Throughout the park, during the day, there are shows and demonstrations and feedings of the wildlife and sea animals, but you must check the board at the entrance for the times and endeavor to be at those stations for that time. We arrived at the tail end of a horseback riding show that looked as if it would have been quite spectacular.

When you tire of walking around, you can find yourself a comfortable lounge chair alongside the lagoon and bask in the sun and watch the youngsters play in the warm, calm waters. In the distance you can see the dolphins and those customers who chose to pay extra to "swim with the dolphins."

The evening show at Xcaret is not to be missed. It does make for a long day, but since the entertainment is included with the entrance fee, you may as well enjoy it. One end of the large auditorium is reserved for those who would like to dine (for an additional fee, of course) while watching the show. The rest of the auditorium was filling up rapidly long before the show was scheduled to begin. Having been to other events such as these, we knew to get our seats and then find something to eat. Just behind the seats were several places where one could get chips, ice cream, hot dogs, and the like.

As we went through the entry gate, we were all given a candle in a paper holder. Shortly before the show was to start, one of the hosts lit the candle of each person closest to the aisle. It was truly an experience of sharing as the flame progressed along each row, and it was also one of wonderment and beauty as the sparks of light pierced the night sky.

The show began with the demonstration of two games played by the people of the area long ago. One was played by hitting a soccer-type ball with one’s hip; the other involved a ball on fire and a lacrosse-type of stick. Following that there was a history of Mexico set to dance and song, and it was absolutely spectacular—not to be missed.

First, I'll admit, I don't swim in open waters as I've already lost two relatives that way, but when I saw a 5-year-old boy jump in the water like it was his bathtub, I said, I'm not going to let this kid punk me! So, with my life vest and my wife we snorkeled/swam for a good distance (about maybe two miles?), through the caves and into the woods (kidding on the 'woods' part). But I had an awesome time. My wife doesn't know how to swim and she was taken away (no pun intended). Amazing to see the fishes just pass below you and brush side you (the daring fishes :-) ) There's so much to write but I don't want to give everything away, so I'll let you be surprised. There's sea turtles the size of coffee tables (not where you snorkel but somewhere else to see). Many other amazing animals there. The restaurants there are a bit pricey but their service was very good. Oh, before you leave, you better buy a souvenir; so at least you have something to throw in your friend's face when you get back home.

Overall, it was a great time. Very tiring, but awesome. Be prepared to spend the whole day there. We went in our rental, but they have tours that take you there... if you're not into driving after a long day, take the tour. Either way, you still won't be disappointed!!!

For your admission fee you can visit a small zoo with Pumas and Tigers, a butterfly exhibit with a waterfall, and a very large sea water river filled with some fish. If you go, bring or rent the snorkel gear. The water was cold at first but it was refreshing. This is one of the main attractions.

There is a buffet style restaurant that has a music show and parrots all around. The food was just ok but the atmosphere was nice with the birds singing a long.

I did not think this was worth the price we paid to get in, I would not recomend this place simply because they did not give you enough for the money.