Updated Oct 31, 2026
How to acclimatise in Cusco (and avoid soroche)
Cusco sits at 3,400 m. Practical tips to prevent and relieve altitude sickness during your first days.
Cusco is at 3,400 m above sea level, and most travellers feel the altitude (soroche) on arrival: headache, shortness of breath or trouble sleeping. The good news: with a few simple habits your body adapts in 2–3 days.
Your first 48 hours
- Rest on arrival day and walk slowly.
- Drink 2–3 litres of water a day and try coca tea.
- Avoid alcohol and heavy meals on day one.
- Start with easy activities such as the City Tour or the Sacred Valley (lower altitude).
When to plan big hikes
Leave Rainbow Mountain (5,036 m), Humantay Lagoon (4,200 m) or the Salkantay Trek (4,650 m) for day 3 or later. If symptoms get worse, tell reception: our partner clinic works with international travel insurance.
Stay with us in Cusco
Private rooms from $32 and dorm beds from $13, breakfast and free luggage storage for trekkers.