Oxygen Tank Saves Renowned Traveler from Near-Fatal Altitude Sickness in Peru.

Bill Caco's Journey to Cusco: A Cautionary Tale

According to Tourism.d.ua — Туризм: American travel journalist Bill Caco recently recounted his experience in Cusco, Peru—one of the world's highest cities, perched at roughly 3,400 meters (11,000 feet) above sea level. He admitted underestimating the challenges of high altitude, which triggered symptoms of altitude sickness. To alleviate his condition, Caco had to rely on an oxygen tank.

At that elevation, his blood oxygen level dropped to 85%, well below the normal range of 95–100%. This caused significant discomfort, leading him to reflect:

“I thought I was ready for life at 11,000 feet. I was wrong.” — Bill Caco

Despite receiving warnings about potential dehydration during his trip, Caco did not anticipate such severe health issues.

Cusco's Rich Cultural Heritage

Cusco is also famous for its historical landmarks, including the 15th-century Inca citadel ruins of Sacsayhuamán. Caco shared that, despite the hardships, he still savored moments like “sipping a cocktail while the Andes drift by the window.” He aptly noted:

“Denial works… until it doesn't.” — Bill Caco

During his journey, Caco felt relief when he finally returned to the plane, enjoying what he called 'wonderful recirculated air.' This experience taught him a valuable lesson about the importance of preparing for high-altitude travel.

Experts from Condé Nast Traveler and Lonely Planet advise tourists to consider:

• Peruvian gastronomy
• The best time to visit Machu Picchu

Caco's ordeal further underscores the need to recognize the potential difficulties of such adventures.

His story highlights both the beauty and cultural richness of Cusco, as well as the risks travelers face at high elevations. Altitude sickness is a serious factor to account for when planning trips to mountainous destinations, making it essential to follow expert advice on acclimatization and preparation. It also serves as a reminder that, while exploring new places is exciting, one must prioritize health and safety during travel.