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Las Penas de Dexcani, aka Jilotepec, is a climbing area unique to itself. The climbing is on a welded conglomerate tuff formed by solidified ash from a volcanic eruption hundreds of thousands of years ago. The evolutionary process of compression and erosion formed fifty meter cliffs that are perfect for sport climbing and he steep cobbled routes are incredibly featured so you’ll often find yourself clinging on trying not to fall off huge holds. Come visit this paradise that lies at an elevation of 10,000 feet (3,050 m) and is surrounded by the largest oak reserve in Mexico. There are multitudes of 5.8-5.10 routes to satisfy the moderate enthusiast as well as many exceptional 5.11’s and 5.12’s — the hardest routes in the country. Find out more about climbing in Las Penas de Dexcani from Simeon Heimowitz, owner of SouthernXposure Climbing School, PCGI certified climbing guide, route developer, and author of 3 guide books covering several locations South of the Border.

Adventure highlights

  • There are routes for everyone — from beginner to extremely difficult!

  • Climb world class sport routes on welded tuff conglomerate cobbles (only a few locations on Earth)

  • Come experience the amazing climbing and see for yourself why the Petzl Rock Trip was filmed here in 2010

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Itinerary

If you are looking for a climbing experience altogether different from anything on the Northern Continent, spend a day with professional local guides. Las Penas de Dexcani offers a five-star climbing experience like no other and is just a short distance from Mexico City. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly outing on the rocks or taking on Jilotepec’s hardcore overhangs, you’re bound to have a good time. Join professional guides for a day of climbing and see why this is a top choice for sport climbers all over the world! Your guides will pick you up and deliver you back when your day together is completed.

Adventure brochure
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Meet your guides

Simeon Heimowitz
5.00
Simeon Heimowitz
Simeon is a PCGI Certified Climbing Guide with over 15 years of experience in guiding in Northern & Central Mexico. He is the owner of SouthernXposure, a climbing school & guide service in Central Mexico. Simeon wrote three guidebooks on Mexico rock climbing, covering the Bernal, Aculco, and El Potrero Chico areas, where he has spent over 18 years climbing the crags!
SouthernXposure
5.00
SouthernXposure
SouthernXposure Climbing School and Guide Service is at the forefront of rock climbing in Mexico. They are a union of the best rock climbing guides from all over North America. They develop the areas, routes, and the infrastructure on terrain that is destined to become the focal point for the best climbing — not only in Mexico, but also all of the northern continent from Canada to Central America. SouthernXposure is a professional guide service that embraces the cultural heritage of the surrounding area by enlightening visitors to what makes the towns we visit so special. If you've never traveled to the breadbasket of Mexico you are in for a real treat!
5.00 (2 reviews)
Alfonso Lastra (source: 57hours )

Awesome experience in a beautiful mountain! From the moment we were picked up at the hotel, our guide seemed reliable and engaged in the activity.

Drew W. (source: Tripadvisor)

On my first trip to Mexico for rock climbing, Simeon was gracious in showing us several local climbing destinations within an hour or so from Queretaro. Without his help, we would have been lost. Simeon is passionate about the sport of rock climbing as well as introducing Mexican culture to individuals visiting from the States. His knowledge of both is invaluable.
I would highly recommend Southern Xposure as a guide service.

Things to know

  • 57hours is committed to providing safe outdoor adventure experiences. We require all guides using our platform to have a COVID-19 safety plan and to make the details of that plan accessible to travelers. In most cases, group sizes will be reduced, guides will avoid overcrowded locations, and other safety measures will be met depending on the location and activity.

    We also expect clients to respect local regulations and take measures to protect themselves, guides, and the communities they’re traveling to. For more information on COVID-19 measures in Jilotepec, please refer to Mexico’s Official Travel website and the US Embassy’s COVID-19 information for Mexico.

    Please contact us if you have any questions or require further information. We are happy to provide you with the most up-to-date information!

  • What you get in this adventure:

    • An experienced, local rock-climbing guide with extensive knowledge of the area
    • A full day of rock climbing
    • All technical climbing gear

    What’s not included:

    • Transportation
    • Accommodation
    • Meals and snacks
    • Park entrance fee (25 pesos)
  • If you can climb a ladder, you’re good to go. Being in good shape is always a plus but far from necessary. Rock climbing is all about using good movement techniques rather than muscling up a cliff using brute strength. To ensure you have a fun day, your guide will choose routes that best suit your skill and fitness level.

    For intermediate to advanced climbers, Las Penas de Dexcani has loads of routes to spend the day on. Your guide will discuss your objectives and customize the day to your goals. Let your guide plan the day so you can focus on developing your skills while climbing the classic routes or best-hidden gems the area has to offer.

  • Las Penas de Dexcani has several options for beginner climbers. Whether you’ve never climbed before or are transitioning from the gym to outdoor climbing, your guide will customize the day to suit your skill level and objectives. With a guide by your side, you’ll learn something new, stay safe on the rocks, and most importantly, have fun!

    Still, if you’ve never climbed before in general, we recommend taking an introduction to climbing course or spending a day with a guide learning the basics prior to booking this adventure.

    If you want to climb easier routes, El Potrero Chico offers some great climbs for beginners!

  • All technical climbing equipment will be provided by your guiding service. However, if you have your own gear, feel free to bring it. You’ll need:

    • Helmet
    • Harness with a locking carabiner, belay device, and chalk bag
    • Ropes
    • Rock shoes (included in the price, but we recommend bringing your own if you have them)
    • Climbing hardware (quickdraws, cam devices, stoppers, etc.)

    Here’s a list of the equipment we suggest you bring:

    • Day pack large enough to carry all the items listed (around a 40L bag)
    • Sun hat
    • Water bottle
    • Food you can eat on-the-go
    • Long-sleeved sun shirt
    • Light puffy jacket for high-altitude approaches
    • Toiletries (sunscreen, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.)
    • Comfortable approach shoes
    • Sunglasses
    • Camera — optional

    Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season.

    Make sure you have any personal climbing gear you would normally bring for a day at the crag.

  • Group sizes and prices:

    • For this adventure, the max guest-to-guide ratio is 4:1.
    • Costs per person decrease as the group grows, so it’s the perfect opportunity to climb with friends and family. 

    Climbing days in Las Penas de Dexcani can be arranged for bigger groups. Contact us prior to booking.

    Min. age requirements:

    • If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
    • Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to climb on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.

    If your group has climbers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

  • To get to Las Peñas de Dexcaní a.k.a. Jilotepec, most people fly into Ciudad de México International Airport (AICM) or Querétaro Intercontinental Airport (QRO). Both Ciudad de México and Santiago de Querétaro are two hours away by car or bus.

    The crags are located roughly 10km southeast of the city of Jilotepec.

    Once you and your guide agree on the details of your itinerary, your guide will suggest the best place to meet. The exact climbing spot will be discussed after the booking as guides make that decision after considering the skill level of the group and factors such as crag traffic and weather.

  • Day Trips Cancellations
    Fully refundable within the initial 48 hours from booking, unless the trip date is less than 7 days from the time of the booking.
    Cancellations up to 7 days prior to the trip date are refundable 100%.
    Cancellations within 7 days prior to the trip date are non-refundable.

  • 57hours partners with Redpoint Travel Protection, offering you a fully integrated program with a single point of contact for all your needs, from emergency services to travel assistance and protection claims. We highly recommend purchasing a comprehensive protection policy from Redpoint, which will protect you both before and during your travels. Before your departure, your investment is protected by the trip cancellation benefit. Once you depart, your policy provides coverage for trip interruption, medical assistance and rescue, baggage loss, trip delay, and more. Once you complete booking with 57hours, we'll create bespoke quote for you (and your group), making sure you're fully protected for the adventure ahead.
Have more questions? Read our FAQ,
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