Xavage vs Xplor: Which Adventure Park Should You Choose?

Choose Xplor for natural caves and extensive zip lines (two routes with seven runs each over jungle canopy into underground cenotes, underground cave rafting through beautifully lit passages, swimming in crystal-clear cenote waters, established jungle atmosphere), best for groups/families wanting varied activities and adventure feeling. Choose Xavage for motorized high-adrenaline experiences (45 mph powerboats, monster truck driving, face-down Superman-style zip line, whitewater rafting simulation, four-level rope obstacle courses), ideal for extreme thrill seekers wanting something different from typical zip line parks. Both cost identically ($149.99 USD adults, $112.49 children with 10-20% discounts for advance booking 7-21+ days ahead, 20% off combo tickets), include buffet lunch/snacks/lockers/showers, Xplor sits 13 minutes south of Playa del Carmen (Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm), Xavage closer to Cancun (Tuesday-Saturday 8:30am-5pm, both closed Sundays).

Both Xavage and Xplor offer thrilling adventure experiences in the Riviera Maya, but they cater to different preferences. Understanding what each park offers helps you choose the right one for your group. Having visited both parks multiple times since moving to Playa del Carmen, I can break down exactly what makes each one unique.

Location and Hours

Xplor is closer to Playa del Carmen, making it more convenient for those staying in the area, just about 13 minutes south on Highway 307. It operates Monday through Saturday from 9am to 5pm. Xavage sits closer to Cancun, which works better if you're based in the hotel zone there. It runs Tuesday through Saturday from 8:30am to 5pm. Both parks are closed on Sundays, so plan accordingly when scheduling your visit.

Park Atmosphere

Xplor has been around longer, which means the plants and trees have grown in around everything, creating a lush jungle and cave environment. The vegetation feels established and immersive, you genuinely feel like you're in a jungle adventure rather than a constructed theme park. The natural cenotes and cave systems add an authenticity that can't be replicated.

Xavage is newer, so its landscaping is still developing. The facilities feel more modern and purpose-built, but the surrounding environment hasn't had time to mature into that jungle atmosphere. If natural surroundings and that "lost in the wilderness" feeling matter to your experience, Xplor currently has the definite edge.

Xavage Activities

Xavage offers six main activities focused on high-adrenaline, motorized experiences:

Kayaking through calm canals provides a more relaxed option between intense activities, letting you catch your breath while enjoying scenic waterways. The rope obstacle courses span four levels of increasing difficulty, from beginner-friendly to genuinely challenging routes that test your strength and balance. Their face-down zip line offers a unique flying sensation completely different from traditional zip lines, you're suspended Superman-style, which creates an exhilarating sense of flight.

Powerboat rides reach speeds up to 45 mph for those who love water thrills, this is pure adrenaline on the water. The whitewater rafting simulation includes two exciting drops that get your heart pumping. Finally, the monster truck driving course lets you navigate extreme terrain in oversized vehicles, which is unlike anything else available in the region.

Xplor Activities

Xplor focuses on five main experiences centered around natural caves and extensive zip lines:

Underground cave rafting takes you through beautifully lit passages beneath the jungle, paddling through ancient cave systems that took millions of years to form. Amphibious vehicles allow solo or group exploration of rugged jungle terrain through tunnels and wooded trails. A newer waterslide ends in a whirlpool finish for added fun between major activities.

Swimming in underground rivers lets you float through crystal-clear cenote waters in ancient cave systems with stunning rock formations and atmospheric lighting. The park's signature feature is its zip line circuit, two routes with seven runs each, offering extensive flying time over the jungle canopy and into underground cenotes. These are widely considered the best zip lines in the entire Riviera Maya.

Pricing

Both parks charge identically: approximately $149.99 USD for adults and $112.49 USD for children. Discounts are available for advance purchases that make a meaningful difference: 10% off for booking 7 or more days ahead, 15% off for 21 or more days ahead, and 20% off combo tickets if you want to visit both parks during your trip to the region.

What's Included

Both parks include buffet lunch with solid food options, snack bar access throughout the day, complimentary lockers for your belongings, and showers with changing facilities in the admission price. Professional photo packages are available for purchase separately at both locations, with photographers positioned at key exciting moments.

Which Should You Choose?

Xplor tends to offer more activities and overall more fun for groups or families, particularly due to the extensive zip line options and the atmospheric cave experiences. The established jungle setting adds genuine adventure feeling that enhances every activity. When friends visit me from Toronto, Xplor is usually my recommendation.

Xavage appeals more to those seeking extreme motorized thrills like high-speed powerboats and monster trucks. It's ideal for adventure seekers who want something different from typical zip line parks, or for return visitors who've already done Xplor and want a new experience. The face-down zip line alone offers something you can't find elsewhere.

The Bottom Line

Both parks are way ahead of other adventure parks in the region in terms of quality, safety, and overall experience. You really can't go wrong with either choice, it just depends on whether you prefer natural caves and traditional zip lines or motorized adventure activities and unique thrills. If you have time for both, the combo ticket discount makes experiencing both parks an excellent value.

Related Playa del Carmen Adventure Resources

• Playa del Carmen Complete Guide
• More Riviera Maya Adventure Guides
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