Medical

High altitude sun is extremely intense!  A top quality pair of sun glasses and hat are required.  Make sure the brim of your hat is not white so it will not reflect the sun into your face.  Powerful sun screen and/or sunblock is a must.

Peak Expeditions trips are rigorous mountain climbing expeditions. By their very nature, they are physically and mentally demanding and involve travel to remote areas where medical facilities are virtually nonexistent.  Peak Expeditions will furnish an extensive medical kit, rescue gear, and a satellite phone, as well as trained guides.

While guides have undergone specific courses in wilderness medicine, Peak Expeditions assumes no liability regarding the provision of medical care.  Trip leaders reserve the right to disqualify any team member at any time, if considered medically necessary or in the event that participation would endanger the team.  Refunds are not given under such circumstances.

Team members should have a supply of any special medication they need. For the climb, Diamox has been shown to reduce the incidence of Acute Mountain Sickness.  If taken prophylactically it may minimize the risk of Cerebral and Pulmonary Edema caused by high altitude.  A course of the antibiotic Bacterium may be desirable for combating an array of gastrointestinal problems, while those prone to motion sickness may find Dramamine useful for long, bumpy truck or train travel.  Pepto Bismal, Immodium AD, plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration and a supply of toilet paper (not found in most rest rooms) will make life more comfortable.

Your local pharmacy will be able to provide written information about the medications mentioned.  Your physician will need to write a prescription for some of these and should be consulted for contraindications.

It is each member's responsibility to determine and secure any medications or inoculations necessary for safe participation in this expedition.  While no immunizations are needed for the areas we will be traveling in, Travel Health Online at www.tripprep.com can provide useful information.

Passports

If you don't already have a passport, here is some information:  The application form is DSP-11 or form DSP-82 for renewal.  These are available at most post offices and county court houses. Completed forms should be taken to the court house or post office with two passport photos, a birth certificate, and photo identification.  It will cost $60 for first time passports and $40 for a renewal. It can take 4-6 weeks, so plan ahead.  If you're rushed, the Postal Service can complete the process in 12-15 days for an additional $35.  It is also possible to complete the process in as little as two days with a hand-carry service for between $225-$350 or through Travel Document Systems at www.traveldocs.com.

We will register at the American Embassy.  This will minimize troubles
associated with domestic instability and avoid difficulties with lost documents. Replacement documents should be obtainable within two days.

Travel Safety

Theft is always a possibility.  Thieves look for luggage unattended or easily opened.  We recommend a heavy nylon or canvas duffel with a small lock for securing zippers to disuade the casual thief.  Keep what you carry to a minimum and make sure everything is consolidated and secure.  All non-expedition gear should fit into a day pack.  We suggest no more than two bags per client.

Other Hints

• Leave expensive jewelry at home.
• Keep day pack either on your lap or with a strap around the leg of the chair you are sitting in.
• Carry money and identification in a neck pouch or money belt.
• Before you leave home photocopy your passport, plane ticket, traveler check numbers and any other vital information.  Place copies in a variety of places in your luggage.
• Take a picture of luggage for identification purposes if lost.