From 100 Facts for 100 Years of Machu Picchu - #14

By Catharine Hamm | Los Angeles Times Travel Editor

14. The symptoms of altitude sickness don't generally occur until you're at 8,000 feet.  Depending on which yardstick you use, Machu Picchu may be less than that (or more).  Some say it's at 7,100 feet; others say 9,000.  Bottom line: Cut yourself a little slack.


Cusco is at a higher elevation than either Machu Picchu or the Sacred Valley so typically if you are having mild altitude sickness you will feel better when you leave Cusco.  For people doing the Classic Inca Trail hike the "Dead Woman's Pass" at 12,500 feet is the highest point on the trail and where most people will feel the effects of altitude.