Acclimatizing in Cusco is the first thing to plan: the city sits at 3,399 meters above sea level and many of our routes go above 4,000. Altitude sickness, or soroche, does not depend on how fit you are: it can affect anyone. The good news is that after a few days of adjustment almost every traveler feels fine.
Give your body time
Ideally spend at least two nights in Cusco before any long hike. If you can, sleep first in the Sacred Valley (2,800 m), which is lower, and come up to Cusco afterwards.
Symptoms to watch for
- Mild headache and tiredness.
- Loss of appetite or nausea.
- Trouble sleeping.
- Shortness of breath when climbing stairs.
They are normal in the first days. If they get worse, or if you notice confusion or a persistent cough, seek medical care and descend.
Seven practical tips
- Walk slowly on the first day and avoid strenuous effort.
- Drink 2 to 3 liters of water a day.
- Avoid alcohol for the first 48 hours.
- Eat light: soups, carbohydrates and little fat.
- Try coca or muña tea, as the locals do.
- Take a day trip, such as Humantay Lake, before the long trek.
- Ask your doctor about preventive medication before you travel.
“Slowly you go far”: in Quechua we say allillamanta, little by little.
Our guides carry oxygen and a first-aid kit on every departure, and they are trained to recognize symptoms early.
General information only. It does not replace medical advice.
Acclimatization in Cusco: summary for your first days
Arrive in Cusco at least two days before your trek, rest on the first day, drink water, eat light and avoid alcohol when you arrive. Gentle outings such as the Sacred Valley (lower than Cusco) or Humantay Lake help you prepare, and on all our routes we carry oxygen and a first-aid kit.