Río Secreto Nature Reserve from Playa del Carmen Entrance or Tour
Active
3h - 8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Journey into an underground river and marvel at ancient stalactites and stalagmites. As you wade through turquoise water, an expert guide explains geological secrets and points out flora and fauna. Back in the jungle, enjoy a buffet lunch with Mayan cuisine included in all options.
Río Secreto Admission (Without Transportation): Explore the cenote and cave at your own pace.
Río Secreto + Transport: Includes admission and transportation from select Playa del Carmen hotels. Enjoy the cenote and cave without worrying about logistics.
Río Secreto + PLUS: Enhance your adventure with a bike ride,, Rappel and Zip-Lines. Enjoy the cenote tour and a buffet lunch featuring Mayan cuisine.
Río Secreto + Tulum: Combine your visit with a guided tour of the Mayan city of Tulum. Enjoy natural wonders and historical treasures.
Reef & Cavern Explorer - Río Secreto + Snorkeling in Puerto Morelos: Expand your adventure by exploring the Puerto Morelos reef and the Río Secreto tour.
Available options
Rio Secreto + Transportation
Rio Secreto + Transport: Admission to Rio Secreto Nature Reserve including transportation to and from select Playa del Carmen hotels<br/>Pickup included
Rio Secreto Admission Only
Admission to Rio Secreto Nature Reserve, WITHOUT TRANSPORTATION.<br/>Pickup included
Coba & Rio Secreto
+ Coba Visit : Visit Nohoch Mul Pyramid, which stands at 42 meters tall, making it the tallest pyramid in the Yucatán Peninsula.<br/>Duration: 8 hours<br/>Pickup included
Tulum & Rio Secreto
+ Tulum Ruins: Upgrade your experience and visit a beautiful Mayan city of Tulum with the help of our experts in Archaeological zones<br/>Duration: 8 hours<br/>Pickup included
Rio Secreto + Puerto Morelos
Rio Secreto + Puerto Morelos : Reef & cavern Explorer. Vibrant underwater world of the Puerto Morelos reef, along with the Río Secreto tour. <br/>Duration: 8 hours<br/>Pickup included
R. Secreto Plus Access +Transp
Plus Option w/ Transportation: Add three more activities:
- Bike ride.
- Walk in a dry cave.
- Rappel.<br/>Duration: 6 hours<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Professional guide
Lunch
Use of all necessary equipment (wetsuit, helmet, water shoes, life vest)
20 USD State Preservation Taxes of Tulum Archaeological Zone
Hotel pickup and drop-off (if option selected)
Lockers and Towels
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Arrival at the reception and service area located on the Cancun - Tulum Highway km. 283.5 to 5 minutes from Playa del Carmen.
2
Stop 2
Welcome video andTransportation to the Río Secreto reserve (approximately 15 minutes). Upon arriving at the reservation, our guides will receive visitors, give them the security measures and the appropriate equipment
3
Stop 3
Prior to the entrance to the Mayan underworld, visitors will walk the nature reserve trails where they will receive a Mayan welcome.
4
Stop 4
Visitors will walk and swim through its beautiful natural glass galleries on a 1km route with a minimum duration of 1:30 hrs.
5
Stop 5
Equipment return.
6
Stop 6
Toast with Xtabentun.
7
Stop 7
View photographs of the tour.
8
Stop 8
Buffet of regional food and fresh waters.
9
Stop 9
Return to reception for transfer on your own or with the contracted transport
10
Stop 10
When this option is selected . We will visit the remains of an ancient clifftop fortress. Tulum used to be a main trading hub . Walled on three sides . The front open facing the Caribbean sea. The views are breathtaking .Your tour guide will go deep into the main buildings history and astronomical findings.
11
When Tour with transportation is selected: Expect to be picked up at mayor hotels in Cancun or Meeting Points from downtown Sit back and relax while your driver takes you safely to Rio Secreto nature park.
12
When this option is selected . You will visit the second largest coral reef formation in the world . Marvel at the vibrant marine life, including colorful tropical fish, majestic sea turtles, and stunning coral formations.
What's not included
Gratuities
Hotel pickup and drop-off (if option not selected)
Pier & Reef Preservation Tax when Puerto Morelos Snorkel Selected $20 us cash per person
Photos
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.6
77 reviews
5★
56
4★
15
3★
5
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.8
86 reviews
5★
74
4★
10
3★
1
2★
0
1★
1
Important information
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Passengers must weigh less than 250 pounds (113 kg)
The minimum age is 4 years. For the Rio Secreto Plus and Rio Secreto with snorkel options, the minimum age is 7 years due to the additional activities.
The duration for the option Rio Secreto Admission tour is 03:30 hrs. (approximately)
The duration for the option Rio Secreto Tour + Transportation is 06:00 hrs. (approximately)
The duration for the option Rio Secreto + Tulum Tour is 08:00 Hrs. (approximately)
Camaras / Cel phones are not allowed inside the caves
Important notes
Additional toll-free numbers to reconfirm:
• From the US or Canada: 800 493 1427
• Within Mexico: 998 251 9231 or 998 251 9391
• Cell Phone with whatsapp: 998 1307202
E-mail: reservations@cancunvacationexperts.com
Note: You must carry your voucher with you and present it at the beginning of the tour. If you booked the option with transportation, you can present an electronic voucher.
Important:
If you purchase the Rio Recreto+ Transportation option, please call or email hotel information which is necessary to set the pickup time from your hotel on the tour date.
Please note that once you arrive to Cancun/Riviera Maya, you will be on U.S. Eastern Standard time (EST). You must manually set your smartphone's clock/personal watch ahead one hour in order to align with the correct time. This will guarantee that you don't miss your tour.
Opening hours are:
07:00 - 22:00 Monday to Sunday
About Playa del Carmen
Playa del Carmen is a vibrant coastal city in Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, known for its stunning beaches, turquoise waters, and rich Mayan heritage. It's a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, offering everything from world-class resorts to ancient ruins and vibrant nightlife.
Top Attractions
Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue)
A vibrant pedestrian street stretching over 20 blocks, lined with shops, restaurants, bars, and street performers. It's the heart of Playa del Carmen's nightlife and shopping scene.
Cultural/Shopping/Entertainment
Half day to full day
Free to explore, shopping and dining vary
Xcaret Park
An eco-archaeological park offering a mix of natural beauty, cultural performances, and adventure activities. It's one of the most famous attractions in the Riviera Maya.
Nature/Adventure/Cultural
Full day
Moderate to Expensive (around $100-$150 USD)
Cenote Azul
A stunning natural sinkhole with crystal-clear turquoise waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. It's a popular spot for a refreshing dip in the jungle.
Nature/Adventure
Half day
Budget (around $5-$10 USD for entrance and gear rental)
Tulum Ruins
Ancient Mayan ruins perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a breathtaking blend of history and natural beauty.
Historical/Archaeological
Half day to full day
Budget (around $10-$15 USD for entrance)
Musa (Museo Subacuático de Arte)
An underwater museum featuring over 500 life-sized sculptures submerged in the waters off Playa del Carmen. It's a unique snorkeling and diving experience.
Art/Nature/Adventure
Half day
Moderate (around $50-$80 USD for snorkeling tours)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Cochinita Pibil
A traditional Yucatecan dish made with marinated pork, slow-cooked in banana leaves. It's tender, flavorful, and often served with pickled onions and habanero salsa.
Main Course
Contains pork, gluten-free if no marinade contamination
Ceviche
A fresh seafood dish made with raw fish or shrimp marinated in lime juice, mixed with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro. It's a refreshing and light dish perfect for the tropical climate.
Appetizer
Gluten-free, dairy-free, can be made vegetarian with vegetables
Tacos al Pastor
Marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit and served on corn tortillas with pineapple, onions, and cilantro. It's a popular street food dish with a unique blend of sweet and savory flavors.
Street Food
Contains pork, gluten-free if no marinade contamination
Panuchos
A Yucatecan specialty made with fried tortillas stuffed with refried beans and topped with shredded chicken, pickled onions, and habanero salsa. It's a flavorful and satisfying snack.
Appetizer
Contains chicken, gluten-free if no cross-contamination
Popular Activities
Snorkeling
Scuba diving
Cenote exploration
Zip-lining
ATV tours
Beach relaxation
Spa treatments
Yoga
Best Time to Visit
December to April
This is the most popular time to visit with perfect weather, low humidity, and minimal rain. It's ideal for beach activities, exploring ruins, and enjoying outdoor adventures.
24-30°C
75-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other parts
Currency
Mexican Peso (MXN)
Time Zone
Eastern Standard Time (EST) (GMT-5), Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) (GMT-4) during daylight saving time
Electricity
127VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe for tourists, but exercise caution
Playa del Carmen is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Use official taxis or pre-arranged transportation
- • Be cautious of strangers approaching you with offers or requests
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
Getting there
By air
- Cancun International Airport • 70 km (43 miles)
By bus
ADO Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around. They are frequent and cover most areas.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Didi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown (Centro)
Playacar
Zona Hotelera
Colosio
Day trips
Cozumel
80 km (50 miles) off the coast • Full day
A beautiful island known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and world-class diving and snorkeling. It's a popular day trip from Playa del Carmen.
Tulum
60 km (37 miles) south • Half day to full day
A charming town with ancient Mayan ruins, beautiful beaches, and a bohemian vibe. It's a popular destination for history lovers, beachgoers, and nature enthusiasts.
Akumal
30 km (19 miles) south • Half day
A small coastal village known for its beautiful beaches and clear waters, as well as its population of wild sea turtles. It's a great spot for snorkeling and relaxation.
Festivals
Festival of the Mayan Culture • November
Playa del Carmen International Film Festival • November
Carnaval de Playa del Carmen • February or March (dates vary)
Pro tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat at popular attractions
- Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals
- Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses
- Use official taxis or pre-arranged transportation to avoid scams and ensure safety
- Explore beyond the tourist hotspots to discover the authentic culture and beauty of Playa del Carmen
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
