What to expect from high altitude trekking holidays

Dec 21, 2019 BY Paul McWilliams

Ordinary trekking holidays present enough of a challenge but when you throw some high altitudes into the mix, things start to get seriously tough. High altitude trekking holidays involve more thorough preparation and a greater physical test that you have to be able to meet.

High altitude trekking holidays Wikimedia image by Jemeryfrimer

So, exactly what should you expect when setting off on high altitude trekking holidays and what do you do if you encounter some of the difficulties you might face?

The physical demands

It might seem obvious but it’s worth stating that high altitude trekking comes with some increased physical demands in terms of gradients, lack of facilities and difficult terrain. You are more likely to encounter poor weather and cold temperatures and it will all be harder work because the air you breath has less oxygen in it.

While trekking is an inclusive sport, anyone suffering from cardiac issues or other health problems should always speak to their tour operator and doctor before booking to see if the trek is suitable for them.

Trek grading

This can be slightly confusing as one man’s Everest is another man’s gentle stroll. Putting all subjectivity to one side, trek gradings should give you a general idea of what to expect regardless of your ability and fitness, so it is always worth asking.

High altitude trekking holidays Wikimedia image by J.M.Garg

Gradings do differ as there is no standardised system but on the whole they will be divided into four categories: easy, moderate, strenuous and challenging. These will range from casual trekking that more or less anyone can take on in the easy section, to physically demanding, high altitude treks above 4,000 metres.

The effects of altitude

Generally speaking, altitudes of under 3,000 meters won’t have too many noticeable effects, but once you get above this height that starts to change. For some people the effects will be very mild, including shortness of breath, general discomfort and a dull headache.

Other people can suffer more serious symptoms such as nausea, migraines, swollen limbs, severe difficulty breathing and dizziness. If this happens then the only way to recover is to descend to a lower altitude.

The best way to cope with altitude sickness is to take it slowly, don’t rush and try to trek high up and sleep low down if possible. Drink as much water as you can, as much as six litres a day, which will help to relieve headaches. Try not to take any medication as this can act as a sedative and be potentially dangerous at high altitudes.

High altitude trekking holidays wikimedia image by Djds4rce

The most important thing to remember on high altitude trekking holidays is to listen to your guide and accept their decision as final. No matter how fit or experienced you are, altitude can do funny things to people (including impairing judgement) and your guide will always know the best course of action. And remember altitude affects different people in different ways some much more seriously than others.

Where to go on high altitude trekking holidays

With mountains on every continent there are high altitude trekking holidays to be had all over the world. Some popular choices include the Himalayas in Nepal, India, Tibet and Bhutan, Mount Kilimanjaro the highest point in Africa, The Inca Trail in Peru, climbing Mont Blanc in Europe and trekking in the Alps of Europe and the Southern Alps of New Zealand.

Despite all the difficulties you may encounter high altitude trekking holidays are really worth the effort. The obstacles and conditions might be tougher but then the rewards are equally great. Not only will you get majestic views, but the feeling of achievement at the end of your trek will be incredible. And after all, isn’t that what trekking is all about?

 
Africa, Asia, Bhutan, Cusco, Europe, France, Himalayas, Mount Everest, Mount Kilimanjaro, Nepal, New Zealand, North America, Oceania, Peru, Rhone Alpes, South America, Tanzania, Tibet
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One response to “What to expect from high altitude trekking holidays”

  1. Nepal is destination for high altitude trekking
    Nepal is famous for its magnificent mountains and rugged high altitude trekking. For the best weather and views, go right about now (late September to December) or between February and May. But for an unforgettable vacation far form the madding crowd, Nepal also offers much, much more.
    This writer and a Thai friend were in Nepal in June and July, during the rainy season when tourists are few. It was very pleasant to have the whole country “to ourselves”, so to speak, thought the rain made it impossible for us to trek, The capital, Kathmandu, is a charming and interesting small city and breath of fresh air to anyone arriving form Bangkok. The city is set in a large valley surrounded by the foothills of the Himalayas; attractions nearby include the Swayambhunath stupa, the Hindu temples at Pashupatinath, and the quaint town of Bhaktapur, where you can walk for hours without seeing an automobile.
    At Royal Chitwan National Park on the Terai plain, you can ride on elephant, take an escorted hike in search of wild rihinos and other exotic beasts, and visit and elephant breeding farm.
    Just outside the valley is Nagarkot, the spot nearest Kathmandu where the highest snow-clad Himalayas are visible. We din’t make it to Nagarkot, but all reports say a nights there – and a very early morning to see the breathtaking sunrise – are well worth it.

    While it is extremely unlikely you will be robbed or cheated in Nepal – the people are wonderfully friendly and generally very honest- some tourist have experienced in convenience because of bureaucracy or inefficiency. We had a frustrating encounter with officialdom at the airport. My Thai friend had obtained a visa at the Nepalese Embassy here in Bangkok – which we later learned is not necessary through no fault of her own my friend’s visa was stamped too soon (It’s a long story). We tried and tried to explain that immigration officials had made a mistake, but the immigration department insisted she pay another US40 for new visa. Royal Nepal Airlines also was at fault; they were not willing to give my friend a rebate on her fare, though they did upgrade us both to Shangrila – Classs, the airlines’s highest class, for our flight back to Bangkok.

    An excellent firm to contact for arrangements once you are in Kathmandu is Hard Rock Treks & Expedition of Thamel look for the sign around the corner from Potala Guest House Mr. Bharat, “OM” Shahi, proprietor of Hard Rock Treks, is a member of the Association for Tourism a private civic group dedicated to making your life as a visitor to Nepal as pleasant and hassle free as possible.

    Our purpose is that when the tourists come, if they have problems in Nepal, we will help them “he says”

    Mr. Shahi says the group’s purpose is to make sure tourist will not be hassled or cheated, so they will enjoy their stay and want to return. The groups self assigned duties include giving correct information about Hotels and Other Services keeping the airport clean, and controlling soliciting at the airport “ If you are in trouble we can help you” Says Mr. Shahi. The group also participates in civic events such as national Day, Non- Smoking Day and Labour Day, and promotes reforestation and security in tourist areas. Fees paid by members finance it. A representative of the Association for Tourism is on hand in the airport arrival hall to greet every incoming flight, wearing on ID card a white shirt, blue pants and a black tie.

    Mr Shahi provides excellent, well-informed advice about trekking and other activities. He strongly recommends the relatively unsullied Langtang Trek north of Kathmandu.

    “Langtnag is very nice area” he says, adding “And the people are nice and more friendly then on the other Trek”. And you don’t have to climb as steeply as you do on Annapurna or Everest.

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