Orizaba_express

Day Zero (the day prior to the trip start date): Arrive in Mexico City (7,000 ft)

Day One: : Morning meeting and travel east of Mexico City to overnight at a rustic mountain resort (10,000 ft) on the flanks of La Malinche to begin our acclimating. For comfort, we stay in cabins at the government-run resort complete with hot showers and a fireplace! On the way, we visit the famous pyrmids of Teotihuacan and the Pyramide del Sol, the world's 3rd largest pyramid. We will also try to have lunch at a fine Mexican restaurant located down inside a cave

Day Two:We wake up not too early and summit La Malinche. Basically a long hike with amazing views (in good weather) of Izta and Orizaba. Overnight at the resort. The trail head at La Malinche is also the home to our favorite taco stand in all of Mexico!

Day Three: Drive to Tlachichuca and an exiting four wheel drive trip to the Peidra Grande hut (14,200 ft) on the flanks of Orizaba. On the way we make a brief visit of the highest village (at around 11,400 ft) in North America. The afternoon is spent resting and acclimating. We may set up our own camp (the hut can be noisy) utilizing tents while using the hut for meals and socializing. (Dinner)

Day Four: Orizaba acclimating day with a hike to 15,500 ft.
(Breakfast, Dinner)

Day Five: We awake very early for our Orizaba summit attempt. The climb involves steep (42 deg) glacier travel with ice axe and crampons. At the top of North America's third highest peak we are rewarded with spectacular views of central Mexico. We then descend all the way back to the nearby town of Tlachchuca for a well-deserved dinner and rest. (Breakfast)

Day Six: Travel back to Mexico City airport for aftertnoon flights home.