High altitude starts to have an effect on our bodies from between 5,000-6,500 feet when our bodies start to react differently to make up for the changes in oxygen levels. As you go higher, the air pressure gets lower (the air gets thinner) so that for every breath there will be less oxygen for your body. Your body gradually adapts to getting less oxygen – you breathe faster and deeper and the body produces more red blood cells. This takes time so this is why if you go from low to high altitude too quickly, you may feel symptoms of altitude sickness until your body acclimatizes.

We have designed the ABOTA Peru trip to slowly work our way up to the high altitude of Cusco.

• Lima: Sea level
• Sacred Valley (Urubamba): 9,420 feet
• Machu Picchu: 7,972 feet
• Cusco: 11,152 feet

SYMPTOMS

Symptoms of altitude sickness are usually felt within 12 to 24 hours of arrival at high altitude and can take a few days to subside.

Common mild symptoms of altitude sickness may include:

• Headache
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Fatigue
• Poor appetite
• Dizziness
• Disturbed sleep

TIPS TO HELP YOU AVOID ALTITUDE SICKNESS

Relax and take it easy. Avoid strenuous exercise or at least work your way up to it gradually when you are at a higher altitude.

Avoid alcohol. Alcohol will have a greater effect on your body at a high altitude.

Drink lots of water. Staying hydrated prior to and throughout the trip is crucial to avoiding unpleasant altitude sickness symptoms.

Eat lightly. When you first arrive at high altitude, eat a lighter meal or meals that day.

Drink coca tea. Coca tea is a local tea that is believed to help ease altitude sickness symptoms.

Visit your doctor. There are prescription medications that can be prescribed to help with altitude sickness. You will want to discuss with your doctor the options and possible side effects.