Altitude Sickness in Cusco and Machu Picchu: How to Prevent It

Cusco sits at 3,399 m (11,152 ft) above sea level, and Machu Picchu at 2,430 m (7,972 ft) — considerably lower, but you'll pass through Cusco's altitude first if you fly in from Lima. Altitude sickness (soroche) is a real and common issue if you don't prepare for it.

What symptoms are normal?

Most travelers notice mild effects —fatigue, headache, dizziness, shortness of breath— between 6 and 24 hours after arriving in Cusco. They usually pass within 1-2 days with rest and hydration.

How to prevent it

• Gradual acclimatization: if you can, head down to the Sacred Valley first (lower altitude than Cusco) as an intermediate step before fully exploring the city.
• Hydration: drink more water than usual from day one.
• Avoid alcohol for the first 24-48 hours.
• Coca tea: a traditional remedy, widely available at hotels and restaurants in Cusco.
• Acetazolamide (Diamox): some travelers use it under medical guidance; consult your doctor before the trip if you have a history of altitude sickness.

When should you see a doctor?

If symptoms worsen (serious breathing difficulty, confusion, persistent vomiting) instead of improving with rest, seek medical attention: Cusco has clinics experienced in altitude sickness, given the volume of tourism.

If your trip spans several days, use that time to acclimatize before visiting Machu Picchu (which sits at a lower altitude than Cusco anyway). Check out our 3-day Cusco + Machu Picchu package, designed with acclimatization time built in.