Climbing Adventure to Iztaccíhuatl Summit

Sep 25, 2024

Climbing the Sleeping Woman

Introduction

  • Objective: Reach the summit of Iztaccíhuatl, known as the Sleeping Woman, the third-highest mountain in Mexico, over 5,000m above sea level.
  • Location: Journey begins from Mexico City to Izta-Popo National Park.
  • Participants: Climbers from Seattle, USA, and New Zealand.

Preparations and Journey

  • Departure: Left Mexico City at 7:30 AM, arrived at Amecameca village.
  • Agency: México y Aventura provided equipment and guides.
  • Altitude Considerations: Starting climb at 4,000m, ascending 1,200m.
  • Provisions: Essentials packed including toilet paper.

Izta-Popo National Park

  • Size: 25,000 hectares, situated between Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl volcanoes.
  • Cortés Pass: Named after Hernán Cortés, who passed through to Tenochtitlán.

Climbing Iztaccíhuatl

  • Route: Ayoloco Route from Otis McAllister shelter to summit.
  • Starting Point: La Joya, known for organic quesadillas, blue tortillas.
  • Challenges: Altitude effects, carrying heavy bags without sherpas.

Experience on the Trail

  • Environment: Transition from vegetated areas to barren landscapes at 4,200m.
  • Landscapes and Markers: Follow stone markers and interpret signals.
  • Rest: Regular breaks for hydration and nutrition.

Overnight at the Shelter

  • Shelter: Ayoloco (Otis McAllister) at 4,600m, accommodates up to 10 people.
  • Dinner: Instant soup and ramen, use of Tetra Pak containers for sustainability.

Summit Day

  • Departure: Late start at 8AM.
  • Equipment: Harnesses, sunglasses with UV protection, ice axes, and crampons.
  • Climbing Conditions: Steep slopes, snow, glacier presence.

Importance of Iztaccíhuatl

  • Tropical Glacier: One of the few, threatened by climate change.
  • History: Last erupted 11,000 years ago, still considered active.

Reaching the Summit

  • Summit: 5,215m, successful climb despite challenges.
  • Return Journey: Emphasis on safety during descent, lactic acid management.

Environmental Awareness

  • National Park: Established in 1935, noted for cleanliness.
  • Recycling: Use of Tetra Pak for water, promoting a green future.

Conclusion

  • Experience: A challenging yet rewarding journey, exploring Mexico's natural beauty.
  • Safety Reminder: Importance of careful descent and returning safely.