ABOUT YOUR CHALLENGEMACHU PICCHU TREK & COMMUNITY PROJECT

24th October – 3rd November 2020

Reg Charity No. 503386

St Oswald’s Hospice

MACHU PICCHU TREK & COMMUNITY PROJECT

24th October – 3rd November 2020

Trip OverviewStarting off in Lima, you will take a short internal flight to Cusco to begin your challenge. After three days acclimatising and getting involved with hands-on tasks which can include painting, gardening and small building works through the community project, you will then commence your 4 day trek. You will be trekking along the Salkantay Inca Trail, acknowledged by National Geographic Adventure Travel Magazine as one of the 25 best treks in the world.

The Salkantay trail follows an ancient and remote Inca footpath, where massive snow-capped mountains collide with lush tropical rain forests, filled with wild strawberries and multitudes of butterflies. Off the beaten path, this trek is a delightful way to experience the land of the ancient Incas surrounded by spectacular snowy peaks, crossing high passes (up to 4600m) and with a unique view of Machu Picchu up across the valley on the final day trekking. You will spend the last night of the trek in the spa town of Aguas Calientes (which literally means ‘hot waters’) located at the foot of the site of Machu Picchu itself. The following morning you will take a short pre-dawn bus transfer to the ancient site to enjoy a guided tour of this magical city, starting with watching the sunrise. After returning to Cusco for your final night you will travel onwards to Lima before returning home.

Machu PicchuFor many visitors to Peru, Machu Picchu tops the list of must-see destinations. The awe inspiring Inca site is instantly recognisable throughout the world. Reaching Machu Picchu at a height of 2,380m, and first setting eyes on the scene, is a tremendous and exhilarating feeling. The city of Machu Picchu was hidden by the lush vegetation of this region until 1911, and is probably one of the best-preserved ancient kingdoms in the world. The quality of the buildings and their inaccessibility has inspired numerous theories about their purpose over the years.

CuscoFormerly the head of the Inca Empire, Cusco is a fascinating and mystical city full of history, dramatic scenery and the host of many fiestas and carnivals. This UNESCO World Heritage site is situated at an altitude of 3,400m you need time to acclimatise, so spending time gently exploring is encouraged. The city is an eclectic mix of Inca and Spanish architecture; everywhere you look is the remains of original Inca walls, doorways and arches.

Community Project

Before starting your trek you will spend two days assisting a community project in the Sacred Valley near Cusco. Depending on the most urgent need in the community at the time, you will be involved in activities such as basic construction work, painting and decorating, gardening and refurbishment. You will camp overnight in the village that you will be assisting, and you will have the opportunity to meet the local people, learn about the way of life in the area and enjoy the stunning surroundings. In addition to making a huge difference to the community, these days are also extremely important for acclimatisation as you will stay at an altitude of approximately 4,200m while at the project. 

Who accompanies us?During the trek you will be accompanied by professional English-speaking local guides who have an excellent knowledge of local culture and hiking in the region. The guides are first aid trained and will support you throughout your journey. You will also be supported by professional cooks and muleteers from the local communities and a UK tour manager.

About PeruAt 1,285,215 square km, Peru is the third largest country in South America and can be split into three regions: the Andes Mountains, the Amazonian lowlands and the Pacific coastal strip. Peru borders Chile, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, and Ecuador, while the western strip hugs the Pacific Ocean. The country possesses an enormous biological diversity and the flora and fauna are largely determined by the Andes and the Amazon River. Peru is unequalled in South America for its archaeological and historical wealth and has witnessed many cultures and civilisations; the most well-known being the Incas, even though they were only dominant for around 100 years.

What is the terrain like?The terrain during the trek varies. The first day is generally flat but there is a constant gradual incline and you gain approximately 950m altitude. There may be some small streams to cross. The second day will start with a steep zigzagging ascent on rocky ground to the high pass, before an undulating descent through the rainforest where the terrain may be muddy and slippery. The final two days of trekking are undulating and you will trek on a mixture of jungle and alpine types of terrain which will be uneven and possibly muddy underfoot. There are a number of hills to climb including a steep climb through the coffee plantations on the final day. You must ensure your training includes plenty of hills to prepare your body for the hilly terrain you will experience.

How far will we trek?Each trek day will take between 6 and 8 hours depending on group pace, altitude, weather and steepness of terrain. As there is a lot of ascent and descent, the distances covered may not seem very much (approx. 10-15km per day) because this does not demonstrate the difficulty of the terrain.

What is the climate like?The weather during the trip should be generally dry although light-moderate rain is to be expected, particularly on trek day 1. Temperatures will be dependent upon the weather and the altitude. The first two days of trekking are the coolest with a daily average of approx. 6°C to 15°C during the day, and dropping to approx. 0°C and -10°C at night. The third and fourth days of trekking through the jungle areas are warmer with temperatures of approx. 10°C - 25°C, and night temperatures dropping to approx. 0°C to -5°C.

Please note: the temperatures and conditions above are historically accurate for this time of year. Climate change impacts the seasons so you may experience uncharacteristic conditions which are out of our control. Should this happen the guide will assess the situation and make decisions to ensure the best enjoyment and ultimate safety of the group as a whole.

What clothing do I need?Good quality non-cotton trekking kit is essential for this trek. In particular, good quality waterproofs and warm layers are essential to ensure you are prepared for the wide variety of climates. As soon as the sun goes down you can expect it to feel very cold, so you will need to bring good warm layers for evenings at camp.

Where will we sleep?

You will spend the first two nights in hotels (Lima and Cusco); during the project days you will spend one night camping and then return to Cusco for another night in a hotel. During the trek you will spend three nights camping in tents and one night at a guesthouse in Aguas Calientes. After the trek you will spend one further night in Cusco. At camp you will stay in 3-man tents (two to a tent) to ensure you have plenty of space. You should bring your own sleeping mat.

What about washing facilities?There are en-suite facilities at the hotels. During the trek you will be provided with a bowl of hot water and soap each morning to freshen up for the day ahead. There may be basic, cold-water shower facilities available at some of the campsites (correct as of Oct 2020) so you should bring a small towel and biodegradable toiletries with you if you wish to pay to use these facilities.

What about toilet facilities?While in hotels you will have en-suite bathroom facilities with flushing toilets. Toilet facilities at camp will either be a hole dug into the ground with a small privacy tent surrounding it, or a very basic pit latrine toilet block. Toilet paper is not provided so you will need to bring your own. If you use the toilet during the day whilst on the trail, you must carry out any toilet paper you use in a sanitary/nappy sack, to dispose of properly at camp. You must NEVER leave toilet paper or any other litter on the trail.

Where do we eat our meals?While you’re staying in hotels you will have meals at local restaurants or at your hotel. Meals during the trek will be taken in a mess tent where a table, chairs, plates, mugs, cutlery and other equipment is provided for you.

What is the food and drink like during the trek?Your trek cooks will prepare hearty meals during the trek to ensure that you have plenty of energy for each day’s exertion. They will look after you brilliantly, bringing hot drinks to your tent each morning to help you wake up and pack your gear, before enjoying breakfast in the mess tent (hot drinks, bread, butter and jam, pancakes, scrambled eggs or oatmeal etc.). The cooks will prepare traditional Andean food for lunch and dinner which will include dishes such as soup, chicken, beef or lamb, fish with potatoes, quinoa, rice or pasta. Snacks include fruit, chocolate or sandwiches, hot drinks and popcorn.

Hot drinks are served at mealtimes (e.g. coffee, tea, hot chocolate) and there is also the option to have a cup of coca tea, which anecdotally helps people adjust to higher altitudes. If you have a particular preference for tea, coffee or hot chocolate (e.g. herbal tea or decaf coffee), please bring a small personal supply.

Boiled water is provided for your water bottles each day however we recommend that you chemically purify this for peace of mind.

Is this a high altitude trip?Yes, the maximum altitude on this trek is 4600m (Abra Salkantay high pass) however your exposure to high altitude will start from your arrival in Cusco (3400m). Altitudes of approximately 3000m and above are considered high altitude. Upon arriving in Cusco, it quickly becomes evident to un-acclimatised people that they are at a place of high altitude as simple activities such as walking upstairs feels more laboured than expected. The first day in Cusco is intended as

an acclimatisation day, to give your body a chance to adjust. Further acclimatisation time is planned for your two days at the community project; when you ascend to approximately 4200m, then return to Cusco to rest before commencing the trek. These acclimatisation days are very important to help you cope with the altitude demands during the trek.

I’ve never been to high altitude, how will I know what to expect?Your guides are very experienced in spotting the signs of altitude sickness but it is important that you also do your own research into the effects so you can be aware of how your body is adjusting. A great source of information can be found at www.traveldoctor.co.uk/altitude.htm. Common mild symptoms of altitude sickness are headache, nausea, loss of appetite, disturbed sleep and fatigue. These generally subside after a few days, once your body acclimatises to the altitude. It is vital that you make your guides and tour manager aware of any symptoms immediately, so that you can be monitored. Your safety is our number one priority.

Important info about altitude:

• If you begin to show symptoms of moderate altitude sickness, don’t go higher until symptoms decrease. If symptoms increase, you must descend immediately. Your tour guide and tour manager’s decision for you to descend must be respected.

• Avoid depressant drugs including sleeping pills, opiates such as codeine, barbiturates, and tranquillisers. These decrease the respiratory drive during sleep resulting in a worsening of symptoms. If you take these medicines regularly you must visit your GP to discuss your suitability for this trek.

• Stay well hydrated. You need to drink lots of fluids to remain properly hydrated (at least three litres per day from water, soup, tea, juices etc.). Urine output should be copious and clear to pale yellow.

• Take it easy and don’t over exert yourself when you first arrive at altitude.

• Eat a high calorie diet while at altitude.

• Acclimatisation is inhibited by overexertion and dehydration.

• Different people acclimatise at different rates. You must keep aware of your own symptoms.

You may wish to visit your GP to discuss medication which some people consider helpful to adjust to high altitude (Acetazolamide (Diamox)). Please note that this medication is unlicensed for use at altitude and is prescription-only; because it is unlicensed, some GPs may not prescribe it. If they do prescribe it you must have a thorough consultation with your GP about the drug, how it works, how much to take and the unpleasant common side effects.

What is the minimum age? The minimum age is 18 (or 16-17 if accompanied by a parent/guardian). There is no upper age limit.

What kind of person should take part?An ideal candidate for the trek would be someone who is open minded, positive and determined, enjoys the challenges of being away from home, can cope with unpredictable situations, is interested in different cultures and is willing to be taken outside their comfort zone.

How tough is it?This trek is graded ‘challenging’ because you will be trekking over varying terrain, being exposed to high altitude (up to 4600m) and camping in basic campsites. You should be prepared for all weather conditions and variable temperatures. You will trek for four consecutive days, between 6 and 8 hours per day (variable depending on group pace) which may only be around 10-15km in length because of the hilly terrain. The activity level is high (and don’t forget the physical toll of the work you will do at the project for two days) so do not expect it to be easy; there will be some big hills to climb. You are required to train in preparation for this.

How should I prepare?Get outside and start walking. If you’re not a regular walker, start slowly with short distances, then as you get more comfortable, increase your mileage and add in more challenging terrain until you can comfortably walk for several consecutive hours on hilly terrain. Hill walking should feature highly in your training to prepare your body for the terrain you will experience during the trek. Other activities which can complement hill walking include running, cycling, gym workouts and boot camps etc. Building up your core and leg muscle strength is important so exercises such as squats, lunges, push-ups, planks and crunches will really enhance your training. These exercises can be done at home – no gym needed. To help you on your journey, you can download a number of free apps, which will help you train and track your progress, e.g. MapMyWalk, C25K (couch to 5k run), MyFitnessPal (for a variety of sports). You must take your training seriously and arrive as fit as you can be, so you get the most out of this challenge.

Medical declarationA medical form is to be completed by everyone upon registering, and any pre-existing conditions, medications used and other medical issues must be noted and (if relevant) signed by your GP.

Health mattersThe Different Travel Company regrets that we cannot provide specific medical advice or recommendations for vaccinations you should have. Please see your own GP or travel health professional for a personalised medical assessment at least 8 weeks before departure for a consultation. For general health information, please visit http://www.fitfortravel.scot.nhs.uk and http://travelhealthpro.org.uk/.

What is the cost?Option 1: Registration Fee: £300Minimum Sponsorship: £4,290

Option 2: Registration Fee: £600 (can be paid in instalments) Minimum Sponsorship: £3,990A self-funding payment option is also available. There will be fundraising deadlines to meet, with overall fundraising targets to be reached by 31st July 2020. Terms and Conditions apply.

Trip dates:Please note that the trip dates may be subject to change. We intend to operate this challenge during the autumn half term and at the time of writing half term dates had not been announced. The trip dates will be confirmed approximately 1 year in advance.

What is included? Return flights from a UK Airport* to Cusco, airline taxes, all transfers and transport in Peru, accommodation in a hotel in Lima (1 night), Cusco (3 nights), guesthouse accommodation in Aguas Calientes (1 night), tents on project and trek (4 nights), all meals, English-speaking Peruvian guides, horsemen and cooks on trek, trekking permits, Machu Picchu entrance fee.

What is excluded? Transport to UK airport, travel insurance, tips (approx. £20-25 per person) and personal trekking kit, drinks, souvenirs, any vaccinations required.

*Flights from regional airports may be possible subject to a small supplement.

ItineraryDay 1 (Sat 24th October 2020): UK Airport* – LimaDepart a UK Airport* on an indirect flight to Lima. On arrival in Lima transfer to a hotel for an overnight stay. Meals: Dinner.

Day 2 (Sun 25th October 2020): Lima - Cusco It’s an early start this morning for our short flight to Cusco (3400m). After arriving at the hotel the day is at your leisure to rest and acclimatise to the altitude, perhaps take in some of the local sights such as a visit to Cusco Cathedral, the markets, or just enjoy people-watching over a coffee in Plaza de Armas. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Days 3 –4 (Mon 26th – Tue 27th October 2020): Cusco - Project - CuscoThe next two days will be spent assisting on a local community development project while acclimatising to the altitude (up to 4200m). Previous groups have repainted a school, helped repair a clinic or community centre, or created a vegetable garden. This time is invaluable for acclimatising to the altitude before starting the trek and also provides a great opportunity to get involved with the local community and see rural Peru. There will also be time to meet members of the community and learn about life in this part of Peru. You will camp close to the project on Monday night and will return to Cusco on Tuesday afternoon after completing your project tasks. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 5 (Wed 28th October 2020): Cusco – Mollepata - SoraypampaToday the trek begins. We transfer from Cusco very early this morning to take the winding mountain road to Mollepata (2900m), enjoying panoramic views en-route. After our pack horses are loaded and we are prepared, we commence the trek stopping for lunch at around midday. After lunch, we will continue hiking to our stunning campsite, Soraypampa (3850m), arriving late in the afternoon. Trekking approx. 22km, 950m altitude gain.Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 6 (Thu 29th October 2020): Soraypampa – Challway Today the landscape changes drastically. After breakfast we leave the grassy terrain of camp behind and start the most difficult part of the trek, zigzagging uphill on dry and arid ground all morning to the high pass, Abra Salkantay (4600m). Upon reaching Abra Salkantay we admire spectacular views of the mountains and the imposing snowy peaks of Mt. Salkantay (weather permitting) which rises to 6271m above sea level. After celebrating reaching the high pass we start our descent through the jungle to camp in Challway (2920m), stopping en-route for lunch.Trekking approx. 21km, 750m altitude gain / 1620m altitude loss. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 7 (Fri 30th October 2020): Challway – Sahuayaco PlayaWe trek through the rainforest today via the small town of Collpapampa, also called the “Forest Cloudy Brow” where waterfalls, thermal hot springs, fruit trees, and a wide arrange of tropical flowers and birdlife, such as hummingbirds, can be observed. From here we head to the Sahuayaco Playa campsite which is located next to a river where you can take a refreshing dip (2064m). Trekking approx. 18km, 856m altitude loss.Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 8 (Sat 31st October 2020): Sahuayaco Playa - Llactapata – Aguas Calientes After an early breakfast, we will ascend for around three hours to reach Llactapata (2700m) from where we can admire views of Machu Picchu from across the valley. On the way we pass coffee plantations, beautiful landscapes as well as diverse flora and fauna. After enjoying the view, we descend to Hidroelectrica, where we stop for lunch before taking the train to Aguas Calientes (2040m) where we check into our hotel for the night.Trekking approx. 20km, 636m altitude gain, 660m altitude loss.Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 9 (Sun 1st November 2020): Machu Picchu – CuscoThis morning we depart before sunrise to the ancient city of Machu Picchu. We transfer by bus to the site and enjoy a guided tour of the city before having free time to explore the site, such as walking to the famous Sun Gate from where you see the picture postcard classic view of Machu Picchu. This afternoon we take the train to Poroy, followed by a short transfer back to Cusco where we check in for the night before going to a local restaurant for our farewell meal. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 10-11 (Mon 2nd – Tue 3rd November 2020): Cusco – Lima – London*Today we fly from Cusco to Lima before taking the indirect overnight flight back to London*, landing the next day.Meals: Breakfast.

*Flights from regional airports may be possible subject to a small supplement.

N.B. This itinerary may change due to unusual weather, the ability of the group and so on. We will do our best to keep to the itinerary but we cannot be held responsible for changes that occur outside of our control. In all circumstances your guide and tour leader will have the final say in the interest of the group’s health and safety

St Oswald’s Hospice, Regent Avenue, Gosforth, NE3 1EE. Registered Charity Number 503386.0191 246 9123 fundraising@stoswaldsuk.org

@stoswaldsuk /stoswaldshospice @stoswaldsuk www.stoswaldsuk.org