The journey to Rainbow Mountain is a unique experience. However, due to the long route and high altitude, some travelers may feel dizzy or unwell on the bus.
The good news: you can prevent and manage it easily, especially when traveling with professional operators who care about your well-being. Here’s how to prepare and what to do if motion sickness occurs.
1. Why Motion Sickness Happens on the Way to Vinicunca
The bus ride from Cusco to the starting point of the trek takes about 3 hours, on roads with many curves and altitude changes.
Motion sickness can be caused by:
High altitude (over 4,000 m / 13,000 ft)
Continuous movement of the bus on winding roads
Traveling on an empty stomach or immediately after a heavy meal
Anxiety or lack of sleep the night before
2. How to Prevent Motion Sickness Before the Bus Ride
Get a good night’s sleep beforehand
Avoid heavy or greasy meals
Drink coca or muña tea before the tour
If you are prone to motion sickness, take medication an hour before (consult your doctor)
Carry lemon or mint candies
3. What to Do If You Start Feeling Sick During the Ride
Don’t worry. When you travel with us, our guides are trained to help.
You can:
Close your eyes and take deep breaths through your nose
Avoid reading or using your phone, as this worsens nausea
Ask for oxygen if you feel short of breath
Recline your seat and relax
Drink small sips of water gradually
Our buses always have:
Oxygen available
Guides trained in first aid
Emergency medical kits
4. Benefits of Traveling with Local Operators Like Us
When you choose to travel with us:
You receive assistance at all times
Guides speak Spanish and English
Comfortable and authorized transportation
Flexibility if you need to stop
Personalized attention from pickup to return
Avoid informal buses without medical kits, oxygen, or responsible guides. Your safety comes first.
Want a Safe Experience to Vinicunca?
With us, you travel relaxed and supported. Forget about motion sickness and focus on enjoying one of Peru’s most breathtaking hikes!
