CNH Tours helps approximately 500 a year plan their ideal Galapagos expedition cruise – and almost all these people will spend some time in Quito on their way to Galapagos.  Most spend 2 nights in the city, and many add on longer mainland extensions there.  Most are in their 50’s, 60’s and 70’s.   

Since 1999, when we first started helping people organize their Galapagos expeditions, we have had only one situation when a guest (a 73 year-old woman) had fairly serious health issues that could have been exacerbated by the altitude – though no definitive conclusions were reached in that regard.  

Based on our experience, there are fair chances you’ll feel some of the symptoms of altitude sickness, but these will be minor.  Overall, you should not be terribly concerned about being significantly affected by altitude sickness – but it never hurts to understand what the risks are. 

Quito sits at about 2,850 meters or 9,350 feet above sea level.  For the sake of comparison, the air pressure inside your plane on the way to Quito is equivalent to an altitude of roughly 1,800 to 2,400 meters (about 6,000 to 8,000 feet) above sea level.  According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, at this altitude, the risk of feeling mild symptoms is moderately high, though the risk of serious complications is relatively low if precautions are taken.

Symptoms of mild altitude sickness are usually manageable and can include:

• Headaches
• Light-headedness or dizziness
• Nausea or loss of appetite
• Shortness of breath, especially during physical activity
• Trouble sleeping

These symptoms generally subside within 24-48 hours as the body begins to acclimate. However, if symptoms worsen, it’s essential to take them seriously, as they can indicate more severe forms of altitude sickness.

Mitigating Measures

• Stay Hydrated: Higher altitude air is dryer.  Dehydration can worsen symptoms.
• Avoid Alcohol and Sleeping Pills: These can interfere with acclimatization.
• Monitor Symptoms Closely: Be attentive to any unusual symptoms and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen.

Statistical Risks and Age-Related Factors

Studies indicate that roughly 30-40% of people traveling from low altitudes to elevations between 2,500 and 3,000 meters (8,200 and 9,800 feet) experience some form of altitude sickness, with most cases being mild to moderate. Older adults do not necessarily have a higher susceptibility to altitude sickness solely due to age; instead, underlying health conditions and reduced physiological resilience can increase the likelihood of complications.

Serious Altitude Sickness: These conditions are very rare at elevations below 3,500 meters (11,500 feet) with a risk of less than 1%. However, older adults with underlying heart or lung conditions may have an elevated risk of experiencing more pronounced symptoms due to decreased oxygen levels.

Considerations for Older Adults

Age can indirectly increase altitude sickness risks due to several factors, such as lower lung function, cardiovascular challenges, or the presence of chronic conditions (e.g., hypertension, respiratory disease). Studies have shown that older adults may experience more shortness of breath and fatigue, but with proper acclimatization strategies, most older travelers can avoid severe altitude sickness.  We recommend that you consult with a doctor if you are managing conditions like heart disease or respiratory illness.

How about the Quito Cable Car to Cruz Loma, on Pichincha Volcano?

The Quito cable car takes you to the Cruz Loma lookout on Pichincha volcano.  It is one of the highest aerial lifts in the world, rising from 3,117 m (10,226 ft) to 3,945 m (12,943 ft).  If you take the approximately half-mile / 1km trail to the famous swings, you’ll be adding another 45 m / 145 ft in altitude. At this level, you will most likely feel symptoms of altitude sickness, particularly if you are exerting yourself (going up a flight of stairs, walking along a trail).  You may feel your heart rate accelerate as it tries to compensate for the lower oxygen levels at this altitude.  If you’re planning to enjoy this spectacular view, we recommend you just walk slowly, and take a break every minute or two to catch your breath.  There’s no rush!

Chris (66 years old) swings from the clouds on the upper slopes of Pichincha volcano (apx. 13,100 feet / 4,000 m) 

Conclusion

For healthy adults of any age, the risk of severe altitude sickness in Quito is low, though mild symptoms are common. With a few precautions, the vast majority of visitors can safely enjoy Quito without major concerns.

 

Cultural & Natural Heritage Tours - Chart Your Path to Wonder

www.cnhtours.com

Galapagos / Antarctica / Okavango / Madagascar / Easter Island / Provence / Pantanal / Tuscany

 Contact us for more information