Amy MariettaTOLANTONGO ITINERARY
If you’re planning a Mexico trip and love nature, adventure, and off-the-beaten-path destinations, you need to add Tolantongo to your itinerary. Tucked away in the mountains of Hidalgo, just a few hours from Mexico City, Tolantongo is a natural wonderland of thermal pools, hot spring rivers, waterfalls, and epic caves that feel like something straight out of a dream.
Here’s your ultimate Tolantongo itinerary to make the most out of this magical destination — whether you’re coming for a day trip or staying overnight.
How to Get to Tolantongo from Mexico City
The easiest way to visit Tolantongo for a day is by booking a guided tour — no stress, no navigating mountain roads, and no dealing with public transport transfers.
✅ Recommended Day Tours to Tolantongo:
Tolantongo Hot Springs Day Tour from CDMX (Highly Rated)
Includes round-trip transport, guide, and park entry. Perfect for those who just want to relax and enjoy. Book by clicking HERE.
Or here is another option that’s less of a guided tour. Basic Tolantongo Experience.
Ideal if you’re traveling with friends or a partner and want more flexibility.
Tours usually leave between 6–7 AM and return to CDMX around 8–9 PM.
What is Tolantongo?
Tolantongo, also known as Grutas de Tolantongo, is a natural hot spring resort in the state of Hidalgo. It’s famous for its cliffside infinity pools, steamy cave systems, and milky-blue thermal river that flows through a lush canyon.
️ One-Day Tolantongo Itinerary
If you’re doing a guided tour like we did, here’s the exact order we followed to make the most of a single day in Tolantongo — and trust me, it’s worth it:
Morning: The Cliffside Hot Pools
Once you arrive, head straight to the Paraiso Escondido section to soak in the famous hot spring pools built into the cliffside. These pools are what Instagram dreams are made of — surrounded by mountains and filled with naturally heated, mineral-rich water. You can walk through a cave tunnel and/or over the suspension bridge to the other side where there is a hotel and restaurant that has delicious piña coladas – highly recommend:)
After the pools or posas, it’s time to either zipline down to the waterfalls and caves (La Gruta) or you can take the bus. Our tour guide gave us the option so we zip-lined down and had so much fun:)
Midday: Explore the Caves & Thermal River
After relaxing in the pools, make your way to La Gruta, the main cave. Warm waterfalls greet you at the entrance, and once inside, you’ll discover natural steam rooms, tunnels, and even a hidden waterfall chamber.
After the caves, you’ll enjoy lunch by the Tolantongo River where you can swim and use the clay for a detoxing face mask. The Tolantongo River is a vibrant turquoise blue stream surrounded by jungle vibes and towering canyon walls.
️ Food & Amenities
There are simple restaurants on-site with tacos, quesadillas, and drinks. Most tours include lunch or give you time to eat at the park.
Reminder: The area is cash-only, so bring pesos.
Want to Stay Longer?
While a day trip is totally doable (and unforgettable), I highly recommend staying overnight if you can. The early mornings and evenings in Tolantongo are peaceful, and watching the sunrise from a hot pool? Next level.
There are basic hotels inside the park, but they don’t take reservations — it’s first come, first served. You can also camp by the river if you’re feeling adventurous.
Whether you’re craving a relaxing soak in natural hot springs or an adventure through caves and canyons, Tolantongo is a must on any Mexico itinerary. It’s one of those places that looks too beautiful to be real — until you’re standing in it, letting a warm waterfall pour over you.
Book a tour, pack your swimsuit, and get ready for one of the most magical day trips you can take from Mexico City. ✨
PIN FOR LATER
