How to prevent altitude sickness

  • The body usually needs 3 to 5 days at altitudes above 2438 m (8000 ft) to acclimate to the new environment before going higher.
  • Rest. Fatigue causes altitude sickness.
  • Take prophylactic medications. Talk to your doctor about your medical history and explain that you will go up to 2438 or 2743 m (8000 or 9000 feet).
  • Buy coca leaves.
  • Drink a lot of water. Dehydration reduces the body’s capacity to acclimate to new altitudes. Drink 2 to 3 liters a day. Start the day before traveling.

What to carry

  • You can carry a big backpack, but I recommend you to travel with a small handbag with the basics. Otherwise you will have to raise it and lower it from the jeep’s roof daily. Per person you can take a handbag and a backpack or suitcase.
  • Take warm clothes, a sleeping bag and good shoes. Nights in the salar are icy and there is no heat in the the accommodations.
  • Don’t forget your sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat or cap. The sun can be blinding in the salt. During the day, temperatures can be high.
  • Cash. You will have to pay an entrance fee to Isla Pescado (B$30), to Eduardo Avaroa Reserve (B$150), the hot springs (B$6), to the washrooms and for tips or things that you want to buy. During the tour there are no banks or ATMs.
  • Towel and toilet paper. Hostels don’t provide them.
  • Lantern. As I mentioned, some accommodations don’t have electricity during the night. If you have to go to the bathroom, you will need one.
  • Don’t forget the camera and video and, if you can, extra battery for both!
  • Sandals, to be able to walk through the puddles of the salt without ruining your feet and because the Bathrooms are shared.
  • Passport and/or Identity Card – Do not forget to bring the necessary documentation to leave the country. Foreigners carry entry card to Chile (PDI)
  • Extra water – The tour provides only during meals. An additional 2 liter bottle per day.
  • Bathing suit – For the Polques hot springs
  • Snacks – The food is adequate in quantity but you can bring something extra for between meals.
  • Lip Cream – Sun and wind and dry air crack them.