Trip Reports

Mexican Volcanoes - October 2018

Izta 2018
Trip Report

Written by Leader Neal Short, November 2018

Mexico provided us with a terrific two week expedition. All members summited both peaks of Nevado de Toluca (4620m and 4680m) and Izta (5220m); Ian and David also climbed Pico Orizaba (5610m).

Mexico is not always at the forefront of European mountaineers minds but as short expedition destination it proved a big hit with myself and the team. Overwhelmingly in the areas of Mexico that we travelled and climbed in we always felt comfortable and also engaged in a culturally rich & interesting environment; whether wandering around the colonial plazas or viewing the staggering Teotihuacan pyramids. And the main objectives of the expedition, the volcanoes, provided excellent varied terrain and mountain challenge; from the rocky scramble ridges of Toluca to the stratovolcano snow slopes of Orizaba.

I was also struck by the potential to easily increase the two week trip for some extra travel. (The new Lonely Planet 2018 guide is an obvious starting point for research). Two members stayed on for an extra week to watch the Mexican Grand Prix, the Day of Dead celebrations and spend a few days relaxing on the coast.

Our expedition was at times tougher than expected due to weather systems crossing the country which emanated from a Pacific hurricane whipping its way along the western coast line (in fact, 2018 Pacific Hurricane season has had the greatest number of events since 1992).

Much thanks and appreciation goes to in-country staff Ricardo and Max (IFMGA) for looking after us so well. Well done and thanks to Ian, Lesley, Helen, Richard and David for your effort and camaraderie.

Highlights of our expedition:

1) The scrambling and descending to the crater laguna on Nevado de Toluca (4620m).

2) A team ascent of Izta (5220m). The team did so well in the less than perfect conditions. Commitment to the challenge came through. Awesome!

3) Enjoying a ‘city break’ in Puebla. The relaxed and culturally thriving city of Puebla provided a perfect mid-expedition tonic. Certainly a place to get out & explore and have a relaxing coffee. The hotel roof-top views of the surrounding churches and distant volcanoes (Popa & Izta) were fantastic.

4) Striking out for Pico Orizaba in the early hours. For three members, the ascent unfortunately stretched out too long and we hit a turn around time before topping out. A disappointment for sure but joy to see Ian and David return with Ricardo from the summit (image Ricardo Lugo).

5) A day in Mexico City at the end of the expedition. Wandering through the parks; views over the city from the high-rise Torres Latinoamericana; the main plaza & cathedral; visiting the laid-back neighbourhood where Frida Kahlo lived. And strangely, experiencing the very busy underground tube.

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