If you're planning a vacation to Peru, you'll want to be prepared for everything you'll experience, including something known as altitude sickness – an illness that affects the human body in higher altitudes. The higher you go, the less oxygen your body receives, which results in altitude sickness. The problem is that the altitude in Machu Picchu – a major tourist attraction in Peru – is about 7,900 ft. above sea level. If you're traveling to Cusco, you'll be looking at an elevation of about 11,000 ft. above sea level. You'll need to be prepared for altitude sickness, would could leave you feeling under the weather until your body adjusts to the reduced oxygen levels. Here are four steps you can take to reduce the effects of altitude sickness.
Load Up on Water
Staying hydrated is one of the most important steps you can take to reduce the effects of altitude sickness. Proper hydration should start before you even leave for your vacation. Start increasing your water consumption a couple days before you leave. Keep a bottle of water on you during your flight. This will allow you to hydrate prior to landing. Once you arrive, continue to drink additional water for at least the first day of your trip. To keep the symptoms away, keep a bottle of water on hand throughout your vacation.
Take a Day to Acclimate
Your body will need to adjust to reduced oxygen in the air. This can take a couple of days. To help alleviate the distress, don't make any big plans for at least the first day of your vacation. Plan to spend that first day resting in your hotel room with plenty of fresh water. Once you've rested for the first day, you'll be ready to head out on some adventures.
Limit the Alcohol
High altitude and alcohol don't mix. Unfortunately, too much alcohol can leave you with a splitting headache and a severe case of nausea. While you're vacationing in Peru, try to limit the amount of alcohol you consume.
Sip Coca Tea
As soon as you land at the airport, you'll notice an abundance of coca leaf tea. This is used to treat altitude sickness. Enjoy a glass of coca tea once a day during your vacation, and the unpleasant effects of altitude sickness will subside.
If you're planning a vacation to Peru, be prepared for the extreme change in altitude. The tips provided here will help you alleviate the discomfort so you can enjoy your vacation adventure. Contact a luxury tour service like Kuoda Personalized Travel for more help planning your trip.
