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 We
recommend the following peaks and hikes to acclimatize as being
safe and interesting:
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.
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.
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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Climbing School