What are the symptoms of altitude sickness?

Headache, nausea, fatigue, dizziness, and loss of appetite. These usually start 6-24 hours after arrival and peak on day 2-3. If you experience severe symptoms like confusion, difficulty breathing, or persistent vomiting, descend to lower altitude immediately.

How high is too high to go from La Paz?

Don't go above 4,000m (13,100ft) for sleeping until you've spent 3+ days acclimatizing in La Paz. Day trips to higher elevations like Chacaltaya (5,400m) are possible after acclimatization, but return to sleep at lower altitude.

Should I cancel my Salar de Uyuni tour if I feel sick?

The Salar sits at 3,650m, slightly higher than La Paz but manageable for most people after acclimatization. If you have mild symptoms in La Paz, you'll likely be fine. Severe symptoms mean you should wait or choose a different destination.

Do altitude sickness pills really work?

Diamox can reduce symptoms by 50-75% for people who respond well to it. It's most effective as prevention, not treatment. Side effects include increased urination and tingling fingers. Not everyone needs medication — most travelers adjust naturally with time.

How to prevent altitude sickness in Bolivia

Ascend gradually, spending 2-3 days in La Paz (3,500m) before going higher, drink 3-4 liters of water daily, and avoid alcohol for your first 48 hours. Most travelers feel symptoms but recover within 2-3 days with proper acclimatization.

Arrive in La Paz and rest for 2-3 days. Don't rush to higher elevations. La Paz sits at 3,500m (11,500ft), which is already significant altitude. Spend your first day doing minimal activity — walk slowly, rest frequently, and let your body adjust. Day two can include light sightseeing in the city. Day three you'll feel noticeably better.
Drink water constantly. Aim for 3-4 liters per day, more than you think you need. Altitude dehydrates you faster. Carry a large water bottle and sip regularly rather than chugging large amounts. Your urine should stay light yellow — dark urine means you're dehydrated.
Skip alcohol for 48 hours. Alcohol worsens altitude symptoms and dehydrates you further. This includes beer, even the local Pacena. After 48 hours, you can drink moderately, but stick to one drink and follow it with a full glass of water.
Eat light, frequent meals. Heavy meals divert energy from acclimatization. Focus on carbohydrates — quinoa soup, bread, pasta. Avoid large portions of meat or fatty foods for the first few days. Coca tea helps with nausea and is available everywhere.
Take it slow physically. Walk at half your normal pace for the first 3 days. Climbing stairs will leave you breathless — this is normal. If you feel dizzy or nauseous, sit down immediately. Don't push through severe symptoms.
Consider medication if you have a history of altitude sickness. Acetazolamide (Diamox) can help if you've had severe altitude sickness before. Take 125-250mg twice daily starting 1-2 days before arrival. Consult your doctor first. Ibuprofen helps with altitude headaches.

What are the symptoms of altitude sickness?: Headache, nausea, fatigue, dizziness, and loss of appetite. These usually start 6-24 hours after arrival and peak on day 2-3. If you experience severe symptoms like confusion, difficulty breathing, or persistent vomiting, descend to lower altitude immediately.
How high is too high to go from La Paz?: Don't go above 4,000m (13,100ft) for sleeping until you've spent 3+ days acclimatizing in La Paz. Day trips to higher elevations like Chacaltaya (5,400m) are possible after acclimatization, but return to sleep at lower altitude.
Should I cancel my Salar de Uyuni tour if I feel sick?: The Salar sits at 3,650m, slightly higher than La Paz but manageable for most people after acclimatization. If you have mild symptoms in La Paz, you'll likely be fine. Severe symptoms mean you should wait or choose a different destination.
Do altitude sickness pills really work?: Diamox can reduce symptoms by 50-75% for people who respond well to it. It's most effective as prevention, not treatment. Side effects include increased urination and tingling fingers. Not everyone needs medication — most travelers adjust naturally with time.