Rio Secreto Natural Reserve and Lunch Tour

OMG. I have been here 4 times. All 4 have been great and unique but this time has been the best. From the ticket booth to the reception, ( amazingly welcoming reception) and the best guide (Diana) all 4 times I have come here, it has never disappointed but this time was exceptional. I love this place and will continue to return solo and with friends as many times as I can. My favourite tourist place in Mexico. Inspite of being a tourist spot, they treat you like a treasured guest/part of the family. I will be back time and time again.

Highlight of my trip so far. Wonderful guide (Naomi!), I loved how respectfully she introduced us to Mayan culture. There's a tiny bit of floating/ swimming involved, but even non-swimmers like me managed it (life jackets provided, along with all equipment). Book with transport to and from location if possible, but there are colectivos available from Playa del Carmen a few blocks away from the ADO terminal. Getting back is a tad tougher since you have to cross the busy highway and flag a colectivo down (I hitched a ride from some super-kind people in the group). No photos because phones and cameras not allowed. A designated photographer takes pics that are sold to you after the trip is over. Love the ixtabentun shot after as a reward!

The excursion itself was beautiful and fun, but unfortunately the overall experience was disappointing. The company bans phones/photos to push their own overpriced photographer package, and none of the photos were worth buying. It really takes away from the experience when you can’t capture your own memories. What frustrated me most was the inconsistency in how the rules were enforced. I was scolded for attempting to take a photo, yet other guests touched cave sediment and trees, despite clear no-touch environmental rules and though the guide reminded them of the no touching rule, she ultimately laughed it off on 2 different occasions after my photo attempt (which was while we were waiting stationary for the group so there was no safety issue). It made the “protection” policies feel more focused on their photo business than actual environmental preservation. The natural beauty of the excursion was incredible, but the overall experience and company practices left a negative impression.