Altitude Sickness in Cusco: Symptoms, Prevention & Best Tips

Altitude sickness in Cusco is a common condition that affects many travelers upon arriving in this Andean city. Due to its location at over 3,000 meters above sea level, the body needs to adapt to a lower amount of oxygen. This process can generate mild or moderate symptoms during the first few days of your stay.

Knowing what altitude sickness is, why it occurs, and how to prevent it will allow you to enjoy your trip to Cusco more safely and without setbacks.

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Why does altitude sickness occur in Cusco?

Altitude sickness occurs when a person ascends rapidly from low-altitude areas to high-elevation places. In Cusco, the atmospheric pressure is lower, which reduces the oxygen available in the air. As a result, the body needs to work harder to oxygenate the blood and adapt to these new conditions.

This change can generate a series of temporary physical reactions while the body acclimatizes. The duration and intensity of the symptoms vary depending on the person, their health status, and the pace of adaptation.

How is altitude sickness known in Peru?

In Peru, altitude sickness is popularly known as soroche, a term widely used by both locals and tourists. It is also called mountain sickness (mal de montaña), especially in medical or informational contexts.

In addition to Cusco, other high-altitude Peruvian cities such as Huaraz, Puno, or Arequipa can also cause this type of discomfort for visitors.

Most Common Symptoms of Altitude Sickness in Cusco

Symptoms of altitude sickness in Cusco can appear during the first few hours or days after arrival. The most frequent are:

Persistent or mild headache
Sensation of shortness of breath when walking or climbing stairs
Excessive tiredness or weakness
Lack of appetite
Nausea or vomiting
Occasional dizziness
Difficulty sleeping
Increased heart rate

Not everyone presents the same symptoms or with the same intensity. In many cases, the discomfort disappears once the body manages to adapt to the altitude.

**What to do if you have altitude sickness (*soroche***)?

If you experience symptoms of altitude sickness in Cusco, there are several simple measures that can help you feel better:

Avoid intense physical effort during the first few days.
Walk slowly and rest frequently.
Consume light foods, such as soups, fruits, and vegetables.
Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Drink coca tea, a traditional infusion used to relieve soroche.
Sleep well and avoid alcohol at the beginning of the trip.
Consult a doctor if symptoms intensify or do not improve.

Before undertaking highly physically demanding excursions, it is recommended to acclimatize correctly.

Places of Higher Altitude in Cusco and Surroundings

Some tourist attractions in Cusco are located at a higher altitude than the city itself, requiring good prior acclimatization:

Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca): 5,200 m.a.s.l.
Humantay Lake: 4,200 m.a.s.l.
Sacsayhuamán: 3,700 m.a.s.l.
Cusco Main Square (Plaza de Armas): 3,399 m.a.s.l.
Machu Picchu: 2,430 m.a.s.l.
Sacred Valley of the Incas (Pisac and Ollantaytambo): between 2,700 and 3,000 m.a.s.l.

Destinations like the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, being at a lower altitude than Cusco city, are usually ideal to visit while you continue with your acclimatization.

Recommended Activities While Acclimatizing in Cusco

During the first few days in Cusco, it is advisable to do quiet activities that do not require too much physical effort:

Stroll through the historic center.
Visit museums and cultural spaces.
Explore traditional markets.
Rest in the Plaza de Armas.
Go up to nearby viewpoints with gentle walks.

These activities will allow you to get to know the city while your body adapts to the height.

Final Tips for Enjoying Cusco Without Problems

Altitude sickness in Cusco is a frequent condition, but manageable if you take the appropriate precautions. The key is to inform yourself, acclimatize progressively, and listen to your body.

With good planning, rest, and proper habits, you will be able to fully enjoy Cusco, its landscapes, its history, and its culture, without the altitude ruining your travel experience.

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