Iztaccihuatl
Volcano Dormant volcanic massif near Popocatépetl, popular for hiking
Iztaccíhuatl’s multi-peaked massif east of Mexico City offers high-altitude hikes across meadows, snowfields and glacial remnants. Mountaineers and trekkers approach from Paso de Cortés, often combining routes with nearby Popocatépetl views.
Iztaccíhuatl is a dormant volcanic massif in central Mexico with a multi-peaked summit reaching about 5,230 meters, making it one of the country’s highest mountains. Its profile is traditionally likened to a recumbent or sleeping woman.
Hikers and mountaineers use established trails and high passes such as Paso de Cortés to approach the massif, gaining views of the adjacent Popocatépetl cone and the broad alpine ridgelines. The multi-peaked skyline and high-elevation trails draw day-hikers, trekkers and climbers during suitable weather windows.
The volcano is volcanic in origin but is not known for recent eruptive activity and is generally classified as dormant. Its name and profile are embedded in regional Indigenous and colonial folklore.
Iztaccíhuatl sits northeast of Popocatépetl in the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt, within reach of Mexico City by road via mountain passes such as Paso de Cortés, and forms part of the high volcanic landscape between the Valley of Mexico and the Puebla lowlands.
- Height and silhouette: The mountain's summit reaches approximately 5,230 meters, and its silhouette of multiple peaks is commonly described as a "sleeping woman" in local legend.
How to Get to Iztaccihuatl #
Typical access routes begin from Amecameca or Paso de Cortés; Paso de Cortés is reachable by road from the towns of Amecameca and Cholula and is a common staging point for hikes.
Tips for Visiting Iztaccihuatl #
- Most ascents begin from the foot of the mountain near Amecameca or Ayapango-hire local guides familiar with the routes.
- Acclimatize and start walks early; the summit approaches can be long and exposed.
- Visit Paso de Cortés for unparalleled views of both Iztaccíhuatl and Popocatépetl.
Best Time to Visit Iztaccihuatl #
November-March for the most stable mountain weather and clear summit views.
Weather & Climate near Iztaccihuatl #
Iztaccihuatl's climate is classified as Tundra - Tundra climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from -3°C to 11°C. Abundant rainfall (1622 mm/year), wettest in July with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 9°C and lows of -3°C. Moderate rainfall (39 mm) and breezy conditions.
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February
February is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of -3°C. The driest month with just 29 mm and breezy conditions.
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March
March is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of -2°C. Moderate rainfall (31 mm) and breezy conditions.
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April
April is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of -1°C. Moderate rainfall (54 mm).
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May
May is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of -1°C. Significant rainfall (121 mm).
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June
June is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of 0°C. Heavy rain (262 mm).
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July
July is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of 0°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (307 mm).
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August
August is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of 0°C. Heavy rain (299 mm).
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September
September is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of 0°C. Heavy rain (268 mm) and breezy conditions.
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October
October is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of -1°C. Significant rainfall (135 mm) and breezy conditions.
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November
November is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of -2°C. Moderate rainfall (47 mm) and breezy conditions.
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December
December is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of -3°C. Moderate rainfall (30 mm) and breezy conditions.
