Wade through a luminous underground river and explore cliff-top Mayan ruins on a single day tour from Cancun or the Riviera Maya. This guided trip combines a 1 km cave walk-and-swim with time at Tulum and a regional buffet lunch.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off an air-conditioned van into a strip of coastal jungle and feel the humidity press like a warm hand. Guides fit wetsuits and helmets with lamps; the path narrows and the forest hushes as limestone gives way to the mouth of Río Secreto. Water pulls at your ankles, then your waist—an underground river daring you deeper into galleries carved over millennia.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
5–6 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: must be comfortable walking on uneven, slippery surfaces and treading/swimming short stretches in cool water.
Wildlife
History
Mayan cultures revered cenotes and caves as sacred water sources and ritual sites; Tulum served as a coastal trading port during the Late Postclassic period.
Conservation
Río Secreto manages visitor numbers and enforces strict no-sunscreen rules to protect calcite formations; stick to guide routes to minimize impact.
Reserve your spot on the Rio Secreto and Tulum Tour from Cancun or Riviera Maya Hotels today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Wear closed water shoes
The cave floor is uneven and slippery—sturdy, grippy water shoes protect feet and improve balance.
Leave sunscreen on shore
Oils and lotions can damage delicate cave formations—use sunscreen only before arrival and rinse off if needed.
Bring a waterproof phone pouch
You’ll want photos in wet conditions; a secure pouch prevents water damage and keeps hands free for balance.
Hydrate before the tour
Humidity and wetsuits can dehydrate quickly—drink water beforehand and use provided bottled water at stops.
Closed-toe water shoes
Provide traction on wet, uneven cave floors and protect toes from sharp rock.
Quick-dry swimwear and synthetic layers
Dry rapidly after the cave section and are comfortable under a wetsuit.
Waterproof phone pouch or small dry bag
Keeps electronics and a small dry layer safe during swims and transfers.
summer
Light fleece or cover-up for after the cave
Useful for the cooler transfer back to the vehicle and lunch area.
winter