Senior citizens in South America?

Question

We're a group of senior citizens and would like to know if Peru, Ecuador and Bolivia are safe to us in terms of altitude problems.

Answer 1

A lot depends on how "Senior" your group is - and their medical conditions. Asthmatics, Emphysema, High blood pressure or blood circulation can be problematic - even fatal. All going should check with their local Physicians first. The doctors in either Peru or Bolivia are very knowledgeable and very good. Do a little research about the "Bends" in Scuba diving .....This will give you some insight. Those of you who can make the trip can enjoy the local tea {coca} or even chew the coca leaves like the locals. You might lose some weight and find yourselves running up the mountains. Don't fall asleep while descending or traveling up a mountain. Chew gum - squeeze your nose >> BLOW  and crack your ears often, otherwise you may end up with a "migraine max". Do us a favor and invite Richard Cheney to La Paz, there some nice Hotels for him nearby in Altiplana. ........Seriously - La Paz is twice the altitude of Denver. Be careful.  M. Swanson

Answer 2

THERE WILL BE NO PROBLEM, BUT AT HIGH ALTITUDE, (MACHUPICHU) JUST TAKE IT EASY, REST OFTEN.

THE AIR IS THINNER SO DO NOT RUSH.

Answer 3

They are safe, as long as you follow the directions given by the local guides. The only high altitude places could be Quito, La Paz and Cuzco. Once you get there (in those places) rest the first day (especially Cuzco and La Paz) and sip some coca tea. Dont eat carbs the first day and dont over eat at night as the lack of oxygen may cause digestive problems. To double check, I would go to a doctor for some high altitude pills just in case anyone feels sick. If you are internationally insured (Assist card, etc) it would be great too. Its better to be safe than sorry.

Answer 4

well if you go to Perú, of course you will go to the city of Cuzco in the Andes Mountains, that city is about 3 400 mts.

so you have to take it easy the first day you arrive there, the next day you hearth going to be accustom to the altitude, Machu Piccchu is lowest 2.600mts.

i went twice to Cuzco and let me tell you there's a lot of senior tourist, and when i was there i saw them ok and happy.

Answer 5

It shouldn't be any worse than if you went to an extreme altitude anywhere else.  It depends what city.  Peru and Ecuador both have beautiful coastal cities.  If you are healthy it should effect you the same as anyone else when you go to higher altitudes.