Overview
Iconic Summits
Climb Ixtaccihuatl (17,338 ft), Mexico's third tallest peak, and Orizaba (18,880 ft), Mexico's tallest peak and the third tallest in North America!
Acclimatization Treks
Prepare for high-altitude success with scenic hikes at the base of the mountains, taking in views of smoking volcanoes.
Glacier Travel & Technical Skills
Learn or refresh mountaineering techniques including crampon use, rope team movement, self-arrest, and crevasse navigation.
Comfort, Culture & Support
Enjoy cozy mountain lodges and refugios, expert guide leadership, and time to soak in Mexico's gorgeous scenery, local culture, and delicious cuisine.
details
Everything you need to know before you go
Included
All lodging during the itinerary, including lodging in Mexico City
All meals while on the mountains
Group camping and climbing equipment
All permits
In-country transportation
Guiding fees
NOT Included
Flights to/from Mexico City
Additional nights in hotels outside of the itinerary dates
Visas
Dinners in Mexico City
Tips for guides or local porters
Travel, rescue, or any other type of insurance
Preparation
Fitness
techincal
Altitude
Itinerary
Trip Itinerary
DAY 1
Arrival in Mexico City ~7,300 ft / 2,238 m
Bienvenidos a México. Arrive in Mexico City and transfer to our comfortable hotel in the historic center. After a gear check and introductions, we gather for a welcome meeting and head out for dinner to sample classic Mexican cuisine. Culture, colors, and energy set the tone for the adventure ahead.
DAY 2
To the Volcanoes 8,100 ft / 2,469 m
We leave the city behind and drive east toward the highlands and our first objective: Ixtaccíhuatl. A scenic acclimatization hike introduces us to thinner air and expansive views before settling into a cozy hotel in Amecameca, a lively mountain town perched at the foot of the volcanoes.
DAY 3
Cortez Pass & The High Country 11,100 ft / 3,383 m
A rugged drive brings us to Paso de Cortés, the historic gateway between Popocatépetl and Ixtaccíhuatl. From here we hike higher, taking in unforgettable views of Popocatépetl—sometimes visibly smoking. We spend the night near the pass in a hut, fully immersed in the alpine environment.
DAY 4
Acclimatization & Alpine Prep ~14,000 ft / 4,267 m
Today we climb higher on Ixtaccíhuatl, pushing our acclimatization to nearly 14,000 feet. The afternoon is spent resting, hydrating, and preparing for an early alpine start. As the sun sets, the volcanoes glow in the distance and anticipation builds.
DAY 5
Summit Ixtaccíhuatl! 17,338 ft / 5,285 m
A pre-dawn start launches our summit attempt on Ixtaccíhuatl. We climb through snow and volcanic terrain to the broad summit, rewarded with sweeping views across central Mexico. After descending back to the pass, we drive to the colorful city of Puebla for a well-earned dinner and a comfortable night at lower elevation.
DAY 6
Transition to Orizaba 9,500 ft / 2,896 m
We continue east to the mountain town of Tlachichuca, Orizaba’s traditional basecamp. The afternoon is relaxed—organizing gear, hydrating, and enjoying local hospitality—as we prepare for our final and highest objective.
DAY 7
Piedra Grande Basecamp 14,000 ft / 4,267 m
Local 4x4 drivers shuttle us up a rugged mountain road to Piedra Grande, Orizaba’s high camp. We settle into the huts, review summit strategy, and turn in early. Tomorrow is the big day.
DAY 8
Summit Pico de Orizaba 18,491 ft / 5,636 m
An alpine start puts us on the Jamapa Glacier as the stars fade overhead. We climb steady snow slopes to the crater rim, then walk the final steps to the summit of Pico de Orizaba—the highest volcano in North America and the third-tallest peak on the continent. After descending to Piedra Grande, jeeps return us to Tlachichuca for a celebratory dinner and final night in the mountains.
DAY 9
Return to Mexico City & Departure
We drive back to Mexico City and transfer to the international airport by midday. Nine days, two major summits, and an unforgettable blend of culture, altitude, and adventure.
FAQ's
FAQ's
Gear List
Gear List
Gear required to bring up on the mountain given the conditions may vary trip to trip. Your guide will help you decide what gear to bring or leave behind during the gear-check. If you need to rent crampons, ice axe, harness, or helmet, you can let us know when you book!
