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The Grutas de Cacahuamilpa form one of the largest cave systems in Mexico, set in the limestone hills of northern Guerrero near the border with Morelos. A national park protects the caverns along with the surrounding canyon country. Underground rivers carved the network over a very long span of time, leaving enormous chambers decorated with stalactites, stalagmites and flowing stone formations.
Guided walks follow a paved, lit route through a series of vast salons, each named for shapes that local guides point out in the rock. The Auditorium salon is among the most impressive, its ceiling lost in shadow high overhead. Outside, a path descends from the entrance into Limontitla Canyon, where the San Jerónimo and Chontalcoatlán rivers emerge from beneath the mountain, and the nearby Grutas de Carlos Pacheco offer a smaller second cave. Limontitla Botanical Garden adds a quieter stop among native plants.
Most people combine the caves with Taxco, the hillside silver town a short drive away. There, Santa Prisca Church, Casa Borda, the Museo Guillermo Spratling and countless silver shops fill an afternoon easily. The caverns suit families and casual sightseers since no special fitness is needed for the main route. The interior stays fairly cool year round, though rainy-season afternoons can bring storms to the canyon trails.
WiserMap travel guideGrutas de Cacahuamilpa Mexico Giant Caverns Near TaxcoPlan a trip to the Grutas de Cacahuamilpa in Guerrero: cavern salons, underground rivers, a botanical garden, nearby Taxco, food and where to stay.Read the guide
A guided walk of about two hours along a level, lit path of around 2 km through a chain of huge salons, some up to 80 meters high, filled with stalactites and stalagmites named for their shapes. It is one of the largest cave systems in Mexico. Wear non-slip shoes and bring a light jacket.
A vast, dry chamber inside the Cacahuamilpa caverns with a flat floor fitted with seats, used for concerts and cultural events, including classical music festivals. Its scale is impressive even when empty. Look out for special event dates if you would like to hear music in the cave.
A smaller cave system within the national park, with its own formations and a more intimate feel than the main caverns. Tours are offered on request rather than on a fixed schedule. Ask at the park entrance about availability, and bring a flashlight and sturdy shoes.
One of the two underground rivers that run through tunnels beneath the park, explored on guided adventure trips that involve walking and swimming through dark passages. It is for fit visitors who are comfortable in water. Go only with authorized guides, and expect to get fully wet.
The second underground river of the park, crossing the mountain through long tunnels before joining the San Jerónimo, explored on guided expeditions with helmets, lamps and life jackets. Trips run mainly in the dry season. Book with an authorized operator and follow the guides closely.
A limestone canyon in the park popular for rock climbing and rappelling, with dozens of bolted routes of various difficulty. Climbers need their own gear or a local guide. Climb in the cooler morning hours, and ask at the park about current access and rules.
Outdoor attractions in the national park, including a zip line and a suspension bridge with views over the valley and forest near the cave entrance. They are paid separately from the cave tour. Combine them with the caverns for a full day, and check if they operate on the day you visit.
The place where the two underground rivers emerge from the mountain through large cave mouths and join to form the Amacuzac River, reached by a long stairway from the park facilities. It is a striking sight. Allow time for the climb back up the stairs, and bring water.
A small botanical garden in the park displaying native plants of the region's dry tropical forest, with guided tours available. It is a quiet complement to the caves. Visit between June and October, when the rains turn the forest green and many plants are in bloom.
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