Climb Pico de Orizaba (Citlaltépetl) in Mexico

Join Oscar to the top of the stunning Pico de Orizaba, one of the world's seven volcanic summits, and Mexico's highest mountain. Enjoy breathtaking views and the warmth of the locals on this unforgettable mountain climbing experience.

Private

Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt

2 Days

All year

High

Beginner

Highlights

Join an amazing mountain climbing adventure to the top of Pico de Orizaba.
Discover the vibrant Mexican culture and the warmth of the local people.
Enjoy a flexible program that can be adapted to your preferences and needs.

Description

Would you like to climb Mexico’s highest mountain? Or perhaps take on the world’s seven volcanic summits challenge? Then climbing Pico de Orizaba should definitely be in your plans, and we are here to make sure you follow through on them.

At 5,636 m (18,491 ft) Pico de Orizaba or Citlaltépetl is both the highest mountain in Mexico and the highest volcano in North America. Furthermore, this beautiful peak boasts beautiful views and friendly people on the way, which makes it all the more appealing to climb.

Despite its altitude, Pico de Orizaba is not a hard mountain to climb. The trail which leads to the summit is relatively short (less than 4 km-2.5 mi-). However, the climb takes an average of 7-8 hours, due to the altitude and prominence. Therefore, although you don’t need advanced mountaineering skills to join, a good fitness level and acclimatization are a must. By the end of the adventure, you will observe an increase in your technical skills and have some more altitude practice under your belt.

Keep in mind that this adventure can be as flexible as you need. We can increase the number of days to get better acclimatization; we can add other big Mexican peaks to increase the challenge, we can attempt different routes, or try reaching a new personal record. I’m happy to help you reach your goal, whichever it may be.

So, are you ready to take on Pico de Orizaba? Then contact me today and let’s start planning this amazing adventure together! I look forward to guiding you.

Price includes

Accommodation included
Guiding fee
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Transport during the trip
Personal insurance
Permit and entrance fees
Mountain guide expenses
Drinks

Price details

Includes acomodattion during the nights of expedition: mountain huts, camping fees or mountain hostels when required.
Includes Certified Group and Personal Gear: crampons, harness, helmet, iceaxe, headlight, ropes, anchors, ice-screws, quickdraws, carabineers, first-aid kit and all the other climbers safety systems required as a group. Camping equipment includes: tents, stoves, cookware, camping mats and good music when required.
NOT Included: Sleeping bags, boots, gloves, clothing, sunglasses, bottles to refill with drinks, sunscreen, backpack and other personal gear not mentioned previously; but there is a chance to rent some of them with an extra fee.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Acclimatization

7:00 – Meeting at the agreed point within the city of Puebla and preparation of the last details to leave the city. 7:30 – We move to Tlachichuca. 9:30 – Arrival in Talchichuca and stop for a snack if needed. 11:00 – Arrival in Miguel Hidalgo, one of the highest towns in Mexico, and change transport for a 4×4. 12:30 – Arrival at Piedra Grande Refuge, the base of North Face Route of Pico de Orizaba. 13:00 – The acclimatization hiking begins by climbing between 300 and 500 meters (between 980 and 1640 feet). 16:00 – Return to the Refuge and preparation of dinner. 17:00 – Explanation and review of the last details of the gear. 18:00 – Time to rest

Day 2: Summit Day

00:00 – Time to wake up 00:30 – Breakfast 01:00 – Start of the route to the summit! 08:00 – Average time of arrival at the summit 09:00 – Average time of descent to the Piedra Grande Refuge. 13:00 – Average time of arrival at Piedra Grande. Return to Ciudad Puebla begins. 18:00 – Average time of arrival in Puebla City.

Equipment you will need to bring

Water bottle

Backpack

Sunglasses

Goggles

FAQs

I'm looking for insurance to cover my mountaineering trip to Mexico. Do you have any recommendations?

Explore-Share partners with Global Rescue, which offers comprehensive coverage including cancellation, rescue, and medical insurance. This ensures that you are protected against unforeseen circumstances, giving you peace of mind during your climbing adventure on Pico de Orizaba. To learn more about Global Rescue and to purchase your insurance, please visit: https://partner.globalrescue.com/exploreshare/

Feel free to explore the link for detailed information about their coverage options and benefits.

What experience and fitness level do I need to climb Pico de Orizaba?

You need to be in good physical condition and have some previous experience in high-altitude climbing. The ascent requires endurance, and being able to handle strenuous activity at altitude is essential.

Is this trip suitable for beginners?

This trip is not suitable for complete beginners. It’s recommended to have prior experience with similar climbs and high-altitude conditions. Familiarity with basic mountaineering techniques is important.

What equipment do I need to bring for this climb?

You will need to bring your own personal clothing, such as thermal layers, a down jacket, waterproof clothing, and sturdy mountaineering boots. Technical equipment like crampons, an ice axe, and a helmet can be rented if you don't have your own.

What kind of training should I do to prepare for this climb?

Training should focus on both cardiovascular fitness and strength. Hiking with a weighted backpack, long-distance running, and leg strength exercises are recommended. Training should start at least a few months before the trip.

How many vertical meters should I be able to ascend in a day?

You should be prepared to ascend around 1,000 to 1,200 vertical meters in a day. The climb requires a good level of stamina and endurance.

How many hours a day will we climb?

You should expect to climb for 8-10 hours on the summit day, starting very early in the morning. The duration can vary depending on the group's pace and weather conditions.

What size backpack do I need to bring?

A 30-40 liter backpack is sufficient for carrying your personal items, food, and water during the climb.

How will accommodation and meals be handled on the mountain?

Accommodation will be in mountain huts. Meals are typically provided by the guide, but it's recommended to bring your own snacks for additional energy during the climb.

What happens in the event of bad weather?

If the weather conditions are not favorable, the climb may be postponed or canceled for safety reasons. The guide will make decisions based on the weather forecasts and current conditions.

Is there a best time of year to climb Pico de Orizaba?

The best time to climb Pico de Orizaba is during the dry season, from October to March, when the weather is more stable and the climbing conditions are optimal.

How can I get to the meeting point?

The meeting point is typically in Tlachichuca. You can get there by bus or private transportation from Mexico City or Puebla.

What are some recommended accommodations near our adventure location?

We understand that finding the perfect place to stay is an essential part of your adventure experience. To help you with this, we’ve curated a list of three highly recommended hotels that offer comfort, convenience, and a touch of local charm. These accommodations are well-suited for adventurers looking to relax and rejuvenate after an exciting day of exploration

Hotel Xelhua Cholula Mexico

See rooms

Hotel Casa Calli Cholula Mexico

See rooms

Hotel San Leonardo Cholula Mexico

See rooms

About the guide

Oscar & Guides' team

5.0

(20)

Mountain Guide

I am a Mexican Mountain Guide, part of the Mexican Association of Mountain And Climbing Guides AMGME (standed by Spanish). I love the Outdoors and I dedicate all my life to them. I've been guiding professionally in mountains for the last 6 years, since I began my formation in 2014, providing always certainty and safety to the climbers.

I work side to side with a group of certified guides, so If I am not available to guide you, one of the experienced guides in my team will be your guide. Also, I'm work with many local, professional and friendly people, and being surrounded by many different cultures is one of the wonderful things in my job, giving, all of this, a unique experience in each expedition.

My experience climbing big mountains goes from Canada to different countries in South America, working meanwhile with different guides, people and companies. I´m always looking to get unforgettable trips and adventures. Write for any expedition's question, I´ll be happy to solve it!

Languages

French | English

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