Machu Picchu, the lost city of the Incas, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a major destination for travelers from around the world. But before you pack your bags and head to Peru, it’s important to understand something key: the altitude.
Specifically, what is the Machu Picchu elevation in feet? Knowing this is crucial for planning your trip and, more importantly, for understanding potential health concerns. The altitude can affect visitors, and altitude sickness is a real possibility.
Fortunately, there are ways to prepare. Acclimatization, or gradually adjusting to the higher altitude, is key to preventing altitude sickness and ensuring a safe and enjoyable visit to Machu Picchu.
Understanding Machu Picchu’s Location and Geography
Nestled high in the Andes Mountains of Peru, Machu Picchu sits about 50 miles northwest of Cusco. The ancient citadel occupies a mountain ridge overlooking the lush Urubamba Valley, a spot chosen with purpose by the Inca people.
The surrounding terrain is rugged and mountainous. Two peaks, Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain, rise dramatically near the site, offering panoramic views (and challenging hikes!). The Urubamba River snakes through the valley below, providing a vital water source and shaping the landscape.
Machu Picchu’s proximity to Cusco makes it a popular destination. Most travelers begin their journey in Cusco, taking a train or bus and then a bus to reach the site. While Lima is a major Peruvian city, it’s considerably farther from Machu Picchu, requiring a flight to Cusco followed by the land travel.
How high up is Machu Picchu?
Machu Picchu sits at 7,972 feet (2,430 meters) above sea level.
That’s high enough that many people experience altitude sickness, a condition triggered by lower oxygen levels.
If you’re planning a trip to Machu Picchu, it’s vital to understand the elevation and take precautions. Talk to your doctor about altitude sickness and how to prevent it. It’s also a good idea to spend a few days in Cusco (which is even higher) to acclimate before heading to Machu Picchu.
Machu Picchu vs. Cusco: A tale of two altitudes
While Machu Picchu’s elevation is nothing to sneeze at, it’s worth noting that Cusco, the jumping-off point for most trips to the ancient city, is considerably higher.
Cusco’s dizzying heights
Cusco sits at a whopping 11,152 feet (3,399 meters) above sea level. That’s a difference of over 3,000 feet between the two locations.
Travel planning considerations
Because Cusco is so much higher than Machu Picchu, many travel experts recommend spending a few days in Cusco before heading to Machu Picchu. This allows your body to get used to the thinner air and helps prevent altitude sickness, which can really put a damper on your trip.
Another strategy is to spend some time in the Sacred Valley, which is lower in elevation than Cusco, before going to Machu Picchu.
Heights of the surrounding mountains
Even though the elevation of Machu Picchu is lower than Cusco, the mountains surrounding the ancient city are higher. If you’re planning to hike any of these peaks, you’ll want to take precautions against altitude sickness.
Huayna Picchu
The iconic mountain that looms behind Machu Picchu in all the classic photos is Huayna Picchu, which rises to 8,923 feet (2,720 meters) above sea level.
Hiking Huayna Picchu is an exhilarating experience, but it may increase your risk of altitude sickness, so pace yourself and drink plenty of water or coca tea.
Machu Picchu Mountain
Another popular hike is Machu Picchu Mountain, which has an elevation of 10,111 feet (3,082 meters) above sea level.
Because this peak is higher than Machu Picchu itself, you’ll want to be particularly careful to avoid altitude sickness.
Huchuy Picchu
Huchuy Picchu, translated as “little peak,” is a smaller mountain near Machu Picchu. Its elevation is 8,192 feet (2,497 meters) above sea level.
Although it’s lower than Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu, it may still pose a moderate risk of altitude sickness, so be sure to take it easy on your first day in the area.
Weather at Machu Picchu’s altitude
At Machu Picchu’s high altitude, the weather can change rapidly. The temperature generally ranges from about 45°F to 80°F (7°C to 27°C), but can vary significantly between day and night. And of course, as you climb higher, the temperature tends to drop.
Machu Picchu has both a rainy season and a dry season. The wet season, which lasts from about November to March, can make the hiking trails slick and treacherous. The amount of precipitation also tends to increase with altitude.
For the best weather, it’s generally recommended that you visit Machu Picchu during the dry season, which runs from May to September.
Understanding altitude sickness and prevention
The altitude at Machu Picchu can cause altitude sickness in some people. Here’s what you should know:
Symptoms of altitude sickness
Altitude sickness can manifest in a number of ways, including:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
In some people, altitude sickness can be severe.
Acclimatization strategies
The best way to avoid altitude sickness is to give your body time to adjust to the higher altitude. Plan to spend a few days at a lower altitude before heading up to Machu Picchu. Consider spending time in Cusco or the Sacred Valley to acclimate.
Other prevention methods
In addition to acclimatization, you can take these steps to reduce your risk of altitude sickness:
- Drink plenty of water.
- Avoid alcohol.
- Eat light meals.
- Avoid strenuous activity.
Some people find that drinking coca tea or taking altitude sickness medication helps. Talk with your doctor about whether altitude sickness medication is right for you.
The Sacred Valley’s role in acclimatization
The Sacred Valley is a popular place to visit before heading to Machu Picchu, and it can also be a good place to start getting used to the elevation.
Elevation differences in the valley
The Sacred Valley sits at an average elevation of about 9,158 feet (2,792 meters). That’s lower than Cusco, which is higher, but higher than Machu Picchu, which is lower.
Strategic acclimatization points
The towns of Ollantaytambo (9,416 feet), Pisac (9,751 feet), and Chinchero (12,221 feet) can be good places to spend a day or two before you go on to the Inca Trail or Machu Picchu. Spending time at these altitudes can help your body get used to having less oxygen, so you’ll feel better during your visit.
Hiking Options and Their Elevations
The famous Inca Trail hike peaks at a lung-busting 13,780 feet (4,200 meters) above sea level.
The hike to the Sun Gate, Inti Punku, is a shorter, less intense climb that tops out at 8,858 feet (2,700 meters). It’s a great option if you’re arriving in the area from a lower elevation and want to give your body a chance to adjust.
No matter which route you choose, consider the altitude when deciding on your itinerary.
Essential Gear for High-Altitude Travel
If you’re planning a trip to Machu Picchu, here are some things to consider packing:
Clothing and footwear
- Pack layers so you can adapt to the changing temperatures.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots to protect your feet on uneven terrain.
Accessories and essentials
- Bring sunscreen to protect your skin from the intense sun at higher altitudes, even on cloudy days.
- Wear a hat and sunglasses to shield your face and eyes.
- Carry a water bottle and a daypack to stay hydrated and comfortable on your trek.
Medical Considerations and Safety Precautions
Because of the relatively high altitude of Machu Picchu, it’s a good idea to take a few medical and safety precautions before you travel.
Health Preparations
It’s always wise to talk to your doctor about any travel plans, particularly travel to high altitudes. Your doctor can tell you whether you’d benefit from taking altitude sickness medication. It’s also important to make sure you’re up to date on all recommended vaccinations.
Emergency Resources
Before you go, make a note of medical facilities in Cusco and Aguas Calientes, the town closest to Machu Picchu. It’s also a good idea to program emergency contact numbers into your phone.
Travel Insurance
Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers high-altitude activities, just in case.
Conclusion
Knowing Machu Picchu’s elevation in feet is more than just trivia. It’s vital for planning a safe, healthy, and enjoyable trip.
Remember, altitude sickness can be a real concern, so take it seriously. Plan to spend a few days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley to adjust to the higher elevation before heading to the ruins. Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol and strenuous activity, and consider coca tea.
Being prepared for the altitude and the weather will make your experience much more pleasant. Pack layers of clothing, wear sturdy shoes, and protect yourself from the sun. Above all, talk to your doctor before you go, especially if you have any underlying health conditions. With the right preparation, you can fully appreciate the wonder that is Machu Picchu.