Cusco, Peru, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. But this historic city in the Andes Mountains comes with a challenge: its high altitude. Altitude sickness is a serious concern for many visitors.
This article will give you a complete overview of the Peru Cusco elevation, including the altitude of Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. We’ll also talk about altitude sickness, what you can do to prevent it, and some practical tips to help you enjoy your trip.
We’ll cover the altitudes of Cusco city, Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, Rainbow Mountain, and Humantay Lake so you can plan accordingly.
Understanding Cusco’s Altitude
Cusco is a city at high altitude, and it’s important to understand that fact before you go.
Cusco City Altitude
Cusco sits at a pretty significant elevation — either 3,360 meters (11,023 feet) or 3,399 meters (11,152 feet) above sea level, depending on which source you consult. That rapid ascent can trigger altitude sickness in some travelers.
Machu Picchu Altitude
The good news is that Machu Picchu is actually at a lower altitude than Cusco.
The generally accepted altitude of Machu Picchu is 2,430 meters (7,979 feet) or 2,430 meters (7,972 feet).
Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu, is even lower, at 2,040 meters (6,692 feet).
The Sacred Valley Altitude
The Sacred Valley, located between Cusco and Machu Picchu, has a range of altitudes. Here are a few of the main towns:
- Pisac: 2,980 meters (9,776 feet)
- Calca: 2,929 meters (9,609 feet)
- Urubamba: 2,870 meters (9,416 feet)
- Ollantaytambo: either 2,792 meters (9,160 feet) or 2,850 meters (9,350 feet), again depending on the source
Altitude of Cusco’s Popular Sites
If you plan to explore the Cusco region, it’s important to know that many archaeological sites and natural attractions sit at high altitudes. Here are a few examples:
- Pisac Archaeological Site: 10,958 feet (3,340 meters)
- Moray Archaeological Site: 11,482 feet (3,500 meters)
- Chinchero Archaeological Site: 12,316 feet (3,754 meters)
- Salt Mines of Maras: 9,849 feet (3,002 meters)
- Rainbow Mountain (viewing point): 16,522 feet (5,036 meters)
- Red Valley: 16,354 feet (4,985 meters)
- Humantay Lake: 13,779 feet (4,200 meters)
- Sacsayhuaman: 11,482 feet (3,500 meters)
- Qenqo: 11,745 feet (3,580 meters)
- Puca Pucara: 11,876 feet (3,620 meters)
- Tambo Machay: 12,138 feet (3,700 meters)
Keep these elevations in mind as you plan your trip, and be sure to take precautions to avoid altitude sickness.
Understanding altitude sickness
Because Cusco is at such a high elevation, it’s wise to understand the causes, symptoms, and treatments for altitude sickness before you go.
What is altitude sickness?
Altitude sickness, sometimes called soroche or mountain sickness, is your body’s reaction to lower oxygen levels at high altitudes. It’s defined as a cluster of symptoms that can happen when you quickly ascend to a high altitude.
Causes of altitude sickness
The key factors that cause altitude sickness are reduced air pressure and lower oxygen levels. Symptoms usually start to show up at altitudes above 7,874 feet (2,400 meters).
Common symptoms
The most common symptoms of altitude sickness are:
- tiredness
- fatigue
- nausea
- insomnia
- headaches
- rapid heartbeat
In severe cases, altitude sickness can lead to altitude cerebral edema (swelling of the brain) and altitude pulmonary edema (fluid in the lungs).
Preventing altitude sickness: acclimatization strategies
The best way to avoid altitude sickness is to give your body time to adjust to the lower level of oxygen in the air.
Gradual ascent
If you’re able to, begin your trip at an elevation below 10,000 feet, and stay there for at least a day before going any higher. For example, you might spend a day or two in Arequipa or Ica before heading to Cusco.
The International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation (UIAA) suggests that you limit your elevation gain to 500 meters (1640 feet) per day once you’re above 3,000 meters (9,842 feet).
Lifestyle and dietary recommendations
To help your body adjust, be sure to drink plenty of water — 3 to 4 quarts a day is a good goal. Emphasize carbohydrates in your diet. And for the first two days, stay away from tobacco, alcohol, sleeping pills, and strenuous exercise.
Medical options
If you don’t have much time to acclimatize, you might want to talk with your doctor about acetazolamide, a medication that can help speed up the process.
Some travelers also try Sorojchi Pills, coca tea, or chlorophyll drops, though the effectiveness of these remedies hasn’t been scientifically proven.
Getting to Cusco and adjusting to the altitude
If you’re planning a trip to Cusco, you might want to consider taking a bus instead of flying. The slow ascent allows your body to adjust gradually to the altitude, which can help prevent altitude sickness.
PeruRail also offers train services to Machu Picchu. This can be a safe way to travel and get used to the altitude.
If you’re climbing to high altitudes, remember the saying “climb high, sleep low.” For every 3,000 feet you climb, plan to rest for at least a day so your body can adjust.
In Closing
Understanding Cusco’s high altitude – and that of the surrounding areas – is essential for a safe and pleasant trip.
The best way to minimize your risk of altitude sickness is to take it easy when you first arrive, giving your body time to adjust. Take the necessary precautions, and be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness. If you experience any of them, descend to a lower altitude immediately.
With the right planning and awareness, you can fully appreciate the beauty and culture of Cusco and the Sacred Valley.