Rio Secreto
Rio Secreto
4.7
8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Monday
8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Tuesday
8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Wednesday
8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Thursday
8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Friday
8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Saturday
8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Sunday
8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
About
Mexico reveals its newly-discovered underground river: Very few places in the world boast conditions that make it possible to witness the extraordinary beauty of an underground river. Rio Secreto is a fantastic journey into a unique system of underground rivers and ancient caverns that reveals both the astonishing interaction of time within the interior of our planet and the miraculous existence of our lives. Come and experience this magical journey with us on your next vacations in Mexico.
Duration: 2-3 hours
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- Phil G11 contributionsThese pictures barely do the caves justice. Our guide was great, knowledgable and entertainimg and the full trip was about 1.5 hours, well worth the money. The buffet at the end was very good. You can not bring a camera and the photo package they offer is incredibly overpriced and any kid with a camera could do better. $120 us for the package or $30 each and they will email them to you. Be advised that you do get a neoprene wet suit and life jacket but if you don't swim at all there are no ropes to guide you through the deeper sections and you can not hold onto the walls ocks. You will need to learn fast or have someone to hold onto. Overall the is a do not miss adventure!Visited March 2024Traveled with friendsWritten April 19, 2024
- Shruti P2 contributionsThe experience is truly one of a kind and worth doing. Our guide, TAINARA, was excellent. My father is 81 and wanted to enjoy this tour but was feeling a little uneasy about swimming in the water -- she was so great at setting him at ease and having him enjoy his birthday. Our group had tourists who spoke a variety of languages and she made sure to communicate throughout the tour with each group very clearly, loudly to ensure everyone was safe and no one missed any interesting fact. Enthusiastic, positive, competent and professional -- the tour with TAINARA was fantastic, I'm so glad we got her as our tour leaderVisited November 2024Traveled with familyWritten December 10, 2024
- Josée DTrois-Rivieres, Canada4 contributionsWe chose the basic activity, with Jero, a guide who spoke very good French, was very attentive to the group and gave very clear instructions for moving safely in the cenote. Perfect, unforgettable experience. The professional photographer who accompanied the group was also very helpful. The buffet meal was delicious. Activity not to be missed.Visited March 2024Traveled with friendsWritten March 24, 2024
- BikrchikkSacramento, California1 contributionThis excursion was one of the free ones through our timeshare at Royal Solaris. I wasn’t sure what to expect as sometimes excursions are hit and miss. However, this was amazing. We only had the walk through the caves followed by lunch, but our tour guide (in a small group of 9) Felipe was the best. Very informational, knowledgeable, and helpful - ensuring everyone enjoyed the tour. There was also a staff member taking pictures as you cannot take anything with you, you need to pay attention to the landscape as the walking surface constantly changes. The pictures are a little costly, but it’s vacation… We hope to visit again next year and take a different route through the caves as they have several.Visited September 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten September 13, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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Pélagie H
2 contributions
Mar 2024 • Family
This is the only visit-activity that disappointed us a little in Mexico. It wasn't completely uninteresting but we felt like we were paying way too much for what it was. I had booked in advance for a French-speaking guide for 9 a.m. and when we arrived there we had to wait almost an hour to complete a group with... Americans and English. The tour was done in two languages with more English and the guide's level of French was very average. The organization is cumbersome, photos prohibited. A photographer follows us and makes us pose (it's more annoying than anything else) and at the end a single photo costs 30 dollars!! We did not take any and will have no memory of the cave. The visit inside the cave is good but all the organization beforehand is a bit annoying (waiting, mini bus ride, walking in the jungle). This is the only time we felt like cash cow tourists. We do not completely recommend this visit but if you have to make a choice perhaps this review will help you.
Written March 9, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jhovany R
Chia, Colombia5 contributions
Jan 2025 • Family
Activities are relatively well, guide Milo strives to make the tour entertaining and enjoyable.
From the beginning they tell you that you can not carry a cell phone or 'any electronic element' that for 'safety' they really do it is so that you can not take pictures... And take them and then charge you $160 for pictures that you could have perfectly taken.
Besides the photos we were taken, out of focus, sticks that covered the face of my family members and inside the river where we wanted photos... Sometimes they told us not to... Which was where the photographer said.
The guide Milo 10 of 10. Paying for the pictures you might have taken... Yeah, I think it's an abuse.
From the beginning they tell you that you can not carry a cell phone or 'any electronic element' that for 'safety' they really do it is so that you can not take pictures... And take them and then charge you $160 for pictures that you could have perfectly taken.
Besides the photos we were taken, out of focus, sticks that covered the face of my family members and inside the river where we wanted photos... Sometimes they told us not to... Which was where the photographer said.
The guide Milo 10 of 10. Paying for the pictures you might have taken... Yeah, I think it's an abuse.
Automatically translated
Written January 14, 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Alyssa T
8 contributions
Feb 2023 • Family
My mother and I did this trip last minute when the weather was proposed to rain. It ended up being the coolest excursion we’ve ever done in Mexico. It was truly an adventure and I maybe wouldn’t have chosen to do this tour with my mother (who is in her mid-60s) had I known how “adventurous” it was, but she still really loved it. We had Pepe as our guide and he was wonderful with telling my mom where to step in the cave and gave great directions and history throughout the tour. He was very attentive to her abilities. She is decently physically active for someone of her age, but doesn’t typically do adventurous activities. We had to swim, squat down and walk on a very uneven cave floor. While the tour isn’t physically strenuous, I wouldn’t recommend this for older people who have unsteady footing or people with bad knees. You must know how to swim as well. This company did a great job of keeping people safe and provided all necessary equipment like water shoes, helmets with lights, wet suits, life vests and walking canes. You aren’t allowed to bring cameras or phones into the cave, but they do have a photographer follow you throughout. Although we were at first miffed about not being able to take our own cameras, you wouldn’t have the ability to even walk/swim and carry anything else. You need your arms at all times just to get through the cave safely. The pictures are sold in a package for 99 USD, but they were well worth it. Lunch was provided after the excursion and we did book transportation through Rio Secreto which arrived promptly to our hotel on the morning of the excursion and dropped us off after.
Written February 17, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you very much for letting us your comment.
We are glad to know that the tour was to your liking and you had an incredible time.
We would love to see you here very soon, on your next vacation.
Greetings!💙
Written February 20, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Laurence B
Los Angeles, CA123 contributions
Nov 2023 • Couples
It’s not often that you get to visit a natural landmark that was millions of years in the making but was only discovered in 2006 and made available to the public two years later but this is exactly what Rio Secreto allows
Set in a reserve about an hour south of Cancun the set up is very professional and well set up. We self drove down and easily secured tickets for trh 2 hr experience, opting not to include biking and repelling into a final Cenote . It was more than enough to see and experience for a first visit.
facility exceptional clean and organised in terms of wet suits ( not needed if you not overtly sensitive to the cold) life vests compulsory as are helmets and lights. This area was around 7km from entrance and everyone is ferried in buses along unsealed roads
Was disappointed could not talk camera or Go pro into caves but some nice pics taken by photographer who accompanied us on our tour
The tour was led by Victor and we were in a group of 12 which was fine.
After walking down steps into the start of the cave system( or at least part made available to visitors) you slowly make your way through numerous caves in and out of water ranging in depth from a few inches to over 6 feet.
The stalactites and stalagmites are in great condition and are amazing examples in all their many guises including fans, popcorn in various colds caused by minerals
It has not been “touritsized” in terms of back lighting or music which I am sure will happen so visit soon and see it as they were first discovered just 17 years ago
Set in a reserve about an hour south of Cancun the set up is very professional and well set up. We self drove down and easily secured tickets for trh 2 hr experience, opting not to include biking and repelling into a final Cenote . It was more than enough to see and experience for a first visit.
facility exceptional clean and organised in terms of wet suits ( not needed if you not overtly sensitive to the cold) life vests compulsory as are helmets and lights. This area was around 7km from entrance and everyone is ferried in buses along unsealed roads
Was disappointed could not talk camera or Go pro into caves but some nice pics taken by photographer who accompanied us on our tour
The tour was led by Victor and we were in a group of 12 which was fine.
After walking down steps into the start of the cave system( or at least part made available to visitors) you slowly make your way through numerous caves in and out of water ranging in depth from a few inches to over 6 feet.
The stalactites and stalagmites are in great condition and are amazing examples in all their many guises including fans, popcorn in various colds caused by minerals
It has not been “touritsized” in terms of back lighting or music which I am sure will happen so visit soon and see it as they were first discovered just 17 years ago
Written November 8, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Nicolette H
1 contribution
Dec 2022 • Couples
Unfortunately we cannot review the actual place, but I can review the customer service we received. We booked tickets in advance, however unfortunately we came down ill during our travels, so we asked to cancel and requested a refund. They have a very strict no refund policy if cancellation is requested within 5 days of the reservation- no exceptions whatsoever. They offered to let us rebook within the next year, however we have no plans to come back to the area in that time frame. This was a very expensive loss and extremely disappointing. If you plan to go, I would recommend booking through another third party who offers a more flexible cancellation policy and offers to price match as well, rather than directly through the main company.
Written December 22, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you very much for giving us your opinion, we are sorry about your situation. Your comments are essential for us and to continuously improve
We are waiting for you soon 💙
Written December 26, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
MattandSarah
2 contributions
Sep 2022
Photos and words do not adequately describe the beauty of the location or the experience of swimming through an underground cave. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity and something that I highly recommend if able.
The venue provides everything that is needed (helmet with light, life vest, water shoes, walking stick, and wet suit). Everything but the wetsuit/walking stick is required ( (take the stick - it helps a lot for balance), though participants are allowed to use their own closed toed water shoes if they prefer. Lockers with locks are provided for participants to store their items. Nothing is permitted in the cave including electronics (phones and cameras). My impression is that while this likely increases photography sales from the venue, it is actually for the safety and enjoyment of the participants. Traversing the caves is slow and difficult enough as it is without participants trying to hold something, much less take photographs.
The tour guide (Imelda) was outstanding both in navigating our group and providing explanations throughout the tour. She has a deep knowledge of the local culture, the cave itself, and the animals that live in it.
Note: It is physically demanding, there is a 5-10 minute walk from the lockers to the cave opening, and then the cave itself. It requires stairs, swimming, and careful balance. This tour is fine if you are in good health, however if you cannot swim or have difficulty with stairs / extended walking - I recommend skipping.
The venue provides everything that is needed (helmet with light, life vest, water shoes, walking stick, and wet suit). Everything but the wetsuit/walking stick is required ( (take the stick - it helps a lot for balance), though participants are allowed to use their own closed toed water shoes if they prefer. Lockers with locks are provided for participants to store their items. Nothing is permitted in the cave including electronics (phones and cameras). My impression is that while this likely increases photography sales from the venue, it is actually for the safety and enjoyment of the participants. Traversing the caves is slow and difficult enough as it is without participants trying to hold something, much less take photographs.
The tour guide (Imelda) was outstanding both in navigating our group and providing explanations throughout the tour. She has a deep knowledge of the local culture, the cave itself, and the animals that live in it.
Note: It is physically demanding, there is a 5-10 minute walk from the lockers to the cave opening, and then the cave itself. It requires stairs, swimming, and careful balance. This tour is fine if you are in good health, however if you cannot swim or have difficulty with stairs / extended walking - I recommend skipping.
Written September 12, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Matthew G
Thank you very much for sharing your comment.
We are pleased to know that our mission to transform them through a unique journey to the bowels of the earth was a success.
We continue to work every day to preserve this natural wonder that would not be possible without your help.
We hope to see you again very soon in our nature reserve.
Greetings!
Written September 23, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Paula O
1 contribution
Jan 2025 • Family
The service of the employees is very good, very gentle, our Monse guide was exceptional. However, the expectations we had were very high from the reviews and we were disappointed. The caves are beautiful, the wonders of the rocks and the explanation of them.The time they say takes the tour is from when you enter the reception until you leave after lunch, which is included in the entrance price, but the tour as such by the river is very short two water pits and already. The truth after going to other places in the Riviera Maya there are places where you can see similar things and at a better price.
Automatically translated
Written January 5, 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kim P
1 contribution
Mar 2022 • Friends
I am not normally one to write reviews but on this adventure I felt the need to share. Our trip to Rio Secreto was an excursion booked via Norwegian cruise line. We booked with friends and hands down was one of the most awesome experiences. I am so glad we did it! I felt like I might be nervous in a cave scenio and underwater but glad I did not let that nervousness change my mind. Our guide was Marite Apanco. She was 100% professional! You could tell she loves what she does and we had an absolute blast! So much beauty within the caves! She shared a wealth of knowledge with us. There was a little one in our group maybe 7ish-8 years old and she put her under her wing and gave her shared special attention and spotlight. I feel like she created a memory for that girl that she will take with her for years to come and have an increased wealth of knowledge. You are not able to bring cell phones or cameras in with you but have no fear your memories will be preserved via a photographer that follows your group and there is no pressure to purchase any of the photos at all but the price is not to outrageous.
They will provide wet suits and water shoes. I brought my own shoes. You will also have a secured locker to keep your items and be able to shower and change afterwards.
Don’t miss this adventure of a lifetime and ask for Marite to be your guide. You will not be disappointed.
They will provide wet suits and water shoes. I brought my own shoes. You will also have a secured locker to keep your items and be able to shower and change afterwards.
Don’t miss this adventure of a lifetime and ask for Marite to be your guide. You will not be disappointed.
Written April 15, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Mommaonthegeaux
Thank you very much for sharing your comment.
We are pleased to know that our mission to transform them through a unique journey to the bowels of the earth was a success.
We continue to work every day to preserve this natural wonder that would not be possible without your help.
We hope to see you again very soon in our nature reserve.
Greetings!
Written April 25, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Madison M
1 contribution
Jul 2023 • Couples
Rio secreto is truly “una regalo especial” and out tour guide, Adrianna, was absolutely incredible. Her passion combined with the unreal beauty of this place made this trip truly unforgettable. My boyfriend and I opted for the “plus” admission which included a bike ride, rappelling into a cave and exploring a dry cave, plus the actual rio secreto tour and it was worth every penny. The facilities are very clean, the food was delicious and authentic and the river itself is something you have to see to believe. I can’t thank the staff enough for making this one of our favorite experiences in Mexico.
Written July 31, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Leslie W
1 contribution
Aug 2024 • Solo
I had an awesome time here, the whole excursion was beautiful. I came on 8/22 /24 on carnival jubilee. I bought my pictures and didn't have service to download my pictures right then and there. Once I was back on the ship with service, I went to the site and entered in the code given and came up as wrong invalid code.
I spent $30 on 1 picture and now I have no way of getting my picture I spend money on and the fact I couldn't even take a picture from my phone of the actual picture is truly messed up ! Don't waste your time buying pictures. Just enjoy an take your own pictures as much as you can .
I spent $30 on 1 picture and now I have no way of getting my picture I spend money on and the fact I couldn't even take a picture from my phone of the actual picture is truly messed up ! Don't waste your time buying pictures. Just enjoy an take your own pictures as much as you can .
Written August 23, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
How much walking—not in the water—is part of the tour? My son wears leg braces to walk, but they can’t go in the water so he would need to take them off for the tour. I can usually piggyback him short distances but am not clear how much walking there is on this tour.
Written December 1, 2024
There is a lot of walking on this tour through jungle terrain. The cenote is also very walking/maneuvering intensive.
Written January 5, 2025
I don’t know where to go and dowmload my paid photos from Rio Secreto.Please guide me , I have my code but can’t find the page to type it in.
Written October 9, 2024
Hello if I can’t swim is this something that I could participate in?
Written August 27, 2024
I do not swim either but they provided life jackets.
Written September 9, 2024
My husband is 6ft tall and 300 lbs. He can physically do the excursion but does not have a wetsuit. I read that you can wear shorts and a T-shirt. Is that ok? We are going in September this year.
Written July 21, 2024
they require and supply wet suits. when i was there a guy was about that size and they had some that fit him.
Written August 28, 2024
I went on 7/2/24 and now 7/4/24 still can't access my photos I purchased!? I contacted them through that same site but am worried I won't receive them at all before leaving the country
Written July 5, 2024
I had the same issue when I went in April, I was able to access the link and see the pictures but I was unable to download or save them while still in Mexico. I sent/forwarded the link through whatsapp to my daughter back home in Ontario and she was able to download and save them that way.
Written July 6, 2024
How long is the cycling in the plus tour? If you don't want to rappel, can you also enter the cave another way? Do you cycle through the jungle or are ways where you cycle paved? Do you have to walk or cycle a long way through the jungle? How much do they charge for photos?
Written February 26, 2024
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