Altitude in Cusco: How to Feel Your Best at 3,300 Metres

Situated at 3,300 metres (10,826 feet) above sea level in the heart of the Andes, Cusco is a breathtaking city in every sense of the word. But for many travelers, that altitude can turn breathtaking into physically challenging—especially in the first few days after arrival.

Upon reaching Cusco, your body immediately begins to adapt. You may notice an elevated resting heart rate and a drop in your oxygen saturation levels. Due to the lower air pressure, there’s less available oxygen in every breath you take. As a result, your body works overtime—boosting red blood cell production and shifting into a state of compensation.

Some travelers experience only mild symptoms like shortness of breath, while others face headaches, brain fog, nausea, insomnia, or even serious cases that require hospitalization.

Our Mission at ReEnergize Cusco

With altitude having such a major impact on your travel experience, we at ReEnergize Cusco made it our mission to help people feel their best—naturally and quickly. That’s why we imported two mild hyperbaric oxygen chambers and designed an accessible treatment program specifically for altitude adaptation and recovery.

How Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Helps

Our 60-minute sessions are the minimum recommended time to make a measurable impact on your body. During the session, you simply lie back and breathe while the chamber gradually increases pressure. This allows oxygen to be absorbed through the plasma, red blood cells, and white blood cells—dramatically improving delivery of oxygen to organs and tissues that are struggling in low-pressure conditions.

Clients often report:

• Fewer headaches

• Less nausea

• Improved sleep

• More energy within hours

Our chambers help take the body out of survival mode, letting you finally relax and enjoy your trip.

4 Simple Tips to Ease Altitude Sickness

If you’re feeling the effects of Cusco’s altitude, here are some proven strategies to support your body’s adjustment:

1️⃣ Stay Hydrated

Your body needs more water than usual at altitude to maintain oxygen circulation and internal balance. Aim to drink 1.5x your normal intake.

2️⃣ Take It Easy

As tempting as it is to start exploring right away, we recommend going slow during your first 48 hours. Take a gentle walk around the city center, but skip the steep climbs like Saqsayhuaman—your body will thank you.

3️⃣ Avoid Alcohol

That first Pisco Sour or cold Cusqueña may sound appealing, but alcohol dehydrates you further and increases your body’s workload. Wait a few days before indulging.

4️⃣ Drink Coca or Muña Tea

Coca leaves have been used by Andean people for centuries to ease symptoms of altitude sickness. The natural alkaloid globulin helps regulate oxygen use in low-pressure environments. Muña tea is also helpful for digestion and breathing.

Still Struggling After a Few Days?

If your symptoms haven’t improved—or especially if you’re unable to sleep—one option is to visit the Sacred Valley, which sits at a lower altitude. However, before adjusting your itinerary, we recommend stopping by ReEnergize Cusco. One session in our chamber may be all your body needs to finally catch up.