Family Adventure in Playa del Carmen

Diving into the Heart of the Riviera Maya

Today was all about exploring the natural wonders hidden beneath the surface of the Riviera Maya and indulging in some authentic Mexican cuisine. The family and I ventured into the depths of Cenote Chaak Tun and Río Secreto, two stunning underground river systems that the ancient Maya believed were sacred portals. It was a day of adventure, history, and, of course, delicious food!

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at La Brocherie. I must admit, finding a little taste of France here in Playa del Carmen was unexpected, but delightful. The kids enjoyed some fluffy croissants, while Fatoumata and I opted for the classic croque monsieur. Fuelled up, we were ready to explore!

Our first stop was Cenote Chaak Tun. As someone who grew up in Goundam, Mali, where the landscape is vastly different, the idea of swimming in an underground cave system was completely new to me. The entrance to Chaak Tun felt like stepping into another world. We donned our headlamps and followed our guide into the dimly lit caverns. The stalactites and stalagmites created an otherworldly atmosphere. The water was refreshingly cool, a welcome contrast to the warm January air outside. Aminata and Ibrahim were thrilled to swim in the crystal-clear water, exploring the hidden corners of the cenote. The guide shared stories of the Mayan civilization and their reverence for these sacred places. It was more than just a swim; it was an immersive history lesson.


Explore the breathtaking beauty of Cenote Chaak Tun, an ecological park and nature preserve in Playa del Carmen, perfect for swimming and adventure.

The earth has music for those who listen.

After Chaak Tun, we headed to Río Secreto, another incredible underground river. Río Secreto, or Secret River, truly lives up to its name. As we descended into the caves, I felt like an explorer venturing into uncharted territory. The experience was surreal – floating in the cool, clear water, surrounded by stunning rock formations that have been forming for thousands of years. The silence, broken only by the gentle sound of water, was incredibly peaceful. Our guide explained the geological formations and the delicate ecosystem within the caves. It was fascinating to learn how this hidden world was formed and the importance of preserving it.


Immerse yourself in nature at Río Secreto, Playa del Carmen’s breathtaking ecological park with stunning underground rivers and lush biodiversity.

Ibrahim, always the curious one, kept asking questions about the bats we saw fluttering above. Aminata, on the other hand, was mesmerized by the shimmering reflections on the water. Fatoumata and I simply enjoyed the tranquility of the surroundings, grateful for the opportunity to share this unique experience with our children. I must say, I was glad I remembered to bring my Evendo travel guide, it came in handy to explain to the children the importance of respecting nature and these sacred sites.

For lunch, we sought out a local favorite: El Fogón. This taqueria is known for its authentic tacos al pastor, and it did not disappoint. The smoky aroma of the meat cooking on the spit filled the air, making our mouths water in anticipation. The tacos were served with a variety of salsas, each with its own unique flavor and level of spiciness. I opted for the classic al pastor, while Fatoumata tried the cochinita pibil, a slow-roasted pork dish that is a Yucatecan specialty. The kids happily devoured quesadillas and horchata, a sweet rice milk drink. As someone who enjoys trying new cuisines, I appreciated the simplicity and authenticity of El Fogón. It was a true taste of Mexico, far removed from the touristy restaurants on 5th Avenue.


Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico at El Fogón in Playa del Carmen - where authentic street food meets casual dining.

As evening approached, we decided to treat ourselves to a truly unique dining experience at Alux Restaurant Bar and Lounge. This restaurant is located inside a natural cave, complete with stalactites, stalagmites, and even a cenote! The ambiance was magical, with soft lighting illuminating the rock formations. The menu featured a mix of Mexican and international cuisine, with an emphasis on seafood. We started with some delicious Mayan cocktails, made with local ingredients like Xtabentun liqueur and habanero peppers. For our main courses, Fatoumata and I shared a seafood platter, while the kids enjoyed some grilled chicken and pasta. The food was excellent, but the real highlight was the atmosphere. Dining in a cave felt like stepping back in time, connecting with the ancient history of the region. It was an unforgettable experience that we will cherish for years to come.


Experience exquisite Mexican cuisine in a breathtaking cave setting at Alux Restaurant Bar and Lounge in Playa del Carmen.

As we enjoyed our dinner, there was some music playing, and I was reminded of the traditional Malian music I enjoy playing back in Montreal. I made a mental note to teach Aminata and Ibrahim some Malian rhythms when we get back home.

Before heading back to the hotel, we took a stroll along 5th Avenue, soaking in the vibrant nightlife of Playa del Carmen. There was a palpable energy in the air, with music spilling out from the bars and restaurants. We picked up some souvenirs for our friends back home and enjoyed some delicious churros from a street vendor. It was the perfect end to a perfect day.

Reflecting on the day, I am struck by the incredible diversity of experiences that Playa del Carmen has to offer. From the mystical cenotes to the authentic cuisine, there is something for everyone here. As we head into tomorrow, we are planning to visit Xenses Park por Xcaret, I am excited to see what new adventures await us. I've heard it's a place that plays with your senses, and I'm eager to experience it with my family. We'll also be trying out new restaurants, including Yum Yum for breakfast, Axiote Cocina de México for lunch, and Prime Steak House for dinner. And perhaps, after a long day, Fatoumata and I will sneak away to Dirty Martini Lounge for a nightcap. I'm already looking forward to sharing our experiences with you all tomorrow. Goodnight from Playa del Carmen!

Today was a reminder that travel is not just about seeing new places, but also about connecting with history, culture, and nature. And, of course, enjoying some delicious food along the way. I am grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family and with you, my readers. Until tomorrow!