Why does altitude sickness happen in Cusco?

Cusco is at high altitude. When you arrive, your body receives less oxygen than it is used to. That lack of adaptation causes symptoms such as:

• Headache

• Nausea

• Dizziness

• Fatigue

• Shortness of breath

It usually lasts between 24 and 48 hours while the body adapts.

How to Avoid Altitude Sickness in Cusco (Step by Step)

1️⃣ Rest during the first hours

As Cusqueños, we always recommend:

👉 Do not take tours on the same day you arrive.
👉 Walk slowly.
👉 Do not climb many stairs on the first day.

Your body needs to acclimatize.

2️⃣ Stay properly hydrated

✔ Drink at least 2 to 3 liters of water per day.
✔ Avoid alcoholic beverages on the first day.
✔ Do not overconsume coffee.

Dehydration makes symptoms worse.

3️⃣ Drink coca tea (but in moderation)

Coca tea is traditional and helps relieve mild symptoms.

Real recommendation:

• 1 cup in the morning

• 1 cup in the afternoon

• Do not drink too much at night (it may affect sleep)

It is not a magic cure, but it helps a lot.

4️⃣ Eat light meals

On the first day avoid:

❌ Greasy foods
❌ Heavy meats
❌ Too much sugar

Prefer:

✔ Soups
✔ Quinoa
✔ Vegetables
✔ Light meals

5️⃣ Preventive medication

Many tourists ask what to take.

Common medications:

• Acetazolamide (consult your doctor before traveling)

• Headache pills

As an honest recommendation:
If you have heart or respiratory problems, consult your doctor before traveling.

Important local advice

Do not go directly to Rainbow Mountain or Humantay on the first day. These places are at higher altitude than Cusco.

First acclimatize in the city or in the Sacred Valley.

 Recommendations for foreigners

✔ Arrive with one day free of intense activities
✔ Sleep well the night before your flight
✔ Eat light during the trip
✔ Do not panic: mild altitude sickness is normal

If you experience severe symptoms such as persistent vomiting or serious breathing difficulty, seek medical attention.

 Until what time should you drink coca tea?

Local recommendation:

• Until 6:00 pm at the latest

• After that, it may affect your rest

Sleeping well is key to acclimatizing.

 Real tips that actually work

✔ Breathe deeply and slowly
✔ Do not run or make sudden efforts
✔ Use sunscreen (the sun at this altitude is strong)
✔ Avoid stress on the first day

Most visitors feel better within 24–48 hours.

 Conclusion

Knowing how to avoid altitude sickness in Cusco can make the difference between a bad start and an incredible trip.

As Cusqueños, we tell you honestly:
Do not underestimate the altitude, but do not be afraid of it either. With prevention and calm, everything will be fine.