Volcanoes and Zapotecos Trekking Tour
Ref # MEVZ
Highlights:
- Two very different regions and diversity of landscapes: the region of the high volcanoes and the Sierra Madre del Sur, a mountain with several different ecosystems.
- 4 days of authentic wild trekking in the Sierra Madre.
- Ascent of two 13.000 footers, with a view onto the active Popocatepetl and the other big volcanoes.
- Visit of the three beautiful colonial cities and three major Aztec sites.
- Relaxation on the beaches of the Pacific.
- Visits to archeological sites with cultural guide.
- Encounters with the Indian communities of the Sierra Madre del Sur
| Duration: | 12 days | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Group size: | 4 to 12 persons | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Available Dates and Costs From: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Services + :
What's Included:
- Meeting/assisting at the airport
- Experienced Mountain World Travel English speaking professional guide
- Lodging in mentioned hotels, lodges, inns (4-5 stars) based on double occupancy
- Lodging in basic lodges or tents (double occupancy) during trekking
- All transfers in private deluxe vehicles (minibus, air conditioned)
- Full board during the entire trip (from dinner Day 1 to breakfast Day 10), including mineral water
- All mentioned visits (with local professional cultural guides) and activities, entrance fees
- The domestic flight Huatluco - Mexico.
A magnificent trekking journey of Mexico's captivating diversity. Hiking two 13.000 footers with a view onto the active Popocatepetl and the other big famous volcanoes.
North America, Mexico
Fascinating empires flourished for more than 2000 years in the middle of highly contrasting landscapes: vast deserts, snow-covered volcanoes, tropical forests, beaches ...
A large country with an amazing diversity.
Trip Summary
About the Adventure
This voyage begins at the heart of the Aztec country with the ascent of two volcanoes higher than 13, 000 feet: unobstructed view on all of the highest snow covered volcanoes, with Popocatepetl being active. And then going over the Zapotec country for a trek in the wild Sierra Madre del Sur, from the pine woods on the northern mountainsides up to the tropical forest and the coffee and banana plantations that dominate the Pacific Ocean.....without forgetting our trek in the forest of cacti, visit of the superb colonial cities of Mexico, Puebla and Oaxaca and those most beautiful Aztec and Zapoteco sites. A magnificent walking discovery of this country's captivating diversity.
Itinerary
Day 1/ Arrival in Mexico
Day 2/ Teotihuacan (Aztec site) - Mexico
Day 3/ Mexico - Ascent of Nevado de Toluca (15,390 feet) - Huamantla.
Day 4/ La Malinche (14,636 feet) - Puebla
Day 5/ Puebla - Cholula
Day 6/ Puebla - Oaxaca - Monte Albán
Day 7/ Begin of our hike in the Sierra Madre del Sur: El Tabaje - San Matéo - Río Hondo
Day 8/ San Matéo Río Hondo - San Marcial Ozolotepec.
Day 9/ San Marcial Ozolotepec - San Mateo Piñas
Day 10/ San Mateo Piñas - Finca Alemaña - Huatulco or Puerto Angel
Day 11/ Relaxation on the Pacific coast - Huatulco or Puerto Angel. Flight to Mexico.
Day 12/ Depart from Mexico.
Day 2/ Teotihuacan (Aztec site) - Mexico
Day 3/ Mexico - Ascent of Nevado de Toluca (15,390 feet) - Huamantla.
Day 4/ La Malinche (14,636 feet) - Puebla
Day 5/ Puebla - Cholula
Day 6/ Puebla - Oaxaca - Monte Albán
Day 7/ Begin of our hike in the Sierra Madre del Sur: El Tabaje - San Matéo - Río Hondo
Day 8/ San Matéo Río Hondo - San Marcial Ozolotepec.
Day 9/ San Marcial Ozolotepec - San Mateo Piñas
Day 10/ San Mateo Piñas - Finca Alemaña - Huatulco or Puerto Angel
Day 11/ Relaxation on the Pacific coast - Huatulco or Puerto Angel. Flight to Mexico.
Day 12/ Depart from Mexico.
Detailed Itinerary
The Adventure
In the grand landscapes of the center of Mexico, two civilizations have left a mark on the history of this country and left impressionable relics of the past.
Mexico, at the heart of the high volcanic zone, was the center of the Aztec world, in which the civilization dominated the country until the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors brought in by Heman Cortes in 1519.
Further in the south, the Zapotec Indians had created a small flourishing empire in the fertile valleys between the mountain chains around Oaxaca, even before the beginning of our era. In certain villages of the Sierra Madre del Sur, their descendants continue to speak the Zapotec language, practically still in tact from more than 2000 years ago.
From Mexico City to Huatulco, on the Pacific coast, the landscapes of a surprising diversity are an invitation for trekking. We begin by our ascension of two volcanoes, magnificent viewpoints on the highest snow covered peaks, with Popocatepetl having been active practically continuously for the last 12 years or so. And then, heading towards the Zapotec country for two hikes in the Sierra de Juarez and a trek of four days discovering the Indian communities of the Sierra Madre del Sur which takes us to the pine-woods of the northern mountainside to the tropical forest and the coffee and banana plantations dominating the Pacific Ocean. Along the way, we walk in the midst of immense cacti, we visit the superb colonial cities of Mexico City, Puebla and Oaxaca and the most beautiful Aztec and Zapotec sites.
Mexico, at the heart of the high volcanic zone, was the center of the Aztec world, in which the civilization dominated the country until the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors brought in by Heman Cortes in 1519.
Further in the south, the Zapotec Indians had created a small flourishing empire in the fertile valleys between the mountain chains around Oaxaca, even before the beginning of our era. In certain villages of the Sierra Madre del Sur, their descendants continue to speak the Zapotec language, practically still in tact from more than 2000 years ago.
From Mexico City to Huatulco, on the Pacific coast, the landscapes of a surprising diversity are an invitation for trekking. We begin by our ascension of two volcanoes, magnificent viewpoints on the highest snow covered peaks, with Popocatepetl having been active practically continuously for the last 12 years or so. And then, heading towards the Zapotec country for two hikes in the Sierra de Juarez and a trek of four days discovering the Indian communities of the Sierra Madre del Sur which takes us to the pine-woods of the northern mountainside to the tropical forest and the coffee and banana plantations dominating the Pacific Ocean. Along the way, we walk in the midst of immense cacti, we visit the superb colonial cities of Mexico City, Puebla and Oaxaca and the most beautiful Aztec and Zapotec sites.
Itinerary
Day 1/ Arrival in Mexico City
Upon your arrival at the Mexico airport, reception by the guide and transfer by taxi towards the hotel. Presentation of the course of stay and visit of Mexico City (depending on planned arrival of participants). Hotel (3 nights), 5 stars, Emporio Reforma (or similar).
Day 2/ Teotihuacan (Aztec site) - Mexico
In the morning, walking tour of the extraordinary Teotihuacan Aztec site and ascent of its famous pyramids. Back to Mexico City, visiting the colonial downtown around the "Zócalo" (central plaza). Built in the sixteenth century, on the ruins of Tenochtitlan, the ancient Aztec capital, Mexico has many colonial buildings and ruins of Aztec temples. Mexico, in addition to its immense interest from the cultural point of view, serves as an altitude acclimatization base (we are at more than 6,500 feet above sea level). Hotel.
Day 3/ Mexico - Ascent of Nevado de Toluca (15,390 feet) - Huamantla
Early morning rise and transfer 50 miles west to our first (extinct) volcano, Nevado de Toluca, overlooking the city of the same name. The road climbs the slopes of the mountain up to the crater, which is occupied by two lakes, the Laguna del Sol and the Laguna de la Luna (the Lake of the Sun and the Lake of the Moon). From the end of the road at about 13,123 feet, the highest point, Pico del Fraile, is not very far. Ascent on boulders and large blocks. Redescend and return to Mexico City . Free evening.
4 H walk. Ascent: 1,640 feet - Descent: 1,640 feet.
Day 4/ Mexico - Amecameca -Paso de Cortes Trek (12,303 feet) - Puebla
Transfer to the small city of Amecameca and then onward towards the foot of the volcanoes which dominate the city : Popocatepetl (17,930 feet), the most famous of Mexico, and one that is in activity (therefore, we may see it under a flair of ashes) and it's cousin, Iztaccihuatl (17,159 feet). At Paso de Cortes, the pass between the two volcanoes, we leave for a trek in the direction of the Izta refuge. Magnificent view onto the volcanoes. Return by vehicle and then en route to the little city of Huamantla. Quick visit of the city and it's « crazy museum ». We are at the foot of Malinche. Night in hotel, (Hotel del Portal, or similar), 4 stars.
Approximately 4 H walk - Ascent : 1,312 feet - Descent : 1,312 feet
Day 5/ La Malinche (14,635 feet) - Cholula - Puebla
Taken from the name of a beautiful Indian who became an interpreter and then the mistress of Cortes. From the summit, in nice weather, an unobstructed view onto Popocateptl and Iztaccihuatl volcanoes, with further towards the south east, Pico de Orizaba, the culminating point of the country. Return to Puebla. On our way, visit of Cholula, a small picturesque city, which is home to the biggest pyramid in Mexico covered in vegetation and dominated by a church. We will visit the archeological site (tunnels under the pyramid). The town has many beautiful churches and a charming « zocalo » in archways (central plaza). Free evening in Puebla. Night in hotel, (Hotel del Portal, or similar), 4 stars.
6 to 7 H walk- Ascent and Descent combined total: 3,937 feet
Day 6/ Puebla - Oaxaca - Monte Albán
Transfer to Oaxaca (4 h). Hostal de la Noria (or similar).
A day spent visiting one of the most well-known Zapotec sites :
-Mont Alban, the old zapotec capital situated on a vast artificial plateau at the summit of a hill where the view embraces the whole valley of Oaxaca and it's mountain setting. Numerous palaces, temples and habitations left to visit.
-Visit of the historic center (zocalo, cathedral, etc...) named a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Prepare for trekking.
Day 7/ Start of our trekking in the Sierra Madre del Sur - Santa Catalina Roatina - San Matéo Río Hondo
Transfer to Santa Catalina Roatina (5,906 feet) for our first day of traversing the Sierra Madre del Sur. We arrive at the summit of a hill and then our path passes by a hamlet (El Tabaje), following the Molino River, before a climb towards the village of San Sebastian Rio Hondo. Descent passing by the little cemetary (not to be missed) ! in a forest of Conifers. Traverse another river and another ascent up to the village of San Mateo Rio Hondo (8,202 feet), panoramic viewpoint on the bending forests of the Sierra. Night camping close to the village or basic comfort lodge. Camping or night at a local homestead.
7 H walk - Ascent : 3,773 feet - Descent : 1,968 feet.
Day 8/ Sierra Madre del Sur : San Matéo Río Hondo - San Marcial Ozolotepec
Descent crossing the corn fields, the pine forests and the glades. Cross the ford of the two small rivers and then, on the side of the mountain, via a large path, we join the village of San Marcial Ozolotepec. This village is very typical in it's niche at 8,530 feet and has held on to it's traditions, conserving, above all, the Zapotec language which is still taught to the children. Camping or night at a local homestead.
Approximately 7 H walk - Ascent and Descent combined total: 3,281 feet.
Day 9/ Sierra Madre del Sur : San Marcial Ozolotepec - San Mateo Piñas
Easy descent to the sleepy hamlet of Luz del Oriente (light of the Orient). From here, descent to the El Gijon River at 3,937 feet, where progressively, the pines mix with tropical species. Paths frequented by the habitants of the Sierra, Zapotecos and « Mixteques ».
First coffee plantations before our arrival in San Mateo Pinas, a village where the population is close to the Pacific coast one. Camping or night at a local homestead.
7 H walk- Ascent: 1,967 feet - Descent: 5,906 feet.
Day 10/ Sierra Madre del Sur : San Mateo Piñas - Finca Alemaña - Huatulco ou Puerto Angel
Journey into the semi tropical forest with some coffee plantations and numerous banana plantations. Journey onto a maginificently dominating crest of the Copalita River. Descend to the river and possible swim in it's waters. Traverse the river's ford and arrival at the Finca Alemana coffee plantation, also named for having once been the property of German immigrants for close to a century. Our vehicle awaits us to drive us (2 hours) to our hotel in Huatulco or Puerto Angel (depending on availability), on the pacific coast.
7 H walk - Ascent : 2,953 feet - Descent : 4,593 feet.
Day 11/ Relaxation on the Pacific coast - Huatulco ou Puerto Angel - flight to Mexico
Free day on the magnificent beaches of the Pacific, at the foot of the Sierras. Relax on the beach, swim and the possibility for numerous other optional activities (not included in the price of your trip): rafting, visit of Centro Mexicano de la Tortuga (museum of the marine turtle). Mazunte is, in fact, one of the marine turtles' most preferred beaches (6 out of the 7 species of marine turtles frequent this beach), boat trip to see marine turtles and dolphins, boat trip in the bays of Huatulco, their beaches, the mangrove, etc....In the evening, flight for Mexico City. Hotel, 5 stars, Emporio Reforma (or similar).
Day 12/ Depart from Mexico City
Tranfer to the airport for flight home.
Upon your arrival at the Mexico airport, reception by the guide and transfer by taxi towards the hotel. Presentation of the course of stay and visit of Mexico City (depending on planned arrival of participants). Hotel (3 nights), 5 stars, Emporio Reforma (or similar).
Day 2/ Teotihuacan (Aztec site) - Mexico
In the morning, walking tour of the extraordinary Teotihuacan Aztec site and ascent of its famous pyramids. Back to Mexico City, visiting the colonial downtown around the "Zócalo" (central plaza). Built in the sixteenth century, on the ruins of Tenochtitlan, the ancient Aztec capital, Mexico has many colonial buildings and ruins of Aztec temples. Mexico, in addition to its immense interest from the cultural point of view, serves as an altitude acclimatization base (we are at more than 6,500 feet above sea level). Hotel.
Day 3/ Mexico - Ascent of Nevado de Toluca (15,390 feet) - Huamantla
Early morning rise and transfer 50 miles west to our first (extinct) volcano, Nevado de Toluca, overlooking the city of the same name. The road climbs the slopes of the mountain up to the crater, which is occupied by two lakes, the Laguna del Sol and the Laguna de la Luna (the Lake of the Sun and the Lake of the Moon). From the end of the road at about 13,123 feet, the highest point, Pico del Fraile, is not very far. Ascent on boulders and large blocks. Redescend and return to Mexico City . Free evening.
4 H walk. Ascent: 1,640 feet - Descent: 1,640 feet.
Day 4/ Mexico - Amecameca -Paso de Cortes Trek (12,303 feet) - Puebla
Transfer to the small city of Amecameca and then onward towards the foot of the volcanoes which dominate the city : Popocatepetl (17,930 feet), the most famous of Mexico, and one that is in activity (therefore, we may see it under a flair of ashes) and it's cousin, Iztaccihuatl (17,159 feet). At Paso de Cortes, the pass between the two volcanoes, we leave for a trek in the direction of the Izta refuge. Magnificent view onto the volcanoes. Return by vehicle and then en route to the little city of Huamantla. Quick visit of the city and it's « crazy museum ». We are at the foot of Malinche. Night in hotel, (Hotel del Portal, or similar), 4 stars.
Approximately 4 H walk - Ascent : 1,312 feet - Descent : 1,312 feet
Day 5/ La Malinche (14,635 feet) - Cholula - Puebla
Taken from the name of a beautiful Indian who became an interpreter and then the mistress of Cortes. From the summit, in nice weather, an unobstructed view onto Popocateptl and Iztaccihuatl volcanoes, with further towards the south east, Pico de Orizaba, the culminating point of the country. Return to Puebla. On our way, visit of Cholula, a small picturesque city, which is home to the biggest pyramid in Mexico covered in vegetation and dominated by a church. We will visit the archeological site (tunnels under the pyramid). The town has many beautiful churches and a charming « zocalo » in archways (central plaza). Free evening in Puebla. Night in hotel, (Hotel del Portal, or similar), 4 stars.
6 to 7 H walk- Ascent and Descent combined total: 3,937 feet
Day 6/ Puebla - Oaxaca - Monte Albán
Transfer to Oaxaca (4 h). Hostal de la Noria (or similar).
A day spent visiting one of the most well-known Zapotec sites :
-Mont Alban, the old zapotec capital situated on a vast artificial plateau at the summit of a hill where the view embraces the whole valley of Oaxaca and it's mountain setting. Numerous palaces, temples and habitations left to visit.
-Visit of the historic center (zocalo, cathedral, etc...) named a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Prepare for trekking.
Day 7/ Start of our trekking in the Sierra Madre del Sur - Santa Catalina Roatina - San Matéo Río Hondo
Transfer to Santa Catalina Roatina (5,906 feet) for our first day of traversing the Sierra Madre del Sur. We arrive at the summit of a hill and then our path passes by a hamlet (El Tabaje), following the Molino River, before a climb towards the village of San Sebastian Rio Hondo. Descent passing by the little cemetary (not to be missed) ! in a forest of Conifers. Traverse another river and another ascent up to the village of San Mateo Rio Hondo (8,202 feet), panoramic viewpoint on the bending forests of the Sierra. Night camping close to the village or basic comfort lodge. Camping or night at a local homestead.
7 H walk - Ascent : 3,773 feet - Descent : 1,968 feet.
Day 8/ Sierra Madre del Sur : San Matéo Río Hondo - San Marcial Ozolotepec
Descent crossing the corn fields, the pine forests and the glades. Cross the ford of the two small rivers and then, on the side of the mountain, via a large path, we join the village of San Marcial Ozolotepec. This village is very typical in it's niche at 8,530 feet and has held on to it's traditions, conserving, above all, the Zapotec language which is still taught to the children. Camping or night at a local homestead.
Approximately 7 H walk - Ascent and Descent combined total: 3,281 feet.
Day 9/ Sierra Madre del Sur : San Marcial Ozolotepec - San Mateo Piñas
Easy descent to the sleepy hamlet of Luz del Oriente (light of the Orient). From here, descent to the El Gijon River at 3,937 feet, where progressively, the pines mix with tropical species. Paths frequented by the habitants of the Sierra, Zapotecos and « Mixteques ».
First coffee plantations before our arrival in San Mateo Pinas, a village where the population is close to the Pacific coast one. Camping or night at a local homestead.
7 H walk- Ascent: 1,967 feet - Descent: 5,906 feet.
Day 10/ Sierra Madre del Sur : San Mateo Piñas - Finca Alemaña - Huatulco ou Puerto Angel
Journey into the semi tropical forest with some coffee plantations and numerous banana plantations. Journey onto a maginificently dominating crest of the Copalita River. Descend to the river and possible swim in it's waters. Traverse the river's ford and arrival at the Finca Alemana coffee plantation, also named for having once been the property of German immigrants for close to a century. Our vehicle awaits us to drive us (2 hours) to our hotel in Huatulco or Puerto Angel (depending on availability), on the pacific coast.
7 H walk - Ascent : 2,953 feet - Descent : 4,593 feet.
Day 11/ Relaxation on the Pacific coast - Huatulco ou Puerto Angel - flight to Mexico
Free day on the magnificent beaches of the Pacific, at the foot of the Sierras. Relax on the beach, swim and the possibility for numerous other optional activities (not included in the price of your trip): rafting, visit of Centro Mexicano de la Tortuga (museum of the marine turtle). Mazunte is, in fact, one of the marine turtles' most preferred beaches (6 out of the 7 species of marine turtles frequent this beach), boat trip to see marine turtles and dolphins, boat trip in the bays of Huatulco, their beaches, the mangrove, etc....In the evening, flight for Mexico City. Hotel, 5 stars, Emporio Reforma (or similar).
Day 12/ Depart from Mexico City
Tranfer to the airport for flight home.
Itinerary Notes
- In the Sierra Madre, a good 7 hour stage per day, on average. Hiking mainly on descents and paths that are not always well marked. For the rest of the program, days filled completely with walking, at times, long. The snow covered Toluca mountain is pretty high in altitude, but the altitude gain is limited. We have one day that is a bit more « physical » : the ascent of Malinche, with a good 3,937 feet of altitude gain up to more than 13,123 feet, but we will pace ourselves !
- The walking time schedules are given only as an estimate.
- For different reasons involving trip organization, daily schedules and planned altitude gains (ascent or descent) may be modified without any prior notice.
- The walking time schedules are given only as an estimate.
- For different reasons involving trip organization, daily schedules and planned altitude gains (ascent or descent) may be modified without any prior notice.
Luggage Tips
During trekking each participant walks with a light back pack, carrying only the personal items necessary for the day (water bottle, camera, protective clothing, snacks, etc).
The remainder of the collective and individual equipment is transported by vehicles (as well during Sierra Madre trekking).
The remainder of the collective and individual equipment is transported by vehicles (as well during Sierra Madre trekking).
Staff
The guide
- An English speaking Mexican or American resident in Mexico, professional Mountain World Travel guide
The local team
- Bus driver.
- An English speaking Mexican or American resident in Mexico, professional Mountain World Travel guide
The local team
- Bus driver.
Transportation
- Domestic Flight with Aeromexico or Mexicana
- Ground transportation on deluxe private bus with chauffeur.
- Ground transportation on deluxe private bus with chauffeur.
Lodging
In the cities
hotels of high standing : 4-5 stars, based on double occupancy.
During the trekking
lodging in local homestead (basic comfort, shared rooms) or tents (two people, spacious).
Due to our goal of providing quality accommodations, we seek charming and reputable places located in the middle of the most beautiful landscapes, on the most beautiful view-points or close to the departure of the excursions.
The names of accommodations (hotels, lodges, etc...) when they are indicated, are only indicative. Hotels/Lodges, etc... can be replaced by another equivalent type, according to availability.
hotels of high standing : 4-5 stars, based on double occupancy.
During the trekking
lodging in local homestead (basic comfort, shared rooms) or tents (two people, spacious).
Due to our goal of providing quality accommodations, we seek charming and reputable places located in the middle of the most beautiful landscapes, on the most beautiful view-points or close to the departure of the excursions.
The names of accommodations (hotels, lodges, etc...) when they are indicated, are only indicative. Hotels/Lodges, etc... can be replaced by another equivalent type, according to availability.
Food and Beverages
Meals
- The days of climbing or hiking: picnic lunch prepared from local produce.
- During transfers, in towns and villages: restaurant meals.
Beverages
Bottled water provided throughout the trip.
The Mexican food: delicious, varied and original. Guacamole, their national sauce (avocados, tomatoes, onions and cilantro), enhance a large number of meat dishes which are eaten in tacos. The meat and sauce are wrapped in a tortilla, which is made from cornbread.
Tacos can be prepared in many ways. Among the most popular are tacos "al pastor" which are prepared with spicy sheep meat. There are also enchiladas, tamales, quesadillas and sincronizadas (wheat flower quesadillas). In Mexico, there are many tropical fruits (mangoes, papayas, pineapples, sapotes (fruit from the citrus family), figs, etc.) In the markets, you can taste exotic fruit juices prepared in front of you.
- The days of climbing or hiking: picnic lunch prepared from local produce.
- During transfers, in towns and villages: restaurant meals.
Beverages
Bottled water provided throughout the trip.
The Mexican food: delicious, varied and original. Guacamole, their national sauce (avocados, tomatoes, onions and cilantro), enhance a large number of meat dishes which are eaten in tacos. The meat and sauce are wrapped in a tortilla, which is made from cornbread.
Tacos can be prepared in many ways. Among the most popular are tacos "al pastor" which are prepared with spicy sheep meat. There are also enchiladas, tamales, quesadillas and sincronizadas (wheat flower quesadillas). In Mexico, there are many tropical fruits (mangoes, papayas, pineapples, sapotes (fruit from the citrus family), figs, etc.) In the markets, you can taste exotic fruit juices prepared in front of you.
Additional Information
Although we are an experienced adventure travel company doing our best to respect the itinerary schedule as presented on this detailed itinerary, there is always the possibility that we may need to modify it for different reasons beyond our control. Please read the Registration Conditions: Terms and Booking conditions - Limitations of Liability.
Important Information
What's Not Included
- International flight in/out Mexico
- All services mentioned in Services +/extensions /options
- Personal medical & Travel Insurance
- All items not expressively mentioned in "What's included".
Extra Costs
- Drinks (except mineral water)
- Personal expenses
- Tips for guide and driver
- All items not expressively mentioned in ‘What's included".
Air Travel
As airfare is NOT included in our adventures, please check if your trip
is "a guaranteed departure" before confirming your own airline travel
arrangements. You can check your trip status at the Mountain World Travel website or contact the Mountain World Travel office
at 1-970-544-WALK (1-970-544-9255) or at 1 888-MWT-TREK (698-8735).
Our preferred airlines to fly to Mexico
Our preferred airlines to fly to Mexico
- The national airline, Aeromexico, flies daily from many cities (12) in the U.S.
- Mexicana flies to the States, too.
- All US airlines fly daily to Mexico.
Foreign-Entry Requirements
Formalities for US, Canada, Australia, NZ passport travelers: a valid
passport; US citizens are admitted to Mexico for up to 90 days.
US citizens, please check with the US Government Travel Entry Exit Requirements
For other nationalities, please contact the Mexican embassy in your country.
US citizens, please check with the US Government Travel Entry Exit Requirements
For other nationalities, please contact the Mexican embassy in your country.
Health and First Aid
No vaccine is obligatory.
We advise you, however, to be up date for traditional vaccinations: Diphtheria - Tetanus - Poliomyelitis, Typhoid fever. Vaccination against hepatitis A and B is recommended.
Health hazards
- Heat: protect your eyes and your skin against the sun, as it is more intense with altitude.
- Cold: plan on packing protective clothing against the cold (jackets, fleece, gloves, hat), especially in relevance to the activity.
- Dehydration: drink and nourish yourself sufficiently and correctly throughout the effort.
- Small wounds: blisters, tendonitis...bring along band aids, an antiseptic and another cream for muscle aches. They will take up a bit of room, but well worth the space.
Altitude sickness
Can be felt at around 8,000 feet and above and can come on quickly (after just one night spent in altitude). Hard to predict and varies completely from one person to another. Good hydration is necessary, progressive altitude acclimatization and Aspirin can all help in preventing the unpleasant side effects of altitude sickness.
Please visit: http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/yellowBookCh6-AltitudeIllness.aspx
Malaria
A treatment against Malaria is not necessary in our opinion.
For more information visit the website of the US Department of Health
We advise you, however, to be up date for traditional vaccinations: Diphtheria - Tetanus - Poliomyelitis, Typhoid fever. Vaccination against hepatitis A and B is recommended.
Health hazards
- Heat: protect your eyes and your skin against the sun, as it is more intense with altitude.
- Cold: plan on packing protective clothing against the cold (jackets, fleece, gloves, hat), especially in relevance to the activity.
- Dehydration: drink and nourish yourself sufficiently and correctly throughout the effort.
- Small wounds: blisters, tendonitis...bring along band aids, an antiseptic and another cream for muscle aches. They will take up a bit of room, but well worth the space.
Altitude sickness
Can be felt at around 8,000 feet and above and can come on quickly (after just one night spent in altitude). Hard to predict and varies completely from one person to another. Good hydration is necessary, progressive altitude acclimatization and Aspirin can all help in preventing the unpleasant side effects of altitude sickness.
Please visit: http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/yellowBookCh6-AltitudeIllness.aspx
Malaria
A treatment against Malaria is not necessary in our opinion.
For more information visit the website of the US Department of Health
Physical Preparation
LEVEL 3
2 months prior: Hike 9 to 10 miles every weekend or on two consecutive days OR if you are regularly committed, on an annual basis, to another sports activity for a cumulative duration of 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes per week, you should be up to speed.
2 months prior: Hike 9 to 10 miles every weekend or on two consecutive days OR if you are regularly committed, on an annual basis, to another sports activity for a cumulative duration of 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes per week, you should be up to speed.
Equipment
Basic equipment
- A warm fleece hat
- A cap or a hat to protect from the sun
- Sun glasses (minimum index 3 or 4 for high mountain)
- Thermal top and bottom, short and long) underwear (fast drying).
- Fleece turtle neck top
- A warm fleece jacket (light weight/well insulated).
- A waterproof/breathable shell jacket (Gore-Tex).
- A pair of gloves
- A rain poncho
- Hiking shorts
- Lightweight hiking long pants
- A Camelback or a water bottle.
Shoes and technical material
- Hiking socks
- Waterproof ankle hiking boots and a sole offering good traction.
- Gaiters
- Head lamp
- A pair of telescopic walking poles
Sleeping
- Sleeping bag (temperature of comfort 23/32° F).
Luggage
- A back pack equipped with broad straps, with an adjustable anatomical back reinforcement, and a capacity of 7 to 9 gallons, for your daily belongings
- A soft travel bag, which can hold between 18 to 23 gallons that will be transported by the porter team or by vehicle during the day.
Miscellaneous
- A change of clothes.
- A pair of replacement shoe laces
- A dop-kit and a bath towel.
- Toilet paper.
- A pocket knife (not in carry on luggage).
- Some plastic bags to protect your belongings.
- A bathing suit.
- A small pocket anti-theft protection device, to always keep on yourself, along with your identity papers, money, certificate of insurance.
Some advice
During your flight your back pack should contain fragile and useful items that you might need while on the plane (camera, memory cards, jacket, books, magazines, medication, dop-kit etc).
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