How to acclimatize to altitude for Machu Picchu
Spend your first 48 to 72 hours at a lower altitude like Cusco or the Sacred Valley, moving slowly and staying hydrated. Prioritize rest and light meals, and consult your doctor about preventative medication like acetazolamide before you arrive.
- Prioritize a stopover in the Sacred Valley. Avoid staying in Cusco (3,400m) on your first night if you are prone to altitude sickness. Book your first two nights in the Sacred Valley (e.g., Urubamba or Ollantaytambo at 2,800m) to allow your body to adjust to the elevation gradually.
- Master the art of hydration. Drink 3 to 4 liters of water daily. Altitude causes faster fluid loss through respiration. Avoid alcohol and caffeine for the first 72 hours, as both act as diuretics and worsen dehydration.
- Eat light. Digestion slows down at high altitudes. Stick to soups, grains, and vegetables. Avoid heavy, greasy, or meat-heavy meals, especially during your first 48 hours.
- Use local remedies cautiously. Drink coca leaf tea (mate de coca) offered by hotels; it helps with mild symptoms. However, do not over-rely on it as it is a stimulant. If you feel severe headache or nausea, prioritize descent or medical attention immediately.
- Should I take medication for altitude sickness?
- Consult your doctor. Acetazolamide is common for prevention, but it has side effects. Start taking it 24 hours before arriving at altitude.
- Is oxygen available?
- Most reputable hotels in Cusco and the Sacred Valley provide oxygen canisters upon request. Use them if you feel lightheaded.