ALTITUDE SICKNESS PREVENTION

Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS) or soroche is a pathological condition that is caused by acute exposure to low air pressure usually above 2,400 meters (approximately 8,000 feet). Machu Picchu is located at 2300 meters/ 7600 feet above sea level. The main cause of altitude sickness is going too high too quickly; symptoms include headache, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, dizziness, sleep disorder among others. Before your travel to a high altitude destination, avoid eating too much, and on the arrival day itself, also eat less to avoid altitude sickness. If you stay at a high altitude, rest. Limit any walking or activity; you can explore the area, but take it easy especially on the first day. Drink plenty of water and avoid taking alcoholic beverages.