annek
Odysseys Traveler
Posts: 1
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Post by annek on Feb 15, 2017 14:30:44 GMT -5
Taking this tour in about a month and wondering about altitude sickness. Many on Trip Advisor recommend taking Diamox, a prescription drug to prevent this. What have other travelers here experienced? Any suggestions would be appreciated, thanks.
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davem
Odysseys Traveler
Happy Travels!
Posts: 28
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Post by davem on Feb 15, 2017 21:22:24 GMT -5
Several years ago I did Machu Picchu and Galapagos with another tour company and had a great trip - but the Odysseys trip is better. I had a mild headache the first day in Cusco (11,152 feet) then it went away as I acclimated to the sudden increase in elevation (we flew to Cusco after several days in Lima, which is at sea level). I took Diamox before arriving in Cusco but I'm not sure if it helped. I drank mateo de coca when I arrived in Cusco and it didn't help.
I'd try the Diamox but don't expect wonders. You need a prescription so ask your physician for advice. (My travel doctor recommended it.) Do plan on taking it easy your first day at high elevation. Machu Picchu (7972 feet) is lower than Cusco and you probably won't suffer altitude sickness there - but you will be short of breath as you walk around the citadel.
Machu Picchu is fantastic.
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Post by pamg on Mar 6, 2017 15:10:57 GMT -5
I did not take the diamox, (allergic to sulfa drugs), drank coca tea, ate lightly and took a herbal chlorophyll tincture. Everyone will feel the altitude change, even your tour guides.. several people notice more side effects from the diamox. pace yourself, rest when you need. Odysseys has the tour well paced for a gradual introduction to the altitudes.
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