Las Grutas Tolantongo, Mexico’s Hidden Gem, Offers Caves and Hot Springs

Parker Diakite
·2 min read
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Hidalgo State, Mexico
Hidalgo State, Mexico

Only four hours away from Mexico City is the hidden gem Las Grutas Tolantongo. It’s a stunning and majestic site along the Mezquital Canyon in Hidalgo state. The canyon sits at 4,200 feet above sea level.

Flowing from the mountains are breathtaking hot springs. These thermal gems are the main attraction there. It’s unlike anything else you will see in the world and is one of Mexico’s best-kept secrets.

Here’s what you need to know about visiting Las Grutas Tolantongo.

LAS GRUNTAS Mexico
Photo credit: @shyaviation / Instagram

Getting There

With Las Grutas Tolantongo located in the Hidalgo State in Central Mexico driving is the best option. The shortest drive is from Queretaro City, which will take roughly three hours. The most popular route is from Mexico’s capital, and it is a drive that will take four hours. The park is also a four-hour drive from San Miguel de Allende and four and a-half hours from Queretaro City.

If you drive yourself, please note that you have to pay for parking and entry into the park. It costs 30 Mexican pesos, which is less than $2 to park. A general admission ticket is 180 Mexican pesos or $10.75 per person daily. Credit cards are not accepted. Tickets have to be paid in cash.

Group and private tours are available for people who don’t feel comfortable driving. Some of the tours offer meals and accommodations with the tour price.

Day Trip Versus Weekend Getaway

With a minimum of a three-hour car drive one way, visitors should consider staying in a hotel for a couple of days to experience all Las Grutas Tolantongo has to offer. There are hotels throughout the region, but it’s important to note that many don’t offer online booking, so you have to inquire about the rooms in person or call ahead. The Tolantongo website has a list of what to expect for hotel costs. The best stays are Hotel Paraíso Escondido, Hotel La Gruta and Paraíso Escondido Hotel. Reservations at these hotels do not include a park ticket or free entry into the park.

There are other options for those who feel comfortable with a reservation by using booking platforms Expedia and Airbnb.

It’s More Than The Beautiful Hot Springs

Las Grutas Tolantongo is more than the thermal springs. A thermal river, pools, a suspension bridge, waterfalls, a cave and more surround it.

From hiking, swimming, and outdoor adventures, the thermal water park offers so much for visitors. Other stunning natural attractions include caves and tunnels.