Mexico is a resource-rich nation in terms of hot springs, due to its location on the Ring of Fire.
I visited an amazing spot where seems to symbolize the resources.
Gallons of hot spring water gushed from giant caves, and there was a theme park centering the warm river flowing out.
Sacred Waterfall
It is 3.5 hours’ drive from Mexico City.
You will see a sacred waterfall deep in the mountain.
A hot spring is gushing from the calcareous rocky hill, and behind the waterfall, there are two caves.
The water flowing out from here makes a warm river, and an extensive theme park centering hot springs is surrounding it.
Hotels (reservation unavailable), camping grounds, and restaurants are available in the park.
Calcareous Caves
In the left side of the waterfall, you will find a smaller cave around 50 feet length where you can get inside.
Hot water is gushing everywhere in the complete dark, and you will have zero visibility.
It seems apparently dangerous due to some ponds in the dark.
Behind the waterfall basin, a larger cave has a great pool in a state of nature.
The water temp is not so hot (around 100 degrees F), but it is rather comfortable in warm air in the cave.
The water looks milky white and has smooth texture.
From the ceiling of the cave, gallons of water are provided into the pool.
Under the column of water, Mexican people enjoy the fresh spring, although it looks like a kind of ascetic training.
The water makes a hot spring river streaming in the theme park.
Here, you will find restaurants, and the water temp is around 86 degrees F.
The time to visit needs to be noted.
It is better to avoid the rainy season (June through September), because the river may get dirty after rain.
There are also open-air baths with a superb view, near a hotel (Paraíso Escondido) on the mountainside.
The rich resource of hot springs meets Mexican culture that they do not take it too seriously about safety and nature conservation in a positive and negative way; which realizes the amazing theme park.
Summary
Grutas Tolantongo, Cardonal, Hidalgo, Mexico
Favorites:
Point
Go to Mexico only for Tolantongo!
- Walk-in: Yes
- Lodging: Yes (First-come, first-served)