Popocatépetl

Popocatépetl is an active stratovolcano in central Mexico, located on the border of the states of Puebla, Morelos and the State of Mexico. Its summit reaches 5,426 meters above sea level, making it the second-highest peak in Mexico.

The mountain is primarily viewed rather than climbed; frequent fumarolic activity, steam plumes and periodic explosions are visible from surrounding high points and nearby towns. Popular observation points include Paso de Cortés and nearby villages where visitors photograph the snow-capped cone against the surrounding valleys.

Popocatépetl has a long record of volcanic activity and has been intermittently eruptive in the modern era, notably showing sustained eruptive behavior and emissions since 1994. The volcano has cultural significance in regional Indigenous and colonial histories and has been monitored closely by Mexico’s volcanic observatory network.

The volcano sits roughly 70 kilometers southeast of central Mexico City and about 50 kilometers northwest of Puebla, rising above the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt. The landscape around it includes high volcanic passes, alpine slopes and agricultural valleys.

• Access: Access to the crater and upper slopes is closed to the public during periods of heightened activity; official exclusion zones are enforced by Mexico's authorities.
• Best viewpoints: Good viewpoints include Paso de Cortés (between Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl) and towns such as Amecameca and Tlamacas, which are commonly used for photos and safe observation.