How to beat altitude sickness in Cusco and Machu Picchu
Spend your first 48 hours in the Sacred Valley rather than Cusco city center to allow for gradual elevation gain. Drink at least 3 liters of water daily, avoid alcohol for the first three days, and consult your doctor about an Acetazolamide (Diamox) prescription before you leave home.
- Start in the Sacred Valley. Upon arriving in Cusco, skip the city center (11,152 ft) and immediately hire a driver or take a shuttle to the Sacred Valley towns like Urubamba or Ollantaytambo. These sit at roughly 9,000 ft, which significantly reduces the shock to your lungs and heart.
- Hydrate and avoid heavy meals. Drink at least 3 liters of water per day. Your digestion slows down at high altitudes, so stick to carb-heavy, light meals like soup or quinoa for the first 48 hours. Avoid red meat and heavy dairy, which can make you feel lethargic.
- Utilize local remedies. Drink 'mate de coca' (coca leaf tea) provided at almost every hotel lobby. It is a mild, effective way to help your body process the change in oxygen levels. Do not overdo it; one or two cups in the morning is sufficient.
- Monitor your exertion. Do not attempt strenuous hikes for the first 3 days. If you experience a throbbing headache, dizziness, or nausea, sit down and drink water. If these symptoms persist after 4 hours of rest, descend to a lower elevation immediately.
- Is it better to stay in Cusco or the Sacred Valley first?
- Always the Sacred Valley. Cusco is significantly higher, and arriving there by plane often results in immediate altitude sickness.
- Can I drink alcohol?
- No. Alcohol exacerbates dehydration and suppresses your respiratory rate, making altitude sickness symptoms much worse.