Is Orizaba hard for someone who's climbed many Colorado 14ers(fairly good shape)?

Question

I'm wanting to climb Pico de Orizaba in Mexico in MARCH and I'm just wondering if anyone's done it and if it's very hard. I've climbed many 14,000+ foot mountains in Colorado, so I'm kind of used to long, moderately difficult hikes.

Answer 1

Pico de Orizaba/Citlaltepetl is 18,700 ft. It is the third highest peak in North America. Climbing begins at the Piedra Grande hut which is at 14,000 ft.  There is a year round glacier. people have died there. I suggest that you only attempt it with a more experienced climber or not attempt to go over 15,000.

I will also point out that the link that rhino posted is an account of an ascent of Nevado de Toluca/Xinantecatl which I can see out my window, when it's not cloudy and raining. Nevado de Toluca is only 15,000 ft. There is a BIG difference between 15,000 and 18,000.

Answer 2

Should not be a problem with your experience.  Read the climbing report below.