To
prepare for my upcoming trip to Peru, I am conducting altitude training in the
mountains of Colorado.
As a resident of the Centennial State, I'm fortunate to live within an hour of amazing places like Grand Mesa National Forest. This natural
wonderland encompasses some 450,000 square miles of scenic forest and
grassland, and includes bear, elk, deer, lynx, cougars, bighorn sheep, and
eagles. It also comprises the Grand Mesa, one of the world's largest flat-topped
mountains with an elevation of 11,332 feet (more than 2 miles) above sea
level.
Grand Mesa's high elevation makes it a perfect place to prepare for my
upcoming trip to Peru. During my stay in Cusco, I'll be sleeping at just over
11,152 feet -- almost exactly the elevation of Grand Mesa! (Despite being known as the "Cloud City," Machu Picchu is situated at just 8000 feet.)
For many travelers, a visit to Cusco can present quite a physical challenge. Some develop acute mountain sickness (AMS), aka high altitude pulmonary edema, which is caused by lower oxygen levels and decreased air pressure. Mild symptoms of AMS include nausea, headache, and fatigue. The Peruvian remedy is typically lots of water and rest, acclimatization before strenuous activity, and coca leaves. But for some, AMS can become far more uncomfortable, requiring treatment with acetazolamide and/or relocation to lower elevation.
For many travelers, a visit to Cusco can present quite a physical challenge. Some develop acute mountain sickness (AMS), aka high altitude pulmonary edema, which is caused by lower oxygen levels and decreased air pressure. Mild symptoms of AMS include nausea, headache, and fatigue. The Peruvian remedy is typically lots of water and rest, acclimatization before strenuous activity, and coca leaves. But for some, AMS can become far more uncomfortable, requiring treatment with acetazolamide and/or relocation to lower elevation.
And Cusco's only the start of my high elevation journey... In order to view some of the most spectacular ruins and vistas, I'll hike (and sleep) along Incan roads that top out well above 15,000 feet. Even for the physically fit, this extreme altitude can
wreak havoc on an adventurous traveler's plans. As a Colorado resident, I'll
hopefully be somewhat immune from this inconvenience. But I won't find out for sure until I get there and start hiking!
In the meantime, I hope you'll join me on Facebook and Twitter as I continue to prepare for my visit to the Land of the Incas. And I'll continue to post
from Peru, as well as during the weeks leading up to the release of my next
adventure novel.
Till next time, never stop exploring!
Andrew C. Katen
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