Welcome to high altitude. Cusco is situated just over 3,000 meters, or 10,000 feet, above sea level, nestled in the majestic Andes mountain range. If this is your first experience of high altitude, we have a few tips for you to help get the most of your stay with us.

High altitude doesn't affect everyone; most people will be un affected by its presence, but even if you don’t have any major problems, we have some tips here for you to really get the most out of your stay.

In short, the low air pressure reduces the amount of available oxygen in the atmosphere around you. To compensate for this, your body will need to build more red blood cells so your lungs can move enough oxygen to your cells and organs. The adaptation period takes time, which may affect the amount of available oxygen to you brain. A very common effect of high altitude is brain fog. Other common effects are nausea and shortness of breath, and difficulty sleeping. The most effective treatment for altitude sickness is to move to a lower elevation, or to use a mild hyperbaric oxygen chamber like the one we have in our hotel. We are the only hotel in Cusco with an in-house oxygen chamber. 

So, what are these tips?
Slow down! Walk slowly and consciously. Your body needs time to build red blood cells, so until it does, just be kind to it. 

Hydrate! Drink plenty of water. Twice as much as you are normally used to. You will dehydrate quickly in the dry air. If you start to get a headache or feel a little foggy, the chances are you are getting dehydrated. Simply drink a couple of glasses of water and you will likely feel better straight away. Keep a bottle of water by the bed too.

Alcohol dehydrates, so limit your alcohol intake the first couple of days. 
Try to eat light. Digestion needs blood to process food, so don’t overeat in the first couple of days.
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Coca and muña mint teas also help with the digestive process. You can order any of these two teas at any moment in the hotel, on the house.

The best way to get your body oxygenated, and acclimated, is our mild hyperbaric oxygen chamber. This pressurized chamber delivers oxygen directly to your organs and cells, especially the brain. Even if you don’t feel bad, the oxygen will give you a nice boost and is a very relaxing experience. Lethargy, jet lag, lack of sleep, headache and shortness of breath can all disappear with one, half hour session.
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Don’t suffer in silence. Make the most of your short stay in Cusco. Oxygenate, hydrate and keep feeling great.