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[Matthew]

Would like to spend 4 days in Cuenca, but am concerned about altitude sickness. Anyone have knowledge if this can be a problem in Cuenca. I have read about this condition being really bad from tourist staying in Quito. Any other tips on Cuenca would be appreciated also.

[Wally]

Hi,
Cuenca is about 8,000 feet above sea level, not as high as Quito, but high enough for altitude sickeness to be a factor. You don't say what your age and health status is but if you are in good health you will be just fine in Ceunca if for the first 2 or 3 days you drink lots of water, limit strenuous aerobic activity (running, climbing etc.), eat light meals and get plenty of sleep. I lived for a couple of years in Ecuador and traveled from the low lying coast to the mountains dozens of times and never had any major problems with altitude sickness in Quito, Cuenca or any of the other cities in the Sierra.