Mexico’s Volcanoes

El Pico de Orizaba / Iztaccihuatl (5199m / 17,158′) the 3rd and 7th highest peaks in North America!

Overview

Our 10-day Mexico’s Volcanoes expedition serves as the ultimate introduction to high-altitude mountaineering, combining cultural immersion with classic alpine ascents. This carefully crafted itinerary targets two of North America’s most iconic peaks: Iztaccihuatl (17,158′) and El Pico de Orizaba (18,410’ / 5,611m), the third-highest mountain on the continent. Beyond the climbs, our journey weaves through the rich history of Mexico City and Puebla, alongside a private tour of the ancient pyramids of Teotihuacan.

Our acclimatization phase begins on Iztaccihuatl—the Aztec “Sleeping Lady”—where we establish our high-altitude baseline with scenic prep hikes before tackling a dramatic ridgeline route up the mountain’s “knees” and “hips” to reach the summit “chest.” Following a celebratory rest and rejuvenation stop in historic Puebla—complete with a visit to the massive archaeological site at Cholula—we journey east to face the dormant giant, El Pico de Orizaba. A rugged 14-mile 4WD approach brings us to our 14,000’ high camp. From there, the summit push tackles a complex labyrinth of rock and ice before opening up onto the spectacular Jamapa Glacier. We finish by traversing the rim of a massive, active crater punctuated by interior steam vents to stand on the true high point of the peak.

Prerequisites: Both peaks require prior experience with ice axe arrest, crampon footwork, and roped team travel. Please review our Snow Travel School or Mountaineering Skills Seminar to complete these prerequisites before departure.

Upcoming Expedition Dates

  • 2026 Season: October 30 – November 7, 2026
  • 2027 Season: October 29 – November 6, 2027

Custom Private Trips: Can’t make our scheduled group departures? We offer flexible, custom private dates anytime upon request to seamlessly fit your schedule. Please contact our office to coordinate your private team itinerary!

Price

$4200 per person

  • Land Costs Included: Professional guiding and leadership, all international ground transportation (including 4WD logistics), hotel accommodations during the itinerary, group expedition breakfasts and dinners, mountain tents, high camp kitchen setup, and group safety climbing equipment.
  • Exclusions: International flights to/from Mexico City, personal trail lunches, individual mountaineering clothing and climbing gear, equipment rentals, and guide gratuities.