La Kiva
A unique semi-subterranean restaurant with dinosaur decor, serving amazing pizza and creative cocktails by a beautiful river.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lively atmosphere & great pizza
La Kiva
Best Time
Lively atmosphere & great pizza
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A unique semi-subterranean restaurant with dinosaur decor, serving amazing pizza and creative cocktails by a beautiful river.
"The pizza here and featured salad is unreal. So good. And an incredible atmosphere."
🚗 Navigate the Dirt Road
The 8km dirt road to La Kiva is an adventure! A vehicle suited for unpaved paths is recommended.
🍕 Check the Menu
The menu is often limited, focusing on pizza. Confirm current offerings before your visit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Natural Pools and River Access
Río Chico de Nono
Crystal-clear waters form natural pools perfect for swimming and relaxing amidst stunning mountain scenery.
+1Unique Semi-Subterranean Ambiance
Restaurant/Bar Area
An intriguing hideaway with rock walls and dinosaur decor, offering a memorable dining and social atmosphere.
Pico Pepperoni Pizza
Restaurant
A surprisingly delicious and unique pizza combination that has garnered rave reviews.
Pickle Margarita
Bar
An adventurous and highly recommended cocktail for those who enjoy a unique flavor profile.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Journey to La Kiva
Check Current Offerings
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Navigate the Dirt Road
The 8km dirt road to La Kiva is an adventure! A vehicle suited for unpaved paths is recommended.
🍕 Check the Menu
The menu is often limited, focusing on pizza. Confirm current offerings before your visit.
🏊♀️ River Safety First
Enjoy the natural pools responsibly. Lifeguards are present, but always be mindful of river conditions.
🎶 Soak in the Vibe
The atmosphere is a highlight, with great music and interesting decor. Enjoy the unique setting!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Navigate the Dirt Road
The 8km dirt road to La Kiva is an adventure! A vehicle suited for unpaved paths is recommended.
🍕 Check the Menu
The menu is often limited, focusing on pizza. Confirm current offerings before your visit.
🏊♀️ River Safety First
Enjoy the natural pools responsibly. Lifeguards are present, but always be mindful of river conditions.
🎶 Soak in the Vibe
The atmosphere is a highlight, with great music and interesting decor. Enjoy the unique setting!
💧 Try the Pickle Margarita
Adventurous cocktail lovers should try this unique and highly-rated drink.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
La Kiva is praised for its incredible pizza and unique, atmospheric setting, especially under new ownership. Visitors love the friendly staff and the memorable decor. However, be aware that the menu can be limited, and the journey there involves a dirt road.
"This is an amazing restaurant for pizza under new ownership. I can't remember another their names but the two male bartenders on Saturday night were extremely friendly and helpful! The pizza is incredible! It's in a tie with one other pizza place of our favorite pizza ever! The crust is phenomenal! The drinks were excellent and the atmosphere was incredible!"
Lance Fulmer
"Be aware this is not the same La Kiva menu that is posted on Google maps. The restaurant has reopened with a limited pizza menu. With that being said we had the Pico Pepperoni. It seems like an unlikely combination but IT WORKS!!! IT WAS DELICIOUS. We ate the whole thing. Also had the cheese garlic bread, which is more like a very thin crust cheese pizza...but it was good too! If you like pickles and margaritas...try the Pickle Margarita. It won't disappoint. The atmosphere is very nice and interesting. With both inside and outside seating. The bar was hoppin' . Highly recommend!!!"
Belinda Myers
"We discovered this place last fall - then saw that it closed over the summer. Thought I’d check again this last week during our trip to Terlingua. Was thrilled to see their Google showing it as open! Went on a Monday night - it was hoppin’ and they were doing pizza - the pizza was absolutely incredible! I’m eating leftovers of it as I type this. The staff was excellent, you could tell they really put thought into creating a great atmosphere. I noticed so many little details that were new this year. Music was great, our big group of friends had a blast. So happy La Kiva is back!!! ❤️"
Ryann Ford
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
La Kiva is located about 7-8 km from Nono via a dirt road. While accessible by car, a vehicle suited for unpaved terrain is recommended. Some visitors enjoy hiking up the river from Paso de las Tropas, which takes about 30 minutes to an hour depending on the route.
No, the road leading to La Kiva is a dirt road. It can be a bit bumpy, so drive with caution and consider your vehicle's capabilities.
Yes, you can walk to La Kiva by following the river upstream from Paso de las Tropas. There's a marked trail, and it's a scenic route for those who enjoy hiking.
La Kiva is approximately 7 to 8 kilometers away from the center of Nono.
Information on public transport directly to La Kiva is limited. It's generally recommended to have your own vehicle or arrange local transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, there is no entrance fee to access the balneario (bathing area) at La Kiva. However, it's always a good idea to check for any recent changes in policy.
La Kiva typically operates as a bar and parador, with hours often extending into the evening, usually from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM. It's best to confirm current hours, especially outside of peak season.
While not always necessary, especially during peak times or for larger groups, booking might be advisable. The restaurant can get busy, particularly on weekends.
La Kiva has experienced periods of closure, particularly over the summer months in the past. It's crucial to verify its current operational status before planning your visit.
There are no explicit age restrictions mentioned for entry to La Kiva. However, it's a place that attracts a diverse crowd, and some content humorously notes the presence of wildlife.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
La Kiva has recently reopened with a limited menu, primarily focusing on delicious pizzas. Popular items include the Pico Pepperoni pizza and cheese garlic bread.
The Pico Pepperoni pizza is a standout, praised for its unique and delicious flavor combination. The cheese garlic bread is also a good option.
While the menu is limited, the pizzas can often be customized. It's advisable to inquire directly about vegetarian options upon arrival.
The bar offers a selection of drinks, including the highly recommended Pickle Margarita for those seeking a unique cocktail experience.
No, the menu has changed with new ownership and can be limited. It's best to check recent reviews or social media for the most current offerings.
📸 📸 Photography
The natural pools and riverbanks offer stunning scenic shots. The unique interior decor with rock walls and dinosaur motifs also makes for interesting photos. Drone shots can capture the expansive landscape.
Drone footage of La Kiva and its surroundings has been shared, showcasing the natural beauty. Always be mindful of local regulations and privacy when flying drones.
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, can provide beautiful lighting for the natural landscapes. Midday offers bright light for capturing the vibrant water.
No specific restrictions on photography have been widely reported. However, always be respectful of other visitors and staff.
The blend of natural beauty with the quirky, semi-subterranean interior creates a unique visual contrast that's very photogenic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the restaurant's menu is currently limited, the pizza is generally well-received and can be a hit with kids. The unique atmosphere of La Kiva, with its interesting decor, can also capture children's imaginations. Just be mindful of the river's currents and supervise children closely, especially in deeper sections.
🚗 Adventure Seekers
+1Once at La Kiva, adventurous spirits can explore further up the river, find more secluded swimming holes, or even try some cliff diving if conditions are safe and you're experienced. The unique environment itself encourages exploration and a sense of discovery.
🍕 Foodies & Cocktail Enthusiasts
Cocktail aficionados should not miss the Pickle Margarita. It's a bold choice that has impressed many, showcasing the bar's willingness to experiment. Combined with the vibrant atmosphere and friendly bartenders, it makes for a delightful evening.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Natural Beauty of Balneario La Kiva
+2Visitors often describe the experience as incredibly relaxing and refreshing. The river's gentle flow in some areas makes it suitable for various swimming abilities, while deeper sections offer opportunities for more adventurous dips. The natural setting is a significant draw, offering an escape into nature that many travelers seek.
Access to the river is facilitated by the parador, which offers direct entry. For those seeking a bit more adventure, walking up the river from Paso de las Tropas is a popular option, revealing more secluded spots and a deeper connection with the natural surroundings.
+1La Kiva's Unique Ambiance and Dining
Recent reviews highlight a renewed focus on pizza, with the Pico Pepperoni being a particular favorite among visitors. The crust is frequently praised as phenomenal, and the unique flavor combinations are a hit. Other offerings, like the cheese garlic bread, also receive positive mentions. The bar is known for its excellent drinks, with the Pickle Margarita being a must-try for those seeking something different.
The combination of great food, creative drinks, and an unforgettable atmosphere makes La Kiva a popular spot. The staff, particularly the bartenders, are often commended for their friendliness and contribution to the vibrant, welcoming vibe. It's a place where the dining experience is as much about the setting and the company as it is about the food.
Cultural and Spiritual Connections
+1These spiritual aspects suggest that La Kiva is more than just a tourist spot; it's a place with a rich history and ongoing cultural significance. The emphasis on 'Raices de la Tierra' (Roots of the Earth) points to a connection with ancestral practices and a respect for nature that permeates the experience.
While the primary draw for many visitors might be the natural beauty and the unique restaurant, understanding these deeper cultural layers can enrich the overall appreciation of La Kiva. It speaks to a place that holds meaning for both locals and those who participate in its more traditional events.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit