Cusco Altitude Guide
Your Quick Guide to Coca in Cusco
Welcome to Cusco! The altitude here is around 11,152 ft (3,399 m). This guide provides quick answers to common questions about using coca to acclimate. For more details, explore the sections using the navigation bar.
How much coca tea?
Start with 2 to 3 cups per day upon arrival. Listen to your body and adjust as needed. Most locals and guides consider up to 4-5 cups perfectly normal.
Does chewing leaves help?
Yes, chewing coca leaves is a traditional and effective method. It provides a more sustained, gentle effect compared to tea. It’s a common practice throughout the Andes.
Will it help constipation?
It’s unlikely to be a direct remedy. Altitude and travel can disrupt digestion. While coca is a mild stimulant, it is not a recognized treatment for constipation. Stay hydrated and eat fiber.
Understanding Coca Tea (Mate de Coca)
Mate de coca is a warm, comforting herbal infusion offered everywhere in Cusco. It’s the most common way for visitors to use coca for altitude acclimatization. Here you can explore recommended consumption levels and understand its effects.
Interactive Dosage Guide
Drag the slider to see common recommendations for daily coca tea consumption. This is a general guide, not medical advice.
The Tradition of Chewing Coca Leaves
Chewing coca leaves is an ancient Andean practice with deep cultural roots. It’s a more direct and sustained method of feeling the plant’s benefits compared to tea. This section compares the two methods to help you choose.
Tea vs. Chewing: A Comparison
| Feature | Coca Tea (Mate de Coca) | Chewing Leaves (Aculllico) |
|---|---|---|
| Method | Steeping dried leaves in hot water. | Placing a quid of leaves in the cheek, often with an activator (llipt’a). |
| Effect Onset | Relatively quick, similar to other herbal teas. | Slower, more gradual, and sustained release. |
| Intensity | Mildest form of consumption. | More potent and longer-lasting effects. |
| Taste | Mild, earthy, similar to green tea. | More bitter and astringent. The activator adds a distinct flavor. |
| Best For | A gentle introduction, hydration, and comfort. | Sustained energy for treks, and a more authentic cultural experience. |
Recognizing Altitude Sickness (Soroche)
Altitude sickness, or ‘soroche’, affects many visitors to Cusco. Coca can help alleviate mild symptoms, but it’s crucial to recognize the signs and know when to take other measures. This chart shows common symptoms grouped by severity.
Common Symptoms by Severity
Hover over the bars for more information.
Beyond Coca: Key Acclimatization Tips
Remember, coca is a helpful aid, not a cure. The best strategy is prevention: rest on your first day, stay hydrated (water is key!), avoid heavy meals and alcohol, and consider acetazolamide after consulting your doctor before your trip.
Coca and Your Digestion
Many travelers experience digestive changes at high altitudes. Here we address the specific question about whether coca can help with constipation, separating common beliefs from the reality of its effects.
❓ The Common Belief
Some people believe that since coca is a traditional remedy, it can help with various ailments, including digestive issues like constipation. It is often seen as a general-purpose ‘cure-all’ for travelers’ woes.
✅ The Reality
Coca is a mild stimulant and can slightly increase gut motility for some, but it is not a laxative. More often, constipation at altitude is caused by dehydration and changes in diet and routine. The best approach is to drink plenty of water, eat high-fiber foods, and allow your body time to adjust.
⚠️ Important Warning & Disclaimer
While coca tea and leaves are legal and commonplace in Peru, they are illegal in most other countries. Do not attempt to take them home. Consumption can also lead to a positive result on a drug test for cocaine. This guide is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you experience severe symptoms of altitude sickness, seek medical attention immediately.