The myth persists that altitude sickness is determined by the general fitness level of a person, but the symptoms can affect anyone. It can make some people feel very sick, while others are unphased and their bodies acclimate quickly. Photo by Peru for Less.Īltitude sickness affects individuals in different ways. Some travelers experience gastrointestinal problems, such as an upset stomach, nausea, or loss of appetite. For many, this change in elevation translates to shortness of breath, lightheadedness, and fatigue. When you fly to Cusco, the 1.5-hour nonstop flight from Lima’s International Airport takes you from sea level to the age-old Inca city in the Andes at 11,155 ft (3,400 m). At destinations with high elevations, such as Cusco and Lake Titicaca in Peru, the air is less dense and the body requires a larger amount to obtain the equivalent concentration of oxygen compared to sea level. While there is no way to predict how your body will react, you can travel with confidence being well informed and prepared to manage it.Īltitude illness or altitude sickness is a condition caused by a rapid change in elevation without the necessary time for acclimatization. Altitude sickness usually sets in at elevations higher than 8,000 ft (2,500 m) and encompasses a spectrum of symptoms from mild to more severe. What locals call soroche is the body’s natural reaction to a dramatic change in elevation.

Altitude sickness in Peru is a common health concern for travelers heading to the Andes Mountains and other high destinations.

High altitude sickness