IAAPA Summit: Latin America, Caribbean 2025

Event Details
The event will start at 8 a.m. on March 24, and will end at 8 p.m. on March 26.
If you also register for the Post Tour, the estimated time for being back to Presidente InterContinental Mexico City hotel on March 28 is 9 p.m.
For more details regarding sponsorship opportunities, please contact Ana Karen Peña.
See you in Mexico City in 2025!
Mexico City is ready to welcome the leaders of the region's parks and attractions industry. Get ready for three days of cutting-edge knowledge, professional and trade connections, EDUTours, innovation and much more. Plus, you can extend the experience with two days of interesting and exciting Post Tour to entertainment facilities in Morelos and Puebla.
Pricing Details
PRICING | Member | Nonmember | New Member |
---|---|---|---|
IAAPA Facility/Individual Member | 490.00 | N/A | N/A |
IAAPA Member Manufacturer/Supplier/Consultant | 690.00 | N/A | N/A |
Non-Member | N/A | 990.00 | N/A |
Speakers
AGENDA
Monday | March 24
Registration and Trade Connections
Opening Ceremony
Interactive Activity
Experience Design and Intelligence
This session will focus on four pillars of experience design: paradigm, process, strategies and competencies, and management. We will also focus on how leveraging these components promotes organizational and individual experience intelligence (XQ).
Speaker
Mat Duerden Professor and Chair, Department of Experience Design and Management, Marriott School of Business, Brigham Young University
Coffee break and Trade Connections
Teamwork and Quality of Service as a Differentiator in the Industry
Challenges, outcomes and implications resulting from obtaining the Forbes recognition for Parks, told by Grupo Xcaret itself, the only park in the world that has obtained this recognition.
Speaker
Elizabeth Lugo Managing Director, Parks, Tours and Shipping, Grupo Xcaret
Edutalk: Young Professionals, New Togetherness
Explore how guest and employee expectations are transforming the attractions industry, highlighting the key role of young professionals. In a world that increasingly values authenticity, sustainability, and collaboration, Freddi will discuss how new generations drive change with creativity and a community-focused vision, fostering a “New Togetherness” that redefines innovation and intergenerational connection.
Speaker
Massimiliano Freddi - ICAE CEO, Wonderwood
Solutions Talk: Global Fun Partners, Diamond sponsor
Lunch and Trade Connections
The Power of Positive Leadership
Explore how positive leadership strategies impact your organization’s bottom line. Leading with trust, empathy and inclusion, authentically valuing your employees. Explore the theory, learn the data, and experience the impact in real time.
Speaker
Heather Barnes Founder & CEO, Improv @ Work LLC, Professor at Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management
Presentation Hasbro City
Introduction to Hasbro City in preparation for their visit that evening.
Speaker
Emiliano Limón Vice President, Marketing Partner and Board Member REIL
Operational Challenges Every Leader Should Know How to Address: Tips to improve your results
Hear from a Universal Destinations & Experiences leader how to focus on key leadership approaches that drive team member engagement and ownership within your park teams.
Speaker
Doug Akers, ICAE Vice President, Park Operations, Universal Beijing Resort
Reception at Hasbro City
Enjoy a visit to Hasbro City, a themed FEC and the first multi-brand Hasbro attraction of its kind in Latin America. The park offers a variety of interactive and immersive experiences, games, attractions and merchandise based on popular Hasbro brands such as Transformers, Monopoly, My Little Pony, Power Rangers and Nerf. Attendees will enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour and exclusive use of its attractions.
Transportation to Hotel Presidente Intercontinental
Tuesday | March 25
Leadership Breakfast | Transformational Leadership: Breaking Paradigms in Times of Change
*Event exclusive for IAAPA Members | Extra ticket needed (Sold out)
In a constantly-evolving world, transformational leadership is key to building agile and resilient organizations. This session explores how leaders can inspire, challenge paradigms, and leverage change as a strategic opportunity for innovation and organizational growth.
Location:
Feria Room, Hotel Presidente InterContinentalSpeaker
Marcia Lobo CEO, Parque Diversiones APHNN Costa Rica
Interactive Activity
Food and Beverage: Building a Sustainable Story
Discover how chefs and food innovators are shaping the future of food by connecting culture, sustainability, and the powerful stories behind every dish. Sustainability isn't just a trend—it’s a narrative of responsibility, creativity, and innovation.
Speaker
Matthew Beaudin Corporate Executive Chief of Innovations and Development, The SSA Group
Solutions Talk: Dicrejart, Diamond sponsor
Edutalk: Culinary experiences by Paladar
The importance of gastronomy as a unique and unrepeatable experience. How can an experience be made into an unforgettable memory?
Speaker
Alonso Obregon Co-Founder and Board Member, Paladar
Solutions Talk: Qubica AMF, Platinum sponsor
Rethinking the Value Chain: The Sustainable Future of the Parks and Attractions Industry
In today’s global economy, supply chain risks can have significant financial, operational and reputational consequences for companies. This session presents a methodology for assessing supply chain sustainability risks. Participants will explore how to identify, assess and mitigate supplier risks by incorporating key environmental, social and governance (ESG) indicators. Attendees will leave with tools to build more resilient and responsible supply chains, aligning procurement strategies with corporate sustainability goals.
Speaker
Verónica Celis CEO, Valumia
The Tequila Route: José Cuervo Experience
How to turn a product into an unforgettable experience? The story behind the successful "José Cuervo Express" train.
Speaker
Araceli Ramos Director of Promotion and Public Relations, Casa Cuervo
Solutions Talk: Active Leisure, Diamond sponsor
Lunch and Trade Connections
Interactive Activity
Presentation by Parque Urbano Aztlán
Introduction to Parque Urbano Aztlán in preparation for their visit that evening.
Speaker
Sergio Haua Managing Director, Parque Urbano Aztlán
Edutalk: From Awareness to Action: Sustainability as a Driver of Growth
Consumers are increasingly aware of the environmental and social impact of their decisions, and they expect brands to share their values and act responsibly. Companies and brands must be authentic, understand their audience, be constructive, evoke the right emotions and maintain consistency in their message. It is important to remember that success in sustainability requires consistency with the company's core values.
Speaker
Paloma Sevy Client Partner Director and Sustainability Champion, Kantar Mexico
New Game Level
Presented by: REIL
The new environment is uncertain, but also a great opportunity. Only agile and disruptive companies will survive. Adapting is not optional: either you evolve or you disappear. Does your company have the genetics to succeed in the hyper-technological era?
Speaker
Jesús Cochegrús CEO, Emotion Interactive, Presented by REIL
Transportation to Aztlán Parque Urbano
Fiesta at Aztlán Parque Urbano
Transportation to Hotel Presidente InterContinental
Wednesday | March 26
Depart for Kinezis
Departure will be promptly at 8:30 a.m. Please wear comfortable shoes to enjoy the facilities.
Coffee break, presentation and EDUTour
Kinezis is a new entertainment and wellness concept launched by KidZania in Mexico, designed to blend fitness, fun, and health in one unique space. It offers three core experiences: Fun, Fit, and Health. The Fun area is a space for adventurous activities like climbing walls, zip lines, and trampolines, turning exercise into a playful, calorie-burning experience for all ages. We will enjoy a backstage tour and will have free time to enjoy the facilities before networking at lunch.
Free time at Kinezis
Lunch at Kinezis
Depart for Acuario Michin Mexico City
Departure will be promptly at 14:30 p.m.
Tour at Acuario Michin
Acuario Michin in Mexico City is the largest aquarium in Mexico and Latin America. It houses over 300 species, including sharks, stingrays, sea turtles, seahorses, and jellyfish, as well as various reptiles and land animals like capybaras, lemurs, and flamingos. The aquarium offers interactive experiences, such as feeding rays or walking through the shark tunnel, in addition of a large entertainment área with activities like rock climbing, zip lines, mini golf, a skating rink, and more. Summit attendees will get a tour and enjoy the facilities.
Free time at Acuario Michin
Closing Cocktail
Depart for Hotel Presidente InterContinental
Buses will start leaving at 8 p.m.
Thursday | March 27
Depart for Jardines de México
Departure will be promptly at 8:30 a.m. from the lobby of the InterContinental Hotel located on Andrés Bello. Guests must check out of the hotel before that time and bring their luggage with them. At El Rollo there will be an opportunity to use the aquatic facilities. Guests may bring a bathing suit. Exclusively for registered attendees of the Post Tour. There will be no on-site registration.
Tour at Jardines de Mexico
Jardines de México is one of the largest floral parks in the world. Covering over 126 acres, the park features a variety of themed gardens, each representing different styles and plant species. In addition to the gardens, the park offers activities such as yoga, concerts, and seasonal events like festivals of lights or flower shows. The site also includes restaurants, event venues, and educational workshops aimed at promoting environmental awareness.
Lunch at Jardines de México
Depart for El Rollo water park
Presentation and EDUTour at El Rollo
El Rollo is a popular water park located in Mexico, founded 70 years ago, known for its wide range of water attractions and activities, including water slides, wave pools, lazy rivers, children areas and restaurants, making it a great destination for families and thrill-seekers alike.
Free time at El Rollo
Guests will be able to use the facilities, relax in the shade of the water park, or check in at the hotel. Transportation to the hotels will be provided.
Check-in at Laureles and Akua hotels
Each attendee will receive confirmation in advance of the hotel where they will be staying.
Dinner at Laureles Hotel
Guests staying at the Akua Hotel will have transportation to the Laureles Hotel for dinner.
Friday | March 28
Breakfast at Laureles Hotel
Guests staying at Hotel Akua will be provided with transportation to Hotel Laureles for breakfast. Guests must check out of Hotel Akua before leaving for Los Laureles.
Depart for Explanada Puebla
Check-out will be promptly at 9 a.m. from Hotel Los Laureles. Everyone must check out before that time.
Presentation and EDUTour at Inflalandia Quack
Inflalandia Quack Puebla is a family entertainment center that features a variety of inflatable play structures, slides, and games, creating a fun and safe environment for kids and parents to enjoy. The facility hosts birthday parties and events, offering activities that encourage physical play and social interaction. We will enjoy a detailed presentation of their unique business model and theming, as well as free time to enjoy the facilities.
Free time at Inflalandia Quack
Depart for Africam Safari
Africam Safari wildlife park features a drive-through experience where visitors can see a variety of animals in environments that mimic their natural habitats. The park emphasizes conservation and education, allowing guests to observe animal species up close. Post Tour attendees will immerse themselves in this experience through a networking lunch and a reception, as well as two VIP animal interactions of their choice (previously selected).
Lunch at Africam Safari
Safari
Interactions with animals
Attendees will be divided into groups to enjoy pre-selected interactions. It is not possible to change interactions on site.
Closing cocktail at Africam Safari
Depart for Presidente InterContinental Hotel
Know Before You Go
Expand allThe IAAPA Summit: Latin America, Caribbean 2025 starts on Monday, March 24th at 8 a.m. and will end on Wednesday, March 26th at 8 p.m. Please book your nights accordingly.
The Summit will take place at the Presidente InterContinental Mexico City hotel. IAAPA has blocked a limited number of rooms at a preferential rate.
The Presidente Intercontinental boasts a prime location in the exclusive Polanco district close to Paseo de la Reforma and Chapultepec, offering easy access to luxury shopping, fine dining, and cultural attractions, while providing spacious rooms, multiple high-end restaurants, a state-of-the-art spa, fitness facilities, a renowned Club Lounge, and a large wine cellar, all within a luxurious 5-star setting, making it a top choice for business and leisure travelers seeking a refined experience in Mexico City.
Preferential Rates
The following rates cover the nights of March 23rd through March 26th, are available through March 10th, 2025, and are subject to availability.
Room type and Price:
Deluxe single/double room in European plan (no meals)
$229 USD*
Deluxe single with breakfast buffet
$249 USD*
Deluxe double with breakfast buffet
$269 USD*
Executive Club room with access to Club Lounge
$329 USD*
Junior Suite with access to Club Lounge
$579 USD*
*Rates are subject to 16% VAT and 3.5% city tax, per room, per night.
Limited number of rooms at a preferential rate
To reserve please use the button or call +5255 5327 7700 ext. 6603 or email the hotel directly [email protected] using the code: I1A.
Join us at IAAPA Summit: Latin America, Caribbean 2025 and take advantage of the opportunity to expand your presence and strengthen your brand in the region.
Through trade connections or as a sponsor, you will position yourself in front of a key audience of decision makers in an environment designed to facilitate high-value connections.
Mexico City, one of the most dynamic and fastest growing metropolises in Latin America, will be the perfect setting to stand out as a leader in the industry.
Don't miss this opportunity!
Reserve your trade connection spot or sponsorship now, there are still great opportunities available! But hurry, because spaces sell out soon.
Download the brochure here with the different trade connection or sponsorship options, and at once choose the place you want to occupy in the main hall of the event.
Questions?
Please email Ana Peña in [email protected] or send a message via WhatsApp +52 55 2214 7245
Dress Code and Weather:
Expo and Conference (Mexico City, March 24th and 25th): Business attire with comfortable shoes. Expect mild weather between 27 and 9°C (80-49°F).
EDUTours (Mexico City, March 26th): Business casual with comfortable shoes. There will be optional opportunities to use the facilities. Expect mild weather between 27 and 9°C (80-49°F).
Post Tour (Morelos and Puebla, March 27-28th, Optional additional item): Casual with comfortable shoes. Hat, sunblock, and bug repellent recommended. There will be optional opportunities to use the facilities, including a water park. Expect mild weather in Puebla between 26 and 8°C (80-47°F) and hot weather in Morelos between 34 and 13°C (93-55°F).
Travel Information:
Attendees should plan to arrive in Mexico City before 8 a.m. on March 24 and leave March 27 in the morning, unless they are attending the Post Tour.
For those attending the Post Tour, should plan to leave Mexico City March 29 in the morning.
For Mexico City, there are three airport options:
Most Recommended
Mexico City International Airport (AICM) — MEX
Estimated Transfer Time to Hotel Presidente Intercontinental: 30 minutes.
Estimated Airport Taxi Cost to Presidente Intercontinental Hotel: $20 USD
Uber is not available.
Other Options
Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA) — NLU
Estimated Transfer Time to Hotel Presidente Intercontinental: 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Estimated Airport Taxi Cost to Presidente Intercontinental Hotel: $75 USD
Uber is not available.
Toluca International Airport (AIT) — TLC
Estimated Transfer Time to Hotel Presidente Intercontinental: 1 hour.
Estimated Airport Taxi Cost to Presidente Intercontinental Hotel: $50 USD
Uber is not available.
Accommodation in Mexico City:
Accommodation is NOT included in the registration price. We have arranged for special group rates at the Presidente Intercontinental Mexico City Hotel.
Immigration Requirements:
The Mexican immigration authority requires all foreign citizens to have a valid passport. You can check other requirements through the Secretary of Foreign Affairs.
In addition to the above documentation, foreign citizens must present:
a. Visa, if required. You must consider the visa requirements to enter the country or contact the Secretary of Foreign Affairs.
b. Round ticket to leave the country.
c. Hotel reservation or invitation letter.
Visa Letter:
IAAPA Latin America, Caribbean will provide visa letters or letters of invitation for attendees and exhibitors. If you need a Visa Letter, please make sure to answer the following form and to contact [email protected].
Simultaneous Translation:
This event will be presented in Spanish and English with simultaneous translation to both languages.
Translation to portuguese won't be available.
Terms and Conditions:
- This event is not suitable for attendees under 18 years of age. Underage attendees are not allowed to participate in functions that serve alcohol. This includes all our evening functions.
- The event includes tours of attractions and rides that require physical exertion. Some attractions may have restrictions on use depending on the physical conditions of the user. For more information and special assistance needs contact [email protected]
- The Summit will take place in Mexico City, Mexico. Before traveling, please verify if you require a visa or any vaccinations with the Mexican consulate in your country. The Post Tour will take place in the states of Morelos and Puebla, 2 hours away from Mexico City.
- By registering to this event, you agree to give consent to IAAPA to take, record, and use photographs, videos, recordings, and any other record of the event for legitimate purposes, including commercial advertising.
- Cancellation requests from attendees received before January 13th, 2025, will receive a full refund minus a $25 USD processing fee per transaction. Cancellation requests received between January 14th, 2025, and February 17th, 2025, will receive a 50% refund minus processing fees. No refunds will be made after February 18th, 2025. *For trade connections and sponsorships please review terms and conditions in your contract.
- If you need to cancel after these dates due to force majeure, including COVID-19 related causes and travel restrictions, please submit a written request to us for consideration. All cancellations are subject to a $25 USD processing fee.
- IAAPA Privacy Policy.
Code of Conduct:
IAAPA provides the attractions industry with meaningful events that include education, networking and market access opportunities in an environment that promotes the exchange of ideas, information, and resources. IAAPA's goal is that everyone who attends our events has a positive and rewarding experience, including attendees, speakers, sponsors, exhibitors, volunteers and IAAPA team members.
The following Code of Conduct provides guidelines to ensure that all participants understand what behavior is expected and what behavior will not be tolerated during the event. This includes social events related to events at off-site locations and all online and social media communications related to the event.
IAAPA has the right to expel any participants from the event who does not comply with this Code of Conduct. No refunds will be issued. In addition, IAAPA requests that both attendees and exhibitors report any observed violations to IAAPA staff.
- Harassment: IAAPA events provide a harassment-free, respectful and inclusive experience for all, regardless of gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability, neurodiversity, physical appearance, body size, ethnicity, nationality, race, age or religion. Participants must refrain from any harassing, degrading, abusive or discriminatory behavior, including inappropriate photographs or recordings.
- Violence: There is a zero-tolerance policy for any display of violence, threats of violence or violent language directed against another person. This includes profanity, obscene gestures and offensive sexually explicit language.
- Suitcasing: Any non-exhibiting attendee soliciting business in the exhibit area or the public spaces or at another company's booth will be asked to leave the events immediately without any refund rights.
- Outboarding: Is defined as marketing, sales and hospitality events conducted by exhibitors and others who capitalize on the presence of buyers and/or sellers attending the original event’s organizer. This practice is unethical and subject to expulsion from the event of the participants involved.
Sustainability:
Our Plan for a Better Tomorrow: Sustainability Takes Center Stage at IAAPA Summit 2025: Latin America, Caribbean
As stewards of the environment, we recognize the importance of hosting events that not only entertain but also minimize our environmental footprint while fostering positive change for communities around the globe. By championing sustainability and promoting inclusivity, we aim to create experiences that inspire, empower, and uplift people. Together, let’s celebrate while preserving the beauty of our planet and building a better world for generations to come!
- We will provide water jugs at the event and will be handing out water thermos to all attendees who download the IAAPA Connect+ app on their phone.
- Please do not bring printed business cards. Create a digital card on your phone or use the QR code generated by the IAAPA Connect+ app.
- Please respect waste separation by using the proper containers.
- Please do not accept printed literature or unnecessary gifts from exhibitors. Request that the information be sent to you electronically.
- Please recycle your badge and lanyard at the end of the event in the appropriate container.
- Avoid food waste during coffee breaks and lunches.
Our Sustainability Efforts
EVENT DESIGN AND ORGANIZATION
- The event program will be available only through the IAAPA Connect+ app and on-site digital signs.
- Session surveys will be administered digitally.
- Exhibitor and attendee information will be provided digitally.
- Event coverage will be done via social media and digital media only.
- Badges and lanyards are made from recycled and recyclable materials.
- 90% of signage used during the event is digital. The remaining 10% is made from recycled materials.
- We do not use single-use plastic or disposable products.
- Audio-visual production uses only energy-efficient LED equipment.
- We have incorporated sustainability and IDEA topics throughout the conference.
- We seek gender and diversity balance among speakers.
- We favor the hiring of sustainable, diverse, and minority-owned vendors.
- We are committed to creating an inclusive, equitable, diverse, and accessible event.
EXHIBITORS
Exhibitors are encouraged to pledge their commitment to the following actions. Those who commit will be provided a sustainability badge in the IAAPA Connect+ app and at their booth.
- Power down the monitor in your booth before leaving at the end of the day.
- Eliminate printed literature and business cards. Instead, post QR codes and use the IAAPA Connect+ app to promote your products and services.
- If providing giveaways, produce them with recycled, responsibly grown, natural fiber, non-toxic and biodegradable materials.
- Bring your promotional materials with you or consolidate them in a single shipment. Avoid the use of polystyrene (peanuts or styrofoam) and choose biodegradable packing materials.
- Use the building’s recycling bins properly.
- Promote your company’s sustainability policy during the event
HOTEL PRESIDENTE INTERCONTINENTAL (EVENT VENUE)
- The hotel has the ESR distinction for Socially Responsible Companies and the B Corp Certification for its high standard of performance, transparency and social and environmental responsibility.
- 71% of the energy consumed by the hotel comes from clean sources and it is expected to increase this percentage to 85% by 2026 through the installation of solar panels.
- Glass bottles are used in rooms, common areas and events.
- Linens are washed every 7 days or after each change of guests and the reduction in the frequency of washing towels in the rooms is promoted in rooms.
- The hotel has a waste separation system in all areas.
- It does not provide personal hygiene items in individual packages. All packaging is refillable and recyclable, made with natural ingredients, without parabens or phthalates and free of animal cruelty.
- Rooms have water-saving faucets and the hotel is in the process of obtaining the Hydro Sustainable Hotel seal.
- A percentage of the hotel profits go to the organization Huellas que Trascienden, which promotes the work of Chiapas artisan women.
- All renovations and remodeling are carried out in accordance with LEED building codes.
- The hotel has a textile pollution reduction program, including the recycling of more than 3,000 sheets in 2023.
- The Intercontinental chain has joined the Glasgow Declaration, committing to support the reduction of emissions by 50% by 2030, create and maintain climate action plans aligned with measurement, decarbonization, regeneration, collaboration and financing of climate initiatives.
- It has implemented employee programs to promote circularity, shared transportation and sustainability.
- The hotel expects to reach 90% visual, auditory and motor accessibility by 2025.
- It has charging stations for electric vehicles.
- The hotel offsets 50% of its carbon footprint and hopes to increase this rate to 60% by 2025.
- The Intercontinental chain in Mexico participates and funds programs to restore the Cozumel reef.
- The hotel is committed to the fight against the sexual exploitation of girls, boys and adolescents.
GENERAL SERVICES CONTRACTOR
- Booth furniture, carpeting, and materials are reused multiple times.
- Cardboard, paper, and packaging materials are recycled.
- No carpet is used in hallways.
- Single-use graphics are printed on recyclable materials and recycled after the event.
- Booth lighting uses energy-efficient LED.
- Materials and labor are locally sourced.
FOOD AND BEVERAGE AT THE HOTEL
- No disposable silverware and tableware are used.
- The use of straws and stirrers has been eliminated.
- No bottled water is used.
- All agricultural, animal, and food products are locally grown, with preference given to suppliers with strong sustainable practices. All seafood is sustainably and ethically sourced.
- All food waste generated during food service preparation and disassembly is sent to a composting facility.
- Water, energy and natural gas consumption are closely monitored.
- Chemical and hazardous waste is monitored and managed according to international standards and best practices.
- Viable food and beverage scraps are donated to the Food Bank of Mexico City.
- Menus are designed and consolidated following compatibility matrices to avoid unnecessary food waste.
**IAAPA Members Exclusive
For those looking to improve their connections in a more private setting, the Leadership Breakfast is an excellent opportunity to engage directly with industry leaders. This exclusive breakfast allows you to build valuable relationships in a closer, more personal atmosphere.
Price: $75 USD
*IAAPA Members Exclusive
- Two days of visits to attractions in Morelos and Puebla, including lunch and dinner on day one, and breakfast, lunch and reception on day two.
- Includes transportation to and from Presidente Intercontinental Mexico City and lodging at El Rollo water park the night of March 27. We offer single, double and triple lodging alternatives.
- The estimated time for being back to Presidente InterContinental Mexico City hotel is 9 p.m.
- NOT INCLUDED: Air transportation and transportation to and from the airport.
- Please note: The Post Tour program has limited capacity and is subject to cancellation by February 21 if the minimum quantity of 18 attendees is not reached. IAAPA would notify and reimburse registered attendees.
- Prices
- Single Room: $690 USD Per Person
- Double Room: $590 USD Per Person
- Triple Room: $540 USD Per Person
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