Internationale groepsreis The Salkantay Trek

The High Inca Trail

The High Inca Trail was more challenging than expected albeit very rewarding. Trip starts at high altitude and within a few days, there are a couple of long climbs that would not be a problem if it were not for the altitude. That said, I believe it was extremely beneficial doing The High Inca Trail (as opposed to just the Inca Trail) (which includes the Salkantay pass) as this most definitely prepares you for the part of the walk on the Inca Trail which climbs to 4,125 making this walk more enjoyable.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Stunning scenery and culture and experience overall in Peru! I thoroughly enjoyed the town of Cusco as well - very impressed! Amazing to actually visit Matchu Pitchu which I have wanted to do for years!

What did you think of your group leader?

Excellent!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Be prepared for the high altitude which is upon you quickly due to Cusco sitting at 3,400. The 10kg weight limit when you start that actual Inca Trail is extremely strict so be prepared. Take light clothes and lots of layers. It does get very cold camping. I was very grateful for my down jacket in the evening.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The variety and quality of food prepared on the trek whilst camping was fantastic especially catering for those with dietary requirements.

high inca trail

A trip to Peru in october 2015 , a couple of days sightseeing to acclamatise to the altitude, followed by 6 days hiking in the Andes, following the high Inca trail, we had fantastic weather, no rain , excellent company and brilliant support staff, guides , horsemen and porters and the Chef made fantastic food, and a chance to see the iconic Inca ruins macchupicchu made for a superb holiday.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The six days hiking getting to Machupicchu was fantastic, the high mountain views and varying landscape was incredible, the numerous Inca ruins were a treasure to see, varying wildlife , birds and flowers added to the adventure and the thought of finally seeing an anceint Inca stronghold was enough inspiration for all to complete the trek.

What did you think of your group leader?

Wilfredo was an excellent guide, very knowledgable in all things Inca, good understanding of individual hikers needs, all ways willing to help and resolve issues and knew the mountains well providing excellent camp sites with fantastic views

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Go with an open mind , expect the unexpected, the weather and temperatures can vary in the mountains so go prepared. check the packing list but only take essentials due to weight restrictions

Is there anything else you would like to add?

this was a trip i was considering for several years and now back home am glad i now have lots of fantastic memories and stories to tell, a definate must do trip and exodus proved once again to be an excellent tour operator.

Great Trip

This trek has everything from fantastic views through to some hard climbs and strenuous days. However, if you can do Everest base camp and Kilimanjaro you can certainly cope with this trek although you have to respect the altitude just as with the other trips. There is a good blend of other activities (particularly Cusco) with the trek, the high point (literally) of which is getting to the top of Dead Woman's Pass and arriving at the Sun Gate

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Along with some great views and the Inca ruins, including Machu Picchu, we had breakfast on top of a mountain at sunrise. The guides, porters and horsemen are inspiring in a different way because of their hard work and fantastic support for the trekkers - they were second to none.

What did you think of your group leader?

Willfredo was an excellent guide. He had great knowledge, could tell Inca "stories" and looked after us very well. He had some difficult decisions to take (snow blocking the pass, fire on the track, road closures etc.) but always came to the right conclusion in the interests of the group. He was very personable and everyone in the group liked him very much. Bruce was an excellent assistant on the trekking part of the trip, also demonstrating good knowledge and guiding skills.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Read the trip notes so you are clear about what is going to happen and don't ignore the altitude warnings. I take Diamox and it has worked for me on 3 separate trips but the effects of altitude are random so don't treat it lightly. As the notes suggest take dollars and change to Sol as you go - you can get dollars and sol from the local cashpoints at banks. If you are not a natural camper be prepared for some cold nights (proper sleeping bags etc. are essential), but it is worth a degree of discomfort to experience this part of the world.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

This is a great trip - you will enjoy Cusco as much as the trek and, as with all trips like this, if you are not sure just book it! Provided that you can walk reasonable distances (up to 10 miles with no altitude) and are reasonably fit you should be able to enjoy this trip - there were several people in their 50s and 60s and everyone coped fine.

THE HIGH INCA TRAIL

A challenging adventure.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

As we performed a ritual thanking the mountains for a safe arrival at Chiriasqa pass at 5000m a condor appeared and flew just above us. Seeing Machu Picchu for the first time upon arrival at the Sun Gate. Being so close to Salcantay.

What did you think of your group leader?

Maritza was a very competent leader capable of dealing with everything presented to her.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Take at least two large packs of wet wipes, a spare battery for your camera, a good three season sleeping bag and Merino tee shirts and thermals. If you can squeeze it in then also take a pillow. I also recommend getting two or three dry bags from a camping shop to keep your clothes in when packing your duffle bag. Go at your own pace but don't stop for too long to catch your breath as you'll get cold.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

A good diversity on this trip. The first half of the trek was totally deserted and extreme compared with the masses encountered on the Inca trail on the second half of the Trek. Yet both parts were thoroughly enjoyable for different reasons. The camping areas were in spectacular locations.

THE HIGH INCA TRAIL

Wonderful trek, highly recommended. Although the Inca Trail itself is well worth doing it's relatively busy, so to have four days trekking in the high mountains before that with hardly another tourist in sight added so much to the experience.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Reaching the end of the Inca Trail and seeing Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate is great, but camping next to Salkantay glacier and walking alongside the mountain up to the Inca Chiriasqa pass was even better.

What did you think of your group leader?

Arturo was great fun and very knowledgable; apart from running the trek he was well able to talk us round the various Inca sites without a guide. Staff were excellent, and the standard of meals on trek was amazingly high.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

We were pretty lucky with the weather and most days were sunny and mild, but camping at 4000 metres is cold. Really cold. Who'd have thought it?

Is there anything else you would like to add?

THE HIGH INCA TRAIL

Stunning scenery, a decent 'tough at times' trek, trip of a lifetime.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

I felt the whole trek was inspirational but the most inspirational moment was being camped beside & staring in awe of Mnt Salkantay as the day ended and the night came in and to then, the following day, walk beside it. Truely amazing.

What did you think of your group leader?

Wilbert was brilliant - a fasinating character. Very friendly, intelligent, always happy and had a story to tell. Full of knowledge & very passionate about his country and always wanting to teach you and share his knowledge & the history of the Incas.   

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

If you feel your fitness levels aren't great then do somerthing about it because this a a challenging trek for those that are not used to it. I would also advise to take plenty of tavel tissues & hand saintiser to keep your hands clean and free from germs to avoid a potential stomach bug.  I would also recommend a decent camera as there will be plenty of this that should be snapped as memory of this wonderful trip. 

Is there anything else you would like to add?

THis is a very well organised trip from start to finish. Anyone that is in doubt of whether to book this trip or not then don't doubt anymore....JUST BOOK IT. You will not be dissappointed as it is a once in a life time adventure with some stunning scenes whether they are natural or built by the Incas. Keep up the good work Exodus - many people love what you do & what you offer us.  Tim Doyle 

The High Incas

A great itinerary in the High Incas, getting away from the crowds but into the heart of this amazing region. If you like your mountains and a trekking without the tourist (I know this is an irony!) then this is the Peru for you. I also took the Lake Titicaca (only one out of my group to do so) and I'd highly recommend taking that opportunity when you're already out there: it's quite an experience and the transfer etc is expertly organised by Exodus.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Camping on the ridge above Phuyupatamarca was fabulous. Although this one of the rare times that we saw other campers it was idyllic to watch the sunset and rise over the mountains, whilst throwing an eye back to Mt Salcantay, where we'd come from. This is also a site which will always make me laugh- I got involuntarily up close and personal with a bunch of llamas, which was quite an experience!!!

What did you think of your group leader?

Wilbert was a fun guide who was very knowledgeable about the history and culture of the Incas- and always up for a laugh!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Do read the trip notes - if you like your comforts then enter this in the knowledge that there will be days without showering- but you are well looked after with daily bowls of hot water, if you want them.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

High Inca trail as must do trip

High Inca trail was brilliant. Fantastic trekking, amazing trails and beautiful scenery. If things couldn't get any better, to top it off we had a really fantastic leader in Tomas Llancay and also a brilliant second leader in Sebastian. I would highly recommend the high Inca trail as you get to see a small part of Peru that not many other do and we had the trails mostly to our selves.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The most inspirational part of my trip was camping at the bottom of Salcantay and then the following morning trekking up the Inca Chiriasqa pass. Though to be fair the whole trip was brilliant.

What did you think of your group leader?

Tomas Llancay was one of the best leaders that I have had so far on all the trips I have done. We always knew what we were doing and had great advise on what we could do on our free days. Huge knowledge on Inca sites, flora and fauna. Its was also lovely to see the encouragement he gave to Sebastian (our second leader) which allowed Sebastain to talk to us about some off the site we visited on the trail, which Sebastian did very well. He also want out of his way to help my partner find a perfect location for him to propose to me, with out me finding out.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Make sure you have a lovely warm sleeping bag as I was very greatful I had mine as it can get very cold on some of the camp sites.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Go book the High Inca trail if you like trekking and culture.

THE HIGH INCA TRAIL

This trip is a great combination of remote high level altitude treking and culture with fantastic scenery, flora and fauna.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Arriving at Sungate and viewing Machu Picchu The remoteness of Salcantay region and having a full moon to visualise the hugh hulk of Salcantay surrounded by stars.

What did you think of your group leader?

Nothing was too much trouble for Wilfredo. He worked hard on keeping a group together that had mixed abilities and experience. His experience in guiding ensured it felt as though we had the Inca Trail to ourselves. In addition, his knowledge and passion for his country was always evident and he was always happy to answer our questions, even if it was the 15th time he had been asked.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

The coco leaves and tea do help!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

THE HIGH INCA TRAIL

A challenging trek with some steep climbs. The 8 days saw us camping and trekking in rain, wind, snow and then beautiful clear blue skies.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Reaching the top of Dead Womens Pass and then a few days later arriving through the sun gate. 

What did you think of your group leader?

Bobby was very knowledgable and very friendly and helpful. On the Cusco part of the trip he seemed a bit disorganised on occasion but I think this was due to discrepancies between the trip note itinery and the actual itinery he was able to offer.  He gave everyone his contact details and on one occasion when it was free time to explore and I found myself lost I gave him a call and he responded immediately, he then came to 'rescue' me. 

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Take waterproof clothing whatever the brochure/trip notes say the weather will be like! I had taken the trip notes saying there could be the 'occasional downpour' literally and I didn't take any waterproof trousers. After 2 two days of continuous rain I was almost out of dry clothes - luckily a fellow traveller had spare waterproofs he lent me (thank you John!). Budget for the tipping on the trek part of the trip. Again, the trip notes guide on tipping and advice given to travellers by Exodus staff varied a lot and on average we put about £130 each into the tip kitty. At Lima airport after you have collected your luggage, you need to exit the building and then walk back into the check in area of the airport to check in for the flight to Cusco.   

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The trip notes for this trip were not accurate for the non trekking part of the trip. The hotel we stayed at in Cusco was not the hotel detailed in the final joining instructions - it was a more central hotel which was great, but unfortunately the electrics and breakfast were not.... Be aware that if you go in May, there could be days of rain. Two days of continuous rain wasn't fun to trek in - the guide wasn't surprised by the rain as he said May is the end of the rainy season. The food provided on the trek is great - how the chef can produce so much variety for so many people from his small tent is amazing.   

THE HIGH INCA TRAIL

This was my first trip with Exodus and I'm booking my next one soon! A fantastic experience, I especially enjoyed camping in the wild. The only people we saw for days were our group, our porters and a few locals. We had a great group, and I really enjoyed the company of the others.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Sunrise over the mountains when we camped at Phuyupatamarka. We had 360 degree views, and the sun as it hit Salkantay was amazing. The thunder storm the night before was spectacular too.

What did you think of your group leader?

Wilfredo was a great leader, he really looked after everyone, and made sure the holiday was a fantastic experience, no matter what their fitness levels. He told us great stories over dinner, and really cared about the porters.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Take some domperidone anti-sickness tablets with you if you can. I was quite sick one night, and the day that we climbed the highest peak, but a fellow traveller gave me some of these and they really helped. Mozzie spray is essential - the day we walked along the canal we were bitten a lot. Be prepared for all weather conditions - we saw everything, sun, rain, snow, thunder... Take a metal Sig type drinking bottle, they are great as hot water bottles in the tent at night.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

This is a fantastic holiday - book it! Look out for condors - it was amazing to see them. The tipping was a bit weird - we were told how much to give, which was more than it said on the trip notes ( trip notes are in USD but we were told to tip in Peruvian currency so the exchange rate had changed) and we had to give it to the tour leader at the start, before we had any experience of what the porters / cooks etc would be like.

THE HIGH INCA TRAIL

A fantastic holiday, we were lucky to such a great group. Macchu Pichu was breath taking but it wasn't the highlight of the holiday for me it had to many tourists and loud fat Americans booming about, I enjoyed trekking in the Andes over the high pass the most, the scenery was spectacular and the trails were challenging and good fun.   

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

How the people of Peru live in the wilderness of the Andes, they are very isolated, the nearest shop for supplies is usually over a two hour walk, they have to be fairly self sufficient growing their own crops, farming cattle, chickens, horses and brewing corn beer. Children have to walk for hours to get to school, there are no hospitals or doctors nearby, and no cars or buses, no gas or electricity. To boost their incomes alot of these farmers are porters on the Inca trail, working once or twice a month during the season.

What did you think of your group leader?

Our group leader was verg good, he had excellent knowledge of the Inca's and their history. He looked after the group very well and catered for everyones different levels of  fitness during the trek. As a group we were lucky to have him.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Mosquito repellant should be on the essential kit list, I got eaten alive on the first day. The tipping was incorrect in the trip notes, it advised $60-$70dollars to cover all tipping, I budgeted $70 dollors, when we got there it was $90 dollors required and that didn't include the guide that was another $20 dollars, this meant I was using my credit card to pay for food at the end of the holiday. It is very important you get the information correct on the trip notes for the tipping so we are prepared, this was a big topic of conversation between the group because we had all budgeted $70 dollars.  Eat at the local places it saves you a fortune, tourist restaurants cost between £8-£12 per meal, a local place will do the same meal for £3, and it tastes just as nice.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Don't like tipping at the start of the holiday, every other exodus holiday we tipped at the end and had a ceremony which was really nice, for this holiday we had to sort out the tipping before the start of the trek, it didn't feel right tipping for a service I had not yet received. I know you could add to your original tip or even claim money back if you wanted to at the end, but it is a messed up way of doing things, I would prefer to decide the tip towards the end of the trek.

High Inca Trail

An unforgettable experience. Great guide (Tomas LLancay) who managed everything without fuss and provided an education into Inca History en route. 6 nights of camping is not my favourite but this is perfectly acceptable with great food that kept my calorie intake up. Excellent acclimitisation at start so we all started well. We were all strangely discombob. when we met the masses of tourists at Machu Picchu.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Reaching the top of the 3/4 passes.

What did you think of your group leader?

Outstanding

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

JFDI. (I was just turning 65 so don't be put off)

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Where next?

THE HIGH INCA TRAIL

Truly an amazing and unforgettable adventure. The diversity of Peru and its people is inspiring and made for a once in a life time experience. This was my third trip with Exodus and I continue to be impressed by their professionalism, organization and ethics. Exodus takes care of the people that they employee providing them with the proper equipment to do their jobs. Other companies had the porters sleep in the washrooms and wear sandals made from old tires. Once again Exodus has provided a wonderful experience. 

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Camping at Ichu Pata 4200m and waking up to snow on the ground and a clear view of Salcantay.  2.    Seeing two condors circling the sky. 3.    Passing through the Sun Gate and seeing Machu Picchu

What did you think of your group leader?

Wilfredo is a very experienced and knowledgeable guide. He is a true Peruvian and very passionate and proud of his country and its people. He took care of us and made certain that everyone finished the difficult trek successfully. He was very respectful of the people that were working with him. Wilfredo was a wealth of information and did not hesitate to share his experience. I will miss the Inca tales that he shared with us at the dinner table.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Invest in some good clothing. I would highly recommend Icebreaker shirts and underwear. They will keep you warm and cool and they do not smell after a few days. You will only need a couple shirts and three pair of underwear. Bring a few good quality protein bars for the long days. The breakfast on the day you go over the Inca Chiriasqa pass was good but there was not enough carbs and protein. Get a good down filled sleeping bag. I used a minus 10 down sleeping bag and was toasty warm. Bring at least one walk pole Use DEET and sunscreen at all times and if you can bring a sun hat (Tilley) and a ball cap that would be great Be prepare for rain, sun, hail, snow, and wind. The weather can change in an instant  

Is there anything else you would like to add?

As a previous traveler stated ……. Remember to look up and enjoy! Just take it slow and enjoy all the sights and sounds Read the other reviews as there is some good advice

THE HIGH INCA TRAIL

I spent much of my two weeks in Peru slapping myself to make sure I was awake and that it wasn’t all just a dream. High in the Andes I loved the absolutely breathtaking scenery, the incredible ruins of the ancient Inca settlements, the sincere warmth and friendliness of the Peruvian people, the diversity of the food, the beautiful old Spanish colonial buildings in Cusco, the kick of the Pisco in the loveliest little bars in the world, the depth of the history and religion, the vibrant music, the colours of the people in traditional dress and the absolutely breathtaking scenery again because it deserves an extra mention. This was a fantastic trip that I just couldn’t fault at all.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Possibly one of the most inspirational moments of my life, let alone the trip, was reaching the top of the Chiriasqa Pass at 4,950 metres above sea level. In the thin air it was hard work getting there but I felt that every gasp for breath and every aching muscle had been worthwhile as I stood there and looked behind me at the ice capped Mount Salacantay and its icy blue glacial lakes and ahead of me at the vast wilderness of Sisay Pampa as snow flurries contrasted against bright blue sky and dark clouds. With no sign of human life in sight this was probably the most remote and isolated place I had ever been.  I had always wanted to walk the Inca Trail but the Salcantay extension made the experience all the more remarkable. Seeing hardly a soul for days, star gazing at the clearest night skies imaginable, having a bath in the icy waters of the Rio Cusichaca and emerging from my tent each morning to look up at snow covered peaks and down at cloud filled valleys are moments I will remember and treasure for the rest of my days.

What did you think of your group leader?

Bobby was an absolute star. He’d already done the Inca Trail something like four hundred times before and consequently knew every mountain, every mountain path, every block of stone at the Inca sites, every exotic species of plant, every llama that we met along the way, every native bird and insect, every star in the sky, every statistic about South American football and the best way to cook a guinea pig. He always had a smile on his face, he had an infectious laugh, he punctuated his speeches with jokes and he liked a beer.  My favourite moments with him though were when we were all seated round the table after dinner on the nights of the trek. High in the cold, cold Andes and miles from civilisation he would tell us his tales of days gone by, his personal experiences and the history and superstitions of his country. His round Peruvian face looking stern in his concentration, illuminated only by a camping gas lamp, was an absolute picture. And then he would laugh.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

If you immerse yourself in the culture of the Andes, eat everything you’re given, breath in that beautiful fresh mountain air, stare at the stars, talk to the people and take in everything that you see you will have a wonderful trip and you will hardly notice the gruelling physical exertion.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I was pleased that I chose the High Inca Trail because there were very few coach transfers and even they were fairly short with frequent stops at places of interest. Other trips to Peru involve other remarkable features which I haven’t yet seen but they are often a long coach ride or a flight away. On this trip I felt as though I didn’t waste a single moment transferring from one place to another.  Also, when you get to the ‘classic’ bit of the Inca trail that everybody does, although still very remote and beautiful, it seems a lot busier as you come across other groups. The campsites on these stages are busier and noisier. For this reason the Mollepato and Salcantay extension was by far the best part of the trek.  No matter what you do though, it’s all fabulous.

High Inca Trail

As a group of friends who have years of experience of long distance walks and challenges we chose Exodus to guide us on the High Inca Trail. I thoroughly enjoyed this trip and rate it on a par with the incredible experience of climbing Kilimanjaro. The trek was brilliantly organised by our Exodus team leader who met us at the airport, escorted us to our hotel and then showed us Cusco by night. Her knowledge and experience were excellent providing us a marvelous insight into the Inca culture and the Spanish effect on it. The High Inca trek was a testing walk but for a reasonbly fit person (I am 60 years young), it was quiet attainable. An acclimatisation walk put us in the mood to experience the ever changing and beautiful countryside and views, we visited Inca ruins of all shapes and sizes. We saw Condors soaring gracefully through blue skys on the trek and nothing can prepare you for what you feel as you walk through the sun gate. We subsequently visited a host of villages and Inca ruins, we ate at the home of a very welcoming local family on one occasion and also had time to explore on our own.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The trek was marvelous with varied terrain and taking on the affects of altitude. The history of this beautiful country is mesmerizing.

What did you think of your group leader?

Our group leader was superb. She thoroughly briefed us on what to expect, guided us through every stage keeping us safe at all times. Her knowledge of Peru and the Inca people was massive. She inspired the horsemen, and porters who obviously had great respect for her. She was immediately our friend and leader fulfilling all her promises of a trip of a life time.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Good boots, warm clothing for the very cold nights, lots of insect repellent and sun block and a sense of fun and discovery.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Absolutely brilliant trip! DO It!!

THE HIGH INCA TRAIL

This trip encompasses both the wilds of trekking right in the mountains without seeing anyone the whole time and also the experience of walking the 'classic Inca trail'. Yes, you will see other people but you are walking in the footsteps of history and heritage! I was really pleased to have done it like this as I can say i walked the trail of the incas and arrived through sungate - it  may be a cliche but hey youre only going to do it once so i am pleased to be able to say I did it this way.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Most inspirational? Probably the last bit of the final day approaching sungate - i felt like a real intrepid explorer searching for the lost city!! Real dark dank jungle inca path with the echoing sounds of birds all around you....

What did you think of your group leader?

Bobby was great, really upbeat, sociable funny guy. He has completed this trip about 500x so he knows his stuff. Our group had a few problems with people needing to leave the trail and come back in due to illness. He dealt with this easily and efficiently. Everybody got what they needed. He also helped some of the group organise onward journeys in Peru, very helpful and likes a game of cards!!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Wear insect repellant of the first day from Mollepata, mozzies are rife in the daytime and the 20 or so bites i got that day plagued me for the rest of the trip! Once i wore repellant - no bites received. Take it easy when you get to cusco, a few of our group got ill, possibly a bug or possibly altitude sickness. It ruined the trip for some, so take it easy and eat simple food you know!   Even though restricted on the inca trail, take a book! Sometimes you get to camp at 1-2pm theres time to kill. We played a lot of cards too. It rained everyday about 2pm...but tea time at 4.30 with crackers annd popcorn relly helped!!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

A great trip with a mix of the mountains and the classic trail experience. The only really tough day is the pass at 5000m on the 3rd day. Dead womens pass on the trail around day 5 ascends 1200m and then immediately descends 700m to camp - although some found this tough we got to camp around 1.30pm so this could be done a lot slower if needed. Remember to look up and enjoy! its easy to look down at your feet all the time. Youre not particularly rushed for time during the day, youre only going to sit in your tent when you get there! 

THE HIGH INCA TRAIL

A brilliant way to get away from it all at high altitude. Spectacular and diverse scenery.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Reaching the top of Salkantay pass....seeing two seperate valleys dropping away, and the snow clad mountain was simply stunning. Walking along the canals at approx 3000m and stopping to soak our feet in the ice cold water. 

What did you think of your group leader?

Wilfedo could not do enough for us, he was so informative about the surrounding areas, always willing to help, and fit into our 3 person group :)

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Go with an open mind, don't sweat the small stuff...don't take too much stuff, remember the horses and the porters have to carry everything up hill!!! Even if you have a hydration pack take a metal bottle as they serve as a overnight hot water bottle (it gets cold at night). Most places we visited prefered the local currency (Solis), you can pay with dollars, but you will get a poor rate of exchange)  

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Try the guinea pig...not much meat on it, but quite an experience. White water rafting was brilliant...try the local Pisco sours marvolous!! Investigate local restaurants in Cusco..we found some really special places with good food.  

THE HIGH INCA TRAIL

This was a brilliantly organised trek, let by an inspired guide.  The route to join the Classic Inca Trail, although very challenging, was wonderful, we only saw a couple of other fellow trekkers.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Can't decide between: Camping just below Chiriasqa with 360 degree views - magnificent. Viewing Machu Picchu from Sun Gate for first time.  We thought we had got used to the Inca ruins but this was something else and so emotional. Seeing condors in the distance on the side of a mountain.

What did you think of your group leader?

Fantastic. Carlos (Carlitos Lechuga) was a constant source of amazement with his knowledge of not just the Inca way of life and their history but also goegraphy, fauna and flora.  He has become one of our friends, such a genuinely lovely man.  We were so pleased to meet his wife and two sons as well.  Carlos gauged our fitness suberbly and he knew within five minutes our arrival at the various stops.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

You don't need as many clothes as you think and pack those you do take in clear plastic bags. Do as advised by your guide and resist alcohol and large late meals for the first few days.  None of us had problems with the altitude following these rules. Do plenty of walking beforehand and try everything out before taking it.  This is especially important with boots which should be well worn in. Take a good camera.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

This was my first experience camping since leaving school, don't ask how many years ago!  I loved it.  This is my second Exodus trip (my wife's fourth) and it most certainly will not be the last.  We were looked after so well but not overbearingly so.  All in all, a terrific holiday.

THE HIGH INCA TRAIL

This trip more than met my expectations.  Macchu Pichu was my reason for wanting to do this trip but it delivered so much more!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

After 7 days of trekking, coming through the Sun Gate and seeing Macchu Pichu in the distance was simply overwhelming. Along the way there were many fantastic moments and we were lucky enough to have the High Trails part of the trip in splendid isolation apart from our lovely porters and one solitary Australian student and his guide who we kept bumping into! 

What did you think of your group leader?

Carlos was just wonderful - fun, entertaining and knowledgeable with a real desire to share his country with us.  He clearly wanted us all to enjoy every experience and made sure that all arrangements went like clock-work and nothing was left to chance!  Having done a number of these types of trips now, Carlos is the best guide we have had and if we are to go back to Peru, we would definitely look for a trip where he was the guide.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Make time to visit the Rainbow Centre on your way back to Cusco - it is an amazing place, filled with laughter and love and deserves as much support as we can give. Take plenty of strong insect repellant.  Whilst we weren't attacked too many times, in Aguas Calientes bugs were definitely biting and 3 weeks after returning, I still have the lumps and bumps to prove it!  

Is there anything else you would like to add?

If you want something more challenging than the Classic Inca Trail - do this trip!  It combined so many wonderful elements - with some relaxation time in Cusco, so many amazing Inca sites, some challenging walking, fantastic views, great food, wonderful guide and porters/horsemen who put us all to shame with their boundless energy and enthusiasm!