Happy trails
moss hangs over fresh streams and gushing waterfalls, while vibrant wakanki, orchids and bromelia frame the pathways.
It’s the contrast of the two landscapes; barren, imposing peaks looming above lush, teaming vegetation, that makes this trip such a wondrous geological adventure.
We stopped under a waterfall, took off our heavy boots and cooled our bare feet in the icy water before bedding down for another night under canvas.
Camicancha to Machu Picchu via
Sun Gate, 7,972ft, six hours We took an early train journey before beginning our trek towards the famous Sun Gate. The 3,000-step climb is long and hot, and each time we looked back on our progress through a clearing in the underbrush,
equipment, support, guides, drivers, cooks, porters, first aid, entrance fees, hotels and three meals per day. Trips are available on selected dates in September, October and November 2020 and March, May, September and we seemed to have climbed impossibly higher. But when we arrived at the Sun Gate and gazed down at Machu Picchu, a quiet sense of peace settled across the group.
American explorer Hiram Bingham III talked of Machu Picchu’s mystical power when he came upon the ancient Inca citadel in 1911, writing: “In the variety of its charms and the power of its spell, I know of no place in the world which can compare with
October 2021. Participants can choose from three types of package: Self Funder – registration fee €450pp, pay €2,323pp, raise as much as you can for your nominated charity. Minimum Sponsorship – registration fee €450pp,
Ornate Cusco church
raise at least €4,745 for your charity. Flexi – registration fee €450pp, €450pp towards costs, raise at least €3,845 for charity. Visit charitychallenge.com/ challenge/10/trek-tomachu-picchu
peru.travel/pe
Explore the ruins at Machu Picchu it.” After spending time reflecting on who or what had really been driving us all along, we headed into town for beer, karaoke and a hot shower.
On the final day of our trip we headed back to Machu Picchu to explore the extraordinary Inca remains.
We then caught an afternoon train back to Ollantaytambo, before boarding a bus bound for Cusco.
An adventure stretching five days, 40 miles, reaching altitudes of 15,000ft hiking across the Andes is one the greatest and most memorable experiences of my life. Creating bonds with my fellow travellers as well as raising €105,000 for charity between us, certainly heightened the incredible sense of achievement.