Inca Trail

:Altitude Sickness On reaching heights above 3000 m., heart pounding and shortness of breath are a normal response to the lack of oxygen in the air. However, for some visitors these symptoms can deteriorate into a conditions known as Soroche (or acute mountain sickness) when one experiences headaches, extreme tiredness, loss of appetite, insomnia and often nausea. Symptoms usually develop during the first 24 hours at altitude, but may be delayed up to 3 weeks. To prevent Soroche, on arrival don't over exert yourself. On arrival at your hotel have a rest for a while. Avoid alcohol, cigarettes and heavy food. Drinking mate de coca (an infusion of coca leaves - and perfectly legal in Peru) may help. If symptoms become more severe and prolonged it is best to quickly seek medical attention and make arrangements to descend to a lower altitude. On recovery one can reascend slowly or in stages.

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