How to Get to Grutas Tolantongo from Mexico City

The best way to reach Grutas Tolantongo from Mexico City is renting a car (4 hours direct, flexible timing) or taking public transportation in two steps: CDMX to Ixmiquilpan via bus from Terminal Norte (3 hours), then Ixmiquilpan to Tolantongo via local bus from Mercado Municipal (2 hours on winding mountain roads). The terraced hot springs maintain 34-38°C year-round. Weekdays are dramatically less crowded than weekends; arriving early (before 10am) or staying overnight provides the best experience.

Grutas Tolantongo - those stunning terraced hot springs you've seen on Instagram - is one of Mexico's most spectacular natural attractions. Getting there from Mexico City requires some planning, but it's absolutely worth the effort. Here's everything you need to know about transportation.

Your Transportation Options

Option 1: Rent a Car

Renting a car is arguably the best option for visiting Tolantongo. Advantages include:

• Flexibility - Arrive early to beat crowds or stay late after day-trippers leave
• Comfort - No cramped vans or multiple bus transfers
• Total time - About 4 hours direct from CDMX

Important driving notes:

• The route from CDMX to Ixmiquilpan is a standard 2-lane highway
• From Ixmiquilpan to Tolantongo is a winding, single-lane mountain road with steep switchbacks
• Take the mountain portion slowly, especially if you're not experienced with mountain driving
• Avoid driving at night - the mountain road is challenging in darkness

Option 2: Public Transportation (Two-Step Process)

There's no direct public transportation to Tolantongo. You'll need to make two connections:

Step 1: Mexico City to Ixmiquilpan

• Depart from Terminal Central de Autobuses del Norte (North Bus Station)
• Buses run every 30-60 minutes
• Journey time: approximately 3 hours
• These are standard coach buses with 2-seat configurations - comfortable enough

Step 2: Ixmiquilpan to Tolantongo

• Go to the Mercado Municipal in Ixmiquilpan
• Next to the market is a bus station/parking lot with buses specifically for Tolantongo
• These buses are older and less comfortable than the first leg
• Journey time: approximately 2 hours (the road is slow and winding)
• Buses won't be crammed unless you go on a holiday or weekend

Option 3: Organized Tours

Several companies offer day trips from Mexico City. Turibus (a well-respected company) runs tours to Tolantongo. Look for their "Turitour" option for a comfortable, full-size bus experience.

Be aware that reviews of smaller tour operators on GetYourGuide and TripAdvisor are mixed. Common complaints include:

• Small, cramped vans (not full buses)
• Guides who don't provide much information
• Long travel times in uncomfortable vehicles

If you go with a tour, research the operator carefully and look for those using actual buses rather than 10-person vans.

What to Expect at Tolantongo

The hot springs are geothermally heated, with water temperatures ranging from 34-38°C (93-100°F). Yes, it's warm even in winter - that's the point of hot springs.

Winter Visits

December through February is cooler in the mountains (50s-60s°F during the day). The hot springs themselves are warm, but moving between pools or walking around in wet swimwear can be chilly. Many visitors find this the perfect contrast - cold air, hot water.

Best strategy: aim to be in the pools during the warmest part of the day (1-3pm) when the sun is out.

Crowds

Weekends are extremely crowded. If possible, visit on a weekday. Arriving early (before 10am) or staying overnight allows you to experience the pools without the masses.

Facilities

This is still a developing tourist destination:

• Accommodation is basic - mostly tent camping or simple cabins
• Book accommodation in advance; arrive early (before 7am) to get room assignments
• Restaurants are casual/informal
• Cash is preferred; credit cards work but internet is unreliable
• Bring sturdy, waterproof footwear - the terrain is rocky

Tips for Your Visit

• Start with the cave - Hit this first when you arrive, before the main crowds
• Explore the other side of the river - Less crowded and more rustic
• Bring a robe or cover-up - For moving between pools in cold air
• Flashlight - Essential if staying overnight
• Camping gear - If staying in a tent, bring your own sleeping pad and warm bedding
• Cash - For entrance fees, food, and any rentals

Is It Worth the Journey?

Absolutely. The terraced infinity pools with mountain views are unlike anything else. Just go in with realistic expectations about the travel time and basic facilities. Those who rent a car and stay overnight typically have the best experience - you can enjoy the pools at sunset and sunrise when day-trippers aren't there.

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