Grupo Xcaret Earns ALPZA Certification for Its Coral Conservation Program

MEXICO CITY – Grupo Xcaret has received official certification from the Latin American Association of Zoological Parks and Aquariums (ALPZA) for its Coral Conservation Program, recognizing the initiative as one of the region’s most advanced efforts in marine restoration. The distinction is awarded only to institutions that meet the highest standards in conservation, animal welfare, sustainability, research, and environmental education.

Xcaret’s coral laboratory, located inside Parque Xcaret, specializes in assisted sexual reproduction techniques for several coral species, including Acropora palmata — a priority species for Mexico due to its key role in reef formation and resilience in the Caribbean Sea. The facility includes a quarantine area for diseased corals, a dedicated assisted-recovery module, and controlled environments that allow for continuous monitoring of coral health and reproductive activity.

As part of the conservation process, healthy coral fragments grown in the lab are transferred to underwater structures that function as open-sea nurseries. More than 350 coral fragments are currently growing in these marine modules under close supervision, helping them adapt and thrive in natural conditions.

“Coral conservation requires science, education, and direct action. This certification validates years of ongoing work and collaboration with partner institutions to advance restoration,” said Rodolfo Raigoza, Director of Conservation at Grupo Xcaret.

ALPZA certification highlights projects that deliver tangible environmental solutions and promote standardized best practices across Latin America.

Through initiatives like this, Grupo Xcaret continues to reinforce its commitment to restoring Caribbean ecosystems and fostering a meaningful connection between people and the ocean—encouraging public participation in conservation.

About Grupo Xcaret
Grupo Xcaret is a Mexican company with more than 30 years of experience creating sustainable tourism experiences rooted in nature and culture. Its operations include world-renowned parks such as Xcaret, Xel-Há, Xplor, Xenses, and Xoximilco; its collection of Xcaret hotels; guided tours to archaeological sites; and its maritime division, Xcaret Xailing, which offers ferry and catamaran services in the Mexican Caribbean.