Pico de Orizaba, Mexico

A perfect introduction to high altitude mountaineering, climbing Pico de Orizaba (18,406 ft) or Citlatpetl, is a great way to be a part of an exotic alpine expedition without the time and expense of traveling to Alaska or the Himalaya.

We'll fly into Puebla, Mexico and stay at the charming Colonial Hotel with time to explore the wonderful, vibrant city of Puebla. Few Mexican cities maintain the Spanish architecture so well, with more than 70 cathedrals and other colonial buildings adorned with hand-painted tile work. To help acclimatize, a climb of La Malinche (14, 596 ft) will afford us gorgeous views of the other great volcanoes, including the smoking Popocatepetl, which recently erupted in 1998 and 2000.

In Tlachichuca, the Reyes family will provide lodging and delicious local cuisine from their quaint climber's bunkhouse in a refurbished old soap factory. This is a great opportunity to meet other climbers and continue acclimatizing before heading onto the mountain. Next stop, Orizaba base camp--Piedras Grandes! Several days of training excursions will prepare us for summit day. The climb is not technical, though we'll rope up to guarantee safety. No high altitude climbing experience is necessary, though you should be in excellent physical condition, and have a working knowledge of crampon and ice axe use. The incredible view of Orizaba's volcanic crater from the summit rewards our efforts. Filled with inspiration, we will then descend back to base for a well-earned rest. Assuming that we climb the peak on schedule, we may have time to visit some nearby Aztec pyramids before returning to Puebla for the close of an amazing adventure.

Your accomodations will include 4 nights-hotel. 3 nights-climber's bunkhouse with running water and 3 nights camping on the mountain.