Rio Secreto Cancún
Explore a magical underground river system in Cancun, adorned with ancient stalactites and stalagmites.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Rio Secreto Cancún
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a magical underground river system in Cancun, adorned with ancient stalactites and stalagmites.
"A truly unique and breathtaking natural wonder that's accessible for everyone."
Take the Walking Stick
Essential for stability on slippery rocks and wading through shallow areas.
Life Jacket is Key
You'll be provided with one, ensuring safety even if you're not a strong swimmer.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Underground River
Main cave system
Explore a stunning turquoise river adorned with ancient stalactites and stalagmites. A truly unique natural wonder.

Crystal Clear Waters
Throughout the river
Wade and swim through incredibly clear, refreshing waters that reflect the cave's natural beauty.

Geological Formations
Cave walls and ceiling
Marvel at the intricate and ancient formations sculpted by nature over millennia.
Planning Your Visit
Book in Advance & Arrive Early
Non-Swimmer Friendly, But Be Prepared
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Take the Walking Stick
Essential for stability on slippery rocks and wading through shallow areas.
Life Jacket is Key
You'll be provided with one, ensuring safety even if you're not a strong swimmer.
No Personal Cameras Allowed
Protect your belongings; professional photos are taken and available for purchase.
Wear Water Shoes
Closed-toe water shoes are recommended for comfort and grip.
Tips
from all over the internet
Take the Walking Stick
Essential for stability on slippery rocks and wading through shallow areas.
Life Jacket is Key
You'll be provided with one, ensuring safety even if you're not a strong swimmer.
No Personal Cameras Allowed
Protect your belongings; professional photos are taken and available for purchase.
Wear Water Shoes
Closed-toe water shoes are recommended for comfort and grip.
Book the 'Plus' Package?
Consider the 'Plus' package for access to the Salon de la Paz, though opinions vary on its necessity.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Rio Secreto for its breathtaking natural beauty and unique underground river experience. Many highlight the accessibility for non-swimmers and the helpfulness of the guides. However, some find the mountain biking portion underwhelming and note that personal cameras are not allowed, requiring the purchase of professional photos.
"We went with the entire family and it was the most beautiful and mesmerizing sight ever, the guide Diego was so informative and taught us a lot about the place. Would definitely recommend for anyone who’s thinking about going. P.S. walking sticks are a life saver"
Diana Vu
"I loved visiting the Rio Secreto. Our tour guide, Ana was very knowledgeable and very helpful. She took a member of my party through the caves that was afraid to swim, giving her and us the experience of a lifetime. The cave itself is a fantastic journey. You wade, walk and swim through beautiful limestone caverns. We bought the picture package to remember the experience and it was worth it. A professional photographer followed us through and took several amazing action shots. I would love to visit Rio Secreto again, and try one of the other packages."
John Crawford
"This was an amazing journey through the underground river system. We waded, walked, and swam through the cool, very clear water. The cave is beautiful, and we've toured many caves in North America. We loved our guide, Alfredo! He made our day even better. He's friendly and super knowledgeable. We were the first group of the day through the cave, so everything was undisturbed. I opted for a wetsuit - not sure that I really needed it, but I didn't get hot wearing it. Lunch was great!! Alfredo told us that the pork was fantastic, and he was right! The lime dessert was pretty YUM too! We also did the ziplines and rappel, both of which we've done numerous times - so no big thrill, but we had fun yelling our favorite foods. So glad Alfredo joined right in with our crazy group. Everyone we met in the park (lunch/store/check-in/drivers.....) was friendly and welcoming. I did 4 stars instead of 5 just because the photos are so expensive and you cannot bring your own camera. I understand why, but please make the photos more affordable so that everyone can save these memories forever. I had called to ask a few questions before booking and was told that the photos would be between $20 - $100, but after reading some reviews, I expected $120 - $130 for groups. Ours were $150. None were great, but they were good and we did get a lot."
csganley
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Rio Secreto is located between Playa del Carmen and Cancun. The most convenient way to get there is by pre-arranged transportation or a taxi. If you're coming from Xcaret, it's directly across the road, but a taxi is recommended over walking.
Transportation is typically not included unless you book a package that specifically states it. It's best to confirm when booking. Many visitors opt for private transfers or tours that include transport.
While buses are a common way to travel in the Cancun area, direct bus routes to Rio Secreto might be limited. It's generally easier and more direct to arrange private transport or a tour.
The drive from Cancun to Rio Secreto typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic and your exact starting point.
Some tour operators offer shuttle services as part of their packages. If not booking a tour, consider pre-booking a private shuttle for convenience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but expect to pay around $260 USD per person for the standard experience. The 'Plus' package, which includes additional amenities, will be more expensive. Booking in advance is recommended.
Yes, it's highly recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially if you want to secure a spot for a specific time or opt for the 'Plus' package. This also helps avoid disappointment if the tour is sold out.
Standard tickets typically include access to the underground river system, a life jacket, helmet with headlamp, and a locker. The 'Plus' package may include additional features like a buffet meal or access to specific areas.
Rio Secreto generally operates daily, with tours starting in the morning and running throughout the day. It's best to check their official website for the most current operating hours and tour times.
No, personal cameras and phones are generally not allowed inside the caves to protect them from water damage and preserve the natural environment. Professional photos are taken and available for purchase.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Yes, Rio Secreto is generally suitable for non-swimmers. You'll be provided with a life jacket and a walking stick. While some routes may involve more wading or short swims, guides are helpful and can assist you.
Wear comfortable swimwear and water shoes (closed-toe recommended). You'll be provided with a wetsuit and a life jacket. Avoid bringing valuables as they cannot be taken into the caves.
The entire experience, including check-in, gearing up, the tour itself, and showering afterwards, typically lasts around 3 to 4 hours. The actual time in the caves is about 1.5 to 2 hours.
The mountain biking portion, if included in your package, is generally considered easy and relatively flat, offering a short ride through the forest. It's not meant to be an intense cycling experience.
The Salon de la Paz is a special area within Rio Secreto, often included in the 'Plus' package. It's a quieter, more contemplative space within the cave system.
📸 📸 Photography
No, personal cameras and phones are strictly prohibited inside the caves to protect them and maintain the natural ambiance. Professional photographers will capture your experience.
Photos taken by the official Rio Secreto photographers are available for purchase after your tour. You can usually view them at a designated area before you leave.
Yes, there are often scenic spots around the entrance and reception area where you can take photos before or after your tour.
The photographers are skilled at capturing moments of you interacting with the environment, such as wading through the water, admiring formations, and enjoying the unique cave setting.
This is subjective, but many visitors find the professional photos capture the magic of the experience well, especially since you can't take your own. Consider your budget and how important it is for you to have these memories documented.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember that personal cameras are not allowed, so the professional photos will be a great way to capture the family's memories. Pack swimwear and water shoes for everyone. The overall duration of the tour is manageable for most children, making it a memorable addition to your Riviera Maya itinerary.
💧 Adventure Seekers
Consider opting for the 'Wild' tour if available, which might offer a slightly different or more in-depth experience. The guided nature of the tour ensures you see the most impressive parts of the system safely. The lack of personal cameras forces you to be fully present, enhancing the immersive adventure.
🧘♀️ Relaxation & Nature Lovers
This excursion is ideal for appreciating geological beauty and the slow, natural processes that have shaped these caves over millennia. It's a chance to disconnect from the hustle and bustle and immerse yourself in a truly unique natural setting.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Cancun's Transportation Landscape
When considering longer distances, like traveling from Cancun to Playa del Carmen or Tulum, the ADO bus is a reliable and affordable option. For shorter distances or reaching specific attractions, taxis are available but always agree on the fare beforehand or ensure the meter is used. Renting a car is also an option for more flexibility, but be aware of local driving customs and parking situations.
Many TikTok creators share tips on avoiding airport scams and finding the best transport deals. Researching and booking your transport in advance can save you money and a lot of hassle, allowing you to focus on enjoying your vacation.
Making the Most of Your Rio Secreto Experience
It's crucial to understand that personal cameras and phones are not permitted inside the caves to preserve the delicate environment. Professional photographers are on-site to capture your journey, and their photos are available for purchase afterward. This means you can fully immerse yourself in the experience without worrying about your gear. Wearing comfortable swimwear and water shoes is essential, as you'll be in and out of the water.
When booking, you might encounter options like the 'Plus' package, which offers additional amenities. While some find it worthwhile for the extra features like the Salon de la Paz, others feel the standard experience is sufficient. Ultimately, Rio Secreto is praised for its unique natural beauty and the opportunity to explore a hidden world beneath the surface.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit