|
|
Machu Picchu is the perfect October destination. The crowds are decreased considerably and the rainy season is not is full swing yet. The earlier in October you plan to visit the “Old Mountain” the better. The rainy season starts toward the end of October to the beginning of November and lasts until through April. The really wettest of the wet season occurs around January usually, so October can be absolutely enchanting.
The temperature is October is starting to warm up for Peru’s summer. However, Machu Picchu is high in the spectacular Andes. So temperatures at the ruins can be fairly chilly even on a sunny day. A hot day in October is low 70’s (22 C) so be sure to pack accordingly. In the shade or during a brief rain it can be down right cold.
Machu Picchu ruins are at an elevation of 8,040 feet (2,450 meters) which is still 1,000 feet below the summit of Machu Picchu the mountain where the Inca capital of Cusco was located. At these heights some folks may experience altitude sickness. It would be a shame to have this incredible experience dulled by feeling poorly. Here are a few tips to help avoid altitude sickness.
First and most important is to allow extra time for your body to acclimatize to the elevation. Plan your vacation so that you can spend a day or two at an elevation of at least 5,000 feet to let your body adjust before going to higher elevations. Starting at a high altitude and then moving lower will set you up for altitude sickness.
If you have health problems or breathing problems, discuss your vacation with your physician well in advance of your trip. There are tests that can be done to check the affect of altitude on your respiratory status.
The thin, dry air can rapidly dehydrate you, which will make you feel bad. Be sure to stay well hydrated during your stay in the Andes Mountains. Caffeinated fluids will also cause dehydration, so make sure you are drinking plenty of water along with that wonderful cup of morning coffee. Alcohol will also cause dehydration, so only drink in moderation and include plenty of other beverages to replenish any fluids that are lost.
High carbohydrate foods may also help decrease altitude sickness. Include some high carb snacks in your diet and enjoy those desserts! It is vacation after all. If you are going to hike the 28 mile Inca Trail, high carbohydrate foods are going to be a must.
Getting to Machu Picchu will involve either a train ride or that afore mentioned hike. The hike takes about 4 days and really will give you a feeling for the culture along with a lifetime of spectacular views. If hiking is your ideal mode of transportation, you will not be disappointed.
If you are not a hiker, the train has three different levels of service. The views from the train are of course spectacular. Every budget can be accommodated and those who want to combine hiking and train travel can also find the perfect combination. The hike/train combo will allow for a leisurely exploration of the sacred valley.
Machu Picchu is just one of the treasures to be explored in Peru. When planning your vacation, leave plenty of time for acclimatizing to the elevations. Pack plenty of sunscreen for the intense sun exposure on the mountains. Most of all, have a great time and enjoy one of the world’s amazing treasures.
Leave a Reply