When you start researching Peru and its destinations, many blogs warn of something that can terrify tourists: altitude sickness. While it is true that it can affect anyone regardless of gender, physical condition or age, there are ways to avoid it.
To (try) to make your trip a pleasant and hassle-free one, here are some frequently asked questions about altitude sickness in Cusco and Machu Picchu and how it is treated. Take note!
At what altitude are Cusco and Machu Picchu located?
Being located in the middle of the mountains, you may think that Machu Picchu is located higher than Cusco, but it is not! The Imperial City is 3,399 meters above sea level, while Machu Picchu is 2,430 meters above sea level, almost 1000 meters difference!
What causes altitude sickness or soroche?
In cities or places of higher altitude, the oxygen level is lower and lower. As our brain needs oxygen and is accustomed to receiving more of it in the areas where we live, which are usually at lower altitudes, when we reach higher places the body notices this lack.
According to experts, altitude sickness or soroche can begin to affect from 2,400 meters above sea level, but that does not mean that every time you visit a place with this height or higher your body will feel affected.
What are the symptoms of altitude sickness?
The symptoms of altitude sickness are easily recognizable and generally mild, so you should not need the help of any medical professional.
Thus, the lack of sufficient oxygen can cause headaches, dizziness, nausea and vomiting, fatigue, lack of appetite, sleep disorders, elevated heart rate and shortness of breath.
Tips to combat altitude sickness or soroche
As we told you above, there is no need to be afraid of soroche! Although its symptoms are not pleasant, there are many ways to help us with the treatment of altitude sickness. Here are some tips!
Avoid abundant food: one of the measures you have to take before traveling to a place located at high altitude is to eat lightly. Two days before starting your trip, start eating dishes rich in carbohydrates and natural sugars.
Rest when you arrive at your destination: the most advisable thing to do is to make the ascent to high altitude little by little, but as we know that this is not always possible, we recommend that you take the first days in Cusco calmly and without doing activities that require great physical effort.
Take coca leaves, coca tea or pills for soroche: before feeling the symptoms of soroche you can prevent its onset by taking coca leaves or coca tea (you will find them in any store, bar or lodging in Cusco). In addition, you can also go to any pharmacy in the city and buy pills for soroche.
Drink plenty of water: the altitude also causes the air to be drier and, consequently, our body needs more water to stay hydrated. Therefore, we recommend that you always carry a bottle of water in your backpack and drink constantly, even if you are not thirsty.
Avoid alcohol: alcohol is also a drink that causes dehydration of the body, so we recommend you not to overdo it during your visit to Cusco.
Although most people who come to Cusco daily do not have any problems and are not affected by altitude sickness, it is always good to be prepared and avoid any complications during the trip.
Don’t be afraid of altitude sickness and travel safe with these tips from Inca Rail!
