Peru is a geographically diverse country, with different settings for every type of traveler. However, most of the main attractions in our country are located in the Peruvian Andes, just like Cusco and Lake Titicaca. Therefore, one of the main worries for travelers visiting the Peruvian mountainside is altitude sickness.
Also known as “soroche” in Spanish, altitude sickness is a condition that affects most tourists in places located over 1,000 meters above sea level. And though it is unlikely to know who’s going to present symptoms or not, it should be taken into consideration since if not treated, it could ruin your trip itinerary for days.
For that reason, we’ve come up with this segment to teach you how to prevent and deal with altitude sickness as you make your way through the Peruvian highlands. That way, you can ascend on altitude easily and cautiously so you don’t end up suffering from this condition.
Understanding Altitude Sickness
For those not familiar with the term, this condition happens when one travels from sea level to a high-altitude location. Our bodies are used to certain air pressure and when exposed to a drastic change, they react differently to the low oxygen level in those places.
Therefore, it takes time to adjust to those new conditions, and in the process, we can experience mild headaches, shortness of breath, tiredness, and even dizziness for a few days. That’s why experts recommend taking it easy for the first 48 hours upon arrival before performing any activity.
Regardless of your physical condition, you could be affected by altitude sickness. It doesn’t matter how fit you are, the altitude shouldn’t be underestimated and you should follow our recommendations so you have a pleasant adventure through the Andes.
What Could Happen if You Ignore Altitude Sickness Symptoms?
As we said earlier, It’s always best to take some time upon arrival than potentially ruin a few days of your itinerary. If you continue to ignore your altitude sickness symptoms (which are generally mild) you could experience a severe condition that can be life-threatening.
There are three types of altitude sickness, the first and the most common in Peru is called Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), and its symptoms are similar to a hangover. In the worst-case scenario, it can evolve into High-Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) or High-Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE), which are extremely dangerous.
Therefore, if you know that your Peru travel itinerary takes you to high-altitude locations, you should consider checking in with a doctor, especially if you have a pre-existing pulmonary disease.
The Best Way to Prevent Altitude Sickness
Although there is no magical recipe to fully prevent altitude sickness symptoms, there are several steps to follow so you can accomplish acclimatization successfully as you make your way up to the highlands.
Ascend gradually if you have the time: If you’re planning a long adventure through Peru, we recommend taking the so-called “Gringo Route,” which takes you through the most popular attractions in southern Peru. Otherwise, you can set up a travel itinerary that allows you to ascend gradually in altitude.
For example, one of the best ways to do so is by taking bus trips to different destinations, starting from sea level until the highest point of your route. That way, you’ll have some time to experience much more of the country while also allowing your body to rest and get used to the altitude slowly.
Keep yourself hydrated: The water will be your best ally to fight and prevent this condition, so make sure to drink enough liquid throughout your stay. Higher altitudes are associated with dehydration as a result of dryer air and more rapid breathing, causing a greater loss of bodily fluids.
Avoid alcohol and smoking at all costs: Yes, we know this is hard and even worse if you’re on vacation but trust us, it’s best to wait at least 48 hours before drinking alcohol or smoking. These could worsen dehydration and shortness of breath if ingested on the first days of your stay.
Eat a light but high-calorie diet: Higher altitudes increase our need for fuel, which is why it is best to have a calorie-based diet. Make sure to eat healthy snacks including lots of whole grains in your meals.
Take it easy: The key to everything in life! Don’t rush yourself, take the necessary time to get used to the altitude, and don’t do any physically demanding activities during your first days. In the meantime, you can take a walking tour through the city you’re visiting or simply rest.
Dealing with Altitude Sickness
In case you suffer from altitude sickness at some point during your trip, here are some recommendations so you can deal with it right away!
Stop and rest wherever you are: If you’re having trouble breathing, headaches, or any other symptoms related to altitude sickness, make sure to take a break and by any chance go higher in the next 24-48 hours. If you continue ascending, you might experience a more severe condition and that could ruin a great part of your itinerary through the Peruvian highlands.
Drink Coca tea or chew Coca leaves: The Coca plant is a medicinal herb used since pre-Columbian times. It is known for helping to ease any altitude sickness symptoms and improving acclimatization. You can either drink tea or just chew on the leaves.
Get some altitude sickness medicine: If coca tea doesn’t help, make sure to talk to a doctor about acetazolamide pills (Diamox). You can find this medicine in any drugstore in Peru and it’s sold over the counter. Also, you might want to get ibuprofen or paracetamol to help you deal with headaches associated with AMS.
Take an Oxygen Cylinder: This is a small portable plastic can filled with concentrated oxygen. You can get it anywhere in Peru, especially in Cusco. In case you’re experiencing altitude sickness during a tour or trek, most travel operators have an oxyshot along with their first aid kits.
Remember, if the symptoms continue, you’ll need to visit a doctor right away so they can diagnose you properly. Therefore, it is always best to hire a travel insurance plan before traveling anywhere abroad. It is certainly best to have it and not need it, than needing it and not having it.
Make sure to follow Viagens Machu Picchu recommendations, so you can have a fun and safe experience through the Peruvian Andes. There are so many things to do in Peru and we’d love to show you around! Make sure to check our travel packages, we can’t wait to have you here!
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