Altitude Sickness On The Inca Trail (How To Avoid Getting It In 2024)
How common is altitude sickness for those who hike along the Inca Trail?
Located high up within the Peruvian Andes, the Inca Trail is both a stunning and formidable ancient route. However given its location, it does pass through some high altitudes which can cause altitude sickness and related symptoms.
In this guide we’ll cover everything you need to know about altitude sickness on the Inca Trail, and how you can avoid getting it. We’ll also look at what the elevation gain is of this hiking route, as well as answering any other questions you may have in our FAQ section.
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Can You Get Altitude Sickness On The Inca Trail?
Quick Answer: The short answer in yes – altitude sickness is a possibility for anyone who hikes the Inca Trail. Altitude sickness can occur anywhere from 2500m above sea-level and upwards, and the elevations of this particular trail range from 2430m to 4215m.
However it’s important to know that not everyone reacts the same when in higher altitudes. For reasons that even scientists are still struggling to understand, some people can head as high as 4000m with zero changes, whilst others will feel noticeable effects at around 3000m.
For this reason it’s best to prepare as well as you can to prevent yourself from getting symptoms, and below we’ll cover how you can avoid getting altitude sickness on the Inca Trail.
How To Avoid Altitude Sickness On The Inca Trail
Given the random nature of altitude sickness, it’s best to always prepare well before heading on the Inca Trail.
There are many local methods that have been used for thousands of years by the people of the Andes. This includes chewing Coca Leaves, and also taking Soroche Pills (which last longer than traditional leaves). Both provide temporary boosts of energy, and make it easier to absorb more oxygen which keeps you operating at usual capacity.
Arguably the most important step before hiking the Inca Trail (and a vital step for avoiding altitude sickness) is to spend a few days acclimating beforehand in Cusco. This will allow your body to naturally adjust to the lower levels of oxygen, and during this time we recommend avoiding strenuous hikes to make it easier for yourself. You’ll want to spend at least a minimum of 48 hours in Cusco before heading on the Inca Trail.
Inca Trail Altitude Sickness FAQ
Below we’ll now answer some of the biggest questions we get from readers who are concerned with getting altitude sickness on the Inca Trail.
How Long Does It Take To Acclimate To The Inca Trail?
Thankfully the altitudes on the Inca Trail are not massive, so you will be able to acclimate within 2 days. If you’ve already spent time within Cusco beforehand (or headed on other hikes), then you may already be acclimated and feel nothing when here. It’s important to note that the highest points of the Inca Trail (such as the Dead Woman’s Pass) will only be briefly visited along the route.
Should I Take Diamox For The Inca Trail?
Diamox is a popular method for avoiding altitude sickness on the Inca Trail, and many do take it for great effects. However it’s important to first consult with your local doctor if this is a suitable option for you, or if there are any better alternative medications.
What Is The Inca Trail Elevation Gain?
The difference between the lowest and highest points of the Inca Trail is 1785m (the lowest being 2430m whilst the highest is 4215m). Along the route you will constantly be going up or down, given the varying terrains and the fact that you’ll need to head through two high mountain passes.
Altitude Sickness On The Inca Trail
And that’s all for our guide on how to avoid getting altitude sickness on the Inca Trail.
Given the Inca Trail sits at altitudes between 2430m to 4215m, getting altitude sickness here is a risk. However, by first adjusting at Cusco properly (as well as taking useful medications or supplements), you can easily avoid getting any of the unpleasant symptoms that accompany it.
Read our Ultimate Altitude Sickness Guide to find out more strategies for avoiding altitude sickness, what symptoms it can cause as well as how to treat it.