EN
ES
PT
Cusco sits at about 3,400 m / 11,150 ft — higher than most travelers have ever slept. Altitude sickness (soroche) is common but very manageable. Here is how our local team recommends preparing.
Arrive two days early
Spend at least two nights in Cusco (or the slightly lower Sacred Valley, ~2,800 m) before any trek or Machu Picchu. Keep the first day easy: a gentle city walk, no strenuous hiking, and an early night.
Hydrate and eat light
Drink 2–3 litres of water a day, favour light, easy-to-digest meals, and avoid alcohol for your first 48 hours. Coca-leaf tea (mate de coca) is the traditional, effective local remedy and is everywhere in Cusco.
Know the symptoms
Mild headache, breathlessness and poor sleep are normal at first. Rest, water and coca tea usually fix it. Seek help for severe headache, vomiting or confusion. Ask your doctor about acetazolamide (Diamox) before your trip.
Let the itinerary help
Book higher-altitude treks toward the end of your stay, not the start. Our guides carry emergency oxygen and are trained to spot and respond to altitude symptoms on every departure.
Plan this trip with a local specialist
Tell us your dates and what you have in mind — a specialist from our Cusco team builds a trip to match your plans and budget, and answers every question. No obligation.