04Experiences

Before you climb

Altitude and how to handle it

Cusco sits at about 3,400 metres, Lake Titicaca at 3,812 metres, and the passes on the Inca Trail top 4,000 metres. Above 2,500 metres altitude sickness can hit any visitor, however fit: headache, nausea, tiredness, poor sleep and dizziness, especially after a fast ascent. It affects around 20 percent of people who climb quickly to 2,500 metres and 40 percent of those who go to 3,000 metres. The first line of prevention is to go up gradually, by no more than 300 metres a day when possible. That is why many travellers start in the Sacred Valley, which lies lower than Cusco, and move up to the city after a day or two. Take it easy on the first day, drink plenty of water, and save long walks until your body has adjusted. If the headache grows worse or breathing becomes difficult, go down to a lower altitude, which is the most effective treatment, and see a doctor before you travel if you have a health condition.

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Symptoms usually start above

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Suggested maximum daily gain

About 3,400 m

Cusco altitude