Machu Picchu Charity Trek 2024

• Trek: £1,326 per person.
  • Non refundable trek deposit – £205 per person.  (£200 towards your place + £5 to cover card payment fees)
  • Trek balance – Whenever you want to make a payment towards your balance, e-mail Callum, our contact at the travel company, (callum@theadventurepeople.com) with how much you want to pay and he’ll send a link for you to make the payment.
    Final payment due before 19th April.
    Nic will have a note of all payments made if you ever forget and want to check what you’ve paid.
  • Accommodation included: hotels (3 nights), camping (3 nights)  See itinerary for links to the hotels we’ll be staying in.
  • Meals included: 6 breakfasts, 4 lunches & 3 dinners are included.
    • Vegetarian options are available on all meals throughout the adventure.
    • Where there’s a choice of eating options locally, meals are not included in the trip price, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat.  It also gives you more budgeting flexibility although generally food is cheap.
• Flights:
  • Group flights have been booked & paid, for the majority of the group.  If you haven’t yet booked flights and want Callum to book them, get in touch with him.
  • If you choose to extend your stay in Peru, flights can be organised to suit your trip.  Get in touch with Callum to arrange this.
• Tipping – It is customary in Latin America to tip service providers such as waiters and tour guides, approximately 10%. Tipping is an expected but not compulsory part of the trip. This can add up so consider it into your budget.  If at the end of your trip, you felt that your trek guide and support team did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference, although as a guide, it’s suggested each hiker contributes the following to a collective pool:
  • Head guide: 10-25 USD
  • Assistant guide: 5-12 USD
  • Your trekking crew: 40 USD
• Other costs to be aware of:  These are not included and should be arranged by each person individually.
  • Insurance
    • All trekkers must have a minimum coverage of 200,000 USD for repatriation and emergency rescue.  It is strongly recommended that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects.  Insurance can be arranged through The Adventure People, e-mail Callum if you’d like him to get you a quote.
  • Travel vaccinations
    • See section below
  • Kit (See ‘checklist & what to take’ section below)
  • Spending money
  • Emergency fund
    • It is suggested that you have access to at least $200 (or equivalent) as an emergency fund to be used when circumstances outwith our control require a change to our planned route (eg a natural disaster).  This is a rare occurrence!

This is going to be a trip of a lifetime – and you can feel even better knowing that you’ll be fundraising to support amputees across the country. As a wee reminder of what you’ll be supporting, and how to tell your Machu Picchu trek supporters, we’ve made a little blurb for you about what we do. You can feel free to use as much or as little as you like. Check it out here or ask Nic if you’d like something a bit more personalised to the area you’re in (eg if you’re asking local companies to sponsor you – there might be local amputees who attend our Clubs in your area which will allow you to tell the companies that they’re supporting local amputees)

Here’s a few videos to light your fundraising spark. Feel free to share!
FYF in 60 seconds
Five of our Troopers
Graham’s story
Andrew’s story
Grant’s story
Paul’s story
Kilimanjaro trek 2018
Kilimanjaro trekkers
Cor’s family’s thoughts on her taking on Kilimanjaro
(Top tip – open one of the videos, copy the url, paste it into a post on social along with a link to your fundraising page and a request for donations ?)

Minimum fundraising amount is £1,000. We suggest trying to raise at least half by November, so you aren’t stressing about this closer to the trip date.

There are lots of ways you can fundraise, and we can help with it all.  Get in touch with Nic if you want to have a chat about it, but here’s a few suggestions.

• Just Giving page (we can help you set one up if you’re not sure how)
  • Share this on social, e-mail footers and with all your friends, family & workmates.
  • If you’re sharing on social, it’s best to put a wee message out with it, rather than just share the link on it’s own.
  • People tend not to donate the 1st time they see it, so share it regularly… maybe with updates on your planning / training?
  • If you work for a company with an intranet site, see if you can share it there.
• Approach local companies to ask for sponsorship
  • We can give you some blurb about FYF and how our Troopers will benefit from their support.  You could have their logo printed onto your trek gear and share photos from the trip which you / they can share on their social platforms for promotion.
• Some companies will match fund your fundraising total, it’s worth asking your own company if relevant, or any others.
• Hold an event
  • We can put you in touch with our Fundraising Team, who can give you ideas for events you could organise, and make sure you have flyers, posters, balloons, banners etc to help promote it.
• Paper sponsor forms
  • You can download a sponsor form here to take around your workplace, friends, family or whoever you can get a hold of really!
  • When you’ve collected the money, please return the forms (or clear photos of them) to Nic.
  • There’s 3 preferred options to get the money to us:
    • (1) Pay it into your own bank account and do a bank transfer to us. (CAF Bank, sort code: 83-91-46, account no: 20401236)  Please let Nic know if you’re doing this so we can look out for the payment and assign it to your fundraising total.
    • (2) Pay it into your bank, then transfer it to us using our donation form. Please add a note to tell us this money is from your sponsor form collection.
    • (3) Pop in to the office and hand in the cash. (The team all work part time in the office, please check someone’s in before you come)
• Poster promoting your fundraising
  • We can give you a poster with a QR code to your fundraising page, for people to make donations.  You can ask your workplace, local businesses etc to put a poster up.
• Local press
  • If you’d like us to make contact with your local press to ask them to do a story on your fundraising, speak to Nic.

Day 1, Thurs 20th June: Cusco

• Arrive early and spend some time exploring the city. Meet the group at the welcome meeting.
• Accommodation – twin room in either Hotel Prisma or Hotel de la Villa Hermoza.

Day 2, Fri 21st June: Cusco/Ollantaytambo

• Enjoy a full-day guided tour of the Sacred Valley. Stop at the tour operator-supported women’s weaving co-op before visiting a local pottery-making community. Break for lunch at the tour operator-supported Parwa Community Restaurant in Huchuy Qosco. After lunch, opt to head out on a hike to the Ollantaytambo storehouses and look out over the ruins, or wander around the cobblestone streets and visit a local Chicheria (corn beer bar).
• Accommodation – twin room in Hotel Inka Paradise. (Subject to change.  We’ll confirm as soon as we know)

Day 3, Sat 22nd June: Inca Trail

• The trek begins through beautiful scenery, with a variety of flora that changes with the seasons, passing several smaller ruin sites like Llactapata.
• Accommodation – camping

Day 4, Sun 23rd June: Inca Trail

• Start early to climb the long steep path to Warmiwañusca, better known as Dead Woman’s Pass. This is the highest point of the trek at 4,215m (13,829 ft). Most hikers reach camp by early afternoon, with ample time to rest and relax.
• Accommodation – camping

Day 5, Mon 24th June: Inca Trail

• Cross two more passes and ruins on today’s trek. The first pass is Runquraqay at 3,950m (13,113 ft) where, on a clear day, hikers can catch a glimpse of the snow-capped Cordillera Vilcabamba. Hike through the cloud forest on a gentle climb to the second pass of the day, walking through original Incan constructions. The highest point of the pass is 3,700m (12,136 ft). On a clear day, enjoy the spectacular views of the Urubamba Valley. At 3,650m (11,972 ft), reach the ruins of Phuyupatamarca, the “town above the clouds.” Camp here or go another 1.5 hrs to the Wiñay Wayna ruins (“forever young”) located at 2,650m (8,694 ft).
• Accommodation – camping

Day 6, Tues 25th June: Machu Picchu/Cusco

• The final day of the hike starts pre-dawn to reach the Sun Gate before sunrise. Catch the first views of the breathtaking ruins of Machu Picchu on a clear day. Hike down for a guided tour of the ruins, before your train back towards Cusco.
• Accommodation – twin room in either Hotel Prisma or Hotel de la Villa Hermoza.

Day 7, Wed 26th June: Cusco

• Departure day

Optional Activities:

There are a number of additional optional activities.  More information and booking can be arranged on arrival:

• Cuzco’s Inka Museum (10PEN per person)
• Cuzco City Tour (45PEN per person)
• Cuzco Tourist Ticket (130PEN per person)
• Whitewater Rafting in Urubamba (165PEN per person)

There are other activities offered locally, but not through The Adventure People.  If anyone wants to arrange these, you’ll need to plan them yourselves.  We don’t need to be at the hotel on Day 1 until dinner time for our welcome meeting, so depending what time we arrive (we’ll know when flights are booked), you might have time that day to do whatever you like.

• NHS Fit For Travel website gives information on immunisations required.

Everyone should get their own personal consultation with a local travel clinic, but I’ve asked mine for some info to pass on, just for guidance. Here’s what she said:

There are no mandatory vaccines needed for this trip but I would recommend that those going are up to date with hepatitis A, typhoid, tetanus/polio/diphtheria, Hepatitis B and Rabies.

I would suggest starting the vaccines in April next year as that gives ample time to complete the Hep B and Rabies courses (Hep B is 3-4 doses and Rabies is 3 doses).

It is worth remembering that Hepatitis A, typhoid and the combined tetanus vaccine can be given on the NHS.  This means that if they are given in an NHS travel clinic, you are not charged for those vaccines.  Although NHS travel vaccines are generally no longer provided by GP surgeries (some rural health boards still might), each health board in Scotland still provides a travel service but where that is done differs from health board to health board.  The contact details for each health board NHS travel service can be found through the link below. I would recommend getting what you can using the NHS service with the option to get rabies and hep B privately.

https://www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk/advice/general-travel-health-advice/before-you-travel#A-ZScottishHealthBoards

There’s lots of travel clinics around the country, just Google to find ones near you.  Another recommendation from the team is Boots the Chemist.

If you’re worried about altitude sickness, speak to your doctor. Cuzco has a high elevation and we’re spending the start of our trip there to help us acclimatise. Lima however is at sea level.

Most people automatically assume that the weather is hot in South America, but because of the higher altitude in the Andes, the temperature can feel quite cold, especially at night.

We recommend using a backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person. You will be responsible for carrying your own luggage.

Current exchange rate (11/05/23) – 0.22 GBP = 1 Sol

If you’d like an easy to read checklist, we’ve made a PDF you can download here.

Available for Rent: (Booked on arrival, card payment only)• Camping mattress/sleep mat (45 soles) • Sleeping bag (45 soles) • Walking poles (15 soles each (30 per pair))

Documents: • Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border) • Insurance info (required) (With photocopies) • Passport (required) (With photocopies) • Required vaccination certificates (required) (With photocopies) • Vouchers and pre-departure information (required) • Please note: currently no Visa required for Peru, however, check here before you go.

Essentials: • Binoculars (optional) • Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries) • Cash, credit and debit cards • Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights) • Ear plugs • First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking) • Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal) • Fleece top/sweater • Footwear • Hat • Locks for bags • Long pants/jeans • Moneybelt • Outlet adapter • Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.) • Reusable water bottle • Shirts/t-shirts • Sleepwear • Small travel towel • Sunglasses • Toiletries (Preferably biodegradable) • Watch and alarm clock • Waterproof backpack cover • Windproof rain jacket

Inca Trail: • Hiking pants (Convertible/Zip-off and quick dry recommended) • Pack liners to waterproof bags • Rain gear • Camping mat (available for rent) • Sleeping bag (available for rent) • Thermal base layer • Travel pillow • Walking poles, rubber-tipped (available for rent) • Waterproof hiking boots

Cold Weather: • Long-sleeved shirts or sweater • Scarf • Warm gloves • Warm hat • Warm layers

Warm Weather: • Sandals/flip-flops • Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended) • Sun hat/bandana • Swimwear

Note: The best clothing for trekking is either wool or synthetic materials in layers, as this is quick-drying and can keep heat in better. We suggest a base-layer, then a mid-layer such as a light fleece jacket or similar, then a windproof and waterproof layer.

• This adventure is led by a local guide throughout. The main language of this adventure is English.
• Inca Trail permits will be booked based on passport information, and issued on presentation of the passport.  If your passport is due to expire before we travel (or you’ll have less than 6 months left), you’ll need to renew it before we go.  You need to request for your old passport to be returned to you (this doesn’t happen automatically any more), and both passports must be presented to receive your permit.
• Many places will only accept credit / debit cards, not cash.  Please make sure you know your PIN as not all will accept contactless payment.
• Velasco Astete International Airport in Cuzco is a 15 minute drive from the centre of the city, where our hotel is.  Taxis are easily available and inexpensive – best booked at a tourist information kiosk after collecting luggage, rather than hailing one outside the airport.
• Illegal drugs will not be tolerated!  Smoking marijuana and opium is part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers.  The guides reserve the right to dispel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession.
• Here’s a guide (found on an online search) to the best boots for trekking Machu Picchu
• Someone asked about taking food with us, as it’s not permitted on entry in some countries.  It’s fine to take food (snacks) with us. ?
• There are no Covid restrictions – we don’t need to take masks / tests with us.
• For those extending your trip, you’ll be able to leave luggage not required for the Inca Trail, either at the hotel or the local office of the travel company.
• Additional notes from The Adventure People:
  • INCA TRAIL REGULATIONS
    The rules and regulations controlling the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu are continually changing. Before embarking on your adventure to Peru it is very important that you familiarize yourself with the Inca Trail booking policies and guidelines as described in a document available on our website, at the following URL address
  • NEW MACHU PICCHU REGULATIONS
    Please note that regulations have been implemented for all visitors to Machu Picchu which require that different circuits be followed within the site as a way to relieve crowding. The new circuit-based entrance tickets are available on first come first serve basis. We will do all that is possible to get everyone traveling in a group on the same route, but be aware that it is possible that members of the same group might be visiting Machu Picchu on a different circuit and not be together during this visit. Rest assured that regardless of the circuit you will enjoy the beauty and grandeur of the site
  • INCA TRAIL MAINTENANCE
    Portions of the Inca Trail will be closed for general maintenance during the month of February each year. Also, closures may occur at various times throughout the year due to inclement weather or other conditions beyond our control. During these periods, any tour affected will hike the Lares Trek.
  • COMBO TRIP
    Please note that this tour combines with other tour operator tours. As such, the staff and some travel companions on your tour may have previously been traveling together with the tour operator, prior to Day 1 of your tour. Likewise, some staff and travel companions may be continuing together on another the tour operator tour, after your trip concludes.
  • In our continued effort to support the rights of the porters on the Inca Trail, we would like ensure that they never exceed the weight limit for their packs as set out by the Peruvian authorities. Porters are allowed to carry no more than 6kg of personal belongings per hiker (for all other Peru treks the limit is 7kg). That means that including your sleeping bag, toiletries, clothing, etc, you are allowed a total weight of 6kg for the hike which will be carried in a duffle bag provided by our local office. Any additional weight must then be carried by you in your day pack. To help achieve this goal we recommend that you carry travel sized toiletries, that you bring sport sandals that can be worn with socks (which are lighter than running/walking shoes) and that you limit electronics to those that you are willing to carry. Any additional baggage can be left in Cusco, but is advised that you bring anything of value (eg. money, passport, credit cards, camera, etc) with you on the trek. If at the end of your trek you felt your trekking guide and support team did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference, please see the Tipping section for guidelines.
• Wifi is pretty good for lots of the time during the adventure. When we arrive at the airport, we can buy local SIM cards starting at £8, although apparently they’re more expensive.  We can buy them online before we leave. There is wifi available in all properties, although Ollantaytambo (day 2) is more remote so the coverage and speed may be patchy at times.
• Mobile phone data:  Please be aware each network have their own allowances which can be different per UK tariff.  Some can be really expensive.  Everyone will need to contact their network provider & get the following:
  • Full International Roaming activated
  • Ask network to confirm current roaming bundles available for Peru. They will confirm roaming allowance & cost along with out of bundle charges, they should also confirm if additional bundles can be added while away (may need to ask).
  • Activate a voicemail PIN as any calls that go to voicemail will require a PIN to access the message when overseas.
  • TURN HANDSET OFF getting on flight from UK & power on once out of UK as this should help auto connection upon arrival in Peru.
  • If no connection, perform a manual network search from handset.
• Plug adapters: There are three different types of electrical outlets in Peru. If you Google, there are lots of websites explaining which to get, here’s one as an example.
  • Type A accepts a flat parallel two-prong plug
  • Type B takes a three-prong plug.
    • Outlets A and B are the same as those found in the United States.
  • Type C accepts a circular two-prong plug.