The park spans an area that is distributed between the states of Puebla and Veracruz, although general access is via the Orizaba - Córdoba highway. It is part of the Sierra Madre Oriental in the area of the Neovolcanic Axis.

It is notable for its perfectly conical volcano, which the Aztecs called Citlaltépetl or "Cerro Estrella" (Star Peak) because, on moonlit nights, the snow-capped peak reflects the moonlight, creating the impression of being a star. 

With an elevation of 5,747 meters above sea level, it is the highest peak in Mexico and has the highest treeline in the world with Hartweg's pines that withstand extreme temperature changes and low oxygen levels. The park is also home to large veins of obsidian and volcanic glass used by ancient cultures to make tools and artworks. 

Generally, the park has a cold climate in the lower parts, and snowfall can occur from an altitude of 4,000 meters. In fact, the highest part, with its glaciers and perpetual snow, has no vegetation. Due to snow and ice accumulations reaching thicknesses of 20 to 50 meters, the glaciers here are the largest in the country.

There is an alpine shelter on the north face of the mountain from Coscomatepec, and the Gran Telescopio Milimétrico located at an elevation of 4,580 meters, which is the most modern and highest telescope of its kind.

The park is divided into three types of vegetation: high paramo, pine forest, and oyamel forest.