Can I go straight to Machu Picchu from Lima?

Not recommended. Lima is at sea level, Machu Picchu is at 8,000 feet, and you'll travel through Cusco at 11,200 feet. The altitude jump is too severe for most people.

What if I still feel sick after 3 days in Cusco?

Postpone your Machu Picchu visit or consider descending to Aguas Calientes (6,700 feet) to acclimatize at a lower altitude. Some people need 4-5 days to adjust.

Is altitude sickness dangerous?

Mild altitude sickness (headache, nausea, fatigue) is common and manageable. Severe symptoms like difficulty breathing, confusion, or persistent vomiting require immediate descent and medical attention.

Does physical fitness prevent altitude sickness?

No. Altitude sickness affects fit and unfit people equally. Your body's ability to acclimatize is largely genetic and not related to fitness level.

How to acclimatize to altitude before visiting Machu Picchu

Arrive in Cusco 2-3 days before your Machu Picchu visit to acclimatize to 11,200 feet. Spend your first day resting, drink coca tea, avoid alcohol, and consider altitude sickness medication. Take it slow and listen to your body.

Arrive in Cusco early. Plan to arrive in Cusco 2-3 days before your Machu Picchu trip. This gives your body time to adjust to the 11,200-foot elevation. Don't book your train to Aguas Calientes for the same day you arrive.
Take your first day slow. Rest on arrival day. Stay at your hotel or walk slowly around San Blas neighborhood. Avoid heavy meals, alcohol, and strenuous activity. Many people feel fine initially, then crash 4-6 hours later.
Drink coca tea constantly. Drink coca tea (mate de coca) throughout the day. It's available everywhere in Cusco. Also drink 3-4 liters of water daily. Avoid coffee and alcohol for the first 48 hours as they dehydrate you.
Consider altitude medication. Ask your doctor about Diamox (acetazolamide) before traveling. Start taking it 1-2 days before arrival. It reduces headaches and helps you sleep. Ibuprofen also helps with altitude headaches.
Do a practice hike. On day 2, take a short walk to Sacsayhuamán ruins (20 minutes uphill from Plaza de Armas). This tests how you feel with light exertion. If you struggle, postpone Machu Picchu by another day.
Sleep well and eat light. Get 8+ hours of sleep nightly. Eat small, frequent meals rather than large ones. Avoid heavy, fatty foods. Your appetite may be reduced at altitude - this is normal.

Can I go straight to Machu Picchu from Lima?: Not recommended. Lima is at sea level, Machu Picchu is at 8,000 feet, and you'll travel through Cusco at 11,200 feet. The altitude jump is too severe for most people.
What if I still feel sick after 3 days in Cusco?: Postpone your Machu Picchu visit or consider descending to Aguas Calientes (6,700 feet) to acclimatize at a lower altitude. Some people need 4-5 days to adjust.
Is altitude sickness dangerous?: Mild altitude sickness (headache, nausea, fatigue) is common and manageable. Severe symptoms like difficulty breathing, confusion, or persistent vomiting require immediate descent and medical attention.
Does physical fitness prevent altitude sickness?: No. Altitude sickness affects fit and unfit people equally. Your body's ability to acclimatize is largely genetic and not related to fitness level.