Xcaret Plus Tour & Swim in the Underground River only from Tulum

If you’re looking for a full-day adventure that combines natural beauty, culture, and fun activities, the Xcaret Plus Tour from Tulum offers a well-rounded experience. For around $225 per person, you’ll spend roughly 11 to 12 hours exploring one of Mexico’s most beloved eco-parks, with plenty of opportunities to see exotic animals, float through underground rivers, and enjoy traditional performances. The tour is operated by Only Vacations & Tours and includes roundtrip transportation from Tulum, making it a convenient day out.

What we love about this experience is how it manages to balance nature, culture, and relaxation. The underground river swim is genuinely special—few experiences beat floating through these mystical caves. Plus, the opportunity to witness vibrant Mexican dance and folklore performances adds a lively cultural touch. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that the full-day schedule can be quite packed, so it’s best for those who don’t mind a busy itinerary.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of outdoor activities and cultural shows, and who want a comprehensive day trip that covers a wide range of attractions in one go. It’s ideal if you’re based in Tulum and want to experience the best of what the Riviera Maya offers without the hassle of organizing multiple visits. If you’re comfortable with a longer day and want to maximize your time, this trip could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Comprehensive experience with natural, cultural, and adventure activities
• Transportation and entry included, simplifying logistics
• Underground river swim offers a unique, scenic cave adventure
• Vibrant cultural shows showcase Mexican folklore and traditions
• Includes buffet lunch with drinks, making it convenient and satisfying
• Limited group size (max 30 travelers), creating a more personal atmosphere

The Experience: What to Expect on the Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

Your day begins bright and early at Aloft Tulum at 7:30 am. A comfortable, air-conditioned bus will pick you up, helping you avoid the hassle of navigating public transport or taxis. The group size is capped at 30 travelers, so you’re likely to enjoy a more intimate atmosphere and direct interaction with your guides.

The journey to Xcaret Park is straightforward, and the ride itself provides a chance to get excited about the day ahead. Expect friendly chatter and perhaps a quick overview of the day’s schedule from your guide.

Xcaret Park: A Natural and Cultural Showcase

Once at the park, the experience kicks off with exploring lush botanical gardens and observing exotic wildlife—think parrots, jaguars, and colorful fish. The park’s Mayan archaeological sites give a taste of ancient history, and wandering through is an easy way to connect with Mexico’s heritage.

A highlight for many visitors is the buffet lunch, where you can savor traditional Mexican dishes alongside unlimited beverages, including one beer. The food is generally well-regarded and offers enough variety to satisfy different tastes.

Underground River Swim: A Highlight

The underground river swim is the centerpiece activity. You’ll float through crystal-clear caves, passing stalactites, stalagmites, and other underwater formations. The experience is made safer and more comfortable thanks to provided life jackets and inner tubes. Many reviews mention how “awesome” this part is—some describe it as a “mystical journey,” perfect for nature lovers or anyone looking for an unusual adventure.

This activity also includes walking under water with helmets—a phrase that suggests you might be in a guided, helmeted float trip, which is both safe and exciting. The caves’ natural beauty is a big draw, and floating through these silent, mysterious tunnels offers a serene yet exhilarating experience.

Cultural Performances and Evening Show

As the day winds down, the park hosts Mexican cultural shows. You’ll see vibrant dances, music, and folklore that vividly portray Mexico’s history and traditions. Many visitors find these performances “mesmerizing” and a nice way to wind down after extensive outdoor activities.

Finally, the Xcaret México Espectacular takes place at sunset, with dancing and storytelling on the Great Tlachco stage. It’s a lively, colorful celebration that makes you feel connected to the heart of Mexican culture.

Additional Activities and Relaxation

Beyond the scheduled activities, you’re free to relax on the beach, lounge in hammocks, or explore the park’s natural pools and inlet. Some travelers appreciate the freedom to unwind after the busy morning, while others might opt for additional activities like “walk under the sea” or adrenaline rides, which are offered but not included in the standard package.

What Does the Tour Include?

The package covers a lot for the price. You’ll benefit from roundtrip transportation, entry to the park’s Plus Area, and access to all attractions listed in the itinerary. The buffet lunch includes one beer and unlimited drinks, which helps keep you hydrated and satisfied throughout the day.
Swimming in the underground river is included with life jackets and inner tubes provided, making it accessible for most fitness levels.

What’s Not Included?

You might find some activities are extra, such as walking under the sea or adrenaline rides. If you’re interested in those, be prepared to pay additionally or skip them altogether. The tour also requires printout of the boarding pass, so don’t forget to bring yours.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

One of the best things about this tour is how it offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural entertainment, and relaxation. We loved the way the underground river transports you through a peaceful, otherworldly landscape—something that’s hard to find elsewhere. As one reviewer put it, “We loved it! From walking underwater with helmets, swimming with sharks, the underground cave swim, to the evening show!! Awesome!!”

Practical tips:
– Wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for walking and water activities.
– Bring your swimsuit, towels, and extra clothes for the river swim and possibly after.
– Use biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent to protect the environment and yourself.
– Arrive early and prepare for a packed day—this is a full schedule with little downtime.
– If you want to enjoy the evening show, plan to stay until it begins; if not, organize your own return, as the tour ends at the park’s closing.

Who will enjoy this tour?

This is an excellent choice for adventurous travelers who want a diverse experience in one day. If you enjoy nature, cultural performances, and active outings, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s especially suitable if you’re based in Tulum and prefer an organized, all-in-one day trip without the hassle of planning multiple visits. Families, couples, and solo explorers alike will find this a well-structured, memorable outing.

Final Thoughts

The Xcaret Plus Tour with Underground River offers a robust, value-packed day that captures the essence of the Riviera Maya. You’ll enjoy natural wonders, traditional entertainment, and delicious food, all in one convenient package. The experience’s highlight—the underground river—provides a rare, beautiful adventure, while the cultural shows deepen your appreciation of Mexican heritage.

While the day can be busy, it’s perfect for those eager to see, do, and experience a wide array of attractions without the need to self-organize. The small group size and comprehensive inclusion make it a reliable choice for travelers wanting a stress-free, fun-filled day.

If you’re after an authentic, lively, and diverse tour that offers plenty of opportunities for photos, relaxation, and cultural insight, this trip is worth considering. Just remember, it’s a long day, so come prepared for a full schedule—and plenty of memories.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, roundtrip transportation in an air-conditioned bus from Tulum to Xcaret Park is included.

What is the meeting point and start time?
The tour begins at 7:30 am at Aloft Tulum. Make sure to arrive on time to start your day smoothly.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs about 11 to 12 hours, so expect a full day of activities.

Are all attractions included?
Most attractions, including the underground river swim, cultural shows, and access to park facilities, are included. Additional activities like walking under the sea or adrenaline rides are extra.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimsuit, towels, extra clothes, biodegradable sunscreen, insect repellent, and a printed copy of your boarding pass.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. No refunds are provided if canceled later.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While most travelers can participate, parents should consider the full-day schedule and water activities for younger children.

What’s the food like?
A buffet lunch with a selection of Mexican dishes is included, along with unlimited beverages and one beer per person.

Are there any activities that require extra payment?
Yes, activities like walking under the sea or adrenaline rides are not included in the standard package.

How many people will be in my group?
The group size is limited to 30 travelers, providing a more personalized experience.

This tour is a fantastic way to get a broad taste of what the Riviera Maya has to offer, all packed into one memorable day. Whether you’re seeking adventure, cultural insight, or simply a break from the beach, the Xcaret Plus Tour from Tulum delivers on all fronts—just be ready for a busy but rewarding day.