"Domingo de Panzas delivers a focused 130-foot trad climb filled with two distinct cruxes that test finger strength and gear placement precision. Set in the wooded cliffs of Los Dinamos near Mexico City, this route challenges climbers to balance technical skill with careful protection on a delicately split crack."
Domingo de Panzas in Los Dinamos offers a test of finesse and grit for climbers ready to push their limits on a single, focused pitch. The route unfolds against the rugged backdrop of Central Mexico’s forested cliffs, where the air carries the scent of pine and the quiet hum of the city fades beneath the layered canopy. Starting near the access for Soñar con Ser Mas, you find your rhythm quickly by placing cams in tight cracks before moving into the route’s first demanding crux. Here, small holds require fingertip precision and careful body positioning to reach a narrow stance that feels both rewarding and precarious. A brief rest on this little ledge is worth savoring, although one slip here could invite an unwelcome drop.
From the ledge, Domingo de Panzas shifts into a delicate splitter crack where finger strength and mental focus are both tested. Protection placements are tricky and require a keen eye to secure small gear that will hold your weight in this technical section. The crack offers minimal room—often just enough for your fingertips—making steady, committed climbing essential. A few more moves beyond this challenge lead to the anchor, offering a satisfying sense of accomplishment earned through concentrated effort and careful movement.
Though the route demands 5.12a skill and commands respect, it presents practical protection opportunities with a double rack spanning micro cams to size #2 Camalots. Climbers should prepare for multiple placements of smaller gear to ensure security. Quickdraws and long runners will help manage rope drag on the slightly wandering line. For those not ready for the lead but eager to experience the route, you can top-rope Domingo de Panzas by ascending the 5.8 first pitch of Las Gamuzas and making a short right traverse to the anchors.
The setting feels intimate yet wild, with the climb perched within Los Dinamos park, an area known for rugged features, excellent rock quality, and a variety of climbing styles. The forest breathes around you, offering shade and a blend of solitude and quiet city proximity. Such a spot invites both concentrated focus on technique and a moment to appreciate the natural world wrapping the route.
When planning your ascent, tackle it during the cooler hours of the day to beat the midday sun that filters unevenly through the trees, warming the rock surface. Bring tape or finger protectors if you’re sensitive, as the thin crack demands repeated fingertip engagement. The approach is straightforward but keep an eye on footing along a forest trail marked sufficiently by locals. Descending from the anchor system is done via rappel—a standard double-rope rappel will get you down efficiently, but ensure your harness and rappel devices are well set up for a single pitch.
Domingo de Panzas strikes an enticing balance of technical climbing challenges and accessible wilderness surroundings. It rewards attention to detail in gear placements and movement with an experience that both hones your trad skills and immerses you in a quietly spirited corner of Mexico’s climbing scene.
Stay vigilant on the small ledge after the initial crux—it's a narrow resting spot with exposed exposure. Gear placements in the crack need to be meticulously tested as you progress; loose placements can increase your risk in this delicate section.
Start early to climb in the cooler morning shade, as the rock heats up quickly by midday.
Focus on placing small gear securely in the splitter crack to protect the delicate moves.
Top-rope the route by climbing Las Gamuzas first pitch (5.8), then traverse right to the anchors.
Use tape or finger protection to prevent soreness on the thin crux holds.
Bring a double rack from micro cams through #2 Camalots; consider carrying a few triple sets on the smallest sizes for repeated placements. Quickdraws and long runners help manage rope drag along the subtle traverse sections.
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