Cusco (11,152 ft / 3,400 masl) is the historical capital of Perú and the gateway to Machu Picchu. However, the key to truly enjoying your Cusco tours is proper acclimatization. Worried about Altitude Sickness (Soroche)? Mega Travel Machupicchu has prepared this commercial guide with proven tips to make your experience 100% safe and enjoyable. Don’t let Soroche ruin your adventure!
I. The Altitude Formula: Why is Acclimatization in Cusco Vital?
The low oxygen availability at Cusco’s altitude can affect any traveler. To avoid symptoms and successfully enjoy epic treks like the Salkantay Trek or the Rainbow Mountain, your body needs time to adjust.
Symptoms of Altitude Sickness and When to Worry
Mild symptoms are common but easily managed. Recognize them to ensure the success of your Cusco trip:
- Persistent or throbbing headache.
- Extreme tiredness or unusual fatigue.
- Mild nausea.
- Difficulty falling asleep (insomnia).
If symptoms worsen, contact our Mega Travel Machupicchu team immediately. Your safety is our top priority!
II. Mega Travel Machupicchu’s Quick Acclimatization Strategies
Our experience operating tours in Cusco allows us to give you the best tactics for adaptation.
1. Smart Itinerary: Start in the Sacred Valley
Our tours are designed with Soroche in mind. We recommend spending your first night in a lower altitude spot, like Ollantaytambo (9,160 ft / 2,792 masl), or starting with our Sacred Valley Tour. This allows your body to acclimatize gradually before exploring the city of Cusco.
2. Constant Hydration and Natural Remedies
Drink plenty of water, but avoid alcohol and excessive caffeine on the first day. Coca tea, available in all Cusco hotels, is the most effective ancestral remedy. Mega Travel Machupicchu provides this drink during our high-altitude tours.


3. Light Meals and Avoid Physical Strain
Your body needs easily processed energy. Opt for high-carb diets (pasta, rice, bread) and avoid heavy, greasy, or spicy fats, especially at night. Crucially, do not carry weight or run on the first day. The Cusco City Tour or total rest are your only activities.
III. High-Altitude Support from Mega Travel Machupicchu
When you book your Cusco tours with us, you get more than just an itinerary; you get a comprehensive safety plan.
Guaranteed Safety on Cusco Tours
- Oxygen Always Available: All our vehicles on high-altitude tours (Humantay, Vinicunca, Salkantay) are equipped with oxygen tanks.
- Certified Guides: Our guides are trained to professionally recognize and manage Soroche symptoms.
- 24/7 Assistance: You have direct contact with our Mega Travel Machupicchu team in case of emergency.
IV. Plan Your Cusco Trip and Beat Altitude Sickness With Us!
Don’t let poor planning ruin your dream of seeing Machu Picchu. Let the experts at Mega Travel Machupicchu design an itinerary optimized for your safe acclimatization in Cusco. Contact us and secure a smooth adventure!
