Curator’s statement
Here's a resort with food and activities you'll actually look forward to. While most know this resort for its "all-inclusive fun," I can also confidently say that this resort has some of the best food in all of the Riviera Maya. Here's how to spend five days at one of my favorite properties in the region.
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Day 1: Arrival
This is the insect toast with handmade tlayuda bread and seasonal insects.
Arrive at Hotel Xcaret Arte and enjoy a seamless check-in before heading to your suite to unwind and take in the eco-luxury surroundings. Spend the afternoon exploring the river paths, relaxing by the pool, or getting acquainted with the hotel’s art-inspired spaces. If you're there for lunch, you must try the insect toast at Cantina VI.AI.PY. In the evening, indulge in your first culinary experience at Encanta, known for its elevated, Mexican-inspired tasting menus crafted by Chef Martha Ortiz.
Day 2: Xichén Deluxe Tour
Image by Anshelo Espino
Start your morning with a hearty breakfast at Apapachao or the Mercado before boarding your transport for the Xichén Deluxe Tour, offering a rich cultural deep dive into Chichén Itzá, Valladolid, and a stunning cenote. Enjoy the lunch included with the tour, along with premium drinks and time to swim. After arriving back at the hotel, end your night at Chino Poblano, where Chinese techniques blend beautifully with Mexican flavors for a fun and adventurous culinary experience.
Day 3: On-property activities & Xplor Fuego
Image by Xcaret Park
Begin your day with a breakfast buffet at Mercado or Cayuco and spend the morning enjoying on-property activities such as paddleboarding on the coves, biking the nature trails, or relaxing in the artistic casas. After lunch, enjoy downtime at the pool or spa before preparing for your adventure. In the late afternoon, head to Xplor Fuego, the nighttime version of Xplor, where fire-lit zip lines, amphibious vehicles, and cave swims create an unforgettable adrenaline rush. Return to the hotel for a casual, late-night bite at Arenal if you’re hungry after the excitement.
Day 4: Xcaret Park
Image by Xcaret Park
Enjoy breakfast in the room and head out to the one and only Xcaret Park. I suggest going early to avoid the heavy crowds. They have more cenotes to explore, animals to interact with, and so much more. If you want to time your Xcaret trip with the México Espectacular show, please note that it starts around 7 pm. You also won’t have dinner included with watching the show, so you may want to go to the resort for an early dinner and head back to watch the show. It’s definitely worth it!
Day 5: Muluk Spa & Xochimilco
Xochimilco is definitely a lively and entertaining excursion.
So you survived all of the thrills and adventure from the day before. Now it's time to unwind and relax at the Muluk Spa. I suggest getting a massage and timing your hydrotherapy treatment for before your treatment. Make sure to stay hydrated and be prepared to leave a gratuity for your service. I suggest resting up or spending some time by the pool before heading out to Xochimilco for a lively night of dancing, tacos, and tequila. A perfect way to end your trip!
Day 6: Final on-property morning & departure
This is Arenal restaurant. I am in absolute LOVE with the design of the spaces on the property.
Enjoy a final breakfast at one of your favorite restaurants on the property and soak in the last bit of peaceful scenery. Take an art or dance class in one of the casas or relax by the river one more time before packing up. Complete your check-out and prepare for airport transfer, feeling restored, inspired, and enriched by five days of culture, nature, and adventure.
Need to know
The best time of the year to go is from November through February, with lower seaweed, fewer crowds, and better weather.
The buffet at Mercado de San Juan has seafood on Friday nights.
The gelato and hot chocolate at Mercado de San Juan is unmatched.
Make sure to download the app before traveling and arrival.
Definitely check out the Sunday Brunch Dominical at Las Cuevas (yes, it's an extra charge; yes, you can use your resort credit to go).
Each casa or building has something special or unique about it and has a special perk if you are staying there. Some of them will have workshops, some will have rooftops, and some include hydrotherapy passes.
Bring athletic clothes, pack water shoes, and prepare for a workout!
Travel Advisor
Bee Harris
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