The caves serve as habitat for various bat species, including the Mexican free-tailed bat and various insectivorous species. Deep within the caves, visitors might encounter unique cave-adapted organisms such as blind fish, crickets, and various arthropods. The surrounding park area is home to white-tailed deer, coati, raccoons, and numerous bird species. The cave system also houses rare species of cave-dwelling invertebrates, some of which are endemic to these caves and have evolved unique adaptations to the dark environment.
While the cave interior lacks significant plant life due to the absence of sunlight, the surrounding park area hosts a diverse array of vegetation typical of the region's semi-deciduous tropical forest. Notable species include ceiba trees, fig trees, and various types of orchids. The park entrance features carefully maintained gardens with native species such as bougainvillea, agave plants, and various cacti. The transition zone near the cave entrances supports moss and fern species that thrive in the humid microclimate created by the cave system.
The Grutas de Cacahuamilpa represents one of North America's largest cave systems, formed through millions of years of limestone dissolution by underground rivers. The cave system extends for over 90 kilometers, though only about 2 kilometers are accessible to tourists. The formations include massive stalactites and stalagmites, some reaching heights of over 20 meters. The caves were formed during the Pleistocene epoch when water filtered through the limestone rock, creating the elaborate network of chambers and passages. The ongoing process of calcium carbonate deposition continues to shape the cave's features, though at an extremely slow rate of about 1 centimeter per 100 years.
The caves were first documented in 1834 when local residents discovered them while pursuing a criminal who had used the caverns as a hideout. The site gained scientific attention in 1836 when Baron von Gros conducted the first formal exploration. The caves were designated as a National Park in 1936 by President Lázaro Cárdenas. Throughout history, the caves held spiritual significance for indigenous peoples, particularly the Olmecs and later the Chontal people, who considered them sacred spaces. The site opened to tourism in the mid-20th century and has since become one of Mexico's most important cave systems.
The most spectacular features include the 'Sala del Trono' (Throne Room) with its massive formations, the 'Salón de los Gobelinos' featuring curtain-like stalactites, and the 'Salón de la Catedral' with its church-organ-like formations. The 'Río San Jerónimo' underground river system, though not accessible to regular visitors, contributes to the cave's ongoing formation. The park also features the smaller but equally impressive Grutas de Carlos Pacheco nearby. Modern amenities include well-maintained walkways with lighting, guided tours in multiple languages, and a visitor center with educational displays about the cave's geology and history.
The Grutas de Cacahuamilpa region experiences a semi-tropical climate with average temperatures ranging from 18°C to 28°C (64°F to 82°F) throughout the year. The caves maintain a constant temperature of around 19°C (66°F) regardless of external conditions. The dry season runs from November to April, making these months ideal for visiting. During the rainy season (May to October), visitors should be prepared for afternoon showers, though the caves remain accessible as they provide natural shelter from the elements.
Mexico
18.6690°, -99.5110°
1936
16.3
Home to one of the largest cave systems in the world, this park features spectacular limestone formations. The main cave extends for several kilometers with enormous chambers and impressive stalactites and stalagmites. The park also includes surface trails and recreational areas.