Mount Iztaccihuatl – “The White Woman”

What is Mt. Iztaccíhuatl? 

Mount Iztaccihuatl, known in Nahuatl as “The White Woman,” holds its name from the combination of “Iztac” meaning “white” and “Cihuatl” meaning “woman.” The mountain’s snow-covered appearance resembles a woman lying on her back, giving it a distinctive and symbolic representation, making it an iconic peak in Mexico. In fact, relics believed to be used in religious ceremonies from the Mexica period, dating back to ancient times, have been discovered at the summit of Mount Iztaccihuatl. Additionally, several ruins found at the base indicate the existence of religious structures oriented towards the sunrise as they ascend towards the summit.

Hiking and Climbing Options

We offer various tours to explore Mount Iztaccihuatl, each catering to different experience levels:

1. Hiking Tour (Half Day) – Beginners Welcome: We welcome beginners for a half-day hiking adventure on Mount Iztaccíhuatl. This tour is designed to suit nature enthusiasts and families without any prior climbing experience. Our experienced guides will lead you on picturesque trails, sharing stories and insights into the local flora and fauna. Revel in the breathtaking views and create unforgettable memories during this exhilarating journey.
2. Climbing Tour (1 to 2 Days) – Experienced Climbers Only: For experienced climbers, we offer a 1 to 2-day climbing tour, taking you to the altitude of 4700m to 5000m (La Primera Rodilla) or another option includes a challenging round-trip trek to the summit at an altitude of 5220m, which typically takes 14 hours.

The routes we offer are carefully selected to prioritize safety.

If the tour duration from hotel departure to return exceeds 12 hours, 
additional charges will apply for every extra hour. 
Please refer to the "Rates and Services" section for details.
To acclimate to the high altitude, participants will stay at the base camp 
and camp overnight the day before the tour, departing early in the morning.

 

Difficulty Level

Mount Iztaccihuatl has an elevation difference of approximately 500m to the 3rd campsite and around 700m to the 4th campsite. The routes are not excessively challenging. However, the segment from the 4th campsite to a location 10 minutes away, known as the “Refuge,” includes rocky terrain and an increase in slope as you approach the 5000m altitude, leading to a significant increase in physical exertion. This section, which usually takes about 2 hours, is a challenging area with a higher risk of rockfalls, and it’s where most accidents on Mt. Iztaccíhuatl occur.

Please note that weather conditions change rapidly, especially in the afternoon. Even if it is sunny, it may become foggy, and there is an increased risk of lightning and even hail, which can cover the ground in white.

 

Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Climbing Experience

Our recommended tours involve a 2 or 3-day itinerary, allowing you to climb both Mount Iztaccíhuatl and Mount Malinche. For example, on the 1st day (camping at an altitude of 5000m on the previous day), we aim for the 4700-5000m altitude on Mount Iztaccihuatl, followed by a rest day. On the 3rd day, we proceed with the ascent of Mount Malinche. Alternatively, on the 1st day (early morning arrival), you can take a light climb to the 3rd campsite or a hiking tour to the 1st campsite for acclimatization, then attempt the summit of Mount Malinche the next day.

In clear weather, you can get a glimpse of Popocatepetl, a volcano known for its smoke emissions. Our guide, Mr. Iwasaki, will bring water, a stove, a pot, and freshly ground coffee, allowing you to savor exceptional Mexican coffee at the summit. If you bring water, you can also cook instant noodles.

 

Certified Guides Approved by the Mexican Ministry of Tourism

Our guides hold the NOM-09-TUR-2002 license issued by the Mexican Ministry of Tourism. This license includes training in primary first aid (for bleeding, open fractures, closed fractures, sprains, CPR, and airway obstruction) in remote natural environments, renewed every 2 years. In case of accidents, they can provide necessary emergency measures until medical personnel arrive.

Moreover, we have established a communication system, enabling radio communication with our personnel (trained in primary first aid) at the base camp in mountainous areas where cell phones may not work. For groups of more than four people, we provide additional guides (tourism ministry-certified guides) to accompany the climb.

While our priority is to ensure a safe and enjoyable climbing experience, it’s essential to remember that mountaineering is a risky sport involving nature. Participants must consider their own physical fitness, health, and experience and take responsibility for their participation. Please carefully review the coverage of insurance policies obtained in Japan, as some policies may not apply to mountain climbing or may not cover accidents above a certain altitude. If desired, we can provide information on Mexican insurance, which typically covers up to an altitude of 3500m. Currently, there are no insurance products providing coverage for altitudes above 3500m.

In case of adverse weather conditions or the possibility of rain, or if any participant suffers an injury or illness, we may need to suspend the tour and descend for the safety of our customers. We recommend engaging in physical activities, such as running, in Mexico City at an altitude of 2200m to acclimate. Due to the high altitude, it can get cold even in the summer, so please prepare warm clothing.

 

 

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