ORIZABA

Alpine start on Orizaba

Trip Information:

Location:Central Range, Mexico
Summit Elevation: 18,880 ft. (5636m)
Days: 7
Dates: November 3-9, 2012
Skill Level: Intermediate
Maximum Group Size: 6 Clients
Cost of Trip: USD $1,975

Trip begins in Mexico City, Mexico

Trip Description:

Orizaba Climbing Expedition
Descending the Jamapa Glacier
Join us for a climb of this beautiful and accessible mountain in the heart of Mexico. First climbed in 1848, Orizaba is the 3rd highest mountain in North America and an excellent experience for the aspiring mountaineer. Standing 18,880 feet above the Gulf of Mexico to the east, Orizaba is an excellent challenge for those who have had some experience with mountaineering and are looking to test themselves at high altitude. Orizaba is the perfect next step on the road to peaks such as Elbrus and Aconcagua and has served as the choice for mountaineers as the first big mountain glacier climb.

Pico de Orizaba is easily accessible from Mexico City, a short drive to the town of Tlachichuca brings us to the base of the mountain. We will spend a night in town to take in the views of the mountain and sample the exquisite local cooking. Before making our way to the start of the climb we have time to pack and organize equipment on the sunny grass of our logistics operators hacienda. Orizaba Climbing Expedition
Summit success
A 4-wheel drive truck ride will transport the group and gear to the Piedra Grande hut located at 13,972 feet on the mountain. Here we will take a day or two to relax, hike, and acclimatize. As soon as we have taken some time to review basic skills, we are ready to climb to the summit.

The route travels via moderate snow slopes of the Jamapa Glacier. After several hours ascending the snow slopes we reach the crater rim. A short traverse along the exciting summit ridge leads to the summit of Orizaba.

After the climb we will join in a celebration dinner back in town and then transport back to Mexico City for the culmination of the expedition.

Projected Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Mexico City (7,340') transport to Tlachichuca (7,000') in private van. Enjoy our local operator's hacienda and wonderful meals.
Day 2: Expedition overview, gear check & explore Artisans' Market.
Day 3: Transport via 4-wheel drive to Piedra Grande Hut (13,972') on Orizaba and take a small acclimatization hike.
Day 4: Acclimatization hike to set up high camp and return to sleep in the hut.
Day 5: Hike to high camp/sleep in tents.
Day 6: Summit Orizaba and return to the hut, transport to Tlachichuca and sleep in our hosts hacienda.
Day 7: Morning transport to Mexico City/Flights home.