Planning a trip to Cancun or the Riviera Maya and want to experience the magic of an Xcaret park? With so many incredible options, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. Luckily, we’ve been there! We’ve explored each Xcaret group park multiple times and are here to help you find your perfect match. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, cultural immersion, or a taste of Mexican fiesta, this guide will help you choose the best Xcaret park for your interests and create an unforgettable vacation.
How Many Xcaret Parks Are There?
First and foremost, let us clarify that finding the “best” park is highly subjective. The ideal park will depend on your personal preferences and interests. We will give you an overview of all Xcaret parks so you can decide which is best for you.
If you’re planning a vacation in Cancun or elsewhere in the Riviera Maya and are having trouble compiling a list of fun activities, the theme parks in the Xcaret family have you covered.
The Xcaret parks are a collection of eco-archaeological parks located in the Riviera Maya, Quintana Roo, Mexico. They are owned and operated by Experiencias Xcaret, a Mexican company founded by Miguel Quintana Pali. While the company itself was founded in 1984, the first park, Xcaret, opened its doors in December 1990. So, they’ve been operating for over 30 years! The idea for the parks stemmed from Quintana Pali’s vision to create a sustainable tourism model that showcased the natural and cultural beauty of the region while promoting conservation and responsible development.
Since the opening of Xcaret, the company has expanded to include several other unique parks. There are six parks in total, each catering to different types of visitors:
- Xcaret: A cultural park with wildlife encounters, underground rivers, Mayan ruins, and a spectacular evening show.
- Xel-Ha: A natural aquarium park with snorkeling, swimming, and water activities.
- Xplor: An adventure park with zip lines, underground rivers, and amphibious vehicles.
- Xenses: A park focused on sensory experiences and illusions.
- Xoximilco: A festive park with traditional Mexican music, food, and celebrations.
- Xavage: An adrenaline-pumping park with jet boats, whitewater rafting, and monster trucks.
The Xcaret parks have become a major tourist destination in the Riviera Maya, attracting millions of visitors each year and contributing significantly to the region’s economy.
If you want to immerse yourself in Mexican culture, nature and Caribbean vibes, then the main Xcaret park is best. Xel-Ha is your best bet, if you’re into water activities like snorkeling and observing marine life. If you’re in the mood for a sensory challenge, Xenses will spark your imagination. But if you’re an adrenaline junkie with an appetite for thrills, Xplor is the place to be. For those who are in excellent physical shape and seeking extreme adventures, Xavage will push your limits. Finally, if you want to go on a culinary journey and have fun with friends, Xoximilco is the perfect choice.
Let’s look at all Xcaret’s parks, so you can decide which one will be the best match for you!
Xcaret
The park is a unique blend of theme park, botanical garden, zoo, and a vibrant celebration of Mexican culture. Xcaret is rightfully the mother of all Xcaret parks, as it is the biggest and has fun activities for all. It doesn’t have a specific theme; rather, it is a one-size-fits-all park with something for everyone. The park offers a wide range of activities, from swimming in the underground rivers, aviaries, butterfly sanctuaries and aquariums. Wildlife lovers can marvel at jaguars, turtles, flamingos, and more. For those seeking extra thrills, optional activities like swimming with dolphins or sharks are available at an extra cost.
If you’re visiting the Riviera Maya with younger kids, this is probably the place to go. Xcaret offers something for everyone, and one day is not enough to explore everything in detail. A full day is necessary just to hit the highlights.
One of the highlights of visiting Xcaret Park is their spectacular evening show. It combines Mexican dance, history and impressive performances like the ancient Mayan fireball game (Pok Ta’ Pok). Be sure to save some energy for the evening to see the show – you won’t regret it!
Xcaret Park has several restaurants which offer diverse dining experiences, from traditional Mexican cuisine to international buffets and fresh seafood. A buffet lunch is included in the Plus and Total admission price. We highly recommend choosing the option with lunch included, as purchasing the lunch separately will be more expensive.
The park’s layout is well-organized, with color-coded routes to guide visitors, and a lot of incredibly helpful staff. Also, they have an app with a very convenient interactive map!
Xcaret’s blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and a thoughtful design makes it a must-visit for anyone in the Riviera Maya. You’ll definitely want to return to explore further, as it is impossible to see everything in one day.
Xcaret Park is a perfect match for:
First-time visitors to Mexico: Xcaret provides a comprehensive introduction to Mexican culture and nature. This makes it a great choice for those wanting to experience a variety of attractions in one place.
Families with children: Xcaret offers something for all ages, from swimming in underground rivers and exploring the butterfly pavilion, to watching cultural performances and learning about Mayan history. There’s even a dedicated children’s area with water activities and a playground.
Nature lovers: With its lush jungle setting, stunning cenotes, and diverse wildlife, Xcaret is a nature lover’s paradise. You can snorkel with tropical fish, explore the coral reef aquarium, and wander through the butterfly pavilion and aviary.
Culture enthusiasts: Xcaret celebrates Mexican culture and heritage through its various exhibits, performances, and activities. You can witness traditional dances, learn about Mayan history, and experience authentic Mexican cuisine.
Adventure seekers: While not as extreme as Xplor Park, Xcaret offers some thrills with its underground river swims, snorkeling in the inlet, and optional activities like swimming with dolphins or exploring the Mayan village.
In short, Xcaret Park is ideal for those who want a mix of nature, culture, adventure, and relaxation. All in one beautiful and immersive setting.
Xcaret Park might not be the best choice for:
Budget-conscious travelers: Xcaret is one of the more expensive parks in the Riviera Maya. If you’re on a tight budget, you might look into other less costly parks or activities.
Those seeking intense thrills: While Xcaret has some adventure elements, it’s not as focused on adrenaline-pumping activities as Xplor or Xavage. If you’re looking for zip lines, ATV rides, or extreme sports, those parks might be a better fit.
People with limited mobility: Xcaret involves a fair amount of walking, and some attractions, like the underground rivers, require navigating stairs and uneven terrain. While there are accessible pathways, those with significant mobility challenges might find it tiring or limiting.
Xel-Ha
Xel-Ha isn’t your typical water park. It’s a natural wonder built around a stunning lagoon where underground rivers meet the Caribbean Sea. The name “Xel-Ha” actually means “where water is born,” and you’ll quickly see why as you explore this incredible ecosystem. The heart of Xel-Ha is its massive inlet, where freshwater mixes with the salty Caribbean, creating a vibrant underwater world teeming with colorful tropical fish, stingrays, and even sea turtles—a snorkeler’s paradise!
You can float down a lazy river through the mangroves, explore hidden cenotes, try cliff jumping, or zip-line into the refreshing waters. For a bird’s-eye view and some adrenaline, climb the 40-meter Scenic Lighthouse. Experience the thrill of its four spiraling waterslides, each offering a unique descent into a refreshing pool. IMPORTANT: The ride down may be a little bumpy. It may not be the best idea to allow your younger kids to ride it.
For younger children, the Children’s World is a haven for fun. It has water slides, a treehouse adventure course with rope bridges and tunnels, and more.
One of Xel-Ha’s biggest perks is its all-inclusive admission, which covers everything from snorkeling gear, lockers, and towels to unlimited food and drinks, including alcohol.
While there’s plenty to do with the basic admission, Xel-Ha also offers some extra adventures for an additional cost, like the Sea Trek underwater walking tour, swimming with dolphins or manatees, relaxing spa treatments, and the unique Zip Bikes.
Xel-Ha is a unique aquatic paradise within the Xcaret family of parks, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure for a memorable day of exploring and enjoying the natural beauty of the Riviera Maya.
For more details, check our awesome video about Xel-Ha park!
Xel-Ha is the perfect park for:
Snorkelers and swimmers: Xel-Ha is a snorkeler’s paradise, with a huge natural inlet teeming with colorful fish and marine life.
Families: The calm waters of the inlet and the variety of activities make it a great place for families.
Nature lovers: The park is an eco-park with lush jungle trails, cenotes, and diverse flora and fauna. You can observe manatees, dolphins, or simply relax in a hammock surrounded by nature.
Those seeking relaxation: Xel-Ha offers a laid-back atmosphere. It’s a great place to escape the hustle and bustle and connect with nature.
Foodies: Xel-Ha is an all-inclusive park with several restaurants offering a variety of delicious food and drinks.
In essence, Xel-Ha is the ideal Xcaret park for those who love water activities, exploring nature, and enjoying a relaxing day with delicious food and drinks in a beautiful setting.
Xel-Ha Park might not be the ideal choice for:
Non-swimmers: If you are not a fan of swimming or snorkeling, it’s obviously a mismatch. The park’s focus is on water activities. (However, the all-inclusive food and drinks might brighten the picture).
Thrill-seekers: If your idea of a great park involves high-speed rides, intense zip lines, or challenging obstacle courses, Xel-Ha might not deliver the adrenaline rush you’re after. It’s more about relaxing exploration and enjoying the natural environment.
People who prefer a focus on culture and history: Xel-Ha’s main draw is the natural environment and water activities. If you’re looking for Mayan ruins, historical sites, or cultural performances, Xcaret or a dedicated archaeological site might be a better choice.
Visitors who dislike crowds: Xel-Ha can get quite busy, especially during peak season. If you prefer a more secluded or tranquil experience, consider visiting during the off-season. Or explore a less crowded cenote or beach.
Xenses
Xenses Park offers a truly unique experience, designed to engage all your senses in fun and unexpected ways. Though it is smaller than other Xcaret parks, Xenses packs in plenty of activities perfect for a half-day visit. From the moment you enter through the iconic pinwheel building, you are greeted with cleverly designed attractions that challenge perception, from optical illusions to sensory experiences.
The park’s ‘Pueblo’ town is a major highlight, offering fantastic photo opportunities with its quirky, disorienting architecture. This town is wildly mind-bending, and you might even feel a bit nauseous due to its unusual design. It’s perfect for unique and memorable pictures, so be sure to bring your camera!
The park also features several water-based activities, including a water slide, a SPA section with a relaxing lazy river and a mud bath that adds an element of playful adventure. As well as a unique zip line where you “fly like a bird” over the park and through the caves.
One of the most intriguing attractions is the Xensatorium, where you walk through complete darkness, using only your sense of touch and sound to navigate through different ecosystems. However, this experience may not be suitable if you are claustrophobic or afraid of the dark.
Being a smaller half-day park, Xenses does not offer admissions with food included. However, they have a very cool lunch area with a variety of snacks and a decent menu.
Overall, Xenses is an imaginative, sensory-filled adventure unlike anything else, making it a must-visit for anyone near Cancun.
For more details, check our amazing video about Xenses park!
Xenses Insomnia
There is a nighttime version of the Xenses Park experience called Xenses Insomnia. It offers a completely different experience from the regular daytime visit. Unlike the playful and family-oriented atmosphere of the day, Insomnia takes a more mysterious, eerie approach, designed to challenge your senses in a darker, more surreal environment.
The Insomnia experience emphasizes sensory illusions, living art, and unexpected twists, all in the dark. Visitors are guided through different zones, where their senses of sight, sound, touch, and balance are continuously challenged by illusions and immersive environments. This nighttime adventure plays on the idea of navigating the unknown, with many of the same attractions as the daytime park, but in a way that feels more intense and disorienting after dark.
The overall vibe of Xenses Insomnia is “wacky fun” but with a more thrilling edge. The darkness heightens the experience, making it feel like a dreamlike exploration of the senses. This experience is difficult to describe due to the surreal nature of the park’s activities. We highly recommend it for those looking for a one-of-a-kind, sensory-stimulating adventure at night.
Heads up! Xenses Insomnia will be temporarily closed from November 11, 2024, until summer 2025.
Xenses park is best suited for:
Families with older children and teens: Xenses is a great place for families to have fun together, but younger children (and some adults 🙂 might find some of the illusions and sensory experiences a bit overwhelming. Older kids and teens, however, will likely be fascinated by the mind-bending challenges and quirky activities.
Adventurous couples and groups of friends: Xenses provides a fun and playful environment for couples and friends to connect and create memories. Navigating the illusions and challenges together can be a great bonding experience.
Those who enjoy unique and quirky experiences: If you’re looking for something different from the typical theme park, Xenses delivers. It’s a place to challenge your perceptions, laugh at optical illusions, and embrace the unexpected.
Those who want a ton of cool pictures: Xenses is a photographer’s paradise, filled with colorful, whimsical, and downright bizarre scenes that will make your Instagram feed pop. From optical illusions and gravity-defying backdrops to hidden corners and surprising perspectives, there’s a photo op around every corner.
Anyone seeking a shorter park experience: Xenses is a half-day park, making it a good option for those who want a fun and engaging experience without committing to a full day at a larger park.
If you’re looking for a park that challenges your senses, and encourages you to see the world in a new way, Xenses is the perfect choice! It is a unique park by Xcaret designed to ignite your imagination and take you on a journey through a world of illusions and sensory experiences.
Xenses Park is not well-suited for:
Those with certain sensory sensitivities: Xenses is designed to challenge your senses with illusions, unusual environments, and sometimes unexpected sensations. If you have sensory processing sensitivities or are prone to motion sickness, this park could be overwhelming or uncomfortable.
People with mobility limitations: While Xenses has some accessible pathways, some of the activities involve navigating uneven terrain, climbing, and moving through unique spaces that might be challenging for those with mobility issues.
Very young children: Xenses is best suited for older children and teens who can grasp the concept of illusions and enjoy the more unusual experiences. Very young children might find some of the activities confusing or even a bit frightening.
People looking for traditional theme park rides: Xenses doesn’t have roller coasters or typical thrill rides. There is a focus on interactive experiences, illusions, and sensory adventures. If you’re seeking traditional amusement park thrills, this is not for you.
Xplor
Xplor Park is an adventure lover’s paradise, offering a thrilling mix of activities like zip-lining through the jungle, splashing down waterslides, exploring underground rivers and caves, and even driving amphibious vehicles. If you’re seeking unique experiences and love to connect with nature, this park is for you!
One of the coolest things about Xplor is that it’s built in and around a natural cave system. As you walk from one activity to another, you’ll find yourself navigating through stunning natural caves with stalactites and stalagmites, adding an extra layer of adventure and awe to the experience.
Xplor offers a great balance of water-based and land-based activities. But be warned: even the seemingly “dry” activities might leave you drenched—either from sweat or a surprise splash! Be prepared for a good amount of walking (water shoes are a must!), and if you’re tackling the zip-lines, get ready for some stair climbing. However, the incredible views and thrilling rides are worth every step!
Besides the various zip-lines (including a fun hammock splash!), the underground river adventures, and the amphibious vehicles, Xplor also boasts a thrilling 5-in-1 waterslide with four different types of descent. Get ready for an adrenaline rush!
Your admission includes a fantastic buffet lunch with a wide array of tasty dishes and refreshing drinks (non-alcoholic), ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Navigating the park is easy thanks to clear signage, and the staff is helpful and polite throughout the day.
While Xplor Park is physically demanding, the unique adventures and unforgettable experiences make it well worth the entrance fee. It’s the perfect park in the Xcaret family for those seeking a truly wild adventure!
To see what we’re talking about, check out our cool video about Xplor park!
Xplor Fuego
Xplor Fuego is the nighttime version of the Xplor Park. It is essentially the same park as the daytime Xplor, with all the same activities, but with a completely different atmosphere. It offers a unique adventure experience in the same natural setting but with a more thrilling, mystical atmosphere as it is illuminated by fire and torches.
Xplor Fuego is ideal for those who enjoy nighttime adventures and want to experience Xplor Park with an extra touch of excitement and mystery.
The park is open from 5:30 PM to 11:30 PM, allowing you to enjoy thrilling activities in a completely different setting.
Xplor Park is definitely geared towards adventure and adrenaline! Here’s who would have a blast there:
Thrill-seekers: This is the park for those who love an adrenaline rush! With zip-lines soaring through the jungle, amphibious vehicles to drive through rivers and caves, and rafts to navigate underground rivers, it’s an action-packed day.
Active adventurers: If you’re not afraid to get a little dirty and love physical challenges, Xplor is perfect. You’ll be climbing, swimming, exploring, and pushing your limits in a fun and exciting environment.
Older kids and teens: While there’s a minimum age requirement (5 years old), Xplor is best for older kids, teens, and adults who can handle the more adventurous activities and have the stamina to make the most of the day.
Groups of friends: Xplor is a fantastic place to go with a group of friends and share the thrills and excitement together. It’s a great way to bond and create lasting memories.
Those who love unique experiences: Where else can you zip-line into a cenote or drive an amphibious vehicle through an underground river? Xplor offers unique and unforgettable experiences you won’t find anywhere else.
Nature lovers: The natural caves the park is built around are over 60 million years old! These ancient formations are still actively changing, with water and minerals slowly shaping new wonders even as you walk through them.
If you’re looking for a day filled with adventure, excitement, and unforgettable memories, Xplor Park by Xcaret is the best place to be!
Xplor park is not for:
Those with fear of heights: A significant portion of Xplor’s activities involve heights, including the zip-lines and amphibious vehicles that traverse high bridges. If you’re uncomfortable with heights, Xplor is not for you.
Those disliking closed spaces and caves: It’s important to note that many of the activities take place in caves and enclosed spaces. If you’re claustrophobic, you might want to consider a different park or prepare to face your fears!
People with limited mobility: Xplor is a physically demanding park, requiring swimming, walking, climbing, and navigating uneven terrain. While some areas are accessible, it might be challenging for those with mobility limitations.
Young children: While Xplor allows children over 5, the activities are geared towards older kids, teens, and adults. Younger children might not meet the height requirements for some activities or find the overall experience too intense.
Pregnant women: Due to the physical nature of the activities, Xplor is not for pregnant women.
People with certain health conditions: Those with heart conditions, back problems, or other health concerns should consult their doctor before visiting Xplor. Some activities may be too strenuous.
Visitors seeking a relaxing experience: Xplor is all about adventure and adrenaline. If you’re looking for a relaxing day by the pool or a leisurely stroll, this park might not be right.
Xavage
Xavage is an extreme adventure park, designed for adrenaline seekers and those looking for physically demanding activities. Opened in 2018, it is the newest addition to the Xcaret family of parks. Unlike its more nature-oriented siblings, Xavage is completely man-made, though no less thrilling. The park offers a variety of high-intensity activities, from zip lines to jet boats, all designed to push your limits.
At Xavage, you can test your strength and agility on a multi-level ropes course high above the ground. Take the wheel of a powerful Monster Truck and navigate a challenging obstacle course with rocky terrain and steep hills. For a unique thrill, you can soar through the air on a horizontal zip-line. Experience the sensation of flight as you zip along face-first.
Xavage also offers you the chance to experience the thrill of whitewater rafting through exciting rapids. Feel the rush of a powerful jet boat as it speeds through narrow canals with 360° spins and sudden drops. If you prefer a calmer experience, you have the option to kayak through serene jungle waterways.
Younger adventurers can enjoy the Splash Zone with waterslides and a wading pool. Those seeking a break can relax in the shaded area.
The admission to Xavage comes with a buffet where you can enjoy a delicious meal with unlimited non-alcoholic drinks. All while taking in a panoramic view of the park.
Xavage offers an exhilarating day for adrenaline junkies. It’s the best park in the Xcaret family for those who crave adrenaline and unforgettable challenges. Prepare yourself for a physically demanding adventure that will leave you exhausted but exhilarated.
Heads up! Xavage Park will be temporarily closed for upgrades from November 12, 2024, until summer 2025.
Xavage Park is the perfect playground for:
Thrill-seekers and adrenaline junkies: This park is for those who crave excitement and love to test their limits. With high-speed jet boat rides, whitewater rapids, and challenging rope courses, Xavage delivers an action-packed day.
Adventure lovers: If you’re the type who enjoys physical challenges and exploring the outdoors, Xavage is your ideal destination. You can kayak through jungle canals, climb a rope course, and conquer challenging obstacles.
Groups of friends or families with older children: Xavage is a great place to go with a group and share the thrills and excitement. It’s perfect for families with teens and older children who are looking for adventure.
Those who want to try something new and unique: Xavage offers activities you won’t find at many other parks, like the Monster Truck experience and the Rope Course. It’s a chance to step outside your comfort zone and try something different.
People who enjoy a challenge: Xavage is not for the faint of heart! Many of the activities require strength, stamina, and a willingness to push yourself. If you love a good challenge, you’ll thrive in this environment.
Xavage Park may not be the ideal choice for:
Those with fear of heights or water: Many of Xavage’s activities involve heights (zip-lines, rope courses) and water (jet boats, rafting). If you’re uncomfortable with either, this park is perhaps not for you.
People with limited mobility: Xavage is a very physically demanding park. Activities require strength, stamina, and the ability to navigate uneven terrain.
Young children:While Xavage allows children over 5, the activities are for older kids, teens, and adults who can handle the intensity and physical demands.
Pregnant women: Due to the adventurous nature of the activities, we do not recommend Xavage for pregnant women.
People with certain health conditions: Those with heart conditions, back problems, or other health concerns should consult their doctor before visiting, as some activities may be too strenuous.
Those seeking a relaxing or cultural experience: Xavage is all about adrenaline and adventure. If you’re looking for a relaxing day or a park focused on culture and history, perhaps go elsewhere.
Xoximilco
Xoximilco Cancun offers a festive and unique way to experience Mexican culture, music, and cuisine. The park recreates the festive atmosphere of the iconic Xochimilco canals in Mexico City, bringing this vibrant tradition to the heart of Cancun.
You’ll be cruising with your group along canals in a colorful “trajinera” (gondola), accompanied by lively music, delicious traditional food and drinks, particularly tequila, which flows freely throughout the evening, and the joyous spirit of a true Mexican fiesta.
The adventure begins as soon as you leave your hotel and continues with a lively, music-filled boat ride through Cancun’s waterways.
You’ll be treated to live mariachi performances, traditional Mexican music, and plenty of opportunities to dance and socialize with fellow travelers. The atmosphere is festive, with boats full of people singing, drinking, and playing games. The tour includes multiple stops to enjoy different Mexican dishes and learn about the origins of the food.
The Xoximilco tour lasts approximately three hours, giving you ample time to savor the delicious food, soak up the vibrant atmosphere, and enjoy the open bar with tequila and beer. While the experience is undoubtedly festive, it’s worth noting that the tour is alcohol-heavy, with tequila being a focal point. Those who aren’t keen on drinking may find the experience overwhelming.
The Xoximilco adventure is well-organized, with friendly and engaging guides who keep the energy high and ensure everyone has a fantastic time. While comfortable shoes are recommended for the walk to the boats and the sometimes wobbly bridge, the overall experience is one of fun and celebration. If you’re looking for a unique and memorable way to experience Mexican traditions, music, and cuisine, Xoximilco is a fantastic choice!
Xoximilco Park in Cancun is a great choice for:
Those who love to party and have fun: Xoximilco is all about celebrating with live music, dancing, games, and a lively atmosphere. If you enjoy letting loose and having a good time, this park is for you.
Groups of friends and families: The shared experience of being on a trajinera with friends or family creates a fun and festive atmosphere. It’s a great way to bond and celebrate a special occasion.
People who enjoy Mexican culture: Xoximilco offers a taste of Mexican traditions with live mariachi music, typical food, and a festive ambiance. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the culture.
Foodies: The park provides a delicious tasting menu of authentic Mexican dishes. If you love to try new flavors and enjoy a good meal, you’ll be in for a treat.
Those seeking a unique and memorable experience: Riding a trajinera through the canals, enjoying live music, and savoring delicious food under the stars creates a unique and memorable experience that’s different from other theme parks.
If you’re looking for a fun-filled night of Mexican festivities, delicious food, and good company, Xoximilco is the place to be!
While Xoximilco is a fun and festive experience, it might not be the ideal choice for:
People who dislike crowds or loud noise: Xoximilco can get quite lively with music, singing, and chatter. If you prefer a more quiet and intimate setting, this is perhaps not for you.
Those seeking thrills or adventure: Xoximilco is more about enjoying the festive atmosphere, food, and company. If you’re looking for adrenaline-pumping activities or physical challenges, you might prefer the Xplor or Xavage parks.
Visitors with limited mobility: While the trajineras are accessible, navigating the pier and getting on and off the boats might be challenging for those with mobility limitations.
People who prefer a more cultural or historical experience: While Xoximilco offers a taste of Mexican culture, it’s primarily a party atmosphere. If you’re seeking a deeper dive into Mayan history or traditions, you might prefer Xcaret or a visit to an archaeological site.
Families with young children: The late evening hours and party atmosphere might not be ideal for families. While kids are allowed, they might get restless or overwhelmed by the noise and activity.
We hope this guide has helped you choose the best Xcaret park for your unforgettable adventure in the Riviera Maya!
If you’re curious about the ancient Maya, be sure to check out our article about Mexico’s magnificent Mayan ruins.
