Secret River: a unique underground adventure in the Riviera Maya

Just a few kilometres from Playa del Carmen, in the lush jungle of the Riviera Maya, flows an extraordinary underground river stretching over 40 kilometres—celebrated as one of Mexico’s greatest natural wonders: Río Secreto.

Venturing into its limestone chambers feels like descending into the sacred underworld of the ancient Maya—a mystical realm of stalactites, stalagmites, and crystalline waters, where echoes of the past endure and endangered native species find refuge.

In this guide, we reveal everything you need to know about the Río Secreto excursion: an ecotourism adventure that bridges science and spirituality, offering an unforgettable experience for the entire family.

1. What is Rio Secreto?

Río Secreto is an expansive cave system located just a few kilometres from Playa del Carmen, in the very heart of the Riviera Maya. Here flows a river of crystalline waters, meandering through a labyrinth of galleries carved into limestone rock over millions of years, shaping a breathtaking subterranean world—a true palace of crystal.

This natural marvel was uncovered by chance in 2006, when a farmer, in pursuit of an iguana, stumbled into a cave and revealed a hidden river of extraordinary beauty.

2. Río Secreto: Mayan symbolism

The collapse of the Mayan civilization remains one of history’s most fascinating enigmas. Within Río Secreto, experts have uncovered an extraordinary natural archive—a living map of the historical and climatic events that shaped the milestones of this culture.

An excursion here is far more than an adventure or ecotourism activity; it is a journey back in time to Xibalba, the sacred underworld of the Maya. In their worldview, stalactites and stalagmites were revered as the fangs of the earth monster, the jaguar embodied the sun’s transformation at dusk, and the waterways were sanctuaries of the gods, where the souls of the departed transcended. Imagine experiencing it all first-hand!

3. Río Secreto tour: journey to the centre of the Earth

Río Secreto invites you on an extraordinary journey through an underground realm of crystalline waters, adorned with majestic stalactites and stalagmites. Choose from five distinct routes, blending dry and aquatic trails, each designed to offer a profound connection with nature.

Tickets and essential equipment

The Río Secreto adventure begins well before you step into the cave. After purchasing your ticket at the box office, you’ll be asked to shower and cleanse away any chemicals, preparing yourself to enter an ecosystem of immeasurable ecological value. From there, the reserve staff will provide you with everything necessary to ensure a safe visit.

Traditional welcome

The journey begins with a copal ritual, an ancient purification ceremony passed down from the Mayan culture. At the cave’s entrance, a local guide ignites copal resin, releasing a fragrant, ethereal smoke that drifts through the air. For the Maya, this sacred effluvium possessed the power to cleanse the soul and open the gateway to the underworld.

The adventure begins

The journey unfolds through a mesmerizing blend of walking and swimming, leading you across underground galleries that shimmer like crystal palaces. A specialized guide shows the way, while explaining the history and the intricate shapes sculpted by the stalagmites and stalactites. The highlight arrives in the chamber known as the Peace Room. Here, visitors are invited to turn off their torches and listen to the sound of the flowing water in total darkness.

Traditional food buffet

An amazing dining experience awaits you at the end of the tour. Enjoy traditional Yucatecan dishes such as cochinita pibil, lime soup or tamales, included in the park entrance cost. And if you still have energy left, you can do other activities, such as rappelling or a bike ride.

What kind of clothes should I bring to Rio Secreto?

The park entrance fee includes all the equipment required for the expedition: wetsuit, life jacket, water shoes, helmet with torch, towel. You only need to bring a swimsuit and a small backpack for your belongings, as mobile phones or cameras are not allowed.
How long does it take to travel through Río Secreto?

This depends on the route and experiences you choose. Almost all options have an average duration of about six hours.
Is this tour safe?

Yes, Río Secreto offers a safe experience for all visitors. On arrival at the park, you get a full safety kit and brief instructions on how to move around inside the caves. The route is carefully marked, the groups are small, and a specialist guide is available at all times.
See more questions