Saturday, November 20 to Saturday, November 27, 2010

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The Goal:
Summit Pico de Orizaba - the highest mountain in Mexico and the third highest in North America - 5,636 m (18,490 ft) and Iztaccíhuatl - the third highest mountain in Mexico - 5,230 m (17,159ft)

Travel Info and Dates:
Direct non-stop flight with Delta Airlines
Depart: New York/JFK for Mexico City, Mexico: Saturday, November 20, 2010
Return from Mexico, arrive New York/ JFK: Saturday, November 27, 2010

General Itinerary:
Saturday, Nov. 20: Depart New York/ JFK for Mexico City - Overnight Mexico City
Sunday, Nov. 21: Transfer to Iztaccihuatl - Light Training Day - Overnight Refugio (12,959ft/ 3,950m)
Monday, Nov. 22: Training Day & Overnight Summit Attempt
Tuesday, Nov. 23: Transfer to Pico de Orizaba - Overnight Base Camp Hotel
Wednesday, Nov. 24: Acclimatization; Refugio (13,972ft/ 4,258m) - Overnight Summit Push
Thursday, Nov. 25: Acclimatization; Refugio - Overnight Summit Push
Friday, Nov. 26: Bad weather back up day - End of day transfer to Mexico City
Saturday, Nov. 27: Transfer to Airport - Return to New York/ JFK

Pricing:  (Full Package, incl. International Flight from New York !)
$1,695 - early bird pricing - make deposit by Friday, October 15
$1,795 make deposit by Friday, October 29
$1,895 make deposit by Friday, November 12
$1,995 Regular Package Price

Only $200 deposit to hold your spot

Trip Includes:
Local ground connections; overland transfers and accommodations in hotels w/breakfast
International Airline Ticket: Delta Airlines
Local Guides

Does not include:
Plastic boots and additional technical equipment
Lunch and Dinners
Tipping for Guides

Trip Leaders: Igor & Alex
Questions / RSVP: IgorBass@DynamicOutdoors.com

Detailed Itinerary:
Saturday, Nov. 20: Depart New York/ JFK for Mexico City - Overnight Mexico City
Arrive in Mexico City: Transfer to our Hotel Mexico Real *** - Check-in, Dinner, and Trip Meeting:
Hotel Mexico Real ***  -  In a prime location in Mexico City, the Hotel Mexico Real provides guests with easy access to enjoyable attractions as well as convenient amenities and comfortable guestrooms.  Mexico Real Hotel is just minutes from the Palace of Fine Arts, the Metropolitan Cathedral and Alameda Park.  A variety of museums, including the Anthropology Museum, are also just steps away from the hotel.  At the end of a busy day, guests at the Monte Real can relax in a spacious room with a meal ordered from the hotel's 24-hour room service. After, the on-site Charro's Bar is a great place to sip on a cocktail while listening to music in a relaxed setting.  Wi-fi is available in the entire hotel.

Sunday, Nov. 21: Transfer to Iztaccihuatl - Overnight Hotel or Refugio (12,959ft/ 3,950m)
Pick up necessary technical gear and transfer to: Iztaccihuatl
The mountain has four peaks, the highest of which is 5,230 m (17,159ft) above sea level. Together, the peaks are seen as depicting the head, chest, knees and feet of a sleeping female figure, which is
visible from either the east or the west. Iztaccíhuatl is a mere 70 km (44 mi) to the southeast of Mexico City and is often visible from the capital, depending on atmospheric conditions.

Monday, Nov. 22: Training Day & Overnight Summit Attempt
Iztaccihuatl - Acclimatization & Gear Check Purpose:
This is the lowest peak that contains permanent snow and glaciers in Mexico.
While the first recorded ascent was made in 1889, archaeological evidence suggests that the Aztecs and previous cultures also climbed the mountain.  Iztaccíhuatl lies to the north of Popocatépetl, and is connected to it by the high pass called the Paso de Cortés.

Tuesday, Nov. 23: Transfer to Pico de Orizaba - Overnight Hotel
Pico de Orizaba - The highest mountain in Mexico and the third highest in North America. It rises 5,636 meters (18,490 feet) above sea level in the eastern end of the Eje Volcánico Transversal mountain range, on the border between the states of Veracruz and Puebla.

A regionally dominant peak, and in fact the highest peak between Colombia and the Yukon, the Pico de Orizaba is ranked 7th in the world in topographic prominence. It is the second most prominent volcanic peak in the world after Africa's Mount Kilimanjaro. Although it is about 110 km (75 miles) inland, to the west of the port of Veracruz, its peak is visible to ships approaching the port in the Gulf of Mexico, and at dawn rays of sunlight strike the Pico while Veracruz still lies in shadow. The Pico is ranked 16th in the world for topographic isolation.

The peak is one of three volcanoes that contain permanent snow and glaciers in Mexico. The others are Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl.
Pico de Orizaba is home of the highest altitude growing pine trees in
the world, which NASA are studying in order to possibly grow them
somewhere outside the Earth in the future.

Wednesday, Nov. 24: Acclimatization; Refugio (13,972ft/ 4,258m )- Overnight Summit Push
Preparation; Gear check; Overnight Summit Push

Thursday, Nov. 25: Acclimatization; Refugio - Overnight Summit Push
Preparation; Gear check; Overnight Summit Push (1st ad weather back up day)

Friday, Nov. 26: Acclimatization; Refugio - Overnight Summit Push
Preparation; Gear check; Overnight Summit Push (2nd ad weather back up day)

End of day, transfer back in direction Mexico City - Overnight Hotel Hotel La Hacienda
La Hacienda Located on the grounds of a historic 1500s wheat mill, this charming boutique hotel combines old-world charm with modern amenities and provides comfortable accommodations and easy access to area attractions.  La Hacienda offers a tranquil location nestled among lush forests in San Jose del Puente. Guests at the historic hotel can easily discover the famous Talvaera pottery artists, hike Popocatepetl volcano or play a ground of golf at La Huerta Golf Club.  Guests at the Hacienda can enjoy a stroll through the on-site gardens or a relaxing swim in the swimming pool, open 24-hours a day. The hotel also offers on-site dining options as well as high-speed internet access and spacious banquet facilities.  Amenities: Restaurant, Bar, 24-Hour Front Desk, Newspapers, Garden, Terrace, Rooms/Facilities for Disabled Guests, Safety Deposit Box, Chapel/Shrine, Design Hotel, Luggage Storage, Shops in Hotel. Optional: Massage, Indoor Swimming Pool.

Saturday, Nov. 27: Transfer to Airport - Return to New York/ JFK

What to expect on such when undertaking such an Adventure:

Sample Story - The Mountain, The Adventure, The Experience:

Article by: Dane Schiller - Express-News Mexico City Bureau
San Antonio Express, TX - Mar 4, 2006 COTOPAXI, Ecuador Climbing...

Climbing snow and ice under a moonless night, I watched the flashlight glowing further up the Andean glacier. It seemed more like a distant star than a one-watt bulb strapped to another mountaineer's head.

The light — a North Star of sorts for me — was still about 2,000 feet shy of the summit of Cotopaxi, a 19,347-foot mountain widely considered one of the highest active volcanoes in the world.

Americans, Brazilians, French, Irish, Israelis, Swiss and other nationalities come here by the hundreds each year — all drawn by the challenge and romance of scaling the mountain, which is known for its nearly perfect cone shape. In the indigenous language, Quichua, its name roughly translates as "necklace of the moon."

But only about half of those who try ever reach the top. Cotopaxi is a place to test limits, to trudge all night without sleep, to burn muscles until they are nearly useless and finally to gulp for oxygen in air so thin you feel as though you will collapse.

Cotopaxi Crater Top

The experience comes with a mantra: You don't reach the summit with your legs, but with your heart.

It has been that way ever since it was reportedly first climbed in 1872 by German geologist Wilhelm Reiss and Angel Escobar, of neighboring Colombia.

As with most summits, you have to be willing to risk failure. I'd failed on a lesser mountain: crumbled in exhaustion, vomited on the ice, and slammed ice-encrusted, gloved fists into the frozen turf.

But I was giving it another shot here. With each step, I grew more tired, and the air became more thin. I knew my response time was getting more tenuous. My speech was slurring and balance awkward. And I had to watch for altitude sickness, a life or death situation that requires immediate evacuation.

History says that Cotopaxi greeted the Spanish Conquistadors centuries ago by erupting during a vicious battle with the native peoples. And it's still an active volcano, capable of spewing rivers of burning lava that could not only devastate villages on its edges, but rage through the streets of Quito — a two-hour drive away.

All I could think about right now was my own destiny. At one of Cotopaxi's roughest passes, my legs buckled and I dropped to my knees.

Cotopaxi from a distance...

"Don't do that again," my Ecuadorean guide Wellington shouted. "Tell me if you are spent and we will head down. If you are too weak, we can not take risks."

Years of hope and months of training down the drain, I thought to myself. Nearly every weekend since August, I'd taken to lesser mountains in Mexico where I hiked, climbed and pushed myself.

I was obsessed as I learned the ropes of mountaineering and trained my muscles, weakened by years of desk duty and medical ailments. I'd overcome multiple spinal surgeries four years earlier and the consequent physical and even mental stagnation to get to this point.

If I pushed too hard, I would risk my life. If I didn't finish, Cotopaxi would haunt me for years, even if it is not always supposed to be about reaching the summit.
Wellington knew all about that. And about limits.

Now 50, he had climbed Cotopaxi at least 200 times. As I was learning, he had little tolerance for climbers unprepared for the mountain's rigors.

Climbing a mountain isn't like running a marathon, where if you have to bail out, you can simply plop on a curb and call for medical assistance. At high altitude on risky terrain, you can't wait until your muscles turn to putty before calling it quits.

Because there's no one to help you if you do. Ascending Cotopaxi, we were too high for most helicopters and impossible to be rescued by a jeep or even mule.

Jamming my ice ax into the snow, I pushed off the frozen face and rose to my feet.
Satisfied by my effort, Wellington promised that as long as I had the will to keep going, he'd lead me to the summit.

At the same time, Wellington said he hated the younger generation of guides, some of whom seemed to quick to pull the plug on expeditions, saying clients were too tired to safely continue or the snow so fresh it could trigger an avalanche.

Seeing the monster Six hours after we started, dawn illuminated Cotopaxi, and I got my first glimpse of the otherwordly monster we'd been climbing in the dark.

Ice caves and crevices glowed with bluish hues. Icicles looked like jagged teeth. But I was in no shape for gawking. Trudging up a 45-degree slope, breathing and aching, all focus was on my next step.

I'd take two. Then stop. Breathe, breathe. Two more steps. Stop. Breathe. Breathe. Step again. Stop. Gasp for air. Step again.
As I looked toward the mountain's top, I saw the first glint of sunrays, a signal that the summit was near. It also meant the most dangerous part of the climb would soon begin — the descent.

Most mountaineering accidents happen on the way down, when climbers have already used up all their energy and they no longer have the psychological advantage of striving for the top. And with daytime temperatures softening the snow, it is far easier to slip.

But first things first. The peak was still above us. Again, we pushed on.
Step. Suck air. Step. Suck air.

Two days after first setting foot on the lower reaches of the mountain and seven hours and fifteen minutes after leaving base camp, I staggered to the top.

Strangely, it was almost windless. I could look down on clouds and lower peaks all around.
I dropped my ax and crumpled onto the snow, and again, gasped for air. I could hardly move, but I'd never felt more alive. I was on top of South America, and because so close to the equator, perhaps at that moment closer to the sun than anyone on the planet.

Sunglasses hid my tears. Nothing could hide my grin...
:-)

Suggested Packing List & Critical Points:

1) You will be trained in basic technical mountaineering skills: you will learn these in one hour !!
Not a big deal, our expert guides will train us and you will be fully prepared to use the gear provided !!
However, good physical and/ or athletic abilities a must !!

2) Our local guides have climbed these mountain several times...

3) Technical equipment - we will provided some; however, we do recommend to purchase and/ or rent: Ice Axe, Crampons, etc

4) NO camping required: hotel and mountain refuges will be our accommodations.

5) Temperature: Mexico, mild spring temperatures, 60's F; on the mountain it will be colder of course...

6) NO porters needed, all heavier equipment will be transported by jeep...

What to Bring/ Pack:
(Full List of Recommended Items - but use your own judgment also)
 
Two simple tenets: Lightweight and Functional. Lightweight equipment
increases your chance of success and helps make you more comfortable.
Functional equipment determines how warm, dry, and safe you will be, so
always choose equipment that is of good quality, is dependable, and is
adaptable to a variety of extreme conditions.

Clothing impacts
not only your comfort but also your safety. Always be critical of the
quality and the proper fit of your clothing. Cotton clothing must be
avoided because it dries very slowly and is a poor insulator when wet.
Instead, choose wool or synthetic fabrics that "wick" the sweat and
moisture away from your skin.

Our recommended clothing system has four layers.
• Base layer: manages moisture and wicks perspiration away from your skin. (Polypro, capilene, driclime)
• Softshell: should be a durable, comfortable, insulating and wind/water
resistant layer that breathes well. The main Softshell fabrics are
Polartec Wind Pro, Gore Windstopper N2S, Schoeller and each clothing
manufacturer has their own. 200 weight fleece can be substituted for
our Soft Shell recommendations but is not as versatile on how it may be
used when layering.
• Hard shell: windproof, waterproof and breathable. (e.g. Gore-Tex, or similar)
• Insulating layer: should be down-fill or synthetic-fill and fit over all layers. (e.g. down, primaloft or polarguard)

These four layers are usually sufficient for most people, but if you tend to
be colder bring one extra medium-layer that would be ideal for extra
warmth around camp, such as a vest. When deciding what to pack,
remember to bring enough clothes and accessories to ensure your safety
and comfort, while not over-burdening yourself with items you probably
won’t use.

Upper Body
 Polypropylene t-shirts
 Long sleeve polypropylene shirts, Lightweight, light colored for sunny days
 Women sports bras Synthetic, no cotton!

1 Soft shell (e.g. Mammut New Age, Marmot Dri-Clime Wind Shirt,
Patagonia Stretch Zephur or Krushell Jacket, R2 pullover acceptable)

Down/synthetic sweater (e.g. Mammut/Ajungilak Cloud Series, Patagonia
Puffball Jacket or Sweater preferred, R4 Jacket acceptable)
 Hardshell jacket with hood Waterproof and breathable. Gore-Tex or
equivalent is best, roomy enough to fit over multiple layers. (e.g.
Mammut Motion XCR or equivalent)
 Extra mid-weight layer such as a wool sweater or additional fleece layer
 1 Pair liner gloves Thin wool or polypropylene
 1 Pair warm gloves Fleece or wool
 1 Pair shell gloves/ mittens

Head gear
 Warm hat Wool or synthetic that cover your ears
 Balaclava /  Shade hat or baseball cap

Lower Body
 1 Pair nylon pants Good for trekking or around camp
 2 Pair of liner socks Polypropylene or Capilene
 2 Pair heavy wool/synthetic socks Check boot fit with liner and wool socks on
 1 Pair lightweight long underwear Polypropylene or Capilene
 1 Pair soft shell pants (e.g. Mammut Champ pants, Patagonia Guide pants or Outdoor Research Granite pants) Schoeller fabrics
 1 Pair nylon shorts Running shorts or other quick-drying type, not cotton!
 1 Pair hard shell pants Waterproof/breathable with full side zips, Gore-Tex or equivalent is best.
 Gaiters Make sure they will fit over plastic boots for cimbers. (e.g. OR Crocodiles or equivalent)
 Trekking shoes For the hike to base camp and acclimatization hikes
 1 Pair sandals (optional)

All clothing should be kept dry using waterproof stuff sacks or large plastic bags

Sleeping Gear
 Sleeping bag Rated to 0-10º F. Line the stuff sack w/ plastic bag
(Optional) Sleeping pad 1 full length closed cell foam and/or _ length Therma-Rest for extra warmth and comfort
Backpack or  Internal frame pack 4500-5000 cubic inch capacity, avoid unnecessary options that add weight
  Small Backpack for use during the day- about 2500 cubic inches
 Pack cover for protection form rain
Large duffle bag (7,500+ cu. in.) for gear, include small padlock
 Small duffel for leaving extra gear at the hotel

Miscellaneous Equipment
 Glacier glasses 100% UV protection with side shields and a hard-sided storage case (i.e. Julbo or Cebe)*
 Adjustable trekking poles (optional)
 Personal first aid kit (optional)
 Lip balm At least SPF 20, 2 sticks. A string taped to the stick is helpful, to hang around your neck
 Sunscreen At least SPF 40
 Headlamp Petzl Myo3 or Black Diamond Gemini
 2 Water bottles 1 liter wide-mouth Nalgene and 1 bottle holster, or
 Hydration bladder With drinking tube and 1 Nalgene bottle
 Pocket knife Small Swiss-Army type
 Water purification Iodine tablets or Polar-pure crystals
 Toiletry kit Be sure to include toilet paper stored in a plastic bag
 3-4 Large plastic bags For keeping miscellaneous gear dry
 Nylon stuff sacks For food and gear storage (OR has a good selection); large Ziplocs are also useful
Optionals: Bandana,  Camp towel,  Ear plugs,
 Hand wipes
 1 Small stainless steel thermos (optional)
 Favorite snack foods No more than 2 pounds!
Optional: Paperback books, cards, I-pod, etc.
 Camera (Optional. 1 light weight point & shoot on the mountain, 1 large SLR types for the trek in and base camp.)
 Fanny pack or wallet for travel documents, money & passport
Remember - Passport and passport photos &  Airline ticket

Additional Gear for Climbers
Alpine climbing harness Must have adjustable leg loops and fit over all
clothing (e.g. Mammut Alpine Light, Black Diamond Alpine Bod w/gear
loops)
 1 Locking carabiners Large, pear-shaped carabiner is best, screw gate type recommended.
 2 Regular carabiners (e.g. Mammut Standard Wiregate or BD Hot Wire are recommended)

Ice axe w/leash Light weight (e.g. Grivel Air tech or Black Diamond
Raven) under 5’7” use 60cm, 5’7”- 6’2” use 65cm, over 6’2” use 70cm.
 Plastic mountaineering boots (Koflach Arctic Exped, Lowa Civetta, or Scarpa Alpha)

Crampons, anti-ball plate, and repair kit Must be fit to plastic boots
prior to trip, new-matic type recommended (e.g. Grivel G12 [new matic
or classic], Black Diamond Contact Strap, or Charlet Moser VASAK
Flexlock)
 Climbing helmet Adjustable, should fit with hat on
 Perlon cord 30 feet of 5-millimeter perlon cord for prussik material, do not cut prior to trip!
 1 Down parka with hood

1 Pair modular expedition shell mitts OR Pro Mitts. If they do not have
wrist straps consider sewing one on so that you can either attach it to
your jacket or cinch the strap to your wrist so that you do not loose
your mittens in high winds.
 Face mask (optional)

Questions / RSVP: IgorBass@DynamicOutdoors.com

Direct Flight: JFK to Mexico City via Delta Airlines
DL /  481      20NOV2010       JFK 915A        MEX  135P
DL /  484      27NOV2010       MEX 235P        JFK  830P

Cancellation Policy:
If you cancel more than 60 days before the date of travel, you would receive a refund minus $200
If you cancel less than 60 days before the date of travel, you would receive 75% refund
If you cancel less than 45 days before the date of travel, you would receive 50% refund
If you cancel less than 30 days before the date of travel, you would receive 25% refund
If you cancel less than 15 days before the date of travel, there won't be a refund possible unless we find replacement for you !
(We always highly recommend to take out travel insurance: www.travelex.com)