Tulum and Chichen Itza stand as testaments to the amazing Mayan civilization that thrived in pre-Columbian America for millennia. But even the Maya probably never thought of ziplining through the jungle nearly 150 feet above the ground.
At Xplor, located just a few miles south of Cancún in the Riviera Maya, you can do just that. There are two circuits of seven ziplines each, totaling nearly two and a half miles of exhilarating above-the-treetops and over-the-water fun. Glide along at 19 mph, right through a waterfall and finish with a splash landing inside a cave.
Check online for clothing and height requirements before visiting.
Other Activities
Xplor offers closer-to-the-ground activities as well. Grab an amphibious vehicle and take a rollicking rumble through the jungle. Two circuits of three miles meander through amazing scenery. Caverns, rivers and hanging bridges punctuate the ride with a dash of wild adventure. You must be 18 to drive, and a valid ID is required. Each vehicle can carry two adults and two children.
Jump on a raft and paddle your way down one of two underground rivers. Marvel at the rock formations, stalactites and stalagmites in the otherworldly caverns and caves. Individual and double rafts are available.
Care to get right in the water? You can! Take a leisurely swim in underground rivers; the 437-yard route is well marked, and the water temperature is a perfect 75 degrees. Use of a life jacket is required.
Spending the entire day at Xplor is easy. You can recharge your batteries at El Troglodita restaurant. Beverages and snacks are available throughout the park and there are gift shops, rest areas with chairs and hammocks, dressing rooms and lockers and photo services.
While in the Maya Riviera, check out the other parks associated with Xplor, including Xcaret, Xel-Há, Xplor Fuego and Xenses.
Getting There
Xplor is on Federal Highway 37, just 35 miles south of Cancún International Airport. It is less than four miles from Playa Del Carmen, the most famous city in the Mayan Riviera. Ask about the shuttle to and from Xplor that picks you up right at your hotel. All-inclusive admission to the park includes all activities, unlimited snacks and beverages (excluding alcohol), one buffet meal, use of lockers and dressing rooms, Wi-Fi and parking. The park itself opens Monday through Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm.
Tags: Cancún
