Top Tips From Viva Expeditions For Travelling At High Altitudes

For anyone who has travelled in South America, in particular the Andes in Ecuador, Peru and Bolivia there are many destinations above 2000 m.a.s.l and others as high as 4000+ m.a.s.l.  For example Cusco, the archaeological capital of the Americas and base to visit the famous Inca ruins of Machu Picchu, sits at 3300 m.a.s.l.  For those thinking of hiking the Inca Trail, Dead Women's Pass is situated at 4200 m.a.s.l.   As such it is extremely important to prepare, and the team at Viva Expeditions have some tips (and myths) regarding travelling at altitude.

Viva Expeditions’ first tip is to research your destination so you are aware if there are any high altitudes involved and secondly, talk to your Doctor. Acetazolamide (Diamox®) taken 24 hours prior to arrival to altitude and the first two days at altitude is 75% effective in preventing altitude sickness. It speeds up the acclimatization process in the body, stimulates breathing, raises blood oxygen and increases urination.  Depending on your risk factors, some doctors might advise you to pack ibuprofen (effective for relieving altitude-induced headaches) and ginger chews, capsules or tea, which can help quell altitude-induced stomach nausea.

Slow ascent to altitude is the key to acclimatizing well. Almost anyone can get altitude illness if they go too high, too quickly and an overnight stay at an intermediate altitude is very helpful. It is also recommended to stay hydrated which aids the body in acclimatizing and sports drinks such as Gatorade or Powerade are a great option as they replace electrolytes and assist good hydration.

Plan on eating plenty of complex carbohydrates including whole grains, fruits, vegetables and legumes as complex carbohydrates allow you to use oxygen more efficiently and help maintain energy levels—both important factors in preventing altitude sickness. Most altitude-induced symptoms are mild and can be avoided—or treated—by following the tips described above.  However, for anyone experiencing moderate to severe symptoms it is important they seek appropriate medical care.  Luckily most popular high altitude travel areas are well set up to help. Symptoms can include headaches dizziness, loss of appetite, nausea/vomiting, fatigue/loss of energy and insomnia.

One of the most persistent myths is that physical fitness protects against altitude sickness. Everyone, regardless of fitness, is susceptible to altitude sickness and the most fit people can suffer or the least fit can suffer. Another myth is that drinking extra water will protect against altitude sickness. Staying hydrated is important at altitude but this does not mean you need to drink gallons of extra water each day. You only need an additional litre to a litre and a half of water at altitude. Too much water can in fact be harmful.

For more information, please go to the website at www.vivaexpeditions.com .