Taos Tea: Altitude Lies Hiding Dehydration Dangers?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

January 3, 2026

Forget your Red Bull and ditch the sugary sodas. If you’re planning a trip to Taos, New Mexico, or already call this stunning high-altitude haven home, you need a different kind of pick-me-up. We’re talking about Taos Tea – yerba mate, specifically – your secret weapon against the dehydrating effects of that thin mountain air.

Taos, nestled at over 6,900 feet, and the Taos Ski Valley, soaring to a base elevation of 9,207 feet, present unique challenges. The lower oxygen levels and drier climate conspire to suck the moisture right out of you. Water alone often isn’t enough. That’s where yerba mate, packed with antioxidants and offering a sustained energy boost without the jitters, comes in. But it’s not just about what you drink; it’s about how you brew it and what you add to it.

Let’s dive into the art of brewing the perfect Taos Tea, optimized for altitude and hydration.

First, sourcing your yerba mate is crucial. While you might find generic brands at big box stores, seek out local Taos businesses that specialize in high-quality, ethically sourced yerba mate. Check out the Taos Farmers Market or local health food stores. They often carry varieties from South America, offering a range of flavors and intensities. Look for loose-leaf yerba mate for the best flavor and control over your brew.

Now, the brewing process. At high altitude, water boils at a lower temperature. This means you need to adjust your brewing method to extract the full flavor and benefits of the yerba mate without making it bitter.

Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Heat the water: Don’t let it boil! Aim for around 170-180°F (77-82°C). A thermometer is your best friend here. If you don’t have one, heat the water until small bubbles start to form at the bottom of the pot, but before it reaches a rolling boil.
2. Prepare your gourd (or French press): Traditionally, yerba mate is brewed in a gourd and sipped through a bombilla (a filtered straw). If you don’t have a gourd, a French press works perfectly well.
3. Fill the gourd/press: Fill the gourd or French press about halfway to three-quarters full with yerba mate.
4. Create a "mountain": Tilt the gourd/press to one side, creating a small “mountain” of yerba mate on one side and an empty space on the other.
5. Moisten the yerba: Pour a small amount of cool water into the empty space. This helps to “awaken” the yerba and prevents it from burning when you add the hot water.
6. Add the hot water: Slowly pour the hot water into the empty space, being careful not to disturb the “mountain” of yerba mate too much.
7. Steep and enjoy: If using a gourd, insert the bombilla into the empty space and sip. If using a French press, let it steep for 3-5 minutes, then press and pour.

But we’re not stopping there. To truly combat dehydration in Taos, we need to supercharge our Taos Tea with electrolytes.

Here are a few recipes to try:

• The "Taos Sunrise": Brew your yerba mate as described above. Add a pinch of Himalayan pink salt (for sodium) and a squeeze of fresh lime juice (for potassium and flavor). This is a simple yet effective way to replenish lost electrolytes.
• The "Ski Valley Hydrator": Brew your yerba mate. Add a quarter teaspoon of coconut water powder (packed with potassium and other electrolytes) and a few drops of liquid Stevia (optional, for sweetness).
• The "Northern New Mexico Elixir": Brew your yerba mate. Add a small piece of ginger (for its anti-inflammatory properties and to aid digestion) and a pinch of cayenne pepper (for a little kick and to help with circulation). This is a warming and invigorating blend, perfect for cold days on the slopes.

Now, let’s talk about recognizing altitude sickness. Symptoms can include headache, nausea, fatigue, dizziness, and shortness of breath. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop your activity, descend to a lower altitude if possible, and hydrate. Taos Tea can help, but it’s not a cure.

Here’s how to adjust your Taos Tea consumption based on altitude sickness symptoms:

• Mild symptoms: Reduce the strength of your tea by using less yerba mate. Drink it slowly and sip on plain water in between.
• Moderate symptoms: Avoid yerba mate altogether. The caffeine can sometimes exacerbate symptoms like anxiety and insomnia. Focus on hydrating with water and electrolytes.
• Severe symptoms: Seek medical attention immediately. Altitude sickness can be life-threatening.

A common mistake people make is over-caffeinating themselves with yerba mate, especially when they’re already feeling the effects of altitude. Remember, moderation is key. Start with small amounts and gradually increase your consumption as needed.

Another pitfall is not drinking enough water in addition to yerba mate. Taos Tea is a great supplement, but it shouldn’t replace water entirely. Aim to drink at least half your body weight in ounces of water per day, especially when you’re active.

Finally, let’s explore pairing Taos Tea with traditional Northern New Mexican foods. The earthy, slightly bitter flavor of yerba mate complements the rich, savory flavors of dishes like:

• Red Chile Stew: The tea’s bitterness cuts through the richness of the stew, providing a refreshing contrast.
• Green Chile Cheeseburgers: The tea’s caffeine can help you power through that post-burger slump.
• Biscochitos: The anise flavor in these traditional cookies pairs surprisingly well with the herbal notes of yerba mate.

Remember to listen to your body. Everyone reacts differently to altitude and caffeine. Adjust your Taos Tea consumption accordingly.

So, next time you’re in Taos, ditch the sugary drinks and embrace the power of Taos Tea. Brew it right, add some electrolytes, and pair it with the local cuisine for a truly authentic and hydrating experience. You’ll be ready to explore the stunning landscapes and conquer those mountain peaks, one sip at a time.