Today marks 60 days until leaving for Peru (technically 59, because I leave August 28th, but don't arrive until 4:45am the next morning)!!! The only reason I'm really this aware of the 60 day mark is that GAP charged my mastercard today for the remainder of the trip, which they said they would 60 days before the start date of the trip.
I have purchased a daypack for the hike(and hydration pack/camelbak to go with it), but still need to get a good pair of hiking boots, a fleece jacket, a rain/wind-resistant poncho, thermal underwear, and I'm still on the fence about whether or not I want to invest in hiking poles. With 4th of July weekend just a few days away, hopefully I can find some sales on any of the above things to save a little cash.
Now it's time to start thinking about getting into shape for this trip. Being in middle of summer, I'm already biking 4 days a week or so, and feel great. I've read that this hike has some somewhat substantial inclines on it, so I'm thinking of starting to use a stair-stepper two or three days a week, just to make sure those muscles in my legs are worked out, and prepared for the challenge.
The only thing I'm really at a loss for how to prepare for is the altitude. At our highest point, we'll be 15,000 feet above sea level. Is there any way you can prepare for something like that? Or do you just have to hope you acclimate once you're there? I'm open to suggestions anyone might have.
Well, my lunch break is about over, so I should wrap this up.
Until next time,
Ryan
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I think poles would be handy, especially if you don't acclimate to the altitude very well, or at all. They could also double as weapons. :)
ReplyDeletefound some info on preventing & treating altitude sickness.
http://www.princeton.edu/~oa/safety/altitude.html
http://wikitravel.org/en/Altitude_sickness
That Diamox sounded promising, until I found out it's a Sulfa, which as far as I know, I've been allergic to sulfas my entire life. I guess I'll just drink lots of water, which is the only "natural" altitude sickness prevention really.
ReplyDeleteDiamox is the only medicine for altitude sickness prevention, but you are correct -- it is a sulfa, which you should not take. Drinking lots of water and making sure that you don't push yourself too hard will both be important things for you.
ReplyDeleteI have a friend who is going to be in Peru for the next year. She's a doctor and knows lots about altitude sickness. I will try to connect you two before you leave.