Imagine warm turquoise water flowing out from a cave carved into the cliffs, surrounded by clouds of mist and the echo of birdsong. Now add hanging vines, jungle-like mountains, and just enough magic in the air to make you believe the stories locals still whisper—that fairies live here, just out of sight. Welcome to Grutas de Tolantongo, one of Mexico’s most surreal natural wonders.

There’s something about seeing a man hanging upside down from a pole that immediately grabs your attention — especially when that man is spinning around 20 meters above the ground with nothing but a rope tied to his ankle. Welcome to Palo Volteado, one of Mexico’s most breathtaking and little-known traditional dances.