LeVar Thomas
If you are an adventurer and have a passion for the ancient and unknown, then you should make sure you add Rio Secreto to your bucket list! Located in Mexico on the Yucatan Peninsula, 3 miles southwest of Playa del Carmen, this system of caves has been carved out over the centuries by an underground river. It stretches about 8 miles, creating an incredible and stunning nature preserve. You can hike or float thru the system because it is semi-sunken and has 15 natural outlets.
The really cool thing about this natural phenomenon is the fact that it was virtually unknown until 2007! Rio Secreto is also protected and groups entering this underground paradise are allowed on guided tours only. Showers before entering are a must, and no jewelry, cameras, bug spray, or sunscreen are allowed. They also alternate tours to different parts of the cave to minimize human impact.
This system of caves was important to the Mayans because it provided fresh water for the tribe, and was considered a gateway to the afterlife. The thousands of stalactites and stalagmites there are breathtaking, and have been totally undisturbed for thousands of years. Rio Secreto is a 2 hour drive from Cancun, so there is no reason to miss this wonderful experience on your next trip to Mexico.
