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One Downside of Traveling Through the Andes Mountains of Colombia
When I was in Colombia 6 months ago, I ended my trip in the Andes mountains. I also fell in love with the Boyacá region of Colombia.
It has some of the best food in Colombia and incredible mountains, plus a rich history that does not involve the cartels or drug lords.
As a guy on the bus told me today, Cundinamara and Boyacá are an island compared to the rest of Colombia, and you feel it everywhere you go.
Many still use the traditional ways to farm and go to the markets with their produce. Seeing the women in traditional dress selling their crafts, and everyone wearing a Ruana (poncho) + a little black hat.
It is so beautiful to see traditions and cultures preserved. However, I have one little problem while exploring the mountains this time. Or maybe I have not adapted yet.
Altitude Sickness
I have only been here four days, and the past few days, I have felt sick, but not ill feeling sick, but a malaise, low appetite, low-grade headache, and overall exhaustion.
I went from Bogotá at 8660 feet to Suesca at 8478 to Tunja at 9359; I have concluded, based on a consultation with a fellow medical friend, that I have a mild case of altitude sickness.
It makes sense going from almost sea level to where I am now. I should have realized this when I was extra out of it this week — misplacing my credit cards and making rookie mistakes.
Also, I have been sleeping at least 10 hours a night, well in bed, but tossing and turning all night. I usually sleep anywhere I am.
After I went out for lunch, I returned to my hotel room to chill, do nothing, write, and lay in bed. I had this room until Saturday when I was planning to go to my friend’s place, which is only 30 min away, yet it is also at an elevation above 8000 feet.
So, if I do not feel better, my friend recommended I get below 8000 feet, so I do not develop a dangerous case of altitude sickness. Luckily, Villa de Leyva is close by and is only around 7000, and if that does not work, I will continue to head east out of the…
