Which has the better snorkeling, Xcaret or Xel-ha?

Question

I am really concerned about the snorkeling more than anything, but if you had anything else to add about the parks, that would be great too.

Answer 1

If I were to vote just on snorkling, I'd vote for Xel-ha.  But if I were to vote on total number of different thing to do, I's vote Xcaret.

Answer 2

Although popular, both parks mentioned are very touristy and pretty artificial, to be honest. Xel-Ha is more geared towards snorkelling and that type of thing, whereas Xcaret is more of a zoo. Both parks are a nice day out for what they are.

There are lots of other places in the area you might want to consider, though. My personal favourite (I live in the RM) is Hidden Worlds Cenotes Park. That's always the first place I take anyone who comes to visit me and they always rave about it. The cenotes located there are the most beautiful I've seen for swimming and snorkelling, and by now I've seen a lot. In the underground river at Hidden Worlds you will see natural unspoilt geological formations (stalagmites / stalactites) that are utterly breathtaking. It's low-impact tourism, as opposed to tour bus filled pandemonium! They really care about preserving the natural wonders, whilst still making them available to visitors. As well as cenote snorkelling and diving they have some really cool zip lines, a rappel and a skycycle (a cable bicycle where you cycle through the treetops and get to experience the jungle and all of it's tropical wildlife and lush foliage living and breathing around you - awesome!) They also have 3 rescued domesticated spider monkeys who are very cute and friendly - if you take a few pieces of fruit with you you're sure to make some cheeky monkey friends! It's just a great day out at a very reasonable price - lots of fun, educational too and suitable for everyone. I've taken lots of visitors there and they've all loved it!

And there are lots of other places you should consider too. For ocean snorkelling the best places are probably in Akumal. Check out Yal-Ku lagoon (don't get conned into an organised tour - you can go by yourself either by car or colectivo van / taxi). Check out www.intheroo.com for other activity ideas in the area. Also Trip Advisor is good, because you get to read unbiased real travellers' reviews. You'll find reviews of both Xel Ha and Xcaret on there, as well as Hidden Worlds and others.

Have fun, enjoy and respect this beautiful paradise! :)

Answer 3

Well, I went to both eco-parks and they were beautiful. I liked them both when it came to snorkeling, but Xcaret had the underground rivers where I snorkeled in. That itself was amazing. On the other hand, Xel-ha had the river that merged with the ocean, and I snorkeled there too. There are also two cliffs I think there where you can jump off of into the river- that is an adrenaline pumping thing to do if your are up for that. I think they were 20-30 ft., but Im not sure.

Answer 4

Both are beautiful places. X-caret has more to see, but as far as snorkelling Xel-ha is better.