Local Trekkers Peru, is a leading local operator that operates tours in Peru, we offer our customers a more than pleasant and unique experience, in our different mountain routes such as; the Inca Trail, Salkantay Trek, Choquequirao, Lares Trek, Ausangate Trek, Rainbow Mountain.
Wednesday, August 13, 2025
How to Prepare for Altitude Sickness Before the Inca Trail
TheInca Trail is one of the most famous routes in the world and the best way to reach Machu Picchu.Machu Picchu. However, one of the main challenges faced by travelers isaltitude sickness (also calledsoroche ), caused by lack of oxygen at high altitudes.
In this article we explain how to prepare yourself before starting the Inca Trail to avoid or reduce as much as possible the symptoms of altitude sickness.
What is altitude sickness?
Altitude sickness occurs when we climb very fast to places with low oxygen pressure, such as the Andean mountains. At altitudes higher than 2,500 meters above sea level , many people begin to feel discomfort such as:
Headache
Dizziness
Nausea
Lack of appetite
Fatigue
Difficulty sleeping
Some people suffer from it more than others, but there are effective ways to prevent it or lessen its effects.
One of the best ways to prevent altitude sickness is to give your body time to acclimatize . If you plan to hike the Inca Trail, arrive in Cusco (3,400 meters above sea level) at least 2 or 3 days before starting the trek.
During those days:
Avoid strenuous physical activity
Rest well
Drink plenty of water
Eat lightly and avoid alcohol
This gives your body time to gradually adapt to the altitude.
2. Drink coca tea
Coca tea is an ancestral practice in Peru. Coca leaves help alleviate the symptoms of altitude sickness. You can drink it as a tea several times a day before and during the Inca Trail.
It is important to know that it is neither prohibited nor illegal: it is part of the local culture.
Tip : Do not use coca leaf capsules if you are not used to it; tea is milder and safer.
Mate de CocaMate de Coca
3. Consultation with your doctor
If you have heart or respiratory problems or have already had serious experiences with altitude sickness, consult your doctor before the trip. He or she may recommend preventive medications such as Diamox (Acetazolamide) .
This medication helps to accelerate acclimatization, but should be used under medical supervision.
4. Stay hydrated
Dehydration worsens the symptoms of altitude sickness. During the days leading up to the Inca Trail and during the trek, be sure to drink at least 3 liters of water a day .
Avoid excessive coffee or alcoholic beverages, as they can contribute to dehydration.
5. Eat foods rich in carbohydrates
Before starting the Inca Trail, include in your diet foods rich in complex carbohydrates , such as:
Rice
Potato (very common in Peru)
Quinoa
Dried fruits
Whole wheat bread
These foods give energy and help your body function better at high altitudes.
6. Do moderate exercise before the trip
Although the Inca Trail does not require you to be a professional athlete, you do need to be in good physical condition . Do cardiovascular exercise such as walking, running or climbing stairs for at least a month before the trip .
In addition, this improves your lung capacity, which is key to combat altitude sickness.
7. Listen to your body
If you begin to feel strong symptoms of altitude sickness (such as severe headache, vomiting or extreme shortness of breath), do not ignore these signs . Descend to lower elevations if possible and seek medical attention.
During the Inca Trail, guides are trained to recognize and treat these cases.
Conclusion
Preparing well before the Inca Trail can make the difference between enjoying this experience to the fullest or having to fight altitude sickness. Remember:
Arriving in Cusco in good time
Drinking coca tea
Hydrate well
Consult with your physician if necessary
Maintaining good nutrition and physical condition
With these tips, you will have a better chance of enjoying the incredible journey to Machu Picchu without any problems.
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