MOUNTAIN CLIMBING

The volcanoes in Puebla?s surrounding areas provide the perfect settings for mountain climbing. Once you?ve climbed to the top of these mountains, your perspective of the city will never be the same. During the climb, you can breathe fresh air and enjoy excellent lodging facilities surrounded by beautiful trees and ravines.

La Malinche National Park. Located 35 km (22 mi) from the city of Puebla, near the Tlaxcala border. At this place you?ll see La Malinche volcano, which is where the park get its name. The Malinche sits 4,461 meters (14,721 feet) above sea level. The summit has a cold climate, while the pine, Encino oak and fir forests have a mild temperature. This volcano?s 4,460-meter (14,718-foot) altitude makes it ideal for climbing. Along the way you?ll see spectacular vegetation, narrow mountain ridges and gorges. A guide will lead you along one of two routes through this beautiful area. After spending the night in a lodge, you?ll wake up the next day and head to the summit.

Izta-Popo National Park. Located 55 km (34 mi) from Puebla. This park covers an area of 26,500 hectares (65,455 acres). Its most notable sights are the Popocatepetl and Iztaccihuatl volcanoes, which are the second and third highest elevations in Mexico, with altitudes of 5,442 meters (17,958 feet) and 5,220 meters (17,226 feet), respectively. At this place you can climb some of the mountain?s highest parts, such as the so-called Pecho and Cabeza of Iztaccihuatl, which is 5,080 meters (17,764 feet) above sea level. Here you?ll also find a lodge with a restaurant and restrooms.