Pico de Orizaba is the highest mountain in Mexico and the third highest in North America. It’s a few hours from Mexico City, and the easy access is the trap. People rush it, skip acclimatization and turn around. Local guides put the summit rate around half.
We don’t rush it. Day 3 is a climb of La Malinche, 14,640 feet (4,460 m), purely to acclimatize. Then we drive to base camp, move up to high camp on Day 5, and spend that afternoon on crampons, ice axe and rope work. Day 6 is the summit. The weather decides the hour we leave, and sometimes whether we go.
Summit day starts in the dark and tops out at 18,491 feet (5,636 m). The next day you’re back in Mexico City for the final team dinner.
You don’t need mountaineering experience. You need solid fitness and hiking experience, and backpacking helps. If Aconcagua or Peru is on your list for later, this is a good place to learn how your body handles altitude.
Orizaba is new for AWE in 2027, guided with local Mexican mountain guides. Every climber applies.
Is this trip for you?
- No mountaineering experience needed. We teach crampon, ice axe and rope skills on the mountain.
- You're fit and have hiking experience. Backpacking helps.
- You're up for an early start and a long, cold summit day.
- Every climber applies, and we read each application.
Not sure? Ask us. We'll tell you honestly whether it's the right next step, and what would get you ready.
Take the details with you
A printable trip overview: dates, day by day, what's included, what to bring and the questions people ask. Leave your name and email and the download link appears right here.
