The wonders of Xcaret are myriad, and with so much to see and experience you'd be forgiven if you skipped some of the performances in favor of yet another trip down Paradise River.
In doing so, however, you will be missing out on learning more about the history of the region and experiencing first-hand mystical performances whose origins date back to the pre-Hispanic era when Mayan kings ruled the land.
Dances with Owls
A drumbeat heralds one of the most impressive shows in the park-the Owl Dance-when a feather-clad performer emerges from the darkness of a natural grotto to tell his story.
(Showtimes: Summer: 4:45 p.m. Winter: 3:45 p.m. This activity is available during July until the second week of August, at Christmas season and at Easter.)
It Takes a Village
First the sound of the conch, then the drums and bells. Mexico's tradition of music and dance are on display in the Mayan Village. Situated among the park's underground rivers, the Mayan Village springs to life as dancers transport visitors to the Mexico of yesteryear.
(Showtimes: Summer: 5:00 p.m. Winter: 4:00 p.m.)
Fly Like an Eagle
The Flying Wallendas had nothing on these performers. This ritual dance dates back to Meso-America when residents of the Totonacapan area of Veracruz devised a ceremony to appease the gods and end a severe drought.
Today, visitors to the park can watch as five brave men climb a 150-foot pole. Once at the top, one will play on the flute and drum to honor the sun, four winds and the cardinal points, after which four voladores "fly" off the top platform suspended only by long ropes as they imitate the flight of birds.
(Showtimes: 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m.)
Bring on the Dancing Horses
Marvel at the grace and agility of the charros and adelitas, dancing horses which perform nightly against a backdrop of music and colorful horsemen at the Hacienda Henequenera (located by the La Cocina restaurant).
(Showtimes: Summer: 6:00 p.m. Winter: 7:00 p.m.)
Come One, Come All
Xcaret Mexico Espectacular is a spectacle in the best sense of the word. This performance marries advanced technologies, intricate costumes and striking set design to take the audience on a journey through Mexico's history. More than 300 actors perform traditional dances that illustrate the vibrancy of Mexican culture.
(Showtime: 7:00 p.m. Schedule subject to park operations or seasonal requirements).
For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.
Topics From This Article to Explore
