Iztaccihuatl Tours and Tickets

We liked the idea of a walk in the mountains, but without our own transport or knowledge of routes etc. this would have been impossible. The guided hike enabled us to do so safely, in the confidence that we would reach the starting point, would be well looked after and couldn't get lost. We were blessed with lovely weather on the day: chilly, but with beautiful sunshine, and the views of the mountains were spectacular. It was a peaceful day out, away from the busyness of the city. Walking was relatively easy (not rocky and not too steep), but the path was very dusty at times. We are not used to walking at high altitudes, but the route was well chosen for our ability (7 km each way). Hiram was a great guide, very patient, judged our ability and walked at our speed, taking into account that we were interested in stopping to look at birds etc. on the way. His English was excellent and communication was great throughout. All in all it was a great day's hiking. Many thanks.

It was amazing! The tour doesn't have much description so didn't know what to expect. There is no welcome email so you will learn everything on the go. Here are things that would be helpful to know up front: What to pack: Sleeping bag, sleeping mat, hiking shoes compatible with crampons and good grip on gravel, layers of clothes (it was -7°C at the top, over 20°C in camp - check mountain weather forecast. Good to have extra layer in case you want stop for a moment and enjoy the views), good backpack, sunscreen, power bank (if you want to charge anything over the night in the camp), food for the hike you are used to. You can rent several things if needed (I used theirs sleeping bag, mat, backpack and sun glasses). What is provided: Tent, helmet, lamp, crampons, ice ax. Water. Food - but very basic - instant ramen noodles, fried chicken, and tomato. Pack your own if you want something better. We were not able to reach the summit because it was not possible to cross the glacier. This seems common and might be possible to predict couple of days before depending on the weather. We were quite certain it wont be possible even before heading up (but still packed crampons and ice ax just in case). However that didn't take anything from the experience - the glacier is above 5100m and by the time you reach it you will see some of the best views anyway. First day we have arrived to the La Joya base camp, built tents, went for a short 1h hike to the first viewpoint, and then went to sleep at around 4pm. Alarm set for 11:30pm, with the goal to start hiking around 0:30am. Slower groups started hiking at 10-11pm. We have reached the glacier around 5am, 2 hours before the sun rise (a bit too aggressive pacing, but also wanted to have a buffer in case there would be a slim chance the glacier would be climbable). Then climbed down to Refugio and waited for a sunrise. Going down felt harder than going up, especially the part above Refugio (I was just sliding down). This was essentially a private tour because I was the only person that signed up for this tour on that day.

We enjoyed the hike so so much! Luis was the perfect guide and nature up there is wonderful. I would recommend everyone to do this hike!