How long does altitude sickness last in Cusco?

Most people adjust within 2-3 days. Mild symptoms like headaches and fatigue typically peak on day 1-2, then gradually improve. Full acclimatization takes about a week.

Should I take altitude sickness pills before arriving?

Acetazolamide (Diamox) can help if started 24 hours before arrival. Consult your doctor first - it's prescription-only and has side effects including frequent urination and tingling fingers.

Can I go to Machu Picchu if I have altitude sickness?

Wait until your symptoms improve. Machu Picchu is at 7,900 feet - lower than Cusco - but the train ride and hiking can worsen symptoms if you're not acclimatized.

What's the difference between normal tiredness and altitude sickness?

Altitude sickness includes headaches, nausea, dizziness, and trouble sleeping alongside fatigue. Normal travel tiredness doesn't include nausea or persistent headaches.

How to deal with altitude sickness in Cusco

Arrive 2-3 days early to acclimatize, drink coca tea, avoid alcohol, and ascend gradually. If you develop severe symptoms like difficulty breathing or confusion, descend immediately and seek medical attention.

Start acclimatizing before you arrive. Fly into Lima first, then take a connecting flight to Cusco. This gives your body time to adjust during the journey. Avoid flying directly from sea level to Cusco on the same day you plan to be active.
Take it easy your first 48 hours. Walk slowly, avoid stairs when possible, and don't plan any strenuous activities. Your body needs time to produce more red blood cells to carry oxygen efficiently at 11,200 feet.
Drink coca tea throughout the day. Order mate de coca at restaurants or buy coca tea bags at any pharmacy. Drink 3-4 cups daily. The mild stimulant helps with oxygen absorption and reduces nausea.
Stay hydrated but avoid alcohol. Drink 3-4 liters of water daily. Alcohol makes dehydration worse and intensifies altitude sickness symptoms. Skip the pisco sours until you're acclimatized.
Eat light, frequent meals. Choose easily digestible foods like quinoa soup, bread, and bananas. Avoid heavy, fatty meals that require more oxygen to digest. Eat every 3-4 hours to maintain energy.
Know when to seek medical help. Descend immediately if you experience severe headaches that don't respond to medication, difficulty breathing while resting, confusion, or loss of coordination. These are signs of serious altitude sickness requiring immediate medical attention.

How long does altitude sickness last in Cusco?: Most people adjust within 2-3 days. Mild symptoms like headaches and fatigue typically peak on day 1-2, then gradually improve. Full acclimatization takes about a week.
Should I take altitude sickness pills before arriving?: Acetazolamide (Diamox) can help if started 24 hours before arrival. Consult your doctor first - it's prescription-only and has side effects including frequent urination and tingling fingers.
Can I go to Machu Picchu if I have altitude sickness?: Wait until your symptoms improve. Machu Picchu is at 7,900 feet - lower than Cusco - but the train ride and hiking can worsen symptoms if you're not acclimatized.
What's the difference between normal tiredness and altitude sickness?: Altitude sickness includes headaches, nausea, dizziness, and trouble sleeping alongside fatigue. Normal travel tiredness doesn't include nausea or persistent headaches.