Preventing Altitude Sickness in Bolivia
Prevent altitude sickness by spending your first 48 hours in a lower-altitude city like Santa Cruz, then ascending gradually. Stay hydrated with 3 liters of water daily, avoid alcohol, and consult your doctor about starting acetazolamide (Diamox) 24 hours before your ascent.
- Plan a gradual ascent. Do not fly directly from sea level to La Paz (3,640m/11,942ft). Start your trip in Santa Cruz (400m/1,312ft) or Sucre (2,810m/9,219ft) to allow your body to acclimatize for at least 2 full days before heading to higher altitudes.
- Use medical prophylaxis. Ask your doctor for a prescription of acetazolamide (Diamox). Start taking it 24 hours before you travel to high altitudes and continue for 48 hours after arriving at your highest destination.
- Manage your hydration and diet. Drink at least 3 liters of water every day. Alcohol and heavy meals strain your heart and digestion; avoid both for the first 3 days of your trip.
- Respect the 'Coca' tradition. Drink coca leaf tea (mate de coca) or chew the leaves as the locals do. It is a mild stimulant that helps alleviate mild symptoms like headaches and nausea. Do not consume it in excess as it can cause insomnia.
- Monitor for danger signs. If you experience severe confusion, inability to walk in a straight line, or persistent coughing, descend immediately. These are signs of HAPE or HACE, which are medical emergencies.
- Is it normal to have trouble sleeping?
- Yes. Periodic breathing (waking up gasping for air) is very common at high altitudes. It usually subsides after 3-4 nights.
- How long does it take to fully acclimatize?
- Most people feel significant improvement after 3 to 5 days, but full physiological adjustment can take up to 2 weeks.