Xetulul Theme Park

One thing that may surprise you is that Guatemala is home to the best amusement park in Central America. Locals refer to it as Xetulul, which is the theme park’s name but the place is a large compound that also includes a huge waterpark called Xocomil, four hotels, and a Spa.

It is located in the Retalhuleu Department of Guatemala and is part of a group of five parks spread across the country. They are operated by a private organization known as IRTRA, which was established by owners of the largest companies in the country to benefit all workers. Anyone can enjoy the park, however, only affiliated Guatemalans can enter with their immediate family for free and receive discounts at all of the rides, restaurants, and hotels.

Moreover, the service at this amusement park is among the finest you may encounter in the country.

Xetulul Theme Park Layout

The park is divided into nine main areas, each featuring scale models of the most popular buildings representative of the region it depicts. Restaurants, arcades, and rides are cleverly hidden among these buildings.

• Plaza Chapina: Located right at the entrance, it features a bank, a train station, and a restaurant.
• Guatemalan Town: Home to many food stands offering traditional dishes found at festivals across the country, along with some rides and a seafood restaurant.
• Mayan Plaza: The most iconic area, showcasing a massive representation of a Mayan pyramid and a zoo.
• Spain Plaza: Features a beautiful imitation of the courtyards of the famous Alhambra and a restaurant serving traditional Spanish cuisine, complete with a tablao flamenco.
• Italy Plaza: Highlighted by a scale representation of the Trevi Fountain, with the Medicci Palace beside it.
• France Plaza: Contains an arcade resembling the Moulin Rouge and a stunning theater for a captivating magic show.
• German/Sweden Plaza: Offers an opportunity to sample some of the best Guatemalan beer, traditional German sausages, and access to a roller coaster.
• Caribbean Town: Features a relaxing boat ride for kids and a representation of the San Felipe fortress from the Izabal Department.
• Fantasy Town: A whimsical area designed for young children, filled with gardens, gnomes, and colorful mushrooms.

The park features rides for all ages, including two roller coasters (one designed for adults and the other for kids), a theater, a climbing wall, a small zoo, a train, and much more.

Xocomil Water Park

Xocomil Water Park is located adjacent to Xetulul, sharing a vast parking space. This water park is among the largest in the region, featuring numerous swimming pools suitable for all ages, a variety of thrilling water slides, and an array of attractions totaling 19. Additionally, there are numerous food kiosks and a main cafeteria on-site.

The overall theme of the park reflects Mayan culture, with decorations showcasing replicas of Mayan buildings and artwork sourced from various locations across the country. The gardens and tree arrangements further enhance the feeling of being in the heart of the jungle.

Hotels and Spa

Visitors will find four different hotels, each offering a unique theme and price range, conveniently located directly across the street from the parks and connected via an underground tunnel.

As part of a large complex, guests can explore all hotels and their amenities, including pools and restaurants, regardless of where they choose to stay.

• Hostal San Martin: Emulating the grand homes and courtyards found in Antigua Guatemala.
• Hostal Santa Cruz: Built in a charming Mediterranean style.
• La Rancheria: Features private casitas accommodating up to six guests, nestled amidst extensive gardens.
• Hostal Palajunoj: Comprises five uniquely themed buildings representing Polynesian, Indonesian, Thai, African, and Mayan cultures.

Los Corozos Spa: More than just massage and beauty treatments, it includes a full gym, a country club with a restaurant, tennis courts, bowling alleys, a bar, and a cafeteria with stunning terrace views.

This expansive complex continues to grow, with plans underway for park expansions and the development of an ecological park next to Xetulul.