Parks offer heights and depths
IAN STALKER
Those visiting XPLOR park near Playa del Carmen can experience some highs and lows.
XPLOR is one of 11 parks and tours offered in the Yucatan Peninsula by Grupo Xcaret and Grupo Xcaret BDMs told a recent webinar that park offerings includes two zipline circuits that provide an above-ground look at the area.
Each circuit has seven ziplines.
But BDMs Carlos Martinez and Joaquin Alvarado noted that the park can also provide a look at a below-ground world, with visitors able to swim along an underground river, an experience Alvarado said may leave participants feeling “like you’re in an Indiana Jones movie.”
The park can also be partly explored by amphibious vehicles, with those wanting to operate those vehicles having to be at least 18 and be licensed.
Children must be five years old or more to participate in activities and the park serves food but doesn’t sell alcohol for safety reasons.
XPLOR becomes XPLOR Fuego after 5:30 p.m., with those arriving at that hour able to enjoy the sunset and finding fewer visitors.
One of the zipline circuits is available at night and a “red-light ambiance” is found underground, creating an active volcano-like setting.
The XAVAGE park — found five minutes from Cancun International Airport — offers a host of activities, including kayaking, rope courses, ziplines, jetboat rides and “monster truck” excursions.
Whitewater rafting is another activity, which Martinez said is the only above-ground “rafting you will find on the whole (Yucatan) peninsula.”
Those who designed the rafting route installed turbulent spots, with Alvarado saying the guides are “super-trained… It’s something different, something bold,” he added of the rafting.
XAVAGE does serve alcohol but those who do drink will have to return their helmets, preventing them from taking part in further activities.
A buffet restaurant includes a vegan area, with non-vegetarian Martinez praising it as his preferred dining option at XAVAGE.
Grupo Xcaret provides commissions of up to 25% and has educational materials for travel agents.
The parks can be pre-booked.
Meanwhile, Jorge Gamboa — who once oversaw the Mexico Tourism Board’s Toronto office and now helps promote Grupo Xcaret parks — labelled the parks “incredible, beautiful destinations.”
