Climb Pico de Orizaba (18406ft / 5610m), North America's tallest volcano and Mexico's highest peak on this 6 day multi-summit adventure. The adventure begins in Mexico City, where participants meet their guides for a detailed briefing before heading to Nevado de Toluca for an acclimatization hike to its stunning crater summit. The journey continues to a mountain lodge, a base for exploring the breathtaking forests surrounding Pico de Orizaba. A scenic hike to the Hidden Waterfalls provides further acclimatization and an opportunity to immerse oneself in the region's natural beauty before preparing for the main climb.
The expedition builds up to the ultimate challenge: summiting Pico de Orizaba a challenging hike that is suitable for first time climbers. After an off-road transfer to Base Camp, climbers complete final preparations before setting off at midnight for an intense, glacier-covered ascent to 5,636 meters. Reaching the summit at sunrise rewards climbers with awe-inspiring views before the descent back to Base Camp and a well-earned rest at the lodge. The journey concludes with a return to Mexico City, marking the end of an unforgettable high-altitude mountaineering experience filled with adventure, natural wonders, and personal achievement.
What's Included?
- Airport transfers
- 2 nights of accommodation in Mexico City
- 2 high-altitude ascents
- Professional certified mountain guides
- Welcome kit (cap, buff, goggles)
- Travel insurance
- Camping equipment (sleeping bag, sleeping pad, tent)
- Technical mountaineering gear (harness, ice axe, crampons, helmet)
- National park entry fees and permits
- All meals as described in the itinerary
*Single supplement not included.
Day 1: Arrival in Mexico City
Welcome to Mexico City, a bustling metropolis filled with history, culture, and stunning architecture. Upon arrival, you will be greeted at the airport and transferred to your hotel, where you can relax after your journey. In the evening, our expedition guides will conduct a briefing to review the itinerary, discuss mountain safety, and ensure all mountaineering gear is in order. This is also an opportunity to ask any last-minute questions before we head into the mountains.
No meals included
Day 2: Nevado de Toluca Ascent
Starting altitude: 3,600m (11,811 ft) | Summit altitude: 4,680m (15,354 ft) | Elevation gain: 1,080m (3,543 ft) | Distance: 8 km (5 mi) | Time: ~5 hours
We start the day early with a drive to Nevado de Toluca, Mexico's fourth-highest peak. This extinct stratovolcano is home to two stunning crater lakes, Laguna del Sol and Laguna de la Luna. The hike offers breathtaking views of the crater and surrounding valleys, making it an excellent first acclimatization climb. After reaching the summit, we descend and transfer to our mountain lodge near Pico de Orizaba, where we'll enjoy a warm meal and a well-deserved rest.
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 3: Hidden Waterfalls Hike
Starting altitude: 3,600m (11,811 ft) | Elevation gain: 200m (656 ft) | Distance: 4 km (2.5 mi) | Time: ~3 hours
After a restful night, we enjoy a relaxed morning and a hearty breakfast. Today's activity is a scenic trek to the Hidden Waterfalls, nestled within the ancient forest of Pico de Orizaba. This hike allows us to further acclimatize while immersing ourselves in the region?s rich biodiversity. Expect lush landscapes, unique flora, and pristine cascading waterfalls. In the afternoon, we return to the lodge for dinner and a pre-climb discussion.
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 4: Base Camp Preparation
Starting altitude: 3,600m (11,811 ft) | Base camp altitude: 4,200m (13,780 ft) | Elevation gain: 600m (1,969 ft) | Distance: 4 km (2.5 mi) | Time: ~3 hours
After breakfast, we will board 4x4 vehicles and make our way to the Base Camp of Pico de Orizaba. Upon arrival, we'll set up camp and take a short acclimatization hike to further prepare for the summit push. The rest of the afternoon will be spent doing final gear checks and enjoying a high-altitude dinner before heading to bed early to rest for the challenging ascent ahead.
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 5: Pico de Orizaba Summit Attempt
Base Camp altitude: 4,200m (13,780 ft) | Summit altitude: 5,636m (18,491 ft) | Elevation gain: 1,436m (4,711 ft) | Total distance: 9.5 km (5.9 mi) | Total climb time: ~11 hours
The summit push will begin at midnight, with climbers setting out under the starlit sky. We will steadily ascend the glacier-covered slopes, reaching Mexico's highest volcano peak at sunrise. After taking in the panoramic views, we will carefully descend back to Base Camp, then continue to our lodge for well-deserved food, a hot shower, and rest before returning to Mexico City.
Breakfast / Lunch
Day 6: Departure
Enjoy a final breakfast at the hotel before your transfer takes you to the airport for your flight home. If time allows, you may explore Mexico City briefly before departure.
Breakfast
