When planning a trip to the ancient capital of the Incas, Cusco, one of the most important aspects to consider is acclimatization to the elevation. While Cusco is the most popular starting point for those visiting Machu Picchu and other wonders of the region, the Sacred Valley has become known as an ideal option for acclimating to the altitude before reaching higher elevations. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of acclimatizing in Cusco versus the Sacred Valley, comparing not only the differences in altitude and climate, but also other key factors that can influence your experience. Read on to find out.
Acclimatization Comparison: Cusco vs. Sacred Valley
For those trying to acclimatize to altitude, location plays a crucial role in how the body adapts and to what extent the effects of altitude sickness are minimized. The Sacred Valley and Cusco have their own unique characteristics, which offer advantages and disadvantages to travelers. Below is a detailed breakdown of these two destinations to help you make the best decision:
Altitude: A Determining Factor
The city of Cusco is located at 3,399 meters above sea level, which places it among the highest cities in the world. Although it is the gateway to the region, this altitude can lead to the effects of altitude sickness for many people, especially if proper precautions are not taken.
On the other hand, the Sacred Valley is at an average altitude of 2,500 meters, which makes it an ideal place to acclimatize before ascending to higher places such as Cusco or Rainbow Mountain. This lower altitude allows the body to adapt gradually, reducing the likelihood of altitude sickness.
Pro to acclimatize in the Sacred Valley:
- Lower altitude, making acclimatization easier.
- Gradual gain in altitude if you plan to visit Cusco later.
Cons of acclimatizing in Cusco:
- High altitude which may cause symptoms of altitude sickness.
- Slower adaptation if proper precautions are not taken.
Climate: Cooler or Colder?
Climate also influences the acclimatization experience. While Cusco has a cooler and drier climate due to its elevation, the Sacred Valley enjoys a more temperate and pleasant climate during the year, thanks to its lower altitude and more stable climate that is more conducive to acclimatization.
- In Cusco, nights can be very cold, especially during the dry season (June to September), which can be uncomfortable for travelers who are still adjusting to the altitude.
- In the Sacred Valley, the climate is milder, which allows for a more comfortable acclimatization, especially if you are doing outdoor activities such as hiking or exploration.
Pro to acclimatize in the Sacred Valley:
- More temperate and enjoyable climate.
- Less possibility of feeling extreme cold during the night.
Cons of acclimatizing in Cusco:
- Cold and dry climate, which can make acclimatization difficult.
- Nights can be very cold, which can affect rest.
Activities and Tourist Attractions
One of the benefits of staying in the Sacred Valley is that there are many activities to enjoy as you get used to the altitude and you can take advantage of the proximity to many places to visit and avoid the crowds as you start the Sacred Valley Tour from Ollantaytambo or Urubamba and arrive before everyone else. You can visit places like Pisac, Ollantaytambo, the Salt mines, Moray and Chinchero, which are at lower altitudes and offer a lot of history, culture and nature. In addition, the proximity to Machu Picchu makes the Sacred Valley an excellent option.
Cusco, meanwhile, offers its own tourist attraction, with the Plaza de Armas, the temple of Coricancha and the impressive Sacsayhuaman. However, due to proper acclimatization, many people may feel tired or dizzy during their exploration, which could sometimes ruin the experience.
Pro to acclimatize in the Sacred Valley:
- Great variety of tourist activities at moderate altitudes.
- The proximity to visit Machu Picchu and other attractions without long trips.
Contra of acclimatization in Cusco:
- Visiting historical sites can be strenuous due to the altitude.
- Exploring the surroundings can be more difficult for those who are not properly acclimatized.
Access and Amenities
Cusco is a larger city and has more services, restaurants and luxury lodging options for every budget. It is a city that has been adapted to receive thousands of travelers per day, so it has a more developed infrastructure for international travelers.
On the other hand the Sacred Valley does not offer many lodging options and usually the hotels and restaurants are located far from the town especially if you stay in Urubamba although staying in the Sacred Valley is perfect for those who want to be away from the hustle and bustle and relax more in nature.
Pro to acclimatize in the Sacred Valley:
- A more peaceful and less chaotic environment compared to the city of Cusco.
- Provides a deeper connection with nature and a tranquil atmosphere.
Cons of acclimatizing in Cusco:
- More crowded and chaotic, which can be stressful for some travelers.
Conclusion: Where to Acclimate: Cusco or the Sacred Valley?
Both destinations offer travelers an excellent opportunity to acclimatize., however, if your main objective is to minimize the effects of altitude sickness and acclimatize more gradually and comfortably, the Sacred Valley is the more recommended option.
With its lower altitude, milder climate and more tourist activities in a relaxed environment, the Sacred Valley offers a more favorable acclimatization experience.
While Cusco is a fascinating city and an excellent starting point for your adventure, its altitude can be a challenge, especially if you have not acclimatized properly. Therefore, if you have time, it is ideal to spend a few days in the Sacred Valley and then continue your journey to Cusco.
