Nestled in the coastal marshlands of northern Yucatán, Mexico, Xcambó flourished as a center for salt production and a port during its occupation. The recovery of a large quantity and variety of foreign objects and materials attests to this place's important economic and political role, as well as its connections with other parts of the Maya realm and Veracruz.

The first settlement dates to the Middle Preclassic period and experienced growth during the Early and Late Classic period (250–550 CE and 550–700 CE, respectively). Since at least the Early Classic period, the site was not isolated, as it was connected by sacbes, or roads, to three other places: the village of Xtampú, which was administered by Xcambó, and the sites of Misnay and Cemul (Dzemul).

Xcambó is located just 2km north of Dzemul, near the progreso- Telchac highway.