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Altitude Sickness: All You Need to Know and How to Avoid It (2026 Updated)

Altitude Sickness: All You Need to Know and How to Avoid It (2026 Updated)

Landing in Cusco at a soaring 11,200 feet (3,400 meters) is an undeniably thrilling moment—until the cabin doors open and a sudden wave of dizziness hits your system. As you map out your Peruvian expedition, navigating the radical shifts in elevation across the country can feel a bit daunting. The Sacred Valley sits at a more manageable 9,200 feet (2,800 meters), the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu rests at 7,970 feet (2,430 meters), and Puno on the shores of Lake Titicaca climbs to a breathtaking 12,500 feet (3,812 meters).

Locals call this high-altitude reaction soroche, and it is completely normal to wonder how your body will handle the thinning alpine air.

Here is the reassuring reality: the vast majority of altitude sickness cases are mild, highly manageable, and completely resolve within 1 to 3 days with proper care. By approaching the mountains with a smart itinerary, a relaxed pace, and preventative habits from day one, you can easily outsmart soroche. This updated 2026 guide lays out actionable, medical-vetted steps so you can explore the Andes with absolute confidence and enjoy every single panoramic view.

Key Takeaways

  • The Elevation Threshold: Altitude sickness in Peru typically triggers once you ascend above 2,500 meters (roughly 8,200 feet). It most frequently impacts travelers touch-landing in Cusco or Puno, as well as those visiting Machu Picchu immediately after arriving from higher cities.
  • Recognizing the Symptoms: Common signs of soroche include persistent headaches, mild nausea, dizziness, shortness of breath during light exertion, fatigue, and disrupted sleep patterns. These symptoms usually manifest within 6 to 24 hours of arrival.
  • The Golden Rules of Prevention: The absolute best way to mitigate risk is a gradual ascent. Dedicate 1 to 2 acclimatization days at a mid-altitude destination, maintain strict hydration, avoid heavy or fatty meals, eliminate alcohol for the first 48 hours, and listen to your body.
  • When to Treat vs. When to Descend: Mild symptoms improve rapidly with rest, fluids, and doctor-approved altitude medications like acetazolamide (Diamox). However, severe symptoms—such as a loss of physical coordination, confusion, or a tight chest—require immediate descent and urgent medical attention.
  • Pre-Trip Medical Consultations: Travelers with underlying cardiovascular, pulmonary, or serious pre-existing medical conditions should always consult their primary healthcare physician before booking high-altitude travel to receive a personalized safety plan.

🏃‍♂️ The Peer-to-Peer Reality Check: There is a common travel myth that being in peak athletic shape shields you from soroche. In reality, physical fitness does not protect you from altitude sickness. Because of how the human body processes sudden drops in barometric pressure, an Olympic marathoner is just as susceptible as a casual walker. The secret to success in the Andes isn’t lung capacity—it’s patience and proper pacing.

Are you ready to design a seamless, perfectly paced itinerary with Andean travel experts who prioritize your physical comfort and safety? Contact us to talk to a Peru travel expert today and receive a complimentary, custom-tailored quote built entirely around your personal pace.

Altitude Sickness In Peru Explained: Symptoms, Risks, And Myths

At its core, altitude sickness is a straightforward math problem: the higher you climb, the lower the atmospheric pressure drops. While the air still contains 21% oxygen, the molecules are spaced much further apart. Every breath you take at high elevations delivers significantly less oxygen to your bloodstream than it does at sea level, triggering a physiological scramble as your heart and lungs work overtime to compensate.

Hiker with hiking sticks on a mountain Peru with Exploor Peru

For most travelers, this manifests as mild Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), which feels remarkably like an unpleasant hangover. While rare, it is vital to understand that severe variations can develop if you push your body too hard. These include High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE), which involves swelling in the brain, and High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE), fluid accumulation in the lungs. Both are serious medical emergencies that require one immediate remedy: descending to a lower altitude right away.

To better understand the clinical side of high-elevation travel, you can review the official medical protocols via the CDC’s Travel to High Altitudes Guide and the deeply detailed CDC Yellow Book chapter on high-altitude travel.

What Are Common Symptoms of Altitude Sickness?

Symptoms typically emerge anywhere from 4 to 36 hours after your arrival at a high-altitude destination. While your body works behind the scenes to adapt, keep an eye out for these standard early warning signs:

  • Throbbing headache (usually the very first sign)
  • Nausea, dizziness, or mild vomiting
  • Shortness of breath during basic physical activities
  • Unusual fatigue or muscle weakness
  • Disrupted sleep patterns or insomnia
  • Loss of appetite
  • Mild swelling in your hands, feet, or face

For the vast majority of people, these symptoms will peak and begin to fade within 24 to 72 hours, provided you stay at the same elevation, rest, and keep your itinerary light.

Girl feeling bad in bed Peru with Exploor Peru

Who Is Most At Risk? (And Why Fitness Won’t Shield You)

There is a persistent myth that youth, gender, or exceptional gym fitness act as a shield against soroche. In reality, acclimatization is entirely chemical, not muscular. Your body needs time to naturally trigger the production of more red blood cells to transport the limited oxygen available.

The factors that actually drive up your risk profile include:

  • Rapid ascent (e.g., flying directly from sea-level Lima straight into high-altitude Cusco)
  • A personal medical history of experiencing AMS on prior trips
  • Dehydration from air travel or dry mountain climates
  • Consuming alcohol or heavy, fatty meals immediately upon arrival
  • Active respiratory infections, such as a head cold or sinus congestion

🚨 CRITICAL RED FLAGS: When It Becomes Dangerous

Never try to “tough it out” if symptoms escalate. If you or a travel companion exhibit any of the following red flags, stop ascending immediately, get to a lower altitude, and seek urgent medical care:

  • A severe, blinding headache that fails to respond to pain medication
  • Confusion, slurred speech, or difficulty thinking clearly
  • Loss of physical coordination (inability to walk in a straight line)
  • Severe, persistent shortness of breath even while resting
  • A wet, rattling cough (sometimes producing pinkish or frothy sputum)
  • Intolerable chest tightness or a racing heart rate while sitting still
  • Blue or grey discoloration on the lips, tongue, or fingertips

How Long It Lasts: When Will You Feel Normal?

If you maintain a calm pace, mild altitude sickness usually clears up within 2 to 3 days. The ultimate secret weapon utilized by smart travelers is to bypass the immediate high-altitude stay in Cusco entirely upon landing.

Young boy with oxygen Peru with Exploor Peru

By heading straight down into the nearby Sacred Valley or toward Machu Picchu—which sit thousands of feet lower than Cusco—you give your body a gentle, comfortable environment to adjust. Once your system stabilizes and you feel completely normal, you can safely step up your physical activity and tackle the higher mountain trails with peak energy.

A Simple 4-Step Prevention Plan That Works In Peru

Acclimatization doesn’t have to be a stressful guessing game. By prioritizing a few simple habits—giving your body time, eating light, staying thoroughly hydrated, and adjusting your sleep schedule—you can effectively preempt the worst of soroche.

To set yourself up for a seamless journey, follow this highly reliable, medical-vetted four-step prevention protocol based on the latest CDC guidelines for high-altitude travel and prevention.

1. Before You Fly: Consult a Doctor About Acetazolamide

If you have a known history of severe altitude sickness or your itinerary requires a rapid ascent into the mountains, ask your primary physician about a preventative prescription for acetazolamide (commonly known as Diamox).

  • Standard Prevention Dosage: A typical preventative protocol involves taking 125 mg to 250 mg every 12 hours, commencing 24 hours prior to reaching high altitude and continuing for the first 2 to 3 days at elevation.
  • Side Effects to Expect: Acetazolamide is a mild diuretic, so expect minor side effects like tingling in your fingertips or toes, increased urination, and a temporarily altered taste for carbonated beverages.
  • Important Contraindications: If you are pregnant or have a known allergy to sulfa-based medications, you must discuss alternative options with your healthcare provider. Never self-medicate without professional medical advice.
View of cusco city center with Exploor Peru

2. Arrival Day: Prioritize Hydration, Rest, and Light Meals

The moment your flight touches down at high altitude, your body enters adaptation mode. Keep your physical exertion to an absolute minimum for the first 12 hours and strictly practice these baseline recovery habits:

  • Hydrate Strategically: Drink between 2 to 3 liters of water throughout the day. The mountain air is exceptionally dry, and your lungs will expend more moisture just by breathing faster.
  • Replenish Electrolytes: If you find plain water unappealing after a long flight, add oral rehydration salts or electrolyte powder to your bottle.
  • Dine Lightly: High altitudes naturally slow down your digestive system. Avoid heavy, fatty meats and instead opt for carb-forward, easily digestible meals like local quinoa soups, white rice, fresh fruits, and steamed vegetables.
  • Avoid Dehydrators: Skip all alcohol entirely on your arrival day, and keep your caffeine intake modest, as both compounds exacerbate dehydration.

3. First 48 Hours: Choose the Sacred Valley First

If your travel schedule allows, bypass the traditional rule of staying in downtown Cusco right away. Instead, arrange for a private transfer or a local taxi to take you straight into the nearby Sacred Valley (towns like Urubamba or Ollantaytambo).

Because the Sacred Valley sits roughly 2,000 feet lower than Cusco, it provides a much gentler, oxygen-rich environment for your body to transition during the critical first 48 hours. Fill your initial days with relaxed walks, low-impact archeological site visits, and zero intense trekking.

4. Navigating Local Helpers: Coca Tea, Soroche Pills, and Oxygen

When you arrive in the Andes, you will be surrounded by unique regional remedies. Knowing exactly how and when to use them is key:

  • Coca Tea (Mate de Coca): This ancestral herbal infusion is offered at nearly every hotel lobby in Peru. Drinking a warm cup helps soothe early, mild altitude symptoms like a dull headache or midday fatigue. However, avoid drinking it late in the evening, as it contains natural mild stimulants similar to coffee.
  • Supplemental Oxygen: Most reputable hotels in high-altitude cities keep oxygen tanks or concentrators readily available for guests. Hooking up to supplemental oxygen can provide rapid, temporary relief from a sudden wave of dizziness or shortness of breath, though it is a short-term fix that does not replace natural acclimatization.

💊 The Peer-to-Peer Medication Correction: There is a common piece of misinformation floating around that over-the-counter “Soroche Pills” bought at Peruvian pharmacies contain acetazolamide. Let’s clear that up directly: commercial Sorojchi Pills are actually just a specific over-the-counter compound of aspirin, salophen, and caffeine. They are excellent for dulling the pain of a high-altitude headache and making you feel more alert, but they do not contain acetazolamide and cannot physically speed up your blood’s oxygen adaptation. Always check the box ingredients, and if you have a history of gastritis, ulcers, or aspirin sensitivities, consult a physician before taking them.

Coca tea on table Peru with Exploor Peru

If you need professional logistical support timing your mountain excursions around a safe, smart acclimatization window, contact us to chat directly with a Peru travel expert. We specialize in designing custom, slow-paced itineraries that give your system the exact time it needs to stay entirely soroche-free.

What To Do If You Get Altitude Sickness

If you find yourself struggling with soroche, the absolute most important rule is to stay calm, slow down, and listen carefully to your body. Mild Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) usually improves beautifully with strict rest and steady hydration at your current elevation. However, if your symptoms begin to intensify or fail to show signs of improvement after 24 to 48 hours, it is time to move to a lower elevation—especially if you are currently embarking on demanding high-altitude wilderness treks like the legendary Inca Trail.

Fortunately, local medical clinics and specialized pharmacies throughout Cusco and the Sacred Valley are highly experienced in treating high-altitude illness. Always keep a digital copy of your travel insurance details and a list of your personal medications easily accessible on your phone so you can navigate medical support with ease.

Llama with woman in peru with Exploor Peru

Self-Care Steps That Bring Quick Relief

The moment you feel the onset of high-altitude symptoms, halt your itinerary and implement these immediate recovery actions:

  • Pause All Activity: Immediately sit or lie down to lower your heart rate and reduce your body’s oxygen demand.
  • Hydrate in Small Sips: Slowly drink water or an electrolyte solution; do not chug fluids rapidly, as this can irritate a sensitive stomach.
  • Eat a Light Snack: Munch on basic, easily digestible carbohydrates like crackers, plain toast, or fresh fruit to boost energy.
  • Target the Headache: Consider taking ibuprofen or acetaminophen to dull the throbbing pain, following your doctor’s pre-trip guidance.
  • Breathe and Rest: Focus on taking slow, deep, deliberate breaths and try to take a short nap to let your nervous system stabilize.
  • Utilize Hotel Oxygen: If your hotel provides supplemental oxygen lines, use them for brief 10 to 15-minute bursts to alleviate immediate distress.

When To Seek Professional Medical Help

Do not attempt to “tough it out” if your condition escalates. Seek immediate medical intervention if you or anyone in your group develops any of the following clinical indicators:

  • A severe, blinding headache that progressively worsens despite taking over-the-counter pain medication.
  • Continuous, repetitive vomiting that prevents you from keeping fluids or oral medications down.
  • Shortness of breath, a wet rattling cough, or an elevated heart rate while resting completely still.
  • Any localized chest pain or extreme tightness in your lungs.
  • Clear signs of neurological distress, such as confusion, slurred speech, or an inability to walk in a straight line.

🩺 The Local Medical Protocol: If you experience any of these severe signs while at a hotel in Cusco or the Sacred Valley, simply notify the front desk staff immediately. They can instantly summon an English-speaking doctor directly to your hotel room or securely coordinate transport to a nearby premium clinic specializing in travel medicine.

Medicine at pharmacy Peru with Exploor Peru

How And When To Descend (Even Mid-Tour)

Physically losing altitude is the single most effective, fast-acting treatment for moderate to severe mountain sickness. When your body signals that it cannot adapt to your current elevation, you should execute these geographical shifts:

  • If in Cusco (11,200 ft / 3,400 m): Take a 45-minute taxi transfer straight down into the Sacred Valley (9,200 ft / 2,800 m) to instantly drop roughly 2,000 vertical feet into denser air.
  • If in the Sacred Valley: Catch a local train further down the canyon to Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes), which sits at a much more oxygen-rich 6,700 feet (2,040 meters).
  • If in Puno (12,500 ft / 3,812 m): If you find yourself struggling on the shores of Lake Titicaca, arrange immediate transport down toward the lower city of Arequipa or back down to the Pacific coast.

Always communicate openly with your tour guide or private driver the exact moment you start feeling unwell. There is absolutely no shame in needing to alter your route; your physical safety must always come first. Most reputable tour operators can seamlessly adjust, reroute, and reschedule your excursions for a later date once your body has fully recovered.

Ready to build a bulletproof itinerary designed from the ground up around flawless, safety-minded acclimatization? Get in touch with us for a free quote, and let an expert Peru travel planner craft a route optimized for your ultimate physical comfort and peace of mind. 

Plan Your Peru Itinerary For Easy Acclimatization

When it comes to outsmarting soroche, the secret weapon isn’t a magic pill—it’s strategic geography. Giving your body a gentle, progressive introduction to the mountains is the single most effective choice you can make.

Puno city views of titicaca with Exploor Peru

By touching down at sea level in Lima first, resting, and then immediately bypassing the steep altitude of Cusco to sleep your first few nights in the lower, oxygen-dense Sacred Valley, you allow your respiratory system to adapt naturally. From there, you can smoothly transition to your Machu Picchu day tour, tackle Cusco’s historic urban core, and save the highest elevations like Lake Titicaca for the grand finale.

This smart, progressive pacing is exactly how we design our customized Peru tours to guarantee a safe, comfortable, and absolutely flawless vacation. To help you visualize this ideal altitude staircase, here is a quick breakdown of Peru’s main travel hubs and their elevations:

DestinationElevation (Feet)Elevation (Meters)Acclimatization Zone
LimaSea levelSea levelBaseline (Safe Zone)
Machu Picchu7,970 ft2,430 mLow Altitude
Sacred Valley~9,200 ft~2,800 mModerate Altitude (Ideal Start)
Cusco11,200 ft3,400 mHigh Altitude
Puno / Lake Titicaca12,500 ft3,812 mExtreme High Altitude

Sample Itineraries That Reduce Your Risk

Choosing a slower initial pace keeps your energy levels high for the bucket-list experiences you actually came to see. Depending on your available travel window, look to structure your route using one of these two proven risk-reduction blueprints:

  • The Classic Explorer Route (7–9 Days): Start with 1 night in Lima, then fly to Cusco but transfer immediately down to the Sacred Valley for 2 nights. Next, head down to Machu Picchu for 1 night to enjoy the ruins at a comfortable elevation. Finally, climb up to Cusco for 2–3 nights once your blood chemistry has fully adapted, and append a trip further south to Puno if desired.
  • The Express Mountain Route (4–6 Days): Head straight to the Sacred Valley for your first 1–2 nights to establish your baseline. Visit Machu Picchu on Day 3, and save your nights in Cusco for Days 4 and 5. Save all strenuous high-altitude physical trekking for the final day of your trip.

Both versions drastically cut down your physiological risk profile by ensuring you sleep lower before attempting to conquer the high peaks. For more itinerary inspiration, browse through our complete selection of expertly mapped Peru tours.

What To Pack For High-Altitude Comfort

Acclimatizing gracefully requires having the right tools on hand. Beyond your standard vacation wardrobe, ensure your daypack features these high-altitude essentials:

  • Hydration Core: A sturdy, refillable water bottle or a heavy-duty hydration bladder.
  • Electrolyte Packets: Oral rehydration powders to mix into your water to combat dry mountain air.
  • Basic First-Aid: Over-the-counter pain relievers (like ibuprofen or acetaminophen) for minor tension headaches.
  • Prescription Cover: Your doctor-prescribed altitude medications (such as Acetazolamide/Diamox) along with copies of your official prescriptions.
  • Quick Energy: Easily digestible, carbohydrate-rich snacks like dried fruits, crackers, or energy bars.
  • Alpine Sun Protection: A wide-brimmed sun hat, high-SPF 30+ sunscreen, UV-blocking sunglasses, and specialized moisturizing lip balm.
  • Smart Travel Layers: A moisture-wicking base layer, a warm mid-layer fleece, and a fully windproof outer shell to easily adapt to rapid temperature drops.

For a comprehensive checklist covering everything you will need for your entire vacation, head over to our ultimate master Peru packing list.

Cusco, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu: The Smart Order to Visit

Let’s emphasize the optimal golden order of operations one more time: Sacred Valley first, Machu Picchu second, and Cusco third.

Spend your first 48 hours enjoying low-impact, incredibly scenic activities throughout the Sacred Valley floor. Once your system feels balanced, head down to explore the majestic citadel of Machu Picchu. Only after you have fully conquered these lower altitudes should you check into a hotel in downtown Cusco to dive into its legendary markets, colonial museums, and world-class culinary scenes.

By respecting this layout, your body will be perfectly primed to comfortably tackle advanced, high-altitude challenges like the spectacular Rainbow Mountain or the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake later in your trip without skipping a single beat.

🗺️ The Peer-to-Peer Route Correction: You might occasionally see generic online itineraries suggesting you base yourself in Cusco for the first few days and take a day trip down to the Sacred Valley. Geographically, this is backwards! Because Cusco sits 2,000 feet higher than the valley, staying there first forces your body to adapt to the harshest elevation on day one. Always make the Sacred Valley your initial base camp to keep your vacation smooth and symptom-free.

Altitude Sickness in Peru: No Problem, if You’re Prepared!

At the end of the day, soroche does not have to cast a shadow over your Andean adventure. By taking complete control of your itinerary, slowing down your initial ascent, keeping your meals light, staying deeply hydrated, and cutting out alcohol for those crucial first 48 hours, you give your body the exact tools it needs to adapt seamlessly. If you have consulted your doctor ahead of time and decided to pack a preventative round of acetazolamide, you are already miles ahead of the game.

Alpacas with blue sky on mountain Peru with Exploor Peru

Remember, taking it easy isn’t a setback—it’s the ultimate insider strategy for a flawless vacation. The majestic peaks of the Andes are waiting for you, and a patient, well-paced start guarantees you will experience them with absolute clarity and peak energy.

Your Final 5-Point Altitude Safety Checklist

Before you head out to conquer the high trails, make sure you keep these golden rules front and center:

  • 🐢 Pace Over Pride: Move slowly, bypass long staircases on day one, and never try to match the physical pace of travelers who have been in the region for weeks.
  • 💧 Double the Hydration: Sip water constantly throughout the day to counteract the incredibly dry high-altitude climate.
  • 🥗 Dine Like a Local: Opt for light, carbohydrate-rich, low-fat meals (like local vegetable or quinoa soups) that won’t overwhelm a sluggish high-altitude digestive system.
  • 🚫 Zero Proof First: Eliminate alcohol completely for the first 48 hours of your mountain stay to prevent rapid dehydration.
  • 👂 Listen to Your Body: If a sudden headache or wave of dizziness hits, stop what you are doing, sit down, breathe deeply, and prioritize rest.

🏔️ The Ultimate Andean Reward: Most cases of altitude sickness in Peru are completely mild and pass within just a couple of days. By giving your system the gift of a gentle, well-timed transition—ideally utilizing the Sacred Valley staircase—your body will reward you with boundless energy, clear lungs, and a deeply profound connection to the stunning Land of the Incas. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Altitude Sickness in Peru

What is altitude sickness and why does it happen in Peru?

Altitude sickness (locally known as soroche) is a physiological condition triggered by rapid exposure to low atmospheric pressure and reduced oxygen levels at high elevations. In Peru, world-famous destinations like Cusco (~3,400 meters) and Puno (~3,812 meters) feature significantly “thinner” air than sea-level Lima; when you ascend to these high altitudes too quickly, each breath delivers fewer oxygen molecules to your blood, straining your cardiovascular system and causing temporary distress while your body works to produce more red blood cells to adapt.

At what altitude in Peru does altitude sickness usually start?

Altitude sickness in Peru typically starts to affect travelers once they ascend past an elevation threshold of 2,500 meters (approximately 8,200 feet) above sea level. Because iconic destinations like the Sacred Valley, Cusco, and Lake Titicaca sit well above this risk line, flying directly from sea-level Lima straight into these high-altitude hubs dramatically increases your vulnerability; to minimize this risk, expert itineraries recommend a progressive approach, such as spending your first two nights at a lower baseline in the Sacred Valley before sleeping in Cusco.

What are the common symptoms of altitude sickness in Peru?

The most common symptoms of mild altitude sickness (soroche) in Peru closely mimic a severe hangover and typically surface 6 to 24 hours after arrival, presenting as a persistent or throbbing headache, mild nausea, dizziness, unexpected physical fatigue, loss of appetite, and disrupted sleep patterns. While these standard acclimatization symptoms usually peak and clear up within 24 to 48 hours with rest and hydration, any progression toward severe shortness of breath while sitting completely still, confusion, or a loss of physical balance represents a critical warning sign that requires an immediate drop in altitude.

How can I prevent altitude sickness when traveling to Cusco or Machu Picchu?

You can effectively prevent altitude sickness when traveling to Cusco and Machu Picchu by structuring a progressive altitude staircase itinerary, which means bypassing Cusco immediately upon landing to sleep your first two nights at a lower elevation in the Sacred Valley. Combine this geographical strategy with core preventative habits during your first 48 hours: drink 2 to 3 liters of water daily, consume light and easily digestible carbohydrate-heavy meals, completely eliminate alcohol, avoid intense workouts, and consult your primary physician before flying about a preventative prescription for acetazolamide (Diamox).

When should I see a doctor or go to a clinic for altitude sickness in Peru?

You must seek immediate medical attention or visit a local clinic if your altitude symptoms progressively worsen after 48 hours of rest, or if you develop clinical red flags like an unmanageable headache, continuous vomiting, chest tightness, a rattling cough, confusion, or an inability to walk in a straight line. These severe indicators point to high-altitude medical emergencies like HAPE or HACE, which require urgent professional intervention and controlled geographic descent; if you experience these signs, immediately notify your tour guide or hotel front desk, as they can quickly summon a specialized, English-speaking travel physician directly to your room.

36 Comments
  • 14 July, 2024 at 8:42 am

    Tenemos planeado ir a Peru en noviembre. Mi esposo padece de muchas condiciones incluyendo cirugías de corazón y presión arterial alta. Su neuro cirujano, que es peruano, nos dijo que él sí podía viajar a Peru, mi pregunta es ¿Si compro una máquina de oxígeno portable, estaría reduciendo los síntomas de mal de altura? ¿Le servirá?

    • 14 July, 2024 at 9:55 am

      ¡Hola Ana!

      Es genial que estén planeando un viaje a Perú en noviembre. En cuanto a tu pregunta sobre el mal de altura, una máquina de oxígeno portátil puede ayudar a reducir los síntomas del mal de altura al proporcionar oxígeno adicional cuando sea necesario. Esto puede ser especialmente útil en lugares de gran altitud como Cusco y Machu Picchu.

      Sin embargo, es importante consultar con su médico antes de viajar para asegurarse de que este enfoque sea adecuado para las condiciones de salud específicas de tu esposo. Además, es recomendable planificar una aclimatación gradual, hidratarse bien y evitar el esfuerzo físico excesivo al llegar a altitudes elevadas.

      Si tienen más preguntas, no duden en enviarnos un correo a [email protected].

  • 14 February, 2024 at 8:53 pm

    Un niño de 9 años con 40kg de peso, qué puede tomar para el soroche? aparte de hidratarse y tomar mate de coca? …en nuestro caso, viajamos a Cuzco y de los 4 días, 3 días estuvo mal! ya sea caminando, con frio, calor. Su primer día estuvo muy bien. En la noche del 2do día le dio soroche, luego en la tarde del 3er día y en la mañana del 4to día. Tomando siempre mate de coca pero sin medicarlo.

    • 15 February, 2024 at 10:51 am

      Hola Vane! Recomendamos hablar con un doctor en estos casos, nosotros no estamos calificados para dar consejos médicos sobre la salud de tu hijo. Que se mejore pronto!

      Saludos!

  • 3 September, 2023 at 2:10 pm

    Es normal sentir como los efectos después de descender ??
    Llevo 5 días aprox desde que baje y me eh sentido así como un poco mariado y como con falta de concentración , esto me pasó desde que subí a 4600 en mi trabajo

    • 4 September, 2023 at 3:26 pm

      Hola Maximiliano, gracias por tu comentario. Recomendamos que saques cita con un médico para que te pueda ayudar con el tema, ya que nosotros no estamos capacitado para hacer ese tipo de evaluación.

      Saludos,
      Oliver

  • 28 August, 2023 at 7:18 am

    Tengo artritis y voy a viajar y visitar desaguadero Bolivia por tierra.. que tanto me afectara la altura por mi condición de salud ? que debo hacer o qué medidas debo tomar ? Es mi duda.. gracias

    • 30 August, 2023 at 11:37 am

      Hola Dame, recomendamos que antes de viajar consultes con tu médico. Es importante acostumbrarse a la altura poco a poco, siempre tomando las medidas necesarias como tomar mucha agua, comer comida ligera y tomar pastillas como el Soroche.

      Saludos,
      Oliver

  • 12 July, 2023 at 10:48 am

    Puede ir a Machu Picchu una persona con cirugía de corazón. Toma medicamento para la presión con bien control

    • 14 July, 2023 at 11:53 am

      Hola Ilda, cómo estás? Recomendamos que primero hables con tu doctor antes de planear tu visita a Machu Picchu para evitar cualquier inconveniente potencial. Nosotros somos expertos en el tema de viajes, pero no somos doctores para darte una recomendación personalizada en cuanto a temas de salud. Esperamos que nos puedas visitar pronto. 🙂

      Muchas gracias y saludos,
      Oliver

  • 18 August, 2022 at 8:43 pm

    No sé supone que los aviones están preparados para los pasajeros para contrarestar el mal de altura??

    • 3 March, 2023 at 6:48 am

      Los aviones tienen cabina presurizada, el problema es AL DESCENDER DEL AVIÓN.

  • 30 May, 2022 at 4:59 pm

    Yo les recomiendo las capsulas naturales
    ALTIVITAL son hechas con hojas de coca, de muña, guaraná y jengibre. son efectivas si tomas dos en la mañana y dos en la tarde solo los 3 primeros dias en altura. no tiene contraindicaciones, no hacen daño y las pueden tomar niños y ancianos.

    • 31 May, 2022 at 8:24 am

      Hola Cecilia, gracias por tu recomendación! La próxima vez que viajemos a Cusco lo vamos a tener en cuenta.
      Saludos 🙂

      • 7 October, 2023 at 10:20 am

        Si viajo con mi bebé de año y Medio como le puede afectar la altura? Y en tal caso que si se le podría dar algo?

        • 8 October, 2023 at 12:09 pm

          Hola Isabel, gracias por tu comentario. Recomendamos consultar ese tema con tu médico de confianza.

          Saludos
          Oliver

    • 24 October, 2022 at 12:47 pm

      A mi el jengibre me sube presión será que estas cápsulas no me hagan daño?

  • 21 May, 2022 at 9:35 am

    Gracias por todos las muy buenas sugerencias. Cada experiencia puede ser muy diferente a la de otros pero al final lo que más preocupa es de que manera la salud puede ser afectada.
    Pensamos hacer nuestro viaje a Cusco para agosto Machu Picchu etc, en particular, tengo artritis en rodillas y varices, también me preocupa si la altura podría afectar la parte vascular….

    • 21 May, 2022 at 11:03 am

      Hola Jutta, muchas gracias por tu comentario. Es muy cierto lo que dices, cada experiencia puede ser muy diferente a la de otros. Por eso y muy importante seguir las recomendaciones generales para evitar cualquier tipo de inconveniente. En cuanto a tu caso particular recomendaría que hables con un médico para que te pueda dar una opinión profesional.

      Ojalá puedan viajar a Cusco pronto! 🙂 Saludos.

  • 14 May, 2022 at 10:11 am

    Hello! Thanks a lot for the information!
    I’m planning to go next month in June to Cusco for 4 days, however, just have a question if a women probably is pregnant for one month could still get any medication or local remedy? Definetly in that case we wil ask her doctor in advance.

    • 15 May, 2022 at 6:52 pm

      Hey Ed, thank you for your message! This is a very good question and we’d rather not give any recommendation as we are no experts in this field. As you say, best would be to talk to your doctor in advance so you can prepare properly. Let us know if you need anything else. 🙂

  • 12 May, 2022 at 2:16 pm

    Awesome article! I’m traveling with my family to Peru next month and we are very excited. Have you heard how children do with the altitude? I’m curious if they will need to medicine or will be fine on their own.

    • 15 May, 2022 at 6:44 pm

      Hey Mike, glad the article helped. Thank you for your kind words! 🙂

      Regarding your question, we’ve never had any problems so far with the children that travelled with us. Best would probably to double check with your doc and see what recommendations they give. From past travelers we know that they gave Soroche pills to their kids when they were having issues with the altitude apart from the other recommendations, e.g. rest, drink lots of water and coca tea etc. Let us know if you have any other questions.

      Saludos, Oliver

  • 21 February, 2022 at 12:09 pm

    Very cool and thanks for sharing this. Is Palccoyo still the “hidden” gem or can we expect in April more travellers there than at Vinicunca?

    • 21 February, 2022 at 1:17 pm

      Hello Doug, thanks a lot for your positive words. April is the start of the dry season and for that reason you’ll face more travellers in Peru than the months before. However, at Palccoyo you won’t face as many travellers as at Vinicunca and you will embrace the beautiful landscapes. For more information about the two rainbow mountains have a look at our blog post: differences between Palccoyo and Vinicunca rainbow mountain. Best, team exploor

  • 6 December, 2021 at 10:41 pm

    Hola quisiera me ayuden con esta gran duda que tengo; si una persona que está acostumbrada a viajar en avión o sea ha viajado en avión varías veces Y no ha sentido ningún síntoma de mal de altura. Será que por tierra al visitar desaguadero y bolivia que son zonas altas puede sentir síntomas porque de verdad que en avión no los ha sentido por eso mi duda .. porque acá en el documental dice que lo sufren mucho las personas que viajan en avión ?? Gracias si pueden aclararme las dudas muy agradecida bendiciones

    • 12 October, 2022 at 7:07 am

      El avión tiene cabina presurizada es como estar a cero metros sobre el nivel del mar, mientras que si te trasladas por tierra tu cuerpo se tiene que adaptar a los 3000 o 4000 mts sobre el nivel del mar totalmente diferente e incomparable

      • 27 October, 2022 at 4:13 am

        No es cero es 14.7 al nivel del mar

  • 22 November, 2021 at 1:29 pm

    Great info! Is it really not possible going to the gym or doing an exercises in Cusco? And where can I get the pills?

    • 22 November, 2021 at 1:39 pm

      Hello P3t3,
      it’s very important that you are getting used to the altitude in Cusco. For that reason we highly recommend avoiding sport in the first 24-48 hours. Besides that, you’ll get the altitude pills such as sorojche already at the airports in Lima/Cusco or at every pharmacy in Peru. Let us know if you have any further questions.

  • 13 September, 2021 at 10:09 pm

    Dear Exploor team, I really appreciate the free tips on your blog! If I have 3 days in Cusco which tours would you recommend, also considering the altitude? I heard many people got sick at Rainbow Mountain. Cheers Blake

    • 15 September, 2021 at 8:29 am

      Hey Blake, thank you for your comment. We’d recommend visiting the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and either Rainbow Mountain or Humantay Lake (in the same order as the former destinations are at a lower altitude than the latter). People that get sick at Rainbow Mountain mainly because they didn’t give their body enough time to get used to the altitude. This is very important to consider! If you have any other questions just let us know 🙂

  • 26 August, 2021 at 1:20 pm

    Thanks for this info! Quick follow up question; which altitude sickness medicine would you recommend we should buy when in Peru?

    • 26 August, 2021 at 8:33 pm

      Glad it was helpful! I’d recommend Sorojchi Pills, you can get them at every pharmacy in Peru.

    • 11 April, 2023 at 6:30 am

      Hi, thank you for the information!
      I wanted to understand, when arriving in Cusco I should rest a few days before going on any hike?
      Thank you!

      • 11 April, 2023 at 9:30 am

        Hey Brenda, how are you doing? Glad the article is helpful!

        We definitely recommend resting 24-48 hours before going on a high-altitude hike, such as Rainbow Mountain, Humantay Lake or Salkantay Trek. This way you allow your body to get used to the altitude. Hope this helps, let us know if you have any additional questions.

        Saludos,
        Oliver

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