Mexico – The Underground Paradise of Rio Secreto
We have all visited caves, I have many. But, I admit I had never experienced anything like this before. Rio Secreto is a huge system of caves near to Playa del Carmen, Mexico. Over many many centuries an underground river of pure water has been carving out pure beauty beneath. Of course so much of it would need to be explored in diving suits, but, at the area of Rio Secreto the networks are semi filled thus making it accessible to many.
Wetsuits on, right from the start as you go into one of the many entrances hidden in the jungle the eyes and senses are hit with pure natural beauty that cannot be seen hardly anywhere on earth.
The care taken by the owners and guides to ensure it stays pure for future generations is a great thing to see. All must shower before entering, all are briefed on how to avoid touching the stalactites etc to stop human contamination. No glaring touristic lights to show the way or footways. It truly is just you, a headtorch and an awesome natural paradise.
Sometimes you are walking, sometimes ducking down, sometimes swimming/floating through the pure clear water. One and a half hours slowly taking it all in. The guide has so much knowledge and enthusiasm too. Everything is explained or proudly shown.
Even as I write this with all fresh in my mind I feel I should pinch myself to prove I actually saw and experienced what I did. Magical! Beautiful! Mother Nature, my favourite architect, thank you!
About Paul Steele
Founder of BaldHiker.com and avid hiker, climber and trekker. never liking to sit still and always seeking new adventures around the world. Sharing personal views here and tweeting live via @paul_steele
Wow these are stunning photos! We missed this when we were in PDC a couple of months ago but we are definitely going back and these caves are on the do-to list!
Hello Paul, I was there for Christmas and New year and I visited the caves . Wonderful experience . Your photos capture the wonder of the caves . Playa del Carmen , great holiday destination . So much to see and do. I wish I could have bumped into you , that would have been good Anna x
Hi Anna.. A remarkable place. So glad you got to experience it x
Really great post, it looks like an absolutely remarkable place!
What an amazing adventure! Mother Nature has created so many beautiful places for us to see. This is going on my bucket list. Thank you for sharing your adventure.
go for it! amazing experience