Hot tip

Travelling in and around Cusco means that you are going to be affected by the altitude. Taking a few days to acclimatise is the best thing you can do, but you should also avoid alcohol, stay hydrated and drink coca tea. Talk to your doctor before departure and ask about Diamox, a prescription drug. Finally, if you are feeling very ill, upmarket hotels, pharmacies and some tour operators keep pressurised cans of oxygen on hand.