Climbing and Recreation
El Pico de Orizaba attracts large number of international climbers every year. There are many routes for approaching and climbing the volcano, and many people attempt it, mostly during the period from October to March. The most frequented route begins from the base camp Piedra Grande Hut via the Jamapa Glacier. Piedra Grande Hut Base Camp is located at an elevation of 4,270 m (14,010 ft) above sea level; it is a great place to stay or acclimatize to the high altitude.
Another option as a starting point is high camp located at the base of the glacier about 4,900 m (16,100 ft) above sea level. For a more technical challenge for the experienced climber, there is a technical ice climb called the Serpents Head which involves 10 pitches of grade 3 ice. Additionally, the southern side offers another challenging option; although the trail is shorter, it is steeper and more difficult. No glaciers are found on the southern side. The final ascent to the summit is via a normally straightforward and uncrevassed glacier route.
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