We recommend the following peaks and hikes to acclimatize as being safe and interesting:
- Pasochoa 4,200 meters (13,780 feet)
- Guagua Pichincha 4,700 m (15,739 feet)
- Corazon 4,700 meters (15,710 feet)
- Cayambe acclimatization hike 4,800 meters
- Iliniza North 5,200 meters (16,818 feet)
Generally
People arriving in Quito by air often experience mild symptoms of altitude sickness. Taking it easy for the first 24 hours after arrival is the best way to alleviate these symptoms. Avoid rushing around, and make sure to drink plenty of liquids. You can expect to feel tired at first, this is normal. Don't expect to achieve the performance that you do at home. The best advice that we can give is to plan an easy first day. Consider going to one of the excellent Haciendas or Hostals within a couple of hours of Quito and relax for 24 hours! We suggest Hacienda Guachala, just south of Cayambe.
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It takes time to get fully acclimatized. After the first 24 hours most people no longer have any problems and begin travels through the Andes without additional trouble. In the vast majority of cases, people who feel the altitude have their symptoms clear up within 48-hours. If the symptoms continue for more than 48-hours or become worse you should consider moving to a lower altitude, the only cure for altitude sickness.
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Climbers and Hikers
The most important thing you can do is not to plan too aggressive an itinerary .Build up to the higher altitudes. The challenge is the altitude, do not under estimate it.
There are many theories on how best to get used to the mountains. Years ago it was thought the best way to acclimatize was to go as high as possible in a jeep and then camp there for four of five days, with the absolute minimum of exertion. Others theories include the one used for climbing Everest, to go up and down the mountains - climb high, sleep low. Another theory is to become acclimatized to each altitude by spending time exercising at that altitude before moving higher. Whatever you do, one thing is certain the better acclimatized you are the more you will enjoy your time at altitude.
For climbers Safari recommends an initial rest for 24-hours after arrival followed by a progression of peaks. As everyone reacts differently to altitude there are no guarantees - some people will never be able to be at a high altitude and feel good - but this program seems to work for the majority of people. We also recommend a low alcohol, high carbohydrate diet, with plenty of rest and liquids.
Acclimatizing with an experienced Safari guide enables you to have an objective assessment of your performance. We do not want to take people to the mountains that are not adequately prepared. Our goal is to prepare you for the mountains and to give you the best possible chance of reaching the summit.
Remember if you descend to a lower altitude for even just a few days you will need to acclimatize again!
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