Hiking to Humantay Lake is a rewarding experience, but its high altitude can pose a challenge for many travelers. At an elevation of over 4,200 meters (13,780 feet), altitude sickness is a genuine concern that can affect anyone, regardless of fitness level. In this guide, we’ll explore how to prevent and manage altitude sickness to ensure your trek to Humantay Lake is both safe and enjoyable.
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Understanding the Altitude of Humantay Lake Trek
Humantay Lake is located in the Peruvian Andes, with the trailhead at Soraypampa sitting at around 3,900 meters (12,795 feet) above sea level, and the lake itself at approximately 4,200 meters (13,780 feet). At such heights, the air becomes thinner, meaning there is less oxygen available for your body to absorb. This reduced oxygen level can trigger symptoms of acute mountain sickness (AMS), commonly known as altitude sickness.
The trek to Humantay Lake requires physical effort, and the steep incline combined with the high altitude can make it particularly strenuous for those who haven’t fully acclimatized. That’s why it’s essential to understand the risks and take measures to prepare yourself.
Symptoms of Altitude Sickness
Altitude sickness can vary from mild to severe, and symptoms usually start to appear when you ascend to altitudes above 2,500 meters (8,200 feet). The symptoms typically develop within a few hours of reaching a high altitude but can also emerge as soon as you start exerting yourself on the trek.
Common Symptoms of Mild Altitude Sickness
- Headache: One of the earliest and most common signs.
- Nausea or vomiting: You may feel queasy or lose your appetite.
- Dizziness or lightheadedness: A feeling of unsteadiness or imbalance is common.
- Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired, even after resting.
- Shortness of breath: Even mild physical activity can leave you out of breath.
- Difficulty sleeping: High altitudes can disrupt normal sleep patterns.
Severe Symptoms (Seek Medical Help)
- Severe headaches that do not improve with pain relievers.
- Difficulty breathing at rest or extreme shortness of breath.
- Confusion or disorientation.
- Chest tightness or congestion.
- Coughing up pink, frothy fluid (a sign of high-altitude pulmonary edema, a serious condition).
If you experience any severe symptoms, it’s crucial to descend to a lower altitude immediately and seek medical attention.
Tips for Preventing Altitude Sickness
While it’s impossible to predict how your body will react to high altitude, there are several proactive steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of experiencing altitude sickness on your trek to Humantay Lake.
1. Acclimatize Properly
One of the most important ways to prevent altitude sickness is to give your body time to adjust to higher altitudes. Spend at least two or three days in Cusco (which sits at 3,400 meters / 11,150 feet) before attempting the Humantay Lake trek. This will help your body adapt to the lower oxygen levels.
2. Stay Hydrated
Dehydration can make altitude sickness worse, so make sure you’re drinking plenty of water in the days leading up to the trek and during the hike itself. Avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine, as they can dehydrate you.
3. Ascend Slowly
While the Humantay Lake hike is a day trek, it’s important to pace yourself and take breaks as needed, especially during the steeper sections. Rushing can put extra strain on your body and increase the risk of developing symptoms.
4. Eat Light and High-Energy Foods
Eating small, high-energy snacks throughout the day can help keep your energy levels up and prevent nausea. Focus on foods that are easy to digest and avoid heavy meals before or during the hike.
5. Use Coca Leaves or Tea
Coca leaves have been used by indigenous Andean people for centuries as a natural remedy for altitude sickness. Drinking coca tea or chewing coca leaves before and during the hike can help alleviate some of the symptoms. Coca leaves are widely available in Cusco and along the trail.
6. Take Altitude Sickness Medication
Consult with your doctor about taking acetazolamide (Diamox), a medication that can help your body acclimatize to high altitudes more quickly. This medication can reduce the likelihood of developing altitude sickness, but it should be taken with medical advice before your trip.
What to Do if You Experience Altitude Sickness
Even with proper preparation, altitude sickness can still affect you, and it’s important to know how to handle it if symptoms start to appear during your hike to Humantay Lake.
1. Stop and Rest
If you start to feel any symptoms of altitude sickness, take a break. Resting allows your body to adjust and can sometimes alleviate mild symptoms like headaches or dizziness. Don’t push yourself too hard—listen to your body.
2. Descend to a Lower Altitude
If your symptoms persist or worsen, the best remedy is to descend to a lower altitude as soon as possible. Even descending by a few hundred meters can make a big difference in how you feel.
3. Use Oxygen If Available
Many guided tours and trekking companies carry portable oxygen tanks for emergencies. If your symptoms become more severe, using supplemental oxygen can provide immediate relief while you wait to descend or seek medical help.
4. Stay Hydrated and Take Pain Relief
If you’re experiencing headaches, make sure to stay hydrated and consider taking over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. These can help ease mild altitude sickness symptoms.
5. Know When to Seek Medical Attention
If you or someone in your group is experiencing severe symptoms—such as difficulty breathing, confusion, or coughing up fluid—it’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately. These could be signs of high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) or high-altitude cerebral edema (HACE), both of which require urgent care.
Conclusion:
Hiking to Humantay Lake is an unforgettable experience, but it’s essential to be aware of the risks posed by high altitude. By understanding the symptoms of altitude sickness, taking steps to prevent it, and knowing how to manage it if it occurs, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable trek. Preparation is key, so take your time to acclimatize, hydrate, and enjoy the stunning landscapes of Humantay Lake at your own pace.
