Xelha
Our first visit to Xelha was in 1998 when we took our first family trip to Cancun. I had been approached to do a documentary about dolphins in captivity and dolphin therapy. At the time, Xelha was still training their dolphins and I was invited to come and meet the trainers, dolphins and learn about their program prior to the facility’s public opening. My dolphin encounter was a life-altering moment and another story all together. Needless to say, I passed on producing the piece because of a dolphin named Quiche. The look in her eyes spoke to me on a level I cannot put in words. But that is a totally different story…
That said, I have returned many times over the years both for pleasure and leading groups - though my last visit was a number of years ago. I was pleasantly surprised to find much of Xelha has not changed over the years. The view of the ocean and the inlet are still stunningly beautiful. The paths through the jungle are magnificent. There are a few new attractions, but they are worked into the landscape and shoreline in a way that doesn’t distract from the beauty.
For locals and legal residents, the admission is half price and, for everyone, it is an all-inclusive package, which includes most of the attractions and all the food and drink you can consume. There are some things, such as the dolphin encounter and snuba which cost more.
Xelha is the perfect spot for real water enthusiasts! It is a combination of water park and natural water setting, which includes freshwater cenotes, the Caribbean Sea and the gorgeous inlet that joins them. You can wander the paths on foot, you can ride a bike or can hop on a tram that takes you to the beginning of the inlet. There are a number of cenotes you can enjoy, but beware the water temp is in the 70’s year round. You will find areas full of fish for snorkeling and a “lazy river” you can float or snorkel down. The river – actually the inlet itself - begins at the mouth of a freshwater cenote, taking you through the mangroves eventually dropping you in the main part of the park. Along the lazy river you can climb up the ledge to jump from the overhanging cliffs. You can zipline into the water or challenge yourself on a rope obstacle course. If that isn’t enough, head to the water slide near the mouth of the inlet. Aa two hundred step tower will yield magnificent views of the park and the Caribbean. Then jump on one of four slides for a thrilling trip to a pool at the bottom. As one who is afraid of heights, I found it quite challenging and a bit terrifying, but with the help and encouragement of good friends, I pushed myself to do it. The view was stunning and the slide itself such an invigorating rush that I am so glad I did it. Will I do it again? The verdict is out.
A new addition, since our last visit, is the children’s playground, set in the trees along a protected area of the inlet, away from the crowds. It looks like a wonderful spot for kids of all ages to climb and play for hours.
The park also incorporates an endless supply of quiet areas to rest, some with hammocks others with comfortable chairs. There is even a meditation garden. In addition to the water activities, there is a full spa, a nursery, various stores, birds and a manatee.
The park opens at 8:30 and closes at 6, with several buffet restaurants to choose from, you can easily eat all your meals for the day here. For those with teenagers that is a real plus.
We went to Xelha to see if it was someplace, we would like to take our grandchildren - 6, 7 and 3 months - when they come to visit. I think the whole family will love it. Our son will enjoy the multitudes of water activities with the older kids and our daughter-in-law will find respite in some of the relaxing spots with our youngest. Xcaret is also on our “to do list” when the family visits, but I think Xelha makes for a perfect outdoor day without being quite as overwhelming as the larger Xcaret. For those visiting the area, you can get passes that include the admission to both parks. Xelha is also often combined with tours to Tulum, though personally, I think that would be too much to do in one day. Xelha is a place to be enjoyed and not rushed through.