Despite a massive marketing push (including tie-ins with Burger King and the video game The Road to El Dorado: Gold & Glory ), the film was a box office disappointment. It grossed roughly $76 million worldwide against a production budget of $95 million.

In the years since its release, The Road to El Dorado has developed a massive cult following. It is frequently cited on social media platforms for its sharp humor, the genuine chemistry between Tulio and Miguel (voiced by Kevin Kline and Kenneth Branagh), and the animation quality.