Tenextla ravine · Sierra Norte of Puebla
Hot springs of Chignahuapan
Hot water rising from underground at the bottom of a ravine of forest and rock.
- ~4 kmeast of the bandstand, as the crow flies
- 2–4 hto enjoy it unhurried
- Naturalsulfurous, mineral-rich water
- 2,290 mof altitude: cool mountain air
The experience
Hot water, mountain air
In Tenextla, east of town, the water rises hot and fills outdoor and covered pools, beside the river and between rock walls. The classic move: get in early, while the air is still cold.
On winter mornings the air is around 5 °C, while the pool water comes out hot all year round.
What to expect
A day of water and forest
- Outdoor and covered pools
- Spa and temazcal at some facilities
- Busier on weekends and long weekends
Each spa sets its own hours, fees and rules: check them before you go.
Best time to go
Early and on a weekday
- In the morning Fewer people, and you feel the contrast between cold air and hot water even more. Best
- At midday Strong sun on the outdoor pools: sunscreen and a cap.
- In the late afternoon Once the sun goes down it cools off fast: keep your jacket handy.
- 5°Jan
- 6°Feb
- 8°Mar
- 10°Apr
- 11°May
- 11°Jun
- 11°Jul
- 11°Aug
- 11°Sep
- 9°Oct
- 7°Nov
- 5°Dec
- December to February: when it feels best
- June to September: rainy season, go in the morning
Approximate averages. The weather month by month
What to bring
All in your bag
- Swimsuit
- Sandals
- Towel
- A jacket for getting out of the water
- Sunscreen and a cap
- Drinking water
- Dry clothes and a bag for the wet ones
- A swim cap, if the place requires one
Safety tips
Hot water relaxes… and demands
- Go in and out in short spells; rest in the shade.
- No alcohol in the hot water.
- Pregnant, high blood pressure or heart problems: check with your doctor first.
- Always watch children: hot water tires them out faster.
- Walk slowly: wet floors and stairs are slippery.
- Drink drinking water before, during and after.
- When you leave, wrap up warm and drive calmly: a hot soak makes you sleepy.
Get directions
About 4 km from the bandstand
- Area
- Tenextla, Chignahuapan
- Distance
- About 4 km east of the bandstand as the crow flies
- By car
- 10 to 15 minutes without traffic; on heavy-traffic days, 20 to 30
- Without a car
- By taxi from the center
Tip It is not a walk to do on foot: it is along a road and the way back is uphill. By taxi, agree on a pickup time with the driver.
Open it in your maps app
See the hot springs on the mapBefore you go
Frequently asked questions
Where are the Chignahuapan hot springs?
In Tenextla, east of the center, at the bottom of a forested ravine. They are about 4 km from the bandstand as the crow flies; you get there by car or taxi.
How long does it take to get there from the center?
10 to 15 minutes by car or taxi, without traffic. On the few days with heavy traffic it can take 20 to 30 minutes. Walking is not practical.
Is the water natural?
Yes. It rises hot from underground and is sulfurous and mineral-rich.
What should I bring to the hot springs?
Swimsuit, sandals, a towel, a jacket for getting out of the water, sunscreen, drinking water and dry clothes.
What is the best time to go to the hot springs?
Early and on a weekday, when there are fewer people. In the rainy season, June to September, go in the morning.
Can children go?
Yes, always with an adult watching them. Hot water tires them out faster: take breaks and drink water.
Can I get to the hot springs without a car?
Yes, by taxi from the center. Agree on a pickup time with the driver.
Before and after your visit
Keep planning your trip
- From Mexico City or Puebla How to get to Chignahuapan
- Weather Weather and best time to visit
- Make a day of it See visit plans by available time
- Nature Quetzalapan Waterfalls
- Interactive map The town’s treasures on the map
- Where to stay Where to stay in Chignahuapan
Hours, fees and services change: confirm them with each place before your visit.