Xenses Park

The Basics

With more than 50 attractions across two unique routes, including a gravity-defying pueblo and immersive mud bath, the park is ideal for a half-day excursion. Tours typically provide round-trip transfer from Cancun and the wider Riviera Maya, plus plenty of time to explore independently. After you’ve splashed your way through the water-based activities, dry off over a bite to eat in the on-site snack bar or take advantage of all-inclusive packages that include complimentary refreshments.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Mobility and health restrictions apply to some Xenses Park attractions.

• Wheelchairs, strollers, and lockers are available to rent.

• Selfie sticks are not permitted in the park.

• Bring swimming gear that you don’t mind wearing in the salt rinse or mud bath, as well as a change of clothes.

• Non-swimmers and small children must be accompanied on deep-water experiences.

How to Get There

Xenses Park is situated on the outskirts of Playa del Carmen, around 5.5 miles (9 kilometers) from the city center for a 10-minute drive. It's about 47 miles (75 kilometers) from Cancun for an hour drive. Free, on-site parking is available, though round-trip tours with hotel pickup are a great way to avoid the stress of finding your own way.

When to Get There

Most tours offer the choice of a morning or afternoon excursion. Unlike at other Riviera Maya attractions, rain only adds to the experience at Xenses Park, making it a great top choice on wet weather days. The park is closed on Sunday.

Xcaret and Xel-Há

If Xenses appeals, you might want to visit its sister parks, Xcaret and Xel-Há. Xcaret Park is an eco-archaeological haven on the coast, just south of Xenses, where you can snorkel, hike, or raft your way around the Mayan jungle. Xel-Há Park is about 25 miles (41 kilometers) south and offers a range of outdoor aquatic activities, as well as an aquarium and turtle reserve. Some passes include free entry to all three parks.

Ways to explore

Experiences in Xenses Park are arrayed along two distinct routes, the quieter “Path of Feeling” and the more action-oriented “Path of Doing.” Admission, which is valid for a half-day session, includes both areas. You can book admission tickets to Xenses Park with optional transport from hotels in Cancun and the Riviera Maya—a convenient option that lets you skip the hassle of driving and parking. Another booking option is the park’s “photo pass,” which features a photo of your group of up to 10 people, in one of the Xenses Park illusion scenes.

Accessibility

Some, but not all, activities at Xenses Park are wheelchair accessible.

Age limits

Most activities at Xenses Park are suited to children ages 5 and older. Kids 4 and younger are welcome—and enter free—but they may not be able to participate in all park activities.

What to pack

Towel, change of clothes, sunscreen (only those with titanium oxide and zinc oxide are allowed)

What to wear

Swimsuit, water shoes, comfortable clothing

Not allowed

Selfie sticks, floating canes for sports cameras

Amenities

Wi-Fi, lockers, showers

Address

Xenses Park is located just off Highway 307, south of Playa del Carmen, adjacent to Xplor Park and Xcaret Park.

Driving

To reach Xenses Park from Cancun, drive south on Highway 307 past Playa del Carmen—it’s a roughly 46-mile (74-kilometer )drive from downtown Cancun. Free parking is available on-site.

Public transportation

Buses to Xenses Park depart the Cancun ADO bus station on Uxmal Avenue and the Playa del Carmen ADO bus station on Fifth Avenue.

Best times to visit

Xenses Park offers two session times— morning and afternoon—each with five hours of park admission. Mornings tend to be cooler, which some visitors prefer.

Best days to visit

Holidays and weekends can get crowded at Xenses Park. Visit Monday through Thursday for a quieter experience.

Best months to visit

The months before and after the Riviera Maya’s December through April high season are a great time to visit, with relatively moderate weather and fewer tourists. Consider coming in November, when humidity and temperatures are relatively low.

Special events

While Xenses Park doesn’t host festivals or special events, neighboring Xcaret destinations do—come for the November 2 Day of the Dead celebrations to see altars and festivities honoring ancestors.