An enigmatic Mayan past surrounds this famous eco-park. Visitors at Xcaret Park can explore a group of small archaeological buildings and Mayan ruins from the late Postclassical period, nestled within the deep tropical jungle.

The pre-Hispanic name of Xcaret is believed to have been Pole that means in Mayan “commerce” or “related to merchants”, which grants a more clear idea of the economical importance of this site known to have been a major commercial port of the Maya world.

Archaeological investigations have confirmed that even though the buildings seem to date from the Postclassical period (1200-1550), it´s possible that the first structures were built earlier in 200-600 A.D.  The Mayan Ruins at Xcaret were built as the “Oriental Coast” Mayan architecture style, featuring decorative characteristics such as painted facades, lintels and temples.   

When the Spanish campaign by Alonso Davila and Francisco Montejo arrived to Pole in the 16th century, they found Mayans still living in this site, which is why the built a chapel close to the Mayan ruins in Xcaret.

The Mayan Ruins at Xcaret consists of four buildings that extend close to the coast and can be reached within minutes from each other. When Xcaret Park was built the attractions and activities were specially designed not to interfere in the pre-Hispanic harmony of the ruins allowing visitors to explore them as part of their visit. 

All Xcaret Tickets include access to the Mayan Ruins, from the Xcaret Basic entrance to the personalized Xcaret Tour (Xcaret Plus, Xcaret Two Days).