Is Grutas de Tolantongo Worth It? An Honest Review

This post is all about Is Grutas de Tolantongo Worth Going To? An Honest Review

Whether it’s your first time exploring Mexico or you’re finally visiting after seeing this place all over Instagram, you’ve definitely seen photos of the famous Grutas de Tolantongo.

It can be challenging to figure out how to get there, where to stay, where to fly into and if Grutas de Tolantongo is even worth visiting.

I remember our first time here, I had no idea what to expect, packed all the wrong things, and regretted not being more prepared.

Well, have no fear, I’ve put together the ultimate Grutas de Tolantongo guide for you. From how to get here, what Grutas de Tolantongo is really like, how much it costs, and if it’s really worth your time.

Here is my honest opinion of Grutas de Tolantongo….

This post is all about Is Grutas de Tolantongo Worth Going To? An Honest Review

What Is Grutas de Tolantongo?

Grutas de Tolantongo is one of the most stunning man made and natural attractions in the world. It’s actually more of a thermal waterpark with waterfalls, caves, tunnels, and man made thermal pools all located on the side of a mountain.

But Where Is Grutas de Tolantongo?

Grutas de Tolantongo is located in the state of Hidalgo in central Mexico, it’s not particularly close to any touristy destinations, so if you decide to visit - it’s usually very intentional. If you’re flying in, you’d fly into Mexico City.

How do I get from Mexico City to Grutas de Tolantongo?

You can rent a car and drive about 3-4 hours one way to get to Grutas de Tolantongo. That’s about a 6-8 hour drive ROUND TRIP, one that can be exhausting but is also really scenic. You can also book a tour here, which will bring you directly to the park and back!

What I recommend doing if you have the time, is to visit Mexico City, Grutas de Tolantongo, drive to Guanajuato, stay there for a couple of nights and explore San Miguel de Allende on the way back to Mexico City.

This way you’ll get to explore a ton of places and see a really local and beautiful side of Mexico.

What is the best month to visit Grutas de Tolantongo?

The best times to visit Grutas de Tolantongo is from November to Early Spring, on a weekday, and as early as you can!

The park opens up at 8AM, we decided to wake up at 3AM, and drove from Mexico City to be one of the first ones in. Once it hit 11AM, the place was PACKED, and started to even smell (think a wet dog smell ew), so to really feel the tranquility of this place, I really recommend coming as early as possible.

Grutas de Tolantongo Tickets: How much does it cost to go to the waters of Tolantongo?

Tickets for Grutas de Tolantongo costs about $200.00 MXN daily or about $11 USD. You also need to pay to park which is about $30.00 MXN per vehicle or about $1.70.

What’s super important to note is that EVERYTHING in the park, food, parking, tickets are all cash only! The nearest ATM is an hour from Grutas de Tolantongo so make sure to bring cash. You’ll start to get really hungry here too, so make sure to bring enough to spare.

What to do at Grutas de Tolantongo?

There are alot of things to do at Grutas de Tolantongo. Besides walking around, there are three main attractions to explore.

The Hot Spring Pools:

these are man-made but located on the side of a mountain and truly a beautiful sight. The best vantage point for photos is actually up above before you get in.

The Thermal River:

The running thermal river was one of my favorite parts, I enjoyed it even more than the hot spring pools. There are rocks there that you can use as natural face masks, and the running water feels so good on your skin. It’s a gorgeous milky blue color and such a beautiful place to soak.

The Cave and Waterfall:

these are both fun places to check out, but you probably won’t spend too much time in them. Located at the back of the canyon, as you enter the cave, a light trickle of cold water falls on you from the waterfall above.

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What To Bring To Grutas de Tolantongo

If you decide to drive all the way to Grutas de Tolantongo, make sure you’re prepared!
You’ll want to bring the following:

Cash
2. Bathing Suit
Don’t bring your FAVORITE bikini here because the mineral deposits can leave some stains on your favorite bathing suit! It’s also a family-friendly establishment so leave the thong bikinis at home girl!

3. Towel

I love bringing a travel towel because they’re so easy to pack, lightweight, and super absorbent. Especially if you decide to go to another town after, you won’t want to bring a huge hotel towel. These two are my favorite travel towels!

4. Waterproof Phone Case

You’ll want to take photos/videos here and you’ll want a really good waterproof phone case.

I always opt for these instead of the phone pouches because they’re SO much more secure and you never have to worry about water getting in.

Is Grutas de Tolantongo Worth Going To?

A near 8 hour drive JUST to see this thermal park… is it worth it?

Grutas de Tolantongo is truly a one-of-a-kind experience. Just being on the side of a mountain in a hot thermal pool, overlooking the jungle is one of the coolest sights to see. I have made a trip to go to Mexico City just to come here, and would do it again in a heartbeat. BUT to make your trip even more worthwhile, I really recommend exploring Guanajuato as well and dedicating a whole trip to exploring the little towns of Mexico.

Besides, when the next time you'll be back in Mexico City?

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And there you have it! Everything you need to know about Grutas de Tolantongo including the best times to visit Grutas de Tolantongo, Grutas de Tolantongo ticket prices, and if Grutas de Tolantongo is even worth visiting. I hope this guide prepared you for everything you need to know, have an amazing time!