Day 1
   Mexico City is an exciting and culturally rich destination that holds the title as one of the largest cities in the world. It is at an elevation of 7,000ft and a great place to begin our acclimatization process. The Hotel Catedral is our starting point which is located near the Zocalo; Mexico Cities historic district. The first day in Mexico city allows us to explore the myriad of museums and cultural sites the city has to offer. We will reconvene at 6pm for our pre-trip meeting where we will discuss trip itinerary, personal expectations, and do an equipment check.

Day 2
   We drive up to the Paso de Cortes at 12,500ft and hike around the base of Iztaccíhuatl (17,158 feet). From here we will gain views of Popocatépetl which is an active volcano standing at 17,802 feet. The two mountains have an interesting story based on the ancient legend so remember to ask your guide about their history. In the evening we descend to the town of Amecameca at 8,000ft for a good night sleep in a simple hotel.

Day 3
   We drive back up to Iztaccíhuatl and set up a camp in a lush valley at 12,800ft. In the afternoon we go for another acclimation hike and explore the valleys at the foot of the mountain.

Day 4
   The route from our base camp follows a well used trail to the Groupo de los Cien hut at 15,400ft. This is a 6-8 hour day with a moderate difficulty level. The hut is small but cozy and provides an excellent staging point for our summit attempt the following morning.

Day 5
   Iztaccíhuatl summit climb. The route ascends a steep rock ridge and continues to traverse the mountain reaching several beautiful false summits. After crossing the Ayoloco Glacier we reach the beautiful ridge, "Arista del Sol", that leads us to the summit. Following the early morning ascent, we hike back down to our base camp in the valley.

Day 6
   Drive to the small town of Tlachichuca at the base of Orizaba. This is a rest day and will allow some time to relax and shower at the hotel.

Day 7
   The 4X4 drive up to Pico de Orizaba ends at Piedra Grande, a stone hut at 13,800ft. After dinner we will prepare for our early morning summit attempt.

Day 8
   Orizaba summit climb. The climb takes 10-14 hours to reach and return from the 18,490ft summit. From the summit there are spectacular views into the dormant volcano crater and out across the Mexican landscape. After returning from the summit we will pack our gear and head back down to the town of Tlachichuca where we will spend the night.

Day 9
   Contingency Day. This day is reserved to allow for additional weather, and rest/acclimatization days. It can be used at any point in the trip. Having a contingency day is important for accommodating changing individual and group needs.

Day 10
   Return to Mexico City



Teotihuacan Pyramids
   If we do not need our contingency day while climbing, we can spend it at the pyramids on our way back to Mexico City exploring Mexico’s intriguing Aztec history.

This itinerary is designed to provide individuals with a positive high altitude experience. It allows time for weather and acclimatization days. If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to give us a call at 1.800.766.3396.

This itinerary is intended as a general guideline. It can change at any time due to events or conditions that are beyond our control.