COMBO DAY PASS: Cola de Caballo + Grutas de Garcia

If you’re planning to explore some of Monterrey’s most breathtaking natural sights, this Combo Day Pass offers a solid way to pack a lot into one day. It’s designed for travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures, impressive geological formations, and scenic waterfalls. While it’s a full 10-hour experience, the tour balances guided exploration with opportunities for optional fun, making it suitable for those who want a mix of sightseeing and active pursuits.

What really caught our eye about this experience are the stunning cave formations at Grutas de Garcia and the imposing 27-meter high Cola de Caballo Waterfalls. Plus, the optional boat tour at Rodrigo Gómez “La Boca” Dam adds a little extra adventure. The tour’s price of $136 per person seems reasonable considering the transportation, guided elements, and entry fees included. But a key consideration is that it’s not suited for everyone, especially those with mobility issues or health concerns, due to physical activity and walking involved.

This tour works best for active, curious travelers who want to see Monterrey’s natural side without fussing over the logistics. If you’re okay with a fairly structured day and are comfortable with some walking and climbing, you’ll likely find it rewarding. For families with older kids or travelers who enjoy exploring caves and waterfalls, this is a solid pick. However, if you’re seeking a relaxing day or traveling with small children, it might be worth considering other options.

Key Points

• Includes transportation and guided tours of both caves and waterfalls, providing convenience.
• Stunning geological formations inside Grutas de Garcia, perfect for photography.
• Impressive Cola de Caballo Waterfalls with options for additional adrenaline activities.
• Optional boat tour at Rodrigo Gómez “La Boca” Dam can enhance the experience.
• Good for active travelers comfortable with walking and some physical activity.
• Small group setting ensures a less crowded, more personalized visit.
• Not suitable for very young children, pregnant women, or those with mobility or health issues.
• Cost includes entrance fees but not food or drinks.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Monterrey’s Natural Wonders: What to Expect

This tour is a full-day journey that starts early in the morning, taking you away from the city’s urban charm to the rugged beauty of the Sierra Madre Oriental. We like that it’s designed to introduce you to two of the area’s most iconic attractions—each offering a different kind of wonder.

The Cave Experience at Grutas de Garcia

The adventure begins with a scenic drive to the Sierra de el Fraile, about 45 minutes from Monterrey. From there, you’ll ascend to the Cañón del Fraile, where a 1.5-kilometer climb takes you to the caves. Although the cable car is currently under repair, the walk up is manageable if you’re in good shape. The caves themselves are filled with spectacular stalactites and stalagmites, and the well-lit paths with railings make exploring safe and enjoyable.

Inside, your guide will lead you through a 2-kilometer tour of various chambers, each more impressive than the last. Visitors who’ve been on this tour note that the lighting and pathways make it perfect for photography and for those who want a guided, informative experience. As one reviewer put it, “We took the cave and waterfall tour. Our guide was punctual and patient,” emphasizing the importance of a good guide to make the most of the visit.

The Waterfalls at Cola de Caballo

In the afternoon, the focus shifts to the majestic Cola de Caballo, or “Horse’s Tail,” Waterfalls. Towering at 27 meters, this cascade is a sight to behold. The area around the waterfalls is quite developed, with facilities for ziplining, hanging bridges, horseback riding, wagon rides, and even a 70-meter high bungee jump—if you’re craving an adrenaline rush. These activities come at an additional cost, but they can turn a scenic visit into a thrill-packed afternoon.

The views here are spectacular, especially if you’re a photographer or simply love natural scenery. The lush greenery surrounding the falls adds to the sense of being surrounded by untouched nature. Be prepared for some crowds if visiting during peak times, but the views make it worthwhile.

Optional Boat Ride at Rodrigo Gómez “La Boca” Dam

One of the tour’s highlights is the optional boat tour inside Rodrigo Gómez “La Boca” Dam. It’s an extra cost, but if you’re into water activities, it can be a peaceful way to end your day. The dam area also offers a chance to sit back and enjoy the views after a busy day of sightseeing.

More Great Tours Nearby

Visiting the Magical Town of Santiago

The tour concludes with a visit to the Charming Town of Santiago. Here, you can explore the historic church of Santiago Apóstol, walk around the main square, and indulge in local treats like the famous yogurt ice cream at “Grandma’s House.” This part of the tour offers a relaxing, cultural touchpoint before you head back.

The Practicalities: How the Day Unfolds

The tour’s 10-hour duration includes plenty of time to see both main attractions plus some optional activities. The vehicle used is air-conditioned, and the small group size means fewer crowds and more personalized attention. Transfers between parks are all included, simplifying logistics so you can focus on enjoying the sights.

The price of $136 per person covers all entrance fees—García Grottoes and Cola de Caballo Park—and transportation. Remember, food and drinks are not included, so bringing snacks or planning a lunch stop is wise. The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel or a designated spot, and the guide speaks both Spanish and English, which helps make the experience accessible for many travelers.

Authentic Feedback & What to Expect from Others

One glowing review from Angelica from Mexico highlights the tour guide, saying, “Jonathan is an excellent guide. He was punctual and patient, making sure we enjoyed despite injuries.” This hints that the guides are attentive and knowledgeable, capable of enriching your experience—not just taking you around but sharing interesting stories and tips.

Others appreciated the stunning views and good organization, noting that the stops felt well-paced. Some mentioned that parts of the experience could be physically demanding, especially the walk up to the caves, so it’s best for those who are comfortable with a bit of walking and climbing.

Final Thoughts: Is this Tour Right for You?

If you’re a traveler who loves outdoor adventures and stunning natural scenery, then this combo tour is a great way to see Monterrey’s highlights without worrying about logistics. The combination of caves, waterfalls, and cultural spots offers a well-rounded experience that captures the region’s rugged charm.

However, it’s not ideal if you’re looking for a leisurely day or have mobility issues since parts of the tour involve walking, climbing, and some physical activity. It’s best suited for active individuals, nature lovers, or anyone interested in capturing beautiful photos of waterfalls and caves. The optional activities at Cola de Caballo, while exciting, do come at extra cost, so budget accordingly.

The tour offers value for its price, combining transportation, guided tours, and entry fees. It’s a good choice for those who want a full day of exploring Monterrey’s outdoor wonders with the comfort of small group size and professional guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally geared toward travelers comfortable with walking and some physical activity. It’s not recommended for very young children under 5 or those with mobility issues.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers transportation, guided tours inside the caves, and entrance fees for García Grottoes and Cola de Caballo Park. Food and drinks are not included.

Is the tour suitable if I’m pregnant or have health problems?
This experience is not recommended for pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, or those with heart problems due to the physical activity involved.

How long is the drive between Monterrey and the sites?
The drive to Sierra de el Fraile is about 45 minutes from Monterrey, making it manageable for a full-day trip.

Can I do the boat tour at Rodrigo Gómez Dam?
Yes, it’s an optional activity that you can add for an extra cost. It’s a relaxing water experience after a busy sightseeing day.

What activities are available at Cola de Caballo?
Besides viewing the waterfalls, you can choose to try ziplining, hanging bridges, horseback riding, wagon rides, or the bungee jump for an additional fee.

Is there free time during the tour?
Yes, after the main attractions, there’s some downtime to explore the town of Santiago or relax before heading back.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, water, sun protection, and snacks. If you plan to do activities like ziplining, check if you need specific gear or clothing.

How do I cancel or reschedule?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking now and paying later offers flexibility if plans change.

To sum it up, this Combo Day Pass offers a practical, enjoyable way to see some of Monterrey’s most iconic natural sights. Perfect for active travelers who want a guided, hassle-free day immersed in nature and scenic beauty. If your goal is a day packed with memorable views and adventure, this tour is well worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: