What is altitude sickness?
Altitude sickness—also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), altitude illness, hypobaropathy, or soroche—is a pathological effect of high altitude on humans, caused by acute exposure to low partial pressure of oxygen at high altitude. It commonly occurs above 2,400 meters (8,000 feet).
What are the altitude sickness symptoms?
It presents as a collection of nonspecific symptoms, acquired at high altitude or in low air pressure, resembling a case of «flu, carbon monoxide poisoning, or a hangover». It is hard to determine who will be affected by altitude sickness, as there are no specific factors.
Can altitude sickness be avoided?
Most experts believe it has more to do with genetics than physical fitness. However, the best way to avoid or reduce the symptoms of altitude sickness is to: not exercise too much on the first day; eat lightly during the first two days; and drink plenty of water and/or sport drinks.
What if I get altitude sickness while doing the Inca Trail?
Our guides will be evaluating each trekker through the first day and observing any signs of altitude sickness. In the unlikely event that you have a severe case of altitude sickness a porter will carry you back to the closest populated area.
Is the water OK to drink and where to eat in Peru?
We recommend drinking only bottled water, as Peruvian tap water is not totally potable. Make sure to eat in good restaurants and buy fruits from quality supermarkets. If you buy fruit from a street market, take extra care to wash it very thoroughly before eating it to avoid getting sick.
What type of food is typical of Peru?
Staple foods in the highlands include potatoes, corn, rice, and meat dishes, often with a spicy sauce. In jungle areas, fresh fruits, fried plantains, and other vegetables are also common. Vegetarian food can be easily accommodated in most areas.
What food and drinks should be avoided to keep from getting sick?
To keep from getting gastrointestinal infections, we recommend you do not eat any raw foods, drink only bottled or boiled water and do not eat food from street vendors. Alternatively, you do not need to worry when eating in restaurants.
What vaccinations are necessary?
Currently, a yellow fever vaccination is recommended (not mandatory) for travelers to the Peruvian Amazon. This vaccination, which is valid for 10 years, should be administered at least 10 days before your arrival to the Amazon area.
Is it difficult to bring prescription medications to Peru?
It is no problem to bring your prescription medicines with you as long as they are in their original prescription bottles and always in your carry-on luggage. As a precaution, you may also want to have an official note from your doctor.
Do I need a prescription to buy medicine?
Yes you do. However, there are some Peruvian pharmacies where you can get pretty much anything over the counter with a winning enough smile. If there’s something very specific you know you’ll need, bring a prescription from home.
What if I get sick in Peru?
Peru generally maintains good health care. Hospitals and private clinics provide adequate services, especially in Lima, Cusco, Arequipa and the other main cities. Doctors are also often available to make house calls when necessary.
Is good quality medical care available?
Medical care is generally quite good in private health care facilities in urban areas, but less so in the rural parts of the country. Urban facilities usually have modern equipment and someone on staff that speaks English.
Is there hot water at all of the hotels?
All hotels we provide will have hot water available. On occasion, for instance homestays and in the Amazon, hot water may not be available, but hygienic services will be adequate and clean.
Do we have chance to wash clothes at any of the hotels?
If the hotel itself does not provide a laundry service, you can usually find one near the hotel. Usually these outside services are quite affordable and require 24 hours for turnaround.
