Turquoise Springs.
Hidden Canyon.
Thermal pools carved into limestone cliffs, three hours from Mexico City. The day your body repairs — after Pico, between Izta and your next climb.
The Experience
Tolantongo isn't about summits or altitude — it's about recovery, and a landscape that doesn't look real. In a remote canyon in Hidalgo, turquoise thermal pools sit carved into limestone cliffs, fed by warm mineral springs above a river you can walk for hours.
There are tunnels cut into the rock, grottos behind waterfalls, and pools at every temperature. You move between them at your own pace — soaking, swimming, walking the canyon, eating fresh local food.
Nothing to summit. Nowhere to be. This is the day you take after Pico has tested everything you've got, or between Izta and your next climb. Your legs need it.
Prefer to stay longer? Ask about the two-day option with a riverside cabin and a slower pace in the canyon.
The Day
A relaxation day, not a climbing expedition. Bring swimwear, a towel, comfortable clothes, and an appetite for thermal water and local food.
Pickup in Mexico City
We collect you from your accommodation and head northeast into the mountains of Hidalgo.
Scenic drive to Tolantongo
Roughly three and a half hours through the mountains, with a brief coffee stop en route.
Arrival & check-in
Collect your box breakfast and start exploring before the day-trip crowds arrive.
The springs & canyon
The main thermal pools above the canyon, the river walk, the tunnel springs cut into the cliff, and the grotto behind the waterfall. Soak, swim, and explore at your own pace.
Lunch at the springs
Traditional local cooking at the on-site restaurant.
Final soak
One last stretch in the warm water, photos, and a slow wind-down before the drive home.
Drive back to Mexico City
Back through the mountains, with drop-off at your accommodation around 7:30 PM.
What's Included & What to Bring
Included
- Round-trip transport from Mexico City
- Professional English-speaking guide
- All Tolantongo entrance fees — pools, grottos, tunnels & river
- Box breakfast for the morning
- Lunch at the on-site restaurant
What You Bring
- Swimwear and a towel
- Water shoes or sandals with straps
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+), hat & sunglasses
- A change of clothes for the drive back
- Optional: extra snacks and a little cash
What It Costs
Price per person, in USD. The more of you, the lower the rate.
A 35% deposit secures your guide and date; the balance is due at the end of the trip.
Cash has no fee; card adds a 5% bank fee on the balance only.
Cancel 7+ days ahead for a full deposit refund; inside 7 days the deposit is non-refundable.
Custom pickups outside Mexico City have an added fee. Groups of 5+ — message us for pricing.
Want the two-day overnight option? Ask about riverside cabin pricing when you book.
Yacana's Take
Tolantongo is where you recover. After the midnight start on Izta, after Pico has tested everything you've got, after Malinche's long descent — this is where your body repairs.
The warm mineral water isn't just pleasant; it helps tired legs recover faster. And the low altitude — 1,200 meters, after days spent above 4,000 — finally lets you breathe easy. You spend the day moving slowly between pools, eating well, and doing nothing that resembles effort.
We run it as a real rest day, not a tour to rush through. Come the day after a summit, or drop it between two climbs. Your legs will thank you.
Common Questions
Do I need to be physically fit?
What temperature are the hot springs?
Is this suitable for non-climbers and families?
When's the best time to visit?
What's included in the price?
Can I do the 2-day overnight option?
What if I can't swim?
What's your cancellation policy?
What Our Climbers Say
"We had an amazing time with Cristino. He's the best, most experienced guide you could ask for. He goes above and beyond — a genuinely warm person. Super well-organised: transport, food, technical gear... everything arranged perfectly."
"The company was always very quick to respond to all my questions, and helped me with everything I needed. Our guide, Chris, was the best we could have wished for: knowledgeable, friendly, and funny. He knows lots about the history of Mexico."
Your Legs Need This
Tell us when you're climbing and we'll slot Tolantongo in where it does the most good — straight answers, no pressure.
Questions? WhatsApp us at +52 55 5069 9562
Prefer to Plan by Message?
Tell us the option and rough timing — we'll open WhatsApp with your details ready to send, and reply within 24 hours.