Altitude Sickness on the Inca Trail

If you’re planning to hike the Inca Trail, one of the most famous treks in the world, it’s important to understand the risks of altitude sickness. The Inca Trail reaches some very high points, and altitude sickness is something many people experience. But don’t worry, knowing about it beforehand can help you prevent it and enjoy your adventure!

What is Altitude Sickness and What Are Its Symptoms?

Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), happens when you ascend to high altitudes too quickly. At high altitudes, the air is thinner, and there’s less oxygen available. This can make it harder for your body to get the oxygen it needs. Common symptoms of altitude sickness include:

• Shortness of breath
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Nausea

If you feel any of these symptoms while hiking the Inca Trail, it’s important to stop and rest. These symptoms are the body’s way of telling you that it needs more time to adjust to the high altitude.

Is it Serious to Suffer from Altitude Sickness?

In most cases, altitude sickness is not life-threatening, but it can make you feel very uncomfortable. If left untreated, however, altitude sickness can worsen and lead to more serious conditions like high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) or high-altitude cerebral edema (HACE). These conditions are rare but very serious and require immediate medical attention.

It’s important to remember that if you feel unwell, you should inform your tour guide. They are trained to help you and will know what steps to take if you show signs of altitude sickness.

Is it Possible to Suffer from Altitude Sickness on the Inca Trail?

Yes, it is possible to suffer from altitude sickness on the Inca Trail. The trek takes you up to the highest point on the trail, which is Dead Woman’s Pass at 4,200 meters (about 13,780 feet). This is much higher than sea level, and the lack of oxygen can affect some people

The Inca Trail trek is not just about the Dead Woman’s Pass; you will also be hiking at high altitudes throughout the trail. The Sun Gate and other spots on the trail are still above 3,000 meters, which means the risk of altitude sickness can persist, especially if you are not accustomed to high altitudes.

What is Good for Altitude Sickness on the Inca Trail?

The good news is that there are several things you can do to reduce your chances of getting altitude sickness on the Inca Trail. Here’s a list of helpful tips:

1. Take Your Time: Spend plenty of days in Cusco before your trek to allow your body to adjust to the higher altitudes. Cusco sits at around 3,400 meters, which is a good starting point to acclimatize.
2. Drink Plenty of Water: Staying hydrated is essential when hiking at high altitudes. Plenty of water helps your body function properly and can reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
3. Eat Light Meals: Eating light, high-carbohydrate meals will help your body cope with the reduced oxygen at high altitudes.
4. Use Coca Leaves: Locals have used coca leaves for centuries to help with altitude sickness. You can chew them or drink coca tea to feel better, as they help open up your airways and improve circulation.
5. Slow Down: Try not to rush. Take regular breaks, especially when climbing towards Dead Woman’s Pass. Walking slowly gives your body more time to adjust to the altitude.
6. Listen to Your Body: If you feel any symptoms of altitude sickness, like shortness of breath or dizziness, stop and rest. Don’t push yourself too hard.
7. Know When to Descend: If your symptoms don’t improve, the best thing to do is to descend to a lower elevation. Sometimes, simply going down a little can help your body recover.

How to Avoid Altitude Sickness on the Inca Trail?

1. Plan Your Acclimatization: Spend a few days in Cusco or another high-altitude city before starting the trek. This will give your body time to adjust.
2. Don’t Rush the Inca Trail: Take your time, especially during the challenging sections of the trek, like the climb up to Dead Woman’s Pass. It’s okay to take breaks when needed.
3. Stay Hydrated: Bring enough water and drink regularly. Dehydration can make altitude sickness worse.
4. Talk to Your Tour Guide: Your tour guide is an expert on the Inca Trail and knows how to handle altitude sickness. If you start feeling unwell, let them know right away.