Pico de Orizaba

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Pico de Orizaba, also known as Citlaltepetl, is the highest mountain in Mexico . This stratovolcano is the third highest peak in North America. It is considered as the second most important volcanic peak in the world, after African Kilimanjaro . It is located in the eastern part of the country, at the border of Mexican states Puebla and Veracruz-Llave, about 120 km west of the city Veracruz .. more »

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About the Volcano

The top of Pico de Orizaba is elevated at 5636 m. It is a dormant volcano - the last eruption took place in 1687. The first people who climbed up Pico de Orizaba were F. Maynard and G. Reynolds , in 1848. The mountain peak is one of three permanently snow-covered glaciers in Mexico . The glacier begins from the altitude of 4900 - 5000 m. The name of Pico de Orizaba comes from the Nahuatl language. It means "citlalli" = star and "tepetl" = mountain.

Practical Information

The nearest international airport is located in Mexico City . The starting point for the climb to the top of pico de Orizaba is the city Tlachichuca .. It is recommendable to climb to Pico de Orizaba in December, January, February, March or April. There are several trails leading to the top.