Hello, experienced travelers, I need some advice. I'm going on a 7-day tour around Kyrgyzstan. The itinerary includes Son-Kul Lake, Kel-Suu, Issyk-Kul, Ala-Kol Lake, Altyn Arashan, Fairy Tale Canyon, Naryn, and the Sulutor Lakes (on the first day).
I've been reading about altitude sickness 🌝 and naturally my anxiety has shot through the roof. Could you tell me whether I should really be that concerned and what kind of first-aid kit I should bring?
You're not planning to do it all on foot, are you? You couldn't cover that route in seven days...
Bring a first-aid kit tailored to your own needs. The elevations on your route reach at least 3,500 meters. At altitude, any chronic conditions that you've managed to keep under control can potentially flare up. So pack medications accordingly.
At altitude (and even Issyk-Kul is already considered altitude), no sunbathing, no shorts, and no sleeveless shirts. Wear trousers, sunglasses, a long-sleeved shirt, and a hat. The sun will burn you like a blast furnace.
At altitude, keep physical exertion to a minimum. Carry less, move slowly, like a pregnant cockroach. Drink water as if it's your last chance.
Pay attention to how you feel and keep an eye on the people around you. Symptoms of altitude sickness can be absolutely anything, from headaches, diarrhea, and vomiting to euphoria and depression.
There is no magic pill. There is only one remedy: immediately descend to a lower altitude.
No, of course not, we'll be traveling by bus, with stops and overnight stays )) But what about an oxygen canister? I saw some for sale online 😁😅 I've really started worrying.
No, you don't need an oxygen canister. By bus you'll probably go no higher than about 4,200 meters. Without physical exertion, altitude is much easier to tolerate.
It's also better not to drink cold water. Bring a thermos. And warm clothing, of course — it gets chilly in the mountains.
Thank you so, so much for the reply.
There are no pills for "altitude." The only medicine is acclimatization.
Kyrgyzstan is a mountainous country, and simply being here — even at Issyk-Kul — already helps your body adapt. Unfortunately, most tour companies design their programs in a rush, rush, rush, and there's no time for acclimatization.
If you have the opportunity, after arriving in Bishkek, go to Ala-Archa, hike to the waterfall or visit the climbers' cemetery. You'll immediately feel how your body reacts, and that's part of the acclimatization process. Increased heart rate and headaches are normal in the mountains.
The Sulutor Lakes are already at around 3,000 meters, which is a rapid ascent. If you don't experience problems there, you probably won't have them at any of the other places on your itinerary.
Be careful with alcohol and kumis in the mountains.
Nobody ever talks about poisonous plants, but there are plenty of them, and they're beautiful. Read about aconite (the Issyk-Kul root) and the burning bush. Especially if you're traveling with children.
The sun is very intense here. Daily temperature fluctuations can be dramatic.
The places you're planning to visit are safe tourist destinations, not extreme adventures.