Xcalak Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Xcalak with this comprehensive travel guide featuring top attractions, hiking/biking routes, best things to do, where to stay, and more.


Traveler’s Guide to Xcalak, Mexico

Located in Quintana Roo, in Yucatan and the South, in Mexico, North America, Xcalak is a hidden gem for travelers who crave off-the-beaten-path destinations. With its pristine beaches, warm waters, and rich cultural heritage, Xcalak is a paradise for nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, foodies, and adventure seekers. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll explore the top attractions, hiking/biking routes, best things to do, where to stay, and more in Xcalak.

Introduction to Xcalak

Xcalak is a charming fishing village located on the southernmost tip of the Yucatan Peninsula. Once an ancient Mayan city, Xcalak is now a tranquil oasis that provides travelers with an authentic and intimate experience of Mexican culture, customs, and traditions. The town’s unspoiled natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life have made it a popular destination for snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing, and kayaking.

List of Places to Visit in Xcalak

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Xcalak Museum: A small museum that showcases the town’s history, culture, and traditions. The museum’s exhibits include artifacts, photographs, and paintings from the Mayan and colonial periods.
  • San Cristobal Fort: A historical fort that was built in the 18th century to protect Xcalak from pirate attacks. The fort is now a museum that displays a collection of weapons, tools, and uniforms from the Mexican Revolution.
  • Xcalak Archaeological Site: The ruins of a Mayan city that dates back to the 7th century. The site is home to several temples, pyramids, and ball courts, some of which are still being excavated.

Natural Attractions of Xcalak: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Xcalak National Park: A protected area that covers over 358,000 hectares of coastal wetlands, mangroves, and lagoons. The park is home to over 300 species of birds, mammals, reptiles, and fish, including manatees, crocodiles, and jaguars.
  • Mahahual Reef: A vibrant coral reef that stretches along the coast of Xcalak. The reef is a haven for divers and snorkelers who can explore its colorful marine life including schools of tropical fish, turtles, rays, and sharks.
  • Laguna Bacalar: A stunning lake that is known for its seven shades of blue. The lake offers swimming, kayaking, and boating opportunities for visitors.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Xcalak

  • Maya Ka’an Trails: A network of hiking and biking trails that connect several Mayan communities near Xcalak. The trails offer a unique opportunity to explore the region’s lush forests, cenotes, and wildlife.

Best Things to Do in Xcalak: Activities and Tours

  • Scuba Diving: Xcalak’s crystal-clear waters and colorful marine life make it a top destination for diving. Several scuba diving schools in the town offer a variety of courses and guided tours for all levels of divers.
  • Snorkeling: The Mahahual Reef and Xcalak National Park offer excellent snorkeling opportunities for visitors to explore the region’s marine life up close.
  • Kayaking: Renting a kayak and exploring the lagoons and mangroves of Xcalak National Park is a great way to experience the town’s unspoiled natural beauty.
  • Fishing: Xcalak is a world-renowned fishing destination where visitors can catch tarpon, snook, bonefish, and permit.

Week-Long Itinerary for Xcalak

Day 1: Arrival and check-in at your accommodation Day 2: Scuba diving at the Mahahual Reef Day 3: Explore the Xcalak National Park and the Bacalar Lagoon Day 4: Visit the Xcalak Museum and the San Cristobal Fort Day 5: Take a hike/bike tour of the Maya Ka’an Trails Day 6: Fishing trip Day 7: Departure from Xcalak

Food and Drink Scene of Xcalak

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ceviche: A traditional Mexican dish made with fresh raw fish, lime juice, chili peppers, onions, and cilantro.
  • Tacos de Pastor: A popular street food that consists of marinated pork, pineapple, onions, and cilantro.
  • Chilaquiles: A breakfast dish made with fried tortillas, salsa, cheese, and shredded chicken or eggs.

Local Beverages

  • Horchata: A sweet rice milk drink that is flavored with cinnamon and vanilla.
  • Tequila: Mexico’s most famous distilled beverage made from the blue agave plant.
  • Margarita: A cocktail made with tequila, lime juice, and triple sec, served with salt on the rim of the glass.

Where to Stay in Xcalak: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Costa de Cocos: A beachfront resort that offers comfortable rooms and bungalows, a restaurant with ocean views, a diving center, and a fishing pier.
  • Tierra Maya Lodge: A rustic lodge that specializes in fly-fishing and eco-tourism. The lodge has comfortable rooms and a restaurant that serves local cuisine.
  • Traveler’s Inn: A budget-friendly hostel that offers dorm rooms and private rooms. The hostel has a shared kitchen, a lounge area, and a small garden.

What to Buy in Xcalak: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handicrafts: Xcalak is known for its traditional Mayan crafts, such as woven carpets, pottery, and hand-carved wooden statues.
  • Tequila and Mezcal: Xcalak is located near several tequila and mezcal distilleries that offer tastings and tours.
  • Honey: The region is home to several honey farms that produce high-quality honey from local flowers.

Local Culture and Customs of Xcalak

Xcalak has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its food, music, art, and festivals. The town’s main festivals are the Day of the Dead, which is celebrated in November, and the Carnival, which takes place in February. Visitors can experience the town’s cultural traditions and customs by attending local fiestas, markets, and cultural events.

Best Time to Visit Xcalak

The best time to visit Xcalak is from November to April, when the weather is dry and mild, and the sea is calm and clear. However, visitors can enjoy Xcalak’s natural beauty and cultural activities all year round.

Do’s and Don’ts of Xcalak

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Explore the region’s natural attractions.

Don’t:

  • Swim or dive in unmarked areas.
  • Disrespect the environment or disturb the wildlife.
  • Disrespect the locals or act inappropriately.

Safety and Health

Safety in Xcalak

Xcalak is a relatively safe destination for travelers. However, visitors should take normal precautions, such as avoiding isolated areas, not carrying large sums of cash, and securing their valuables. It is also recommended that visitors check the latest travel advisories before traveling to Xcalak.

Health in Xcalak

Visitors are advised to take normal health precautions, such as drinking bottled water, using sunscreen, and wearing insect repellent. Visitors should also be aware of the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses, such as dengue fever and chikungunya.

Getting to Xcalak: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Xcalak

  • Chetumal International Airport: Located about 85 miles (137 km) north of Xcalak. The airport serves several domestic and international flights.
  • Cancun International Airport: Located about 250 miles (400 km) north of Xcalak. The airport serves numerous international flights.

Bus Stations Near Xcalak

  • Ado Bus Station: Located in Chetumal. The station offers several daily bus services to Xcalak.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Visitors can rent a car from several international car rental companies at Chetumal International Airport or Cancun International Airport.
  • Private Taxi: Visitors can hire a private taxi to take them to Xcalak from Chetumal or Cancun.

How to Get Around in Xcalak

Visitors can rent a car, hire a taxi, or use a bike to get around town. Walking is also an option for those who prefer to explore the town on foot.

Where to Go Next from Xcalak: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Belize: Xcalak is located near the border with Belize, where travelers can explore its beautiful cays, reef, and jungles.
  • Bacalar: A picturesque town that is known for its stunning lagoon and charming colonial architecture.
  • Tulum: A popular tourist destination that is famous for its Mayan ruins, beautiful beaches, and eco-tourism.

Conclusion

Xcalak is a hidden gem that offers visitors an authentic and intimate experience of Mexican culture, traditions, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a nature lover, culture enthusiast, foodie, or adventure seeker, Xcalak has something for everyone. Plan your trip today and experience the magic of Xcalak for yourself!

Aerial view of Xcalak. Aerial view of Xcalak.