Day 1 – Arrival in Ixmiquilpan
Today, you’ll make your way to Ixmiquilpan, leaving the buzz of the cities behind and entering the open, rugged landscapes of Hidalgo. You’ll pass small towns and rural communities, with goats grazing along the roadside and fruit sellers waiting in the shade of makeshift stands. As you get closer to Ixmiquilpan, you’ll start to see more trees, colour and sound, as the landscape becomes greener and you’ll soon arrive at your charming hotel. Just a short drive from the town centre and only an hour and a half from the natural swimming area if La Gloria, it’s the perfect base for your hot springs experience tomorrow.
Day 2 – Tolantongo hot springs
This morning, you’ll set off early for La Gloria, a quieter and more natural part of the Tolantongo canyon. Here, warm mineral water flows through open riverside pools, with grassy banks and wild mountain views creating a relaxed, scenic setting. Soak in the natural hot springs, wander along the river and enjoy the peaceful surroundings, away from the main crowds.
Most visitors head to the well-known Grutas Tolantongo pools, which are tucked deep into the canyon and fed from the thermal springs, but it can get very busy here, especially during weekends and local holidays. For this reason, we have chosen not to include an entrance fee, however if you wish to visit, make sure its early morning to try and avoid the crowds. Once there, you can wander between caves and tunnels and soak in the warm mineral-rich pools, with dramatic views over the canyon below.
Day 3 – Departure from Ixmiquilpan
It’s time to say goodbye to this part of Mexico, after feeling relaxed and revitalized from all the hot springs action, continue onto the food capital of Puebla, where you’ll find restaurants serving food that you won’t see anywhere else. If you’re looking to dive into ancient Zapotec history, visit the ruins near Oaxaca, or head to the Pacific coast for laid-back beaches in Puerto Escondido, or Puerto Angel.
Accommodation
