Iztaccíhuatl–Popocatépetl National Park: planning guide
Two linked volcanoes east of Mexico City — dormant Iztaccíhuatl and active Popocatépetl. High-altitude hiking and climbing with permit rules.
Iztaccíhuatl–Popocatépetl National Park is in Estado de México / Morelos / Puebla, Mexico. The nearest town is San Rafael Ixtapalucan — roughly 12.7 km (7.9 mi) out, about 21 min of driving.
When to go
Best window: December through April, the drier and less humid stretch. Shoulder season: May and November.
June to November is the wet and hurricane season — heavy rain, high humidity, and occasional storm closures.
Heat and humidity are constant. Plan activity for early morning and carry more water than feels necessary.
Full seasonal breakdown for Iztaccíhuatl–Popocatépetl National Park
Closest towns and cities
| Town | Distance | Estimated drive |
|---|---|---|
| San Rafael Ixtapalucan | 12.7 km (7.9 mi) | 21 min |
| San Andrés Hueyacatitla | 13.5 km (8.4 mi) | 23 min |
| Santa Rita Tlahuapan | 14 km (8.7 mi) | 23 min |
| Santa María Texmelucan | 14.7 km (9.1 mi) | 24 min |
| San Miguel Tianguistenco | 15.3 km (9.5 mi) | 26 min |
| Santa Cruz Otlatla | 15.7 km (9.8 mi) | 26 min |
| San Salvador el Verde | 15.9 km (9.9 mi) | 26 min |
| San Agustín Atzompa | 16.2 km (10 mi) | 27 min |
Where Iztaccíhuatl–Popocatépetl National Park sits
Official Iztaccíhuatl–Popocatépetl National Park site — hours, closures, and fees.
Parks you could combine with it
- Sacromonte National Park
A wooded hill and church above Chalco, Estado de México. Local pilgrimage site with views toward the Valley of Mexico.
- Molino de Flores Nezahualcóyotl National Park
A restored colonial mill and gardens in Texcoco, Estado de México. Historic buildings and lawns east of the capital.
- Xicoténcatl National Park
Pine–oak forest on a Tlaxcala highland ridge. Cool mountain trails in Mexico’s smallest state.
- Cerro de la Estrella National Park
A volcanic hill and archaeological zone in eastern Mexico City. Urban parkland with pre-Hispanic ruins and city views.
Common questions
Where is Iztaccíhuatl–Popocatépetl National Park?
Iztaccíhuatl–Popocatépetl National Park sits in Estado de México / Morelos / Puebla, Mexico, and the closest town of any size is San Rafael Ixtapalucan — about 21 min away.
When is the best time to visit Iztaccíhuatl–Popocatépetl National Park?
Generally December through April, the drier and less humid stretch, with May and November quieter on either side.