How Do You Avoid Altitude Sickness in Cusco
Cusco is the capital of the Inca Empire, located at 11,152 feet (3,400 meters) above sea level, where lack of oxygen (‘soroche’ as it is known locally) is the only thing that can prevent you from enjoying your trip. It’s hard to tell if you will be affected by altitude sickness as some people can be more susceptible than others regardless of age, sex or physical condition. Don’t waste one day feeling sick, prevent high altitude sickness before your trip to Cusco. On this blog we give you information about how to prevent altitude sickness in Cusco?.
How might altitude sickness affect my trip?
Symptoms are usually felt within 12 – 24 hours of arrival and tend to subside within 3 days. If you continue to feel unwell ask your hotel to call you a doctor as more severe reactions may require medical attention. Many hotels provide coca tea or ‘mate de coca’ to guests and they also have oxygen available to help you acclimatise.
Symptoms of altitude sickness
The common mild symptoms of altitude sickness may include:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Fatigue
- Poor appetite
- Dizziness
- Disturbed sleep
Tips to avoid altitude sickness
Relax and take it easy: Take a few days at the start of your trip to acclimate to the altitude before attempting any tricks or strenuous activity and your body will thank you later.
Avoid alcohol & drugs: This includes sleeping tablets and tranquilisers as these can all make symptoms worse. Trust us, we’ve been there! Even one Pisco Sour cocktail could tip you over the edge to a raging headache and nausea which is quite unpleasant.
Drink lots of water: Staying hydrated prior to and throughout your trip is crucial to avoiding unpleasant altitude sickness symtpoms.
Drink coca tea: Nearly every hotel in Cusco and the Sacred Valley offers fresh coca tea to guests and for a good reason too! Coca tea is completely safe to drink and a cup or two each day can ease altitude symptoms. Just remember coca is a mild stimulant so don’t go over the top and drink cup loads. 2 -3 cups for the first few days will be just fine.
Get an Oxishot: Oxishot is a small dischargeable can that contains 8 litres of oxygen that you can take when you arrive in Cusco and anytime you need a boost. It can help reduce headaches and fayigue associated with altitude sickness. They are on sale everywhere in Cusco & Machu Picchu and cost approximately S/.45 (Approx. US$16).
Visit your doctor: If you are still worried before you to travel, head to your doctor and ask for an acetazolamide prescription (also known as brand name Diamox) which can be taken to help avoid altitude sickness symptoms. Some people can experience side effets from this medication including tingling of the hands, feet and face, so check with your doctor before use.
Altitude sickness can be a very serious illness so before travelling to Cusco consult your doctor particularly if you have any heart, lung or other severe health problems as not all people can travel to Cusco or the Sacred Valley due to the altitude. However, do bear in mind that almost three million people from all over the world visit Cusco and Machu Picchu each year with only a small percentage suffering from altitude sickness. If you want to visit Machu Picchu. You need to contact us, We are Inti Sun Trek a reliable and safe travel agency, with a trained staff that will help you to live an unforgettable experience.
