.  
• This activity includes guide with certified instructor, tank, mask, fins and belt.  
• Maximum depth is 3 m.  
• Subject to weather conditions. 
• Swimming is required. 
• Find this activity at point 5 on the map.

7. Sea Trek Stingray

Explorers and ocean lovers, this attraction is for you. Did you know that in Xel-Ha you can walk under the sea while watching rays and fish?

Sea Trek is an underwater walk that allows you to admire marine life and even feel part of it.

As you submerge, you will wear a special helmet that is designed to allow you to breathe and walk smoothly while enjoying a natural fish show. At all times, you will be accompanied by divers who will guide you during the tour.

Why choose Sea Trek Rayas?

Ideal for those who enjoy nature without the need to swim.

What you should know about Sea Trek Rayas  

• Duration: 30 minutes.  
• Schedule: 10:00 a.m. to 4:40 p.m. (every 40 min).  
• Age: From 8 years old and over 1.20 m tall.  
• Maximum depth: 3 m. 
• This activity is included in the catalog of optional activities, therefore, it has an extra cost to your Xel-Ha admission. 
• It is located at point 2 on the map.

8. Power Xnorkel Xel-Há

Snorkeling has never been so much fun!    With Power Xnorkel you will take control of a jet with 3 speeds to dive into the water and move around feeling real freedom and adrenaline.   

The jet is easy to use and requires no previous experience. With the push of a button, you can move effortlessly and enjoy a more dynamic and immersive experience.

An expert guide will accompany you during the activity and will teach you some fun tricks that will make your experience more fun.

9. Manatee Encounter

Manatee Encounter is the interaction you were looking for to learn more about this friendly marine mammal.

In this activity you will learn all about the importance of their conservation. You will swim with them, feed them and learn about their environment.

What you should know about Manatee Encounters:     

• Duration: 40 minutes 
• Schedule: 11:00 a.m.; 1:00 p.m.; 3:00 p.m.  
• Minimum age: 10 years old (minimum height of 1.30 m).    
• This activity is included in the catalog of optional activities; therefore, it has an extra cost to your Xel-Ha admission.
• It is located at point 6 on the map.

10. Snuba Cenote

Have you ever thought about exploring the depths of a cenote? With Snuba Cenote you will descend up to seven meters into a cenote to explore it as if you were scuba diving.

We are sure it will be one of the most amazing activities you will find in this destination. If you like to explore, learn about the depths, or simply want to have a pre-diving experience, this attraction is for you.

You will use a flashlight for better visibility, and a guide will always be with you.

What you should know about Snuba Cenote:    

• Duration: 60 minutes  
• Hours: 10:00 a.m., 11:15 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2:45 p.m. and 4:00 p.m.  
• Air tank included.  
• This activity is included in the catalog of optional activities; therefore, it has an extra cost to your Xel-Ha admission.  
• It is located at point 4 on the map.

Xel-Há has a great diversity of aquatic activities! That's why it is the favorite park of many. You can find options for children, nature lovers and even for the older and adventurous ones.

We hope this guide will be useful for you to choose the water activities you like the most at Xel-Ha.   

Remember that you can also follow us on our social networks on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to get inspired about the activities and have a deeper approach to each aquatic experience.  💦   

More activities: Family Vacations in Cancun and Riviera Maya

Have a great day in paradise! 🤿

See you in the next blog