10 High-Altitude Cities to Visit Before You Die

Have you ever considered exploring cities that sit above the clouds? High-altitude destinations offer not only breathtaking landscapes but also rich cultural experiences and unique attractions. Here, we feature 10 high-altitude cities that promise adventure, beauty, and an unforgettable travel experience.

‍

What is a High-Altitude City?

A high-altitude city is typically situated at elevations above 2,500 meters (8,200 feet) above sea level. These cities often boast cooler climates, stunning vistas, and vibrant cultures shaped by their unique environments. Visiting these places requires some preparation, especially to acclimatize to the lower oxygen levels.

‍

Though you’re at a higher elevation in these cities, it doesn’t mean you must go without cellular service! A virtual SIM card through GigSky will allow you to stay connected no matter how long you choose to play amongst the stars. 

‍

Benefits of Visiting High-Altitude Cities

1. Unique Landscapes: Enjoy panoramic views and enchanting scenery found only at higher elevations.
2. Cultural Richness: Experience diverse traditions, festivals, and cuisines.
3. Adventure Opportunities: Engage in activities such as hiking, trekking, and exploring ancient ruins.
4. Health Benefits: Some studies suggest that spending time at high altitudes can improve cardiovascular health and boost metabolism.

‍

Top High-Altitude Cities to Visit

‍

1. El Alto, Bolivia

Elevation: 4,150 meters (13,615 feet)

‍

Highlights:

• El Alto Market: One of South America's largest markets, offering everything from local produce to artisanal crafts.
• Cholets: Marvel at the colorful, unique architecture of these buildings.
• Andes Views: Enjoy stunning views of the Andes Mountains.
• Mi Teleférico: Easily access La Paz's attractions via this extensive cable car system.

‍

2. Lhasa, Tibet (China)

Elevation: 3,656 meters (11,990 feet)

‍

Highlights:

• Potala Palace: The former winter palace of the Dalai Lamas from 1649 to 1959, and now a museum and UNESCO World Heritage Site.  
• Jokhang Temple: A Tibetan Buddhist temple with a temple complex and Gelug school monastery. 
• Barkhor Street: Home to a well-known bazaar and the best place to get authentic Tibetan-made souvenirs.  
• Norbulingka Institute: An institute dedicated to preserving Tibetan culture in literary and artistic forms. 

‍

3. La Paz, Bolivia

Elevation: 3,640 meters (11,942 feet)

‍

Highlights:

• Valle de la Luna: Explore the otherworldly landscape of Moon Valley.
• Witches' Market: Discover traditional Andean spiritual items.
• Plaza Murillo: Stroll through the central plaza that’s connected to the political life of Bolivia. 
• Tiwanaku: A pre-Columbian archaeological site.

‍

4. Leh, India

Elevation: 3,524 meters (11,562 feet)

‍

Highlights:

• Leh Palace: Visit this former royal palace, built in the 1600s.  
• Shanti Stupa: Marvel at this Buddhist white-domed Stupa, built in 1991 that holds relics at its base.
• Thiksey Monastery and Hemis Monastery: Stop by these two notable Buddhist monasteries in the area. 
• Pangong Lake: Walk around or swim in this high-altitude, endorheic lake (a lake that allows for no outflow) that boasts nature at its finest. 

‍

5. Cusco, Peru

Elevation: 3,399 meters (11,152 feet)

‍

Highlights:

• Machu Picchu: Walk around this famously well-preserved 15th-century citadel
• Qorikancha: Known as the “Temple of the Sun,” it was the most important temple in the Inca Empire.
• Sacred Valley: Explore this region in Peru’s Andean highlands that formed the heart of the Inca Empire.
• Inca Trail: Hike this trail in Peru that ends at Machu Picchu. 

6. Quito, Ecuador

Elevation: 2,850 meters (9,350 feet)

‍

Highlights:

• Historic Center of Quito: Walk amongst the colonial center and marvel at the buildings that blend European, Moorish and Indigenous architecture. 
• La Compañía de Jesús Church: Visit the church and convent of San Ignacio de Loyola de la Compañía de Jesús de Quito. 
• El Panecillo: Hike up the 200-meter-high volcanic rock hill.
• TelefériQo: Take this cable car to the lookout Cruz Loma – it’s one of the highest lifts in the world.

‍

7. Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Elevation: 2,355 meters (7,726 feet)

‍

Highlights:

• National Museum of Ethiopia: Marvel at the archaeological finds like “Lucy,” an early hominid fossil. 
• Holy Trinity Cathedral: Visit this highest-ranking Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo cathedral. 
• Entoto Hill: Spend some time in nature and enjoy the Entoto park lands. 
• Merkato Market: Shop your way through this large, open-air market, named for the neighborhood in which it’s located. 

‍

8. Bogotá, Colombia

Elevation: 2,640 meters (8,660 feet)

‍

Highlights:

• Monserrate Mountain: Hike to the top of this mountain (over 3,000m/10,000ft) and visit the church and shrine devoted to El Señor Caído. 
• Gold Museum (Museo del Oro): Marvel at the gold on display at this frequently visited museum. 
• Botero Museum: Enjoy the artwork by Fernando Botero as well as some of the artwork he kept in his personal collection by other artists. 
• Simón Bolívar Metropolitan Park: Stroll through this sports complex and green space at the heart of the city. 

‍

9. Potosí, Bolivia

Elevation: 4,067 meters (13,343 feet)

‍

Highlights:

• Cerro Rico: Visit the mountain and mines famous for providing vast quantities of silver to the Spanish empire. 
• Casa Nacional de la Moneda: Learn at this former mint that’s now a museum about how most of the silver shipped through Spanish Main was made. 
• San Francisco Church and Convento de Santa Teresa: Stop by these two holy places, notable for their patron saints. 

‍

10. Arequipa, Peru

Elevation: 2,335 meters (7,661 feet)

‍

Highlights:

• Santa Catalina Monastery: Visit this large Dominican Second Order monastery that’s part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site that is this city.  
• Colca Canyon: Marvel at this river canyon that’s famed as being one of the world’s deepest and the home to Andean condors. 
• Yanahuara Viewpoint: Snap photos at this scenic overlook with panoramic vistas and engraved arches. 
• Historic city center: Explore the Plaza de Armas with the massive Basilica Cathedral and the many markets. 

‍

Travel Tips for High-Altitude Destinations

‍

1. Acclimatize Gradually

Spend a few days at intermediate altitudes before heading to higher elevations. Example: If visiting Cusco, spend a day or two in the Sacred Valley before ascending. 

‍

2. Stay Hydrated:

Drink plenty of water and avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine. Carry a reusable water bottle so you can stay hydrated on the go. 

‍

3. Eat Light and Healthy Meals:

Eat small, frequent meals rich in carbohydrates. Avoid heavy, greasy foods.

‍

4. Take it Easy:

Avoid strenuous activities initially; gradually increase activity levels. Rest often and listen to your body if you start feeling ill.

‍

5. Know the Symptoms of Altitude Sickness:

Be aware of symptoms like headaches, dizziness, nausea, shortness of breath, and fatigue. Consult a doctor about medications like acetazolamide (Diamox) if you plan to do strenuous activities at altitude.

‍

6. Pack Accordingly:

Bring layers of clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Pack a first aid kit with altitude sickness medications and pain relievers.

‍

7. Plan for Extra Time:

Allow extra time for acclimatization and rest. Schedule flexible or relaxing activities initially.

‍

8. Use Local Remedies:

Try local remedies like coca tea in the Andes or ginger tea in Asia. Ask locals or guides for recommendations if you’re struggling to acclimate.

‍

9. Stay Connected:

Keep in touch with someone at home and update them on your whereabouts. Make sure you have a travel eSIM for your destination. Know the local emergency contacts and bring a power bank.

‍

10. Insurance and Health Precautions:

Get travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking and medical evacuation. Consider visiting your healthcare practitioner before your trip.

‍

Conclusion

‍
High-altitude cities offer an extraordinary travel experience, blending breathtaking landscapes with rich cultural heritage. With proper preparation and these travel tips, you can fully enjoy the adventure and wonder these destinations offer.

‍

Ready to explore above the clouds? Make sure to get the GigSky eSIM app before you go! It’ll make staying in touch and managing your travel plans easy.