Cusco is located higher than most other cities in the world, and some visitors can experience altitude sickness when they arrive. Most people will not have any serious problems, but it is recommended that travelers drink plenty of water, avoid smoking, alcohol and soda, and take time to acclimate. In Cusco it is also possible to use coca leaves to help with the altitude. If you don’t exercise, start taking walks for about half an hour about 2 weeks before traveling. After taking a while to rest most people do not have problems.
These recommendations are the same you will find most places, and there is not a special cure for altitude sickness. But following these recommendations will help you to get used to the altitude. Places like the sacred valley are lower than Cusco but still high for most people. After acclimating most people can enjoy Cusco and the nearby area without problems. It is still a good idea not to be over-active though.
We hope that this information will help for your trip to Cusco/Machu Picchu. Feel free to see our tours of the city of Cusco and of Machu Picchu and the sacred valley.
