THIRD HIGHEST PEAK IN NORTH AMERICA, HISTORIC HACIENDAS, AND INCREDIBLE FOOD
7 DAYS IN MEXICO
SKILL LEVEL: INTERMEDIATE
PRICE PER PERSON $4,100
EXPEDITION DATES:
- Sunday, December 14, 2025 - Saturday, December 20, 2025
- Sunday, January 4 - Thursday, January 22, 2026
- Sunday, January 25 - Thursday, February 12, 2026
About this Expedition
Are you in search of an exciting adventure in North America? Imagine reaching the summit of Pico de Orizaba, the third highest peak on the continent, while enjoying the breathtaking views of the stunning Mexican high country. This trip is perfect for those who want to experience the thrill of high-altitude mountaineering. The expedition, organized by Benegas Brothers Expeditions, is designed to offer a rich experience for advanced beginners and intermediate climbers. It is also an excellent way for climbers to prepare for climbing mountains like Aconcagua. Furthermore, it is an affordable opportunity to participate in a successful international high-altitude expedition.
Pico de Orizaba Guided Express Climb
Our Orizaba Express climb includes an acclimatization phase on La Malinche, Mexico's sixth-highest peak. La Malinche, or Matlalcueye, stands 4,461 meters or 14,646 feet high. It is located near the colonial city of Tlaxcala and offers fantastic views of Iztaccihuatl, Popocatepetl, and Pico de Orizaba.
Once we have summited La Malinche, we head to Pico de Orizaba, Citlaltepetl. We continue our acclimatization and ascend North America's third-highest peak. From Tlachichuca (Zoapan), we travel by 4×4 jeep up the mountain to the Piedra Grande Hut at 14,010 feet.
We may use a high camp at 15,200 feet to shorten the summit day during our express climb. After an alpine start, our guide leads the group by headlamp through the rocky Labyrinth to the toe of the Jamapa Glacier above 16,000 feet. We rope and ascend 35-degree slopes to Orizaba's final summit crater at 18,491 feet / 5,396 meters.
Itinerary
Upon arrival at Mexico City International Airport (MEX), we will be transferred to our hotel in the famous Zona Rosa district near Plaza de la Reforma. A welcome dinner is included (D).
After breakfast, we will head east toward La Malinche. We will visit the Teotihuacan pyramids and the charming colonial town of Tlaxcala, where we will have lunch. We will spend the night at the historic Hacienda Santa Barbara near Malinche's base.
Accommodations: Hacienda Santa Barbara
Meals Included: (B, L, D).
We will wake up early to begin our ascent up La Malinche. Once we reach the summit, we will descend the mountain and head back to the Hacienda Santa Barbara, where we will spend the night. The trek will involve a vertical ascent of 4,500 feet and take approximately 6-8 hours roundtrip. We will be provided accommodations at the Hacienda Soltepec and served breakfast and lunch (B, L, D).
After breakfast, we will drive to the mountain town of San Miguel Zoapan. Once we arrive, we will organize our gear and have lunch before taking a four-wheel-drive shuttle up the mountain to the Piedra Grande Refuge. Our accommodations for the night will be in a private base camp, where we will be provided with breakfast, lunch, and dinner (B, L, D).
HIGH CAMP
Elevation: 8,858 ft / 4600 m
Today, we will hike to a high camp at 15,748 feet / 4,600 meters. Dinner will be served early, followed by rest/sleep in our tents.
Today is the day we put our fitness training and new skills to the test by embarking on a thrilling climb to the summit of Orizaba. We will start early in the morning, overcoming moderate glacier climbing and crevassed terrain to reach the crater rim. The reward will be a breathtaking view that stretches from Mexico's volcanoes to the Gulf of Mexico. Afterward, we'll descend and head to Puebla to celebrate our achievement. Get ready for an unforgettable experience!
Transport to Mexico City International Airport for flights home.
Meals Included: Breakfast (B)
Discover the Mexico Volcanoes with Benegas Brothers Expeditions
At Benegas Brothers Expeditions, we focus on providing safe, well-organized, and enjoyable guided climbs. Our Mexico Volcanoes expeditions are designed for small groups, ensuring personalized attention and a supportive environment for every participant.
FAQs
At Benegas Brothers Expeditions, we prioritize safety, expertise, and a personalized approach. Here’s what sets us apart for your Mexico Volcanoes adventure:
Certified and Experienced Guides
Our trips are led by AMGA/IFMGA-certified guides, the highest standard in the industry. These certifications represent years of training and hands-on experience, ensuring you are in capable hands throughout your journey.
In-Depth Knowledge of Mexico
Our team has extensive experience climbing and traveling in Mexico, offering insights into both the mountains and the local culture. This expertise helps us create a well-rounded experience for every participant.
Skill Building and Memorable Experiences
We’re not just about reaching the summit—we focus on helping you gain mountaineering skills and confidence along the way. Our guides are passionate about sharing their knowledge to ensure you have a meaningful and rewarding trip.
Commitment to Environmental Responsibility
We are committed to respecting and preserving the environment of Mexico’s volcanoes. Our approach goes beyond simply leaving no trace—we actively clean up waste left by others to help protect these unique landscapes. This effort reflects our respect for the mountains, the local community, and our clients.
When you choose Benegas Brothers Expeditions, you’re choosing a team that prioritizes safety, respects the environment, and works tirelessly to provide a well-supported and responsible climbing experience.
To get the most out of your trip, some basic experience with climbing techniques, such as using crampons and ice axes, is helpful. Previous high-altitude experience is also an advantage. If you’re new to these skills, we can recommend training options to prepare you for the adventure. We're also happy to provide training advice to ensure you're ready.
Climbers need to be in excellent physical condition to handle the challenges of high-altitude climbing. Regular, structured training in the months leading up to your trip is essential. A combination of cardio, strength, and endurance training is ideal. If you’d like guidance, we can provide recommendations to help you build a suitable fitness plan.
Our expeditions are supported by porters who carry all group gear, such as tents and food. You’ll only need to carry your personal gear, resulting in a pack weight of around 30 to 40 lbs. If you’d prefer a lighter load, personal porters can be arranged for an additional fee.
Yes, we can assist in arranging gear rentals if needed. While we encourage climbers to bring their own gear, we work with local rental providers to ensure you have everything required for the expedition.
Summit day is the most demanding day of the trip. We begin early in the morning with headlamps and warm layers, climbing steadily through the night to reach the summit at sunrise. After celebrating at the peak, we descend back to camp. This day typically involves 12 to 15 hours of continuous movement.
Yes, all necessary permits are included in the expedition cost. You won’t need to worry about any additional fees for access to the mountains.
The expedition includes full room and board throughout your trip. All meals are provided, and the only extra cost will be for beverages not included in the menu.
We require Rescue Insurance for all international expeditions to cover any emergency evacuation costs. Travel Insurance is strongly recommended to protect against trip cancellations, delays, or unforeseen issues. We can guide you toward trusted providers like Global Rescue.
Yes, custom trips are a big part of what we do. Whether you want a private expedition or an itinerary tailored to your preferences, contact us, and we’ll create a personalized experience for you.
Permits: All necessary climbing permits.
Transportation: All land transportation within Mexico, including airport transfers.
Accommodations: Lodging before, during, and after the climb in shared rooms.
Meals: Full room and board, covering all meals during the expedition (excluding drinks).
Climbing Gear: Group equipment such as tents, stoves, and cooking gear.
Support Services: Porter support for group gear, with optional personal porter services available.
International flights.
Personal climbing gear and equipment.
Drinks outside of the provided meals.
Tips for guides and staff.
Travel and rescue insurance.
