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How to Handle Altitude Sickness While Traveling in Guatemala
- Jessica Seiders
- Feb 25
- 6 min read
Ladies, grab your bags and get ready to experience the beauty of Guatemala!
Whether you're dreaming of exploring the colorful streets of Antigua, marveling at the tranquil waters of Lake Atitlán, or conquering one of the towering volcanoes, traveling in Guatemala promises adventure, rich culture, and stunning landscapes in every corner.
But as glorious as it is, there’s a catch.
When you’re traveling at high altitudes, it’s not always smooth sailing. If you're coming from sea level, your body might not love the elevation right away. Enter: altitude sickness.
While it’s nothing to be afraid of, it's something you definitely need to be aware of before you go. Don't worry, though, this is one challenge you can manage, and I’ve got tips on how to keep your trip as smooth as possible.
So, before you start planning your next adventure in Guatemala, let’s talk about what altitude sickness is, how to spot it, and most importantly, how to prevent it. After all, we want all the fun without the discomfort!
What is Altitude Sickness?
Altitude sickness (also known as acute mountain sickness or AMS) occurs when you travel to higher elevations, generally above 8,000 feet (2,400 meters).
Traveling in Guatemala’s highlands, especially areas like Antigua and Lake Atitlán, which sit at higher elevations, can trigger the symptoms of altitude sickness.
You might experience headaches, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, and shortness of breath. Luckily, it’s usually temporary and manageable with a little bit of care and awareness.
Why Altitude Sickness Happens — Understanding Your Body in the Highlands
Let’s break down why you might be feeling a little off when you arrive in high-altitude destinations like Antigua or Lake Atitlán.
When you travel to places higher than what your body’s accustomed to, there’s less oxygen in the air. This can make your heart and lungs work harder to get the oxygen your body needs, which is why you might feel out of breath, sluggish, or even a little lightheaded.
Your body needs time to adjust to the lower oxygen levels, and it can take anywhere from a few hours to a couple of days for you to feel fully acclimated.
Be gentle with yourself during this period, especially if you’re used to living at sea level. And if you’re with a group of women, everyone might be feeling different things so it’s great to keep a watchful eye out for each other and make sure everyone’s feeling their best.
Symptoms to Watch Out For — Don’t Ignore These Red Flags!
Knowing the symptoms of altitude sickness is key to managing it. Here are the most common ones to keep an eye out for:
Headaches and dizziness
Shortness of breath, especially with minimal effort
Fatigue or feeling unusually tired
Nausea and loss of appetite
These symptoms are usually mild and can be alleviated with some rest and hydration. However, there are more serious symptoms that require immediate attention, though they are rare:
Difficulty walking or confusion
Swelling in the hands, feet, or face
Chest pain or severe shortness of breath
If any of these more serious symptoms occur, find medical help right away.
Tips to Prevent Altitude Sickness While in Guatemala
Now that you know what altitude sickness is, let’s find out how to avoid it and keep your trip to Guatemala full of adventure and fun.
1. Take It Easy, Especially on Day One
When you arrive, give your body time to adjust. Instead of jumping into long hikes or strenuous activities right away, spend your first day taking it easy.
Stroll through Antigua’s charming cobblestone streets, grab a coffee in one of the cute cafés, and explore the local markets at a relaxed pace. Your body will appreciate it, and you'll still get to soak in the beauty of your surroundings.
2. Stay Hydrated Like a Pro
Hydration is key at high altitudes! Drink plenty of water throughout the day, as dehydration can worsen altitude sickness symptoms. Keep your water bottle with you at all times.
Tip: Avoid alcohol and caffeine on your first day or two to avoid triggering altitude sickness, as both can dehydrate you. Stick with water and try drinking something with electrolytes to stay balanced.
3. Eat Light, Healthy Meals
Your body is adjusting, so give it light, easy-to-digest meals. Avoid heavy or greasy food that could weigh you down. Local Guatemalan favorites like rice and beans, fresh fruits, and veggies are perfect for keeping your energy up without upsetting your stomach.
Plus, they’ll help keep you feeling great as you explore. A light, healthy diet will also help your body acclimate faster!
4. Rest and Sleep Well
Your body needs time to recover from the effort of adjusting to the higher elevation, so don’t skimp on rest. Ensure you're getting enough sleep, especially the first couple of nights.
If you're feeling a little off, try some gentle stretches or yoga in the morning to get the blood flowing, but avoid intense physical activity until your body gets used to the altitude.
5. Consider Acclimatization Days
If you're planning to travel higher up (like to Lake Atitlán) consider staying an extra day or two in Antigua or a lower-altitude town to help your body adjust.
Antigua, though not super high, is still a great place to relax and acclimatize before heading to higher altitudes. Taking your time to adjust makes the whole experience better and safer, so don't rush it!
Altitude Sickness Medication and Remedies — When In Doubt, Pop a Pill (or Two)
If you start feeling the effects of altitude sickness, some remedies can help. Here's what you can try:
Over-the-Counter Medications
Medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help ease headaches or minor discomfort. However, please check with your doctor before taking anything. But don’t rely solely on medication, hydration, rest, and time are just as important for recovery.
Altitude-Specific Meds
For travelers particularly sensitive to altitude changes, Diamox (acetazolamide) can be a helpful option. It’s best taken a day before you reach higher altitudes and can help prevent symptoms. But remember, always consult a healthcare provider before using any medication. (I cannot stress this enough.)
Herbal and Natural Remedies
There are plenty of natural remedies that can provide relief, especially for mild symptoms. Ginger tea is great for nausea, and peppermint can help with headaches. In Guatemala, you might even find chocolate with cayenne pepper, a fun local remedy that’s said to help with altitude sickness.
Oxygen Canisters
In some higher-altitude areas, you might come across oxygen canisters for rent. These can provide short-term relief if you’re feeling especially winded. But remember, they’re only a temporary fix, and rest is still the best way to recover.
How to Recover if You’re Already Feeling Sick
If you’re already feeling altitude sickness setting in, don’t panic. The best thing you can do is rest. Take it easy, hydrate, and let your body adjust.
If you don’t feel better after resting for a while, consider descending to a lower altitude to help your body recover. It’s all about listening to your body so don't push yourself too hard.
Where to Go in Guatemala for the Best High-Altitude Adventures
If you’re itching to explore the stunning highlands, Guatemala has some top spots that offer both adventure and beauty.
Antigua
With its stunning views of volcanoes and charming colonial streets, Antigua is the perfect base for exploring the surrounding mountains. Whether you’re planning to hike Pacaya or Acatenango, the nearby volcanoes promise unforgettable experiences.
Surrounded by towering volcanoes, Lake Atitlán offers some of the most beautiful views in Guatemala. Take a boat ride or hike the trails around the lake for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Tikal
Though not super high in altitude, Tikal is a must-see. The ancient ruins set against the jungle backdrop are awe-inspiring, and it’s a perfect spot for those who want to mix culture with adventure.
Exploring these places with a group of women makes the adventure even better, there’s nothing like sharing these amazing moments with like-minded travel buddies!
Final Tips for Traveling to Guatemala With Altitude in Mind
Handling altitude sickness is all about being prepared. With the right mindset, hydration, rest, and care, you’ll have a smooth and enjoyable trip.
The memories you make in the highlands (whether it's watching the sunset over Lake Atitlán or conquering a volcano hike) will be worth the effort.
Ready to Climb High in Guatemala?
If you’re ready to experience the beauty and adventure of Guatemala with a group of like-minded women, Traveling Women Official is the perfect way to go.
Join our upcoming adventure and let’s discover the magic of Guatemala together!
Sign up today and let’s make your dream adventure a reality!
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About Jessica Seiders (Founder of Traveling Women Official)
After her daughter left for college, Jessica Seiders sold everything and set off on a journey of self-discovery, leading her to create Traveling Women Official—a community empowering women to explore, embrace new adventures, and reinvent themselves.
Through relocation coaching and her book, she helps women confidently start fresh and build a life of adventure.
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