Tolantongo, Hot springs in Mexico
Tolantongo is a canyon with thermal springs in the Mezquital Valley in Hidalgo state, featuring natural pools, caves, and a turquoise river. The area follows steep rock walls where warm water flows across several levels, offering visitors different bathing areas.
The thermal springs were known to indigenous peoples in the region before the Spanish conquest and valued for their warming properties. The area developed into a resort during the 20th century as infrastructure for visitors was built.
The name comes from the Nahuatl language and means house where it feels warm, referring to the thermal springs that have been known for a long time. Visitors see locals bathing in the natural pools and relaxing along the turquoise river that runs through the canyon.
Visitors should bring swimwear and towels, as the pools are the main attraction and paths between them can be wet. The journey is best made by car, as the valley is remote and several hours of driving from larger cities.
One of the caves contains a natural pool with very warm water flowing directly from the rock, forming a small room where visitors can sit. The water maintains a constant temperature of around 38 to 40 degrees Celsius (100 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit) and is rich in dissolved minerals.
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