Trekking for kids

Trek

Join us for a climb of this beautiful and accessible mountain in the heart of Mexico. First climbed in 1848, Orizaba is the 3rd highest mountain in North America and an excellent experience for the aspiring mountaineer. Standing 18,880 feet above the Gulf of Mexico to the east about 3 hours from Mexico City, Orizaba is an excellent challenge for those who have had some experience with trekking, camping, other outdoor experiences and wish to take a step into mountaineering and are looking to test themselves at high altitude. Orizaba is the perfect next step on the road to peaks such as Elbrus and Aconcagua and has served as the choice for mountaineers as the first big mountain glacier climb.

Those who are interested in joining the climb on Pico de Orizaba should realize that the route is indeed on a Glacier. The use of ice axe, basic crampon footwork, and high altitude skills are a part of this trip, as it is not just a trek. Having said that; The route travels via moderate snow slopes of the Jamapa Glacier. The general skills needed to safely ascend will be covered by your guides/instructors on the days leading up to the summit morning. We do travel in rope teams on summit day on an alpine start very early in the morning darkness via headlamp.

The most important physical and mental aspects when joining the trip are to arrive in good physical and cardio shape and to be mentally ready for a challenge. The round trip climb up to the summit can take upwards of 8-10 hours, climbing up from our high camp location to the summit and returning back to high camp. If you have trained with backpacking and have the right attitude, the rewards are quite phenomenal for the aspirant mountain climber and very accessible to someone who enjoys long backpacking/trekking trips, or has previously done a trip to Kilimanjaro or Everest Base Camp for examples. We can discuss more on training with each participant and can also rent the technical gear such as ice axe, crampons, harness, and helmet.

Our climb will be led by Ryan Waters of Mountain Professionals and his team.

Our Work

Trekkers will spend two days working with at-risk and disadvantaged youth, helping improve their facilities and getting to know them through games and activities.

Please contact Tricia Donaldson for more information about the expedition.

Expedition Costs

Price for Expedition: $2850

Group Size: 8-14 Trekkers

Expedition Dates: March 3-11, 2018
(Please note: dates listed are the arrival and departure dates to/from Mexico City)

Fundraising Commitment: $1000
tax-deductible donations for projects

Included

• 4 days guided climb by Mountain Professionals guide, Ryan Waters and assistant guides
• 2 nights mountain hut and 1 night tent while on the climb
• 4 nights in a hotel in the town of Tlachichuca, near Orizaba
• 1 night hotel in Mexico City
• All meals except on flight days
• Transportation from Mexico City to Tlachichuca and back
• Transportation to and from the mountain from Tlachichuca by 4x4 vehicles
• Group climbing equipment, including tents and cooking gear on mountain
• Assistant at mountain hut to watch group and personal gear during climb
• Access to satellite phone on the climb
• Activities at our project site with the children
• TFK shirt, buff, and luggage tags
• Tips for local guides
• Travelers insurance which covers high altitude climbing for US citizens (extra for other nationalities)

Not Included

• RT Airfare to Mexico City
• Airport transfer to hotel in Mexico City
• Meals on flight days
• Rental of hard wear such as crampons, ice ax, helmet
• Alcoholic drinks, soft drinks, or bottled water and other personal expenses

Expedition Requirements

• 18 years or older
• Good health
• Physically fit
• Willing to raise minimum $1000 of tax-deductible donations for orphanage projects

3 Step Process

1. Apply • Fill out the online application (link will be provided with invitation)
• Pay $500 deposit ($50 non-refundable)

2. Prepare • Read Information and Fundraising Packet from TFK
• Start a training regimen if not already exercising regularly
• Fundraise for orphanage projects
• Gather all necessary gear for the Trek
• Pay remaining Expedition fees
• Arrange flights

3. Experience • Arrive in-country.
• Enjoy a trip of a lifetime!

We are committed to supporting you every step of the way, both before and during your Expedition.

Click here to read about TFK’s Registration and Cancellation Policies.

Download Schedule here.

Coming soon.

Fundraising Resources

After signing up for an Expedition, Trekkers receive a Fundraising Kit, and access to the Trekker Resource Center, with online tips and tools to help you succeed.

TFK Brochures • brief version of the website in printed form
• great introduction to TFK for your donors

Personal Fundraising Page (coming soon)
• solicit donations on your page
• set fundraising goals
• track progress in real time
• upload photos
• post messages to donors

Other Resources • Ideas for raising your $1000 minimum
• form letters to help you get started
• fundraising logs
• receipts and forms
• project flyer

Contact our Director of Operations, Tricia Donaldson, for more information.