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HOW TO DEAL WITH THE ALTITUDE OF MACHU PICCHU: ACCLIMATE BEFORE REACHING ONE OF THE 7 WONDERS OF THE MODERN WORLD

Hey. Wondering what’s the Machu Picchu altitude? In this blog, you’ll find the answer to this concern. However, you’ll discover how to acclimate well before ascending to Machu Picchu and other surrounding mountains. This fascinating Inca enclave not only invites us to discover its rich history and majestic Inca engineering but also challenges us with altitude, adding a unique dimension to the experience.

In addition to immersing you in Machu Picchu’s altitude from the strategic heights of Cusco to the rugged trails of Huayna Picchu, we will also guide you through the essential preparation to make this Andean summit adventure to the fullest. Inkayni Peru Tours invites you to embrace the grandeur of the Peruvian Andes as you embark on this unique adventure.

WHERE IS MACHU PICCHU LOCATED?

Machu Picchu, an impressive construction of the Inca civilization, is located in Cusco – Peru, specifically in Urubamba and in the district of Machu Picchu. To be more precise, it is located between Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu. Also, it’s in the Vilcabamba Mountain Range and above the Vilcabamba Batholith. Also, the altitude of Machu Picchu owes to be located on this mountain range.

I think that the most important location you must consider is that the Machu Picchu Archaeological Site is situated in the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu which is one of the 73 Peruvian protected areas.

ALTITUDE OF MACHU PICCHU

Surprisingly, Machu Picchu is nestled at 2,430 m / 7,972 ft ASL. Can you imagine that Machu Picchu is almost 1000 m / 3280 ft ASL lower than Cusco! At this altitude, the weather is very humid and there is a lot of rainfall and pouring in the wet season.

Altitude of Machu Picchu

Classic view of Machu Picchu

WHAT IS THE ALTITUDE OF CUSCO?

This beautiful and ancient city is located roughly at 3,400 m / 11,154 ft ASL. It is known for its historical and cultural importance, as well as for being the ancient capital of the Inca Empire.
Remember, people who live below 1,000 m / 3,320 ft ASL suffer altitude sickness when they travel above 3,000 m / 11,000 ASL. Remember, the altitude of Machu Picchu is lower.

Best tourist attraction near Cusco

Best tourist attraction near Cusco

ALTITUDE OF THE BEST TREKKINGS IN CUSCO

INCA TRAIL

INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU

The greatest trek in South America ends in Machu Picchu. I dare you to face this tough or challenging trek to finally arrive into Machu Picchu.

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The Inca Trail‘s altitude ranges from 2,400 – 4,200 m / 7,874 – 13,779 ft ASL. Throughout the whole trek, trekkers face significant changes in altitude, which makes proper acclimatization essential to prevent possible health problems associated with high altitudes. Most of the adventurous people trekking the Inca Trail feel Acute Mountain Sickness once they climb the Warmiwañusca Pass which is at 4,200 m / 13,779 ft ASL. One of the lowest altitudes you’ll reach along the Inca trail is the Machu Picchu altitude.

Classic Inca Trail altitude in tree-lined-forest

Inkayni Peru Tour’s customers enjoying the Inca Trail

SALKANTAY TREK

The Salkantay Trek has similar terrain and geography to the Inca Trail. During the early stages, your trail is situated at a higher altitude than the last days. It starts from Soraypampa at 3,900 m / 12,795 ft ASL. As you progress, you will rise to higher altitudes, reaching high points such as the Salkantay Pass, situated at about 4,600 m / 15,092 ft ASL, before descending into the lush Cloud Forest. As on the Inca Trail, one of the lowest altitudes you’ll reach along this trek is the Machu Picchu altitude.

SALKANTAY TREK TO MACHU PICCHU

The second most popular trail to reach Machu Picchu is trekking the Salkantay Trek.

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Salkantay Pass altitude

Hikers celebrating at Salkantay Pass

INCA JUNGLE

This fascinating tour full of adventures is located at an average altitude of 1,546 m / 5,072 ft ASL. The highest altitude along the whole tour is at Malaga Pass at 4,320 m / 14,272 ft ASL, besides the lowest point at 1,250 m / 4,101 ft ASL.

DISCOVER MACHU PICCHU IN A FULL-DAY TOUR

Indeed, it’s possible to travel and discover Machu Picchu from Cusco in less than 24 hours. This tour is made for people who just focused their trip on Machu Picchu.

BOOK HERE!

This tour doesn’t focus on trekking, instead, there is biking, zip-lining, trekking and even rafting along the 4 or 3 days of the tour.

Inca Jungle Trail highest altitude

The biking activity starts at Malaga Pass

CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK

The Choquequirao Archaeological Site is located roughly at 3,050 m / 10,007 ft ASL. Also, if you hike along the Choquequirao Trek, you’ll hike beside one of the deepest canyons in the world.

Enjoy this amazing trek at lower altitudes than others. Although it’s located at a lower altitude, you’ll face one of the toughest treks in Southern Peru. Furthermore, this trek is less crowded than others!

CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK TO MACHU PICCHU

Whether you want to reach Machu Picchu hiking along the Choquequirao Trek or just face this hike without reaching Machu Picchu at the end.

RESERVE NOW!

Furthermore, we know that the Choquequirao Archaeological Site is higher than Machu Picchu altitude. 

Choquequirao Trek view

The lost city of Choquequirao

LARES TREK

There are many altitudes along the Lares Trail, every altitude has its own landscape and biodiversity. However, the average altitude during the Lares Trek usually ranges between 2,500 – 4,200 m / 8,200 – 13,780 ft ASL. The Lares Trek is known for offering breathtaking views of the Andes Mountains and cultural experiences in the local communities of the Cusco region within Peru.

Hikers along the Lares Trek

Hikers along the Lares Trek

INCA QUARRY TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU

Cachicata which is a quarry trail is located at 3,644 m / 11,955 ft ASL. It is a well-known Inca quarry in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. The Incas sourced red granite blocks from this area for the construction of temples and palaces of the Ollantaytambo archaeological complex and other many nearby ones.

Chullpas of Inca Quarry trail

Three Chullpas of the Cachicata quarry with a view of the Sacred Valley

HUCHUY QOSQO

Huchuy Qosqo, a fascinating archaeological site situated at an altitude of approximately 3,670 m.a.s.l./12,041 ft, is located in the Cusco region. This ancient Inca city, which means «Little Cusco», offers intriguing historical insights, but also spectacular panoramas of the surrounding breathtaking Andean landscapes. With its well-preserved structures and strategic location high in the Andes, Huchuy Qosqo trek offers visitors an unforgettable experience that combines history, culture and the natural majesty of the region.

Huchuy Qosqo arachaeological site

Huchuy Qosqo is located on a mountainside

ALTITUDES OF AGUAS CALIENTES OR MACHU PICCHU TOWN

The town of Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Town is located roughly at 2,040 m / 6,692 ft ASL. This charming town is nestled beside the Urubamba River on the foothills of Machu Picchu. In addition to its picturesque surroundings and proximity to Machu Picchu, Aguas Calientes also provides a wide tourism industry.

INKAYNI PERU TOUR – WE ARE THE BEST

If you are planning to travel to Peru and visit its highlight tourist attractions, Inkayni Peru Tours is the best option for you.

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ALTITUDES OF THE MOUNTAINS SURROUNDING MACHU PICCHU

MACHU PICCHU MOUNTAIN ALTITUDE

The Machu Picchu Mountain is roughly at 3,082 m / 10,111 ft ASL. This mountain is one of the highest surrounding Machu Picchu. Also, climbing this mountain allows you to witness a different perspective of Machu Picchu and the Cloud Forest landscapes.

DISCOVER MACHU PICCHU IN A FULL-DAY TOUR

Indeed, it’s possible to travel and discover Machu Picchu from Cusco in less than 24 hours. This tour is made for people who just focused their trip on Machu Picchu.

BOOK HERE!

Important, if you want to climb this mountain, you have to book another special ticket for this mountain ahead of time.

Machu Picchu Mountain altitude

Vistas panorámicas desde la Montaña Machu Picchu

HUAYNA PICCHU ALTITUDE

The summit of the Huayna Picchu Mountain is roughly 2,667 m / 8,750 ft ASL. Well known for its steep and challenging trails for foreign people, climbing this mountain is an unforgettable experience. Once they reach the summit, they will see a different angle of the «Llaqta Machu Picchu».

As well as the Machu Picchu Mountain, you have to book another entrance ticket ahead of time.

Huayna Picchu Mountain altitude

Huayna Picchu Mountain views.

HUCHUY PICCHU MOUNTAIN ALTITUDE

The altitude of Huchuy Picchu Mountain is roughly 2,497 m / 8,192 ft ASL. Ascending this mountain, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding Andean landscapes. Through this experience, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the rich history and natural beauty of this striking attraction.

Like the last 2 mountains, you must book and entrance ticket in advance.

Huchuy Picchu Mountain altitude

Huchuy Picchu Mountain view

MACHU PICCHU AND ACUTE MOUNTAIN SICKNESS

IS IT POSSIBLE TO FEEL ALTITUDE SICKNESS IN MACHU PICCHU?

Yes, it is possible. However, most foreigners don’t feel this illness because it is nestled at a lower altitude than other tourist attractions than others such as Cusco, Sacasayhuaman, Sacred Valley and Choquequirao.

Most foreigners acclimatize in Cusco for 1 or 2 days. Travel companies consider these days as important because they don’t want to kill their customers. As a result of acclimatization in Cusco, there is a possibility that altitude-related adverse effects may be minimized upon arrival at an altitude of Machu Picchu.

IS CUSCO LOCATED HIGHER THAN MACHU PICCHU?

There is no doubt that Cusco is located higher than Machu Picchu! Cusco’s altitude is approximately 3,400 m / 11,154 ft ASL, whereas the altitude of Machu Picchu is roughly 2,430 m / 7,972 ft ASL. As altitude can affect acclimatization and overall experience, it is important to keep these differences in mind when planning activities in these regions.

Main Square of Cusco and Machu Picchu views

Main Square in Cusco / Machu Picchu

TIPS TO AVOID ALTITUDE SICKNESS

Here are some tips to avoid altitude sickness (soroche) when visiting places of considerable altitude, such as Cusco and even in Machu Picchu altitude:

  • A gradual acclimatization process will allow your body to adapt to the change in atmospheric pressure and the reduced oxygen availability.
  • Altitude sickness can be relieved by maintaining a constant level of hydration.
  • Once you have acclimated, do not exert excessive physical effort.
  • To prevent altitude sickness, avoid alcohol and tobacco products.
  • Maintain a balanced diet and avoid heavy meals.
  • An overview of preventive medications, such as acetazolamide, and the possibility of taking them.

If you follow these tips, you will be less likely to suffer from altitude sickness and more likely to enjoy your experience in high-altitude places to which you are accustomed.

SYMPTOMS OF ALTITUDE SICKNESS

Here are some altitude sickness symptoms:

  1. Headache
  2. Dizziness
  3. Insomnia
  4. Vomiting
  5. Breathless

Altitude Sickness symptoms

Altitude Sickness symptoms

ALTITUDES OF OTHER PERUVIAN CITIES

  • Lima: The capital of Peru and its largest city, Lima is known for its rich history, colonial architecture, varied cuisine, and its location along the Pacific Ocean.
  • Arequipa: The city of Arequipa is situated 2,335 meters above sea level (7,694 feet) and is renowned for its colonial architecture, its churches and its proximity to the Misti volcano.
  • Ayacucho: At 2,746 m / 9,005 ft ASL, Ayacucho is famous for its colorful parades and religious festivities. It is also home to well-preserved colonial architecture and archaeological sites.
  • Huanuco: The city is located at an elevation of 1,913 meters above sea level (6,276 feet) and is surrounded by mountains and valleys. Huanuco is noted for its rich cultural heritage and colonial architecture.
  • Trujillo: It is located at an altitude of 34 m / 112, ft ASL and is known for its pre-Incan archaeological sites, Spanish colonial architecture, and nearby beaches.
  • Piura: Piura is located at 29 m / 95 ft ASL. Maybe the best beaches and eat ceviche are in this region.
  • Puno: Located at an altitude of 3,810 m / 12500 ft ASL. Puno is famed for its folklore festivals, floating islands, and Quechua culture.
  • Ica: It is located at an elevation of 406 m / 1,332 ft ASL, and is known for its extensive vineyards and pisco wineries, as well as the Huacachina oasis and the Nazca Lines.
  • Tumbes: On the northern coast of Peru, mangroves, beaches, natural reserves, and a rich cultural tradition are a few of the attractions.
  • Tacna: A major commercial center in the southern region of the country, Tacna is located at an altitude of 562 m / 1,844 ft ASL. On the border with Chile, Tacna is known for its colonial architecture, history, and for being an important historical center.

Wheter we compared the altitudes of all these Peruvian attractions, we realized that the altitude of Machu Picchu is higher than most coastal and Andean attractions.

Most popular cities in Peru

Most popular cities in Peru

ALTITUDE OF OTHER TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN CUSCO

  • RAINBOW MOUNTAIN: At 5,200 m / 17,060 ft ASL. Rainbow-like colors characterize this mountain. Most people feel altitude sickness climbing this route over 16,00 ft ASL. The most crowded attraction besides Cusco.
  • SACSAYHUAMAN: At 3,700 m / 12,140 ft ASL. It’s an archaeological park nestled near Cusco city. Besides its immense stone walls, some of which weigh more than 100 tons, it is also an important historical and ceremonial site.
  • MAIN SQUARE OF CUSCO: Located in downtown Cusco at 3,399 m / 11,152 ft ASL. The Plaza de Armas. This mountain is considered one of the most beautiful in the whole. There are 4 churches surrounding the same square. Also, the most important festival and carnival are celebrated here.
  • OLLANTAYTAMBO: It is located at an altitude of 2,792 m / 9,160 ft ASL. The ancient Inca city of Ollantaytambo is located in the Sacred Valley, where it is renowned for its impressive archaeological complex and agricultural terraces. Additionally, it serves as the starting point for the train journey to Machu Picchu.
  • HUMANTAY LAKE: At an altitude of 4,200 meters (13,780 feet), Humantay Lake is a beautiful body of water in the Cusco region, Peru. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Also, it’s the trailhead for the Salkantay Trek.
  • PALCOYO MOUNTAIN: Although Palcoyo Mountain is less known than Rainbow Mountain, it offers an unforgettable experience and is situated at an altitude of 4,900 m / 16,076 ft ASL.
  • MORAY: It is located at an altitude of 3,500 m / 11,480 ft ASL. Moray is an Inca archaeological site famous for its circular terraces that served as agricultural laboratories. Different altitudes and microclimates on the terraces are thought to have allowed crop experimentations.
  • MARAS SALT WELLS: It is located at an altitude of 3,380 m / 11,089 fT ASL. The Salineras de Maras are terraced salt wells. The saline water flows naturally and is collected in thousands of wells, creating an enchanting landscape.

Cusco’s best tourist attractions

Cusco’s tourist attractions

ALTITUDE OF OTHER PERUVIAN ATTRACTIONS

  • Colca Canyon: It is located at 3,269 m / 10,725 ft ASL. Colca Canyon, located in the Arequipa region of Peru, is one of the deepest canyons in the world. It is known for its breathtaking scenery, pre-Inca agricultural terraces and condor watching.
  • Nazca Lines: It is located at an altitude of 588 meters (1,929 feet). The Nazca Lines are ancient geoglyphs in the desert of Nazca, Peru. These enormous figures and lines, which are only visible from the air, have puzzled archaeologists and visitors for decades.
  • The Ballestas Islands: Located roughly at sea level. The Ballestas Islands, known as the «Galapagos of Peru», are a group of islands off the coast of Paracas. They are home to seabirds, sea lions and penguins, and are accessible by boat.
  • Lake Titicaca: It is located at an altitude of 3,810 meters (12,500 feet). Lake Titicaca, located on the border between Peru and Bolivia, is the highest navigable lake in the world. It is known for its floating islands of Uros and Taquile Island, as well as for its rich culture.
  • Kuelap: It is located at an altitude of 3,000 m / 9,843 ft ASL. Kuelap is an ancient fortified citadel of the Chachapoyas culture, located high in the mountains of northern Peru. Its impressive structures and strategic location make it a unique archaeological destination.
  • Caral: It is located at an altitude of 350 meters (1,148 feet). Caral is an ancient city dating from 2600 BC, considered the oldest civilization in the Americas. It is an important archaeological site in the Supe Valley, Peru.
  • Manu National Park: It is located at an altitude ranging from 150 meters (492 feet) to 4,200 meters (13,780 feet). Manu National Park is a biosphere reserve in the Peruvian Amazon, covering a wide range of altitudes and ecosystems. It is known for its biodiversity and the presence of indigenous communities.
  • Huascaran National Park: Altitude varies, but includes peaks exceeding 6,000 m / 19,685 ft ASL. Huascaran National Park, a World Heritage Site, is located in the Cordillera Blanca and Huayhuash mountain ranges. It is known for its majestic mountains, glaciers and high mountain lakes.
  • The Mangroves of Tumbes: It is located at sea level. The Tumbes Mangroves are part of a coastal ecosystem in Tumbes, Peru. They offer a unique habitat for diverse birds, fish and other marine life.
  • Chan Chan Citadel: It is located at sea level. Chan Chan is an adobe citadel that was the capital of the Chimu Kingdom. It is the largest mud city in America and known for its intricate decorative reliefs.
  • Royal Tombs of Sipan Museum: It is located at an altitude of 32 m / 105 ft ASL. Located in Lambayeque, Peru, the Royal Tombs of Sipan Museum houses the treasures of Moche culture. It highlights the tomb of the Lord of Sipan. Its collection offers an unparalleled window to the region’s rich archaeological heritage.
  • Chavin de Huantar: It is located at an altitude of 3,180 meters (10,433 feet). It is an archaeological site in Ancash, Peru, built by the Chavin culture. (https://bestsellerpublishing.org/) It stands out for its complex architecture and the Lanzon Monolithic. It is the foundation of the understanding of pre-Inca civilizations in the Peruvian Andes. World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Different tourist places in Peru

Peruvian best cities

ALTITUDE OF THE OTHER WONDERS OF THE WORLD

  1. Great Wall of China: It is located at an altitude ranging from 500 to 1,000 m / 1,640 to 3,280 ft ASL. The Great Wall of China is an impressive defensive structure that stretches for thousands of kilometers along China’s northern border. Built over several centuries, it is an iconic symbol of Chinese history and engineering.
  2. Chichen Itza, Mexico: It is located at an altitude of 22 m / 72 ft ASL. Chichen Itza is an ancient Mayan city and an important archaeological site on the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico. With the Pyramid of Kukulcan as its most famous structure, it is renowned for its architecture and astronomical alignments.
  3. Petra, Jordan: It is located at an altitude of approximately 810 m / 2,650 ft ASL. Petra is an ancient city famous for its impressive rock-carved structures, such as the Treasury and the Monastery. It is an important archaeological site and one of Jordan’s cultural treasures.
  4. Cristo Redentor, Brazil: It is located at an altitude of 710 m / 2,330 ft ASL. Christ the Redeemer is an imposing statue of Jesus Christ that sits atop Corcovado Hill in Rio de Janeiro. It is an iconic symbol of Brazil and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
  5. Colosseo Romano, Italy: It stands at 40 m / 130 ft ASL. The Colosseum is an ancient Roman amphitheater and one of the most impressive examples of Roman architecture and construction. It is known for its public performances and historical events.
  6. Taj Mahal, India: It stands at 171 m / 561 ft ASL. The Taj Mahal is a majestic white marble mausoleum in Agra, India. Built in the 17th century by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, it is renowned for its architectural beauty and romantic symbolism.

DISCOVER MACHU PICCHU IN A FULL-DAY TOUR

Indeed, it’s possible to travel and discover Machu Picchu from Cusco in less than 24 hours. This tour is made for people who just focused their trip on Machu Picchu.

BOOK HERE!

Seven Wonders of the Modern World

Seven Wonders of the Modern World

COMMON QUESTIONS

Do I need pills for altitude sickness in Machu Picchu?

If you experience severe altitude sickness, the answer is yes. The first thing you have to do it in case happens is to descend at lower altitudes wherever you are. You can take pills if you feel altitude sickness, but ask your doctor if you have allergies or something like that.

INKAYNI PERU TOUR – WE ARE THE BEST

If you are planning to travel to Peru and visit its highlight tourist attractions, Inkayni Peru Tours is the best option for you.

CONTACT US!

What is the altitude of Machu Picchu?

The altitude of Machu Picchu is 2,430 meters/7,972 feet, so this altitude is not considered high altitude.

Is Arequipa higher than Machu Picchu?

No, Arequipa is at a lower than the altitude of Machu Picchu. Arequipa’s altitude is approximately 2,335 m / 7,660 ft ASL, while Machu Picchu is located at 2,430 m / 7,972 ft ASL. In terms of altitude, Machu Picchu is at a higher elevation than Arequipa.

You have wondered how high is Machu Picchu! From the impressive altitude of Machu Picchu mountain to the varied elevations of the trekking routes, we have explored the geography and altitude of this archaeological site. Acclimatization, tips to avoid altitude sickness and the different altitudes of nearby attractions have been revealed as key aspects to fully enjoy this experience.

Now, we invite you to immerse yourself in this unique journey, where the majestic splendour of Machu Picchu come across with the majesty of the Peruvian Andes! Discover more about the altitude, history and secrets of Machu Picchu, book now with Inkayni Peru Tours to live an unforgettable adventure in the Andean heights!

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  • Gonzalo Rodrigo Tapia Condori

    Gonzalo Tapia was born in the rainforest of Peru, Madre de Dios, and he's been living in Cusco since 2008. He has been exploring Peru due to his main hobby as a birdwatcher. Also, he has a lot of experience in outdoor activities and wilderness.

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