When we adventure to explore Cusco and it is marvelous, we should consider how is the Altitude in Cusco, because so many times when visiting Cusco, “altitude sickness” is present, is also known as soroche, and is a common preoccupation in the travelers. Although can affect any person, independence of age, physical condition, or genre, abording this preoccupation is key for quarantining a pleasant and secure travel.
In this article, we will let you know about the altitude in Cusco and Machu Picchu, you will understand the symptoms of Altitude sickness, and most importantly, you will discover 5 practice advice for avoiding it. Prepare to enjoy your visit with the support of Machu Picchu Perú Tours!
Altitude in Cusco and Machu Picchu
In the heart of the Peruvian mountains, Cusco this majesty to 3.999 meters above the level of the sea. The altitude in Cusco can present challenges for those who not are accustomed to living in high environments. Some visitors can experience “altitude sickness”, which is a reaction of the body to the less quantity of oxygen available in altitudes more elevated. The common symptoms of altitude sickness include headaches, dizziness, fatigue, and shortness of breath.
The other part, Machu Picchu, the architectonical gem, is found at an inferior altitude of 2,430 meters, creating a difference of almost 1000 meters. The visitors should be prepared to walk on elevated staggered terrains, this can increase the sensation of missing oxygen. Because of these altitude challenges, the uncertainty about the altitude sickness can be produced for cause of this.
Causes of Altitude Sickness
The altitude, between 2,400 meters, triggers altitude sickness in Cusco, due to the clear decrease in oxygen. Our body is accustomed to lower levels of oxygen in places, experiencing symptoms like headaches, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. Knowing the symptoms is essential for addressing altitude sickness effectively to overcome it. Some causes of the Altitude Sickness are:
Lower Oxygen Pressure
In elevated altitudes, like Cusco or Machu Picchu, the pressure of Oxygen is less significant. As we ascend, the air becomes “tinier”, which significance is that there are fewer oxygen molecules in every inhalation. This can lead to a decrease in the amount of oxygen that leads to our body.
Less Density in the Air
The atmosphere at big altitudes has less density. Because of this, every breath has less oxygen in cooperation with the zones of less altitude. The body is accustomed to conditions more rich in oxygen and should be adapted to this new reality, which is very difficult and takes more time.
Responses of the Body
Because of the decrease of oxygen, the body’s responses increase the cardiac frequency and the breath for compensative. However, this just can’t be done immediately, and some persons can experiment with negative symptoms to the body adapted completely.
Symptoms of Altitude Sickness
Altitude Sickness, more known as “soroche”, can manifested in many ways and vary in intensity. The common symptoms included:
Headache
One of the frequent symptoms caused by Altitude Sickness is a headache, which can be from slight to more intense. This pain is attributed to the oxygen missing in the brain.
Dizziness and Lightheadedness
The oxygen missing can cause dizziness and a lightheadedness sensation, especially when you realize physical activities like trekking.
Fatigue and Weakness
The less disponibility of oxygen can make you feel more tired of the habitual, even with minimal effort, this produces fatigue and weakness in the body.
Nausea and Vomiting
Some persons can experience nausea and in more serious cases, vomiting. These Symptoms can affect the general welfare of the traveler, but can be present because the altitude sickness.
Respiratory Problems
The respiration can become faster and superficial because the body works to obtain more oxygen. This can generate the sensation of shortness of breath an more respiratory problems.
Elevation of Cardiac Rhythm
The heart can beat faster to for compensate the less disponibility of oxygen, this is known as tachycardia, which can affect serious travelers.
Advice for Acclimatize and Enjoy to the Maximum
1. Progressive Acclimatize
Something that we advise you is before you start your trip, adopt a light alimentation rich in carbohydrates and natural sugars. Two days before your trip, you should prepare your body for the attitude. When you arrive in Cusco, opt for a day’s rest, allowing your body, to progressively adjust to the altitude, like that, you can achieve acclimatization in the best way.
2. The Importance of Hydration
The dry air at the altitude increases the necessity of hydration. Carry with you, always a bottle of water and drink constantly, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Adequate hydration counteracts air dryness, optimizing your well-being. So if you are well hydrated you will be less prone to altitude sickness.
3. Coca Leaf Tea
The Coca Leaf Tea is a Cusco tradition, that can prevent the Symptoms of altitude sickness upon your arrival in Cusco and Machu Picchu. You always find this tea present in the hotels and establishments, enjoy 2 to 3 diary cups during the first days for acclimatization. This comfortable tea relieves the effects of the altitude in a natural way and, in addition, has a rich peculiar flavor. And also exist other Medicinal plants for altitude sickness or soroche that can helps you.
4. Oxishot: An Impulsive of Oxygen
To alleviate headaches and fatigue, Oxishot offers a solution. Because have 8 liters of portal oxygen, you can enjoy an impulsive more revitalizing at any moment. Available in Cusco and Machu Picchu, is a util tool for mitigating all the effects of altitude sickness.
5. Consult your Doctor
If the worries persist, will be prudent to consult your doctor before the trip. Request a prescription for acetazolamide (Diamox), a preventive medicament. Although some experiment affects more secondaries, is an effective option for previously preventing altitude sickness.
Cusco and Machu Picchu waiting for you with the cultural and archeological splendor. Altitude Sickness shouldn’t be an obstacle to living the experiences in this marvelous. With this advice, you will prepared to enjoy your trip with tranquility. In Machu Picchu Perú Tours, we invite you to explore without fear and live the magic of the Cusco altitude.
We recommend you book the best packages to Machu Picchu with us, and we make sure that you live a memorable experience.
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