Search

Salkantay trek altitude sickness symptoms

Surviving the Salkantay Trek Altitude Sickness: An Extreme Adventure

Salkantay trek altitude sickness is one of the most talked-about topics among travelers who wish to explore Cusco with its awe-inspiring destinations, such as the Machu Picchu citadel, accessible via various trekking routes, with the Salkantay trek standing out.

Why is this an important detail? Most travelers to this region typically come from low-altitude areas, below 2,000 or 1,500 meters (6,561 or 4,921 feet), while the city of Cusco sits over 3,000 meters (9,842 feet), as do other destinations you’ll encounter along the Salkantay trek route.

What is Altitude Sickness?

Soroche, also known as altitude sickness or mountain sickness, is a condition that can affect those who rapidly ascend to high altitudes from lower latitudes, such as the Andean mountains. This high-altitude hypoxia occurs when the body doesn’t adapt quickly enough to the lower oxygen levels available at high elevations. Common symptoms include headaches, nausea, dizziness, and a lack of energy, also known as altitude apathy.

For tourists planning to hike in mountainous areas like the Andes, it’s crucial to be aware of this altitude-related issue and take precautions. Gradually adapting to the altitude, staying well-hydrated, and avoiding strenuous activity during the first few days can help mitigate the effects of altitude sickness. This way, you can fully enjoy the incredible adventure that awaits you in the Andes without any setbacks!

What are the Symptoms of Altitude Sickness?

Altitude sickness may hit you upon arrival in Cusco. It’s easy to detect with some common symptoms, including:

These symptoms can vary in intensity depending on the individual and the altitude reached.

Altitude sickness in Lares trek, Altitude sickness in Salkantay trek, Altitude sickness in Ausangate trek

If symptoms worsen or persist during your trip, seek medical assistance.

If these symptoms are very persistent or intense, you should contact a doctor or hospital immediately. This won’t be difficult as many hotels and travel agencies maintain regular contact with medical services, given that altitude sickness is a common concern among travelers.

Altitude Sickness on the Salkantay Trek?

The Salkantay trek, known for its stunning beauty and challenging nature, takes adventurers through a range of altitudes that require preparation. During the trek, you’ll reach the highest point at Salkantay Pass, about 4,630 meters (15,092 feet) above sea level, where altitude sickness can pose a significant challenge for some due to the lower oxygen levels. Before reaching this point, you’ll pass through areas like Soraypampa at 3,900 meters (12,795 feet), where many already begin to feel the effects of soroche. At this altitude, your body works hard to adapt, and symptoms like headaches, nausea, and dizziness may appear.

Salkantay trek altitude │Altitud de Salkantay trek

Salkantay Pass, over 4,000 meters (13,123 feet) above sea level, is the highest point of the trek.

As you descend toward Chaullay and La Playa over the following days, the altitude drops to around 2,000 meters (6,561 feet), and symptoms of altitude sickness generally decrease or disappear. Here, the vegetation changes, the climate becomes warmer and more humid, and the path feels less demanding on the body.

Finally, as you approach Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu, the altitude is even lower, around 2,040 meters (6,693 feet), allowing for full recovery before the spectacular visit to the Inca citadel. This gradual descent offers a welcome respite after the initial challenges of the trek, transforming the journey into a balanced experience of effort and reward, culminating in the wonder that is Machu Picchu.

Tourists in Machu Picchu from the Waman Adventures travel agency │Turistas en Machu Picchu de la agencia de viajes Waman Adventures

Plan your trip carefully so nothing holds you back! It’s your choice!

So, What Should I Do?

One of the simplest steps is to acclimate in the city of Cusco for at least two days. This will help your body adjust to the altitude of the region. Until then, you’re likely to experience some altitude sickness.

Now that you have a general idea of the situation, here are a few things to avoid to prevent exacerbating the symptoms of altitude sickness or even to avoid it altogether if you haven’t experienced it yet:

Actions to prevent altitude sickness.

Follow these recommendations to reduce or even prevent symptoms from appearing.

Finally, we want to emphasize the consumption of the popular “coca tea.” If you’ve already heard about it, great! This is one of the most effective home remedies for countering altitude sickness. If you’re about to arrive or have already arrived in the city of Cusco, we recommend trying it. Its alkaline properties will help improve your breathing and reduce the symptoms of altitude sickness on the Salkantay trek. However, it’s not advisable to consume coca tea if you:

 

Salkantay trek altitude sickness symptoms

Altitude sickness symptoms during the Salkantay trek

On the Salkantay trek, one of the most significant challenges travelers face is altitude sickness, especially since many come from lower-altitude regions. Proper preparation is key to enjoying this adventure without complications. Acclimating in Cusco, staying hydrated, avoiding excessive exertion, and considering remedies like coca tea (with caution according to your health situation) are essential steps to preventing or mitigating symptoms. With the right measures, you can focus on enjoying the stunning Andean landscapes and the rich cultural experience that this trek to Machu Picchu offers.

Written by: AdminGustavo

See more articles by the author >>

Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry's standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book.

If you liked this article and the information you found, give us 5 stars!

1 estrella2 estrellas3 estrellas4 estrellas5 estrellas (Ninguna valoración todavía)
Loading...