photo by Fit Approach (via Creative Commons)
Colombia is truly hiker's heaven, not only for the quality of its trekking destinations but also because many of its trails are up in the clouds. Treks at high altitudes, say above 8,000 feet (2,438 meters), are going to be completely different from those at sea level. Why? Because you will be using more energy and there will be less oxygen available for your body to use when you're up that high. So even though you may know how to crush your sea level hike, there are many things to consider as you move on up. Take a look at some tips and tricks below that will be good to know before you go on your Colombian mountain aventure.
photo by Fit Approach (via Creative Commons)
Train hard, play hard
Similar to training for sea level hikes, when preparing for a high altitude hike, it's best to do all workout sessions with a loaded pack (about 30-40 pounds). In addition, if you can actually simulate the high altitude conditions and are lucky enough to live close by a few mountains or hills, it's definitely recommended to take advantage of your surroundings during training sessions as well.
However, for those of us stuck in the suburbs and cities, getting to work on a stairmaster or jogging up and down stadium stairs are good alternatives. But regardless of where you call "the gym," exercising with a pack is a non-negotiable as your pack will end up feeling twice as heavy once you're up on the mountain so the more practice you get, the better.
photo by Imogene Huxham (via Creative Commons)
Educate yourself on warning signs
So, you've put in the hard work and conditioned your body but it doesn’t stop there. As a hiker, it's now your responsibility, along with that of your Colombian tour guide's, to watch for altitude sickness warning signs. Each person will have his or her own limits so it's best not to compare yourself to other hikers but make sure you speak up if you experience uneasiness.
For instance, an innocent headache can turn into something more grave if not assessed early on. Acute Mountain Sickness or AMS is the most common, yet mild form of altitude sickness and victims may experience nausea, extreme exhaustion and the aforementioned headache. Although common, it's important to say something to your guide early on as it could lead to the more grave High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) or High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE).
In addition to AMS symptoms, if anyone on your hike experiences HAPE symptoms (coughing up frothy foam) or HACE symptoms (individual acts confused, experiences incoordination or slurs his or her words) it is time to immediately descend and seek medical attention.
photo by Debs (via Creative Commons)
Don't forget the munchies
Packing for a hike is no time to feel bashful. Bring chocolates along with other high calorie snacks so that you can replenish yourself throughout the hike. Your body will be burning more calories at high altitude so it's important to leave the kale crisps at home.
Equally important is to make sure you carry lots of H2O in your pack as you will need to rehydrate yourself more often once you are that high up. You'll also experience urges to urinate more often than usual once above 6,000 feet (1,829 meter) so having enough water to keep re-hydrating yourself is an important detail not to be overlooked.
photo by Andy Piper (via Creative Commons)
Dress the part
Even if it's a hot sunny day, when planning for a high altitude hike, it's important to bring lots of warm clothes. The reason is two-fold. First off, the weather will be cooler the higher up you go; the second reason is the sun. While exerting yourself, it's not going to be any more fun turning lobster red and having a stinging sunburn to add to your ascent.
The best way to protect yourself from both woes? Layers. Bring lots of light layers that you can put on and peel off depending on the weather. Bonus points if you go for UPF or Ultraviolet Protection Factor clothing as you will look hot and stay comfortable.
Let's go!
So you’re prepped and ready and now it's time to ascend! Remember, hiking is a team sport and it's paramount for everyone to look after each other. Plus, doing so will ensure that you have more fun as well as make some pretty stellar life-long friends and penpals. And aside from going on unforgettable Colombian mountain hiking adventures, there's nothing better than making new friends.