Cusco is at 3,399 m (11,152 ft). Many travelers feel the altitude in their first 24 to 48 hours. With a little planning, it rarely ruins a trip.
Common symptoms
Headache, tiredness, light dizziness, trouble sleeping and a faster heartbeat. These are normal at first and usually fade in two or three days.
Warning signs
Severe headache that does not go away, vomiting, confusion, difficulty walking in a straight line or shortness of breath at rest. These need to be taken seriously: descend and seek medical help. Our guides carry oxygen and a first-aid kit on every trek.
How to acclimatize
- Arrive at least 2 days before any trek.
- Take it easy on day one: short walks, plenty of water, light meals.
- Avoid alcohol for the first night.
- Drink coca tea or mate: it is a local tradition and helps comfort.
- Ask your doctor about altitude medication before you travel.
Good first excursions
The Sacred Valley is lower than Cusco (around 2,800 m), so a Sacred Valley tour is a gentle start. After that, the Humantay Lagoon trek (4,200 m) is a great preparation for higher treks, and the Rainbow Mountain trek (5,000 m+) is better saved for later in your stay.
Ready for your trek?
We recommend at least two nights in Cusco before the Classic Inca Trail 4 days or the Salkantay Trek 4 days. send a booking request and we will plan an itinerary that acclimatizes you step by step.
