Peru draws millions of travelers annually to Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley and the Andes. Altitude sickness affects a significant percentage of visitors. Here is what your insurance must cover.
Altitude Sickness: Real Risks at Real Elevations
Cusco sits at 3,400m. Machu Picchu at 2,430m. The Inca Trail peaks at 4,215m. Altitude sickness (AMS) affects approximately 25% of visitors to Cusco. Severe cases (HACE, HAPE) can be life-threatening and require immediate descent or medical evacuation.
Medical Evacuation in the Andes
If you develop severe altitude sickness in a remote Inca Trail location, evacuation may require helicopter extraction. Helicopter evacuation in the Peruvian Andes costs USD 3,000-10,000. IATI covers full medical evacuation including helicopter costs.
Healthcare in Peru
Lima has adequate private hospitals (Clinica San Borja, Clinica Ricardo Palma). Cusco has basic facilities. The Inca Trail and remote Amazon regions have minimal or no medical infrastructure. IATI's assistance team coordinates evacuation from remote locations.
Amazon Travel and Tropical Diseases
The Peruvian Amazon (Iquitos, Madre de Dios) presents malaria risk, dengue, leishmaniasis and risk of waterborne disease. IATI covers treatment of these conditions including hospitalization. Malaria prophylaxis should be started before departure — consult your travel medicine specialist.
What IATI Recommends for Peru
IATI Standard covers EUR 50,000 medical expenses and full evacuation — adequate for most Peru travelers. If you plan high-altitude trekking above 4,000m or extended Amazon expedition, IATI Premium provides higher medical limits and priority assistance.
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