Altitude sickness, also known as “soroche”, is a condition that affects people who visit high-elevation destinations, such as the Peruvian highlands. While many sources discuss this sickness, it is common for tourists to inquire about it to learn how to prevent discomfort. However, there is no need to worry as there are ways to prevent and manage altitude sickness. Do you want to learn more and thus prevent your plans from being frustrated? Don’t worry! Here we’ll tell you all about it.

 

Cusco, a city situated in the Peruvian Andes, is located at an altitude of 3,399 meters or 11,152 feet above sea level. On the other hand, the Inca citadel Machu Picchu, located on the Andean foothills, has an elevation of 2,430 meters or 7,972 feet above sea level. This archaeological complex is often thought to be situated at a higher altitude due to its pictures. However, there is a difference of more than 950 meters or 3116 feet between the altitudes of Cusco and Machu Picchu. What is the altitude of the Sacred Valley?

It is important to know the exact altitudes of the towns that occupy the valley beneath the Imperial City of Cusco. The altitudes of each town are as follows:

• Pisac: 2,980 meters / 9776 feet above sea level.

• Calca: 2,929 meters / 9609 feet above sea level.

• Urubamba: 2,870 meters / 9416 feet above sea level.

• Ollantaytambo: 2,850 meters / 9350 feet above sea level.

It should be noted that the altitude may vary even within the same province. For instance, the district of Chinchero, located in the province of Urubamba, has an average altitude of 3,754 meters / 12,316 feet above sea level.

Altitude sickness is a condition that occurs when our body fails to adapt to the lack of oxygen or isn’t used to oxygen deprivation. This is a completely normal phenomenon in places located at high elevations. It is believed that symptoms start to manifest once we reach an altitude of 2,400 meters or 7,874 feet above sea level. What are the symptoms of altitude sickness?

Symptoms of altitude sickness can vary from person to person but often include tiredness, fatigue, nausea, insomnia, headache, high heart rate, and loss of appetite. These symptoms typically go away after two or three days. Serious symptoms such as altitude cerebral edema or altitude pulmonary edema are rare but require immediate action by returning to a lower altitude as quickly as possible.

How to prevent altitude sickness in Cusco?

There are natural remedies that can mitigate the symptoms of altitude sickness, but to avoid having a bad time, the best way to prevent altitude sickness is to acclimatize. There are also several healthy habits to consider before venturing to greater heights:

Please keep in mind the following tips while climbing at high altitudes:

– Be patient: The International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation (UIAA) recommends a maximum elevation gain of 500 meters or 1,640 feet per day after reaching 3,000 meters or 9,842 feet above sea level.

– Breathe: Take it easy and take deep breaths to get the necessary oxygen.

– Stay hydrated: Altitude sickness can make your throat dry and leave you feeling very thirsty, so it is important to drink plenty of water. Drinking water can also help calm your breathing and alleviate the sensation of oxygen deprivation.

– Eat sensibly: Consume foods that are rich in carbohydrates and natural sugars before starting your trip.

– Sorojchi Pills: Altitude sickness pills, also known as “Sorojchi Pills,” can prevent and alleviate the symptoms of altitude sickness. You can find them in any pharmacy in Cusco without the need for a prescription.

– Coca tea: Drinking coca leaf tea can help combat the symptoms of altitude sickness. The ancient and sacred coca leaf was used in the time of the Incas as a home remedy for various illnesses.

– Chlorophyll drops: Taking chlorophyll drops can increase the amount of red blood cells, which gives you a better chance of absorbing oxygen. If you forget to bring them, don’t worry, as they are also sold in health food stores in Cusco.

Altitude sickness is a common problem when traveling to high-altitude areas. However, serious symptoms such as altitude cerebral edema or altitude pulmonary edema are very rare. If you experience any of these symptoms, the best thing to do is to immediately return to a place with a lower altitude.

To avoid altitude sickness, it is recommended to acclimatize before traveling to high-altitude areas. A good way to do this is to stay in the city of Cusco for a couple of days without exerting much effort and consuming light meals. Additionally, consulting a doctor about taking acetazolamide can be helpful during the first few days.

If you can handle the altitude after acclimatizing, there will be no problems visiting Machu Picchu or the Sacred Valley, as these areas are located at a lower elevation than the city.

It is worth noting that people who fly directly to Cusco are more prone to altitude sickness since their bodies have less time to adapt to the sudden change in altitude. On the other hand, traveling by bus allows for a longer period of acclimatization and better chances of handling the altitude.

What is the elevation of Lima above sea level?

Lima’s highest points are only 161 meters / 528 feet above sea level, which is almost imperceptible.

What is the altitude of  Machu Picchu?

Machu Picchu is located at an altitude of 2,430 meters / 7,972 feet above sea level.

Is there a safe way to travel by train to Machu Picchu?

Yes. Train companies offer several train services to Machu Picchu that provide smooth routes and allow our bodies to oxygenate while we enjoy the beautiful landscapes along the way.

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