Altitude Sickness in La Paz and Other Warnings and Dangers

Warnings and Dangers in La Paz: Altitude Sickness

La Paz is over 4,000 meters above sea level making altitude sickness a possibility on your visit. The following warnings and dangers will help acclimate to the higher altitude.

Altitude Sickness

Bodies need time to adjust and acclimate to changing altitudes. Some might need only a few hours while others might need several days to adapt. Flying straight into La Paz is a bad idea if you are likely to get altitude sickness.

It is even difficult just to walk around La Paz because of the thing air. It takes a couple of days to get your full level of energy back.

Remedies

Travelers recommend drinking plenty of water. You should also abstain from any difficult physical activities, like dancing or hiking, and drinking alcohol when you first arrive. Coca tea is an easy to digest, mild remedy to combat the queasiness and headaches associated with altitude sickness. For a headache, take ibuprofen and eat light for a couple of days. Make coca tea at night and drink in the morning with two aspirin.

If you are concerned, ask your doctor for a prescription for Diamox. This works like the seasickness medication, Dramamine. Taken according to instructions you should have minimal altitude sickness symptoms. Sometimes other side effects occur.

Other Dangers and Warnings

To avoid any altitude sickness, always Taxi up hill and walk downhill. Abstain from drinking alcohol to avoid long lasting hangovers. Eat light in the mornings and avoid greasy heavy foods. Take naps in the afternoon followed by a hearty lunch. Then have a light dinner in the evening.

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about altitude sickness in La Paz and other dangers and warnings.