Planning a trip to Cusco to hike the famous Inca Trail to Machu Picchu? If you’re concerned about altitude sickness (or soroche as the locals call it), you’re not alone. Many hikers wonder if it’s dangerous, how to avoid it, and what to expect when they arrive at this high-altitude city. Don’t worry and read this article to feel more confident about tackling both the Inca trail and the altitude.
What Happens to Your Body at High Altitudes?
Cusco sits at 3,400 meters (11,150 feet) above sea level, which is much higher than what most people are used to. When you’re at higher altitudes, the air pressure drops, meaning there’s less oxygen available. Your body has to work harder to get the oxygen it needs, which can cause symptoms like headaches, dizziness, nausea, and shortness of breath. But here’s the good news: altitude sickness isn’t dangerous for most people if you take the right steps to adjust and listen to your body.
Is Altitude Sickness Dangerous?
For most travelers, altitude sickness is more of an inconvenience than a serious issue. The symptoms are usually mild and go away after a few days as your body adjusts. In rare cases, it can develop into more serious conditions, but this is uncommon and can be avoided by following some basic precautions (we’ll get to those in a minute). If you’re healthy and take it easy, there’s no reason to worry!
How to Avoid Altitude Sickness
The key to preventing altitude sickness is giving your body time to adjust. Here are some tips to help you avoid feeling unwell:
- Arrive in Cusco a few days before your hike: Give yourself at least two or three days to acclimatize before you start the Inca Trail. Use this time to explore Cusco at a leisurely pace, enjoy the sights, and allow your body to adapt.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water, but avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can dehydrate you. Coca tea (a traditional Andean drink) or other herb teas can help with altitude symptoms too—locals swear by it!
- Eat light meals: Your digestion slows down at higher altitudes, so it’s best to eat smaller, lighter meals. Focus on foods rich in carbohydrates like rice, potatoes, and quinoa, which will give you energy without overloading your system.
- Move slowly: Resist the urge to rush. Walk at a slower pace, especially in the first couple of days. This will help your body gradually adjust to the thinner air.
- Take it easy on day one: When you arrive in Cusco, don’t overdo it. Walk around, but don’t exhaust yourself. Give your body time to adjust.
What to Eat and Drink to Help with Altitude
According to the locals drinking coca tea is a must! Coca leaves have been used for centuries in the Andes to combat altitude sickness. Many hotels and restaurants in Cusco offer it for free, and it’s a great way to stay hydrated while soothing symptoms. You can also chew coca leaves or even try coca candies if tea isn’t your thing.
Eating lighter meals helps too. Go for carb-heavy foods like pasta, bread, and potatoes. You want easy-to-digest food that gives you energy without putting stress on your digestive system.
Some people also recommend garlic soup—it’s a traditional remedy in Peru believed to help with breathing and circulation at high altitudes. Give it a try!
What Are the Symptoms of Altitude Sickness?
Altitude sickness symptoms usually appear within 6 to 24 hours of arriving at a high altitude. Here’s what you might experience:
- Headache
- Nausea
- (Light) Dizziness
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Trouble sleeping
These symptoms are generally mild and go away within a few days. The key is to listen to your body. If you feel tired, rest. If you have a headache, drink water and take it easy.
In rare cases, people may experience more severe symptoms like chest tightness, confusion, or coughing up blood. If this happens, you better descend to a lower altitude immediately (the Sacred Vallley) and seek medical help. However, this is very uncommon.
Best Practices for the Inca Trail
Once you’ve acclimatized to the altitude in Cusco, usually after a few days, you’re ready to take on the Inca Trail you have already booked weeks or even months in advance. Here’s how to make the most of your trek:
- Pace yourself: The Inca Trail isn’t a race. Take breaks, stay hydrated, and keep a steady pace. Enjoy the amazing scenery, flora and fauna of National Park Machu Picchu. The journey is as important as the destination!
- Listen to your body: If you start feeling dizzy or out of breath, stop and take a break. No need to push yourself too hard. Talk to the guide if you are not feeling well or need more breaks so he can keep an eye on you.
- Stay positive: Altitude sickness can feel daunting, but most people experience only mild symptoms. Keep a positive mindset and enjoy this hike of a life time.
- Pack well: you can consider bringing altitude sickness pills like acetazolamide (Diamox) if you’re really concerned. They can help your body adjust more quickly. Also, make sure you have warm clothing, as it gets cold at night, especially at higher altitudes. Read more Packing tips for the Inca Trail.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Let Altitude Stop You!
Altitude sickness is something to be aware of – an early arrival is the best way to avoid it; by no means it doesn’t to have to affect your trip. With the right preparation, you’ll be ready to enjoy every moment of this unique journey to Machu Picchu, the Inca Trail.
Cusco is an incredible city with rich history, and the Inca Trail is one of the most rewarding hikes in the world. Follow these tips, and you’ll be well on your way to an unforgettable experience in the Andes. If you are healthy, don’t let the altitude scare you! Come to Cusco, take it easy for a few days, and then get ready for the adventure of a lifetime on the Inca Trail.
Reading tips:
- Need to know for visiting Cusco
- Exploring the Wonders of the Sacred Valley: A Comprehensive Guide
- 6 Do’s and Don’ts of Hiking in Peru
