Pico de Orizaba Citlaltépetl Base Camp

Stone huts and windbreaks cluster around this high-altitude base camp on the north side of Mexico’s tallest mountain. At 14,107 feet, Citlaltépetl (Pico de Orizaba) offers serious altitude and dramatic volcanic scenery. The camp sits in a stark, moonscape environment with basic stone shelters providing wind protection. Nights drop below freezing year-round, and weather changes fast at this elevation.

The final approach requires high-clearance 4WD on a rough volcanic track that deteriorates above 12,000 feet. Best accessed April through October when snow doesn’t block the upper road. No water sources at this elevation — carry everything you need.

Mexico's highest peak base camp at 14,000 feet