How do you prevent altitude sickness in Bolivia?

To avoid altitude sickness, rise gradually, keep yourself well-hydrated, skip alcohol, and take it easy for the first couple of days once you reach a higher elevation. Some people find that chewing coca leaves or using a prescription option like acetazolamide, also known as Diamox, helps the body acclimatise more quickly, which is really the main point.

In my experience, the best prevention is a phased plan, for example, moving from sea level up via intermediate elevations (Sucre or Cochabamba, for instance) before you aim for La Paz or Potosí. When you are up at altitude, eat light meals with more carbohydrates because digestion slows down a lot. Many travellers also rely on local remedies, especially mate de coca (coca leaf tea), which is legally sold and found everywhere in the Andes. It is commonly used to reduce mild headaches and fatigue. If you are considering Diamox, talk with a travel clinic before you leave.