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Pico de Orizaba, known in Nahuatl as Citlaltépetl, is Mexico's highest mountain and the tallest volcano in North America. Its glaciated cone straddles the border between Veracruz and Puebla, visible on clear days from far down toward the Gulf coast. The volcano is dormant, and the surrounding national park protects high pine forest and alpine grassland on its flanks.
Mountaineers come for the summit, usually approaching via the Gran Glaciar Norte on the northern side, which requires glacier equipment, acclimatization, and, for most, an experienced guide. Climbing outfitters are based in the village of Tlachichuca, from where vehicles carry climbers up rough roads to high huts. Beside the main peak rises Sierra Negra, topped by the Large Millimeter Telescope, one of the world's largest single-dish radio telescopes. On the Veracruz side, the city of Orizaba offers a comfortable base below the mountain, with its iron Palacio de Hierro, the Cerro del Borrego cable car, the Museo de Arte del Estado, Parque Castillo, and the riverside Eco Parque Río. Nearby Fortín de las Flores looks over the deep Metlac ravine.
The peak suits fit, prepared climbers, while non-climbers can enjoy views and day trips from the towns below. Altitude sickness is a serious concern, so gradual acclimatization on lower volcanoes is common practice.
WiserMap travel guidePico de Orizaba Mexico Highest Peak and Glacier ViewsPlan a trip to Pico de Orizaba, Mexico's highest peak, with glacier views, the Sierra Negra telescope, Orizaba's Iron Palace, Fortín de las Flores and more.Read the guide
Mexico's highest mountain and a dormant volcano rising to about 5,600 meters on the border of Veracruz and Puebla, the third highest peak in North America. Its snowy cone is visible from far away. Climbing requires acclimatization, glacier gear and usually a guide; the main season runs from about November to March.
The largest glacier in Mexico, covering the north face of Pico de Orizaba and used by the standard climbing route to the crater rim. It has been shrinking quickly in recent decades. Only experienced mountaineers with crampons, ropes and a guide should go onto the ice, starting before dawn.
Simple stone mountain hut at about 4,200 meters on the north side of the volcano, the traditional base camp for climbers heading up the Jamapa glacier route. It has bunks but no services. Most people arrive by 4x4 from Tlachichuca; spend time acclimatizing and bring all food, water and a warm sleeping bag.
Sierra Negra, a neighboring volcano of about 4,600 meters, carries the Large Millimeter Telescope Alfonso Serrano, a giant radio telescope dish on its summit. The access road is among the highest in North America. Visits to the telescope are limited, so check ahead, and watch for altitude sickness.
Quiet farming town in Puebla at the foot of the volcano and the usual starting point for climbers on the north route. Local outfitters arrange lodging, gear and 4x4 transport up to the Piedra Grande hut. It is a good place to rest and acclimatize for a night before going higher.
Pueblo Mágico on the Veracruz slopes of the volcano, known for its traditional bread, coffee, steep streets and views of the snowy peak on clear mornings. The main square has a church and portales. Try the local breads and come early in the day, when clouds are least likely to hide the mountain.
Town on the Puebla side of the mountain, also called Chalchicomula, with a market, a central plaza and colonial churches. It is a practical stop for supplies and transport on the way to Tlachichuca and the north route. The roads from here offer wide views of the volcano's western face.
Mountain municipality on the Veracruz slopes of Pico de Orizaba, with farming villages, forests and routes toward the high slopes of the national park. It is a base for less crowded hikes on the eastern side. Go with local guides, as roads are rough and weather can change fast.
National park protecting forested mountains and the deep canyon of the Río Blanco between the Orizaba valley and the high plateau. Highway and rail lines wind through it with dramatic views. Hike with local guides, and stop at roadside viewpoints when it is safe to do so.
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