Internationale groepsreis The Inca Trail

Bastiaan

De reis was van begin tot eind goed georganiseerd. Alles werd duidelijk uitgelegd, tijden van vertrek en de planning van de dag. De tripjes werden bijgestaan door erg goede tourgidsen die met plezier alles over de plek konden vertellen en open stonden voor vragen. De hike tocht was verder ook perfect georganiseerd!

Rik

Een mooie natuur en cultuur-informatieve reis. De reis was echter zwaarder dan 3/10 zoals in de reisbeschrijving. Ongeveer de helft van de deelnemers had last van hoogteziekte.

The Inca Trail Dec 2014

Wonderful trip, it's hard going (especially Day 2) but worth the effort! We were with a great group and we all got on so well immediately. Wonderful encouragement along the trek for each other. Tour leader was brilliant. Accommodation in Cuzco was very good, the camping experience not to be missed, tents were fine, porters amazing guys, the food fantastic, wonderful scenery on the trek. Kept having to pinch myself that I was actually on the Inca Trail!!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Getting to the Sun Gate and seeing a misty Machu Picchu in the distance! Definitely felt that I had achieved something great when we got to Machu Picchu!

What did you think of your group leader?

Wilfredo was a great tour leader. He was organised, efficient, he kept an eye out in case any of us were struggling with the altitude, his knowledge of Peru,Cuzco and the Incas is vast and so helpful. He made sure we all were ok and safe on the trek. He was a brilliant tour leader who helped us all enjoy our trip more than we thought.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

It can rain!!! We encountered heavy downpours in Cuzco in the evenings before we began the trek. So either take or buy a couple of cheap plastic ponchos, so handy! It rained one day on the trek and again ponchos at the ready! We travelled in December and didn't take Malaria tablets, but did use Avon Skin So Soft Dry Oil Body Spray each day on the trek against any creatures. Take a hat with a brim, sun cream, and black bin bags as the duffle bags that you put your clothes on the trek etc in aren't waterproof. Also wet wipes and small plastic bags to put used wet wipes in for disposal. Sweets for energy boosts on the trek, but you can buy Haribo's in the towns, also try the Sublime chocolate bars....mmm!!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The fitter you are before the trek, the better you will cope with it! No one can predict how the altitude will affect you, but take it easy, acclimatise as much as possible before the trek ., drink water, chew coca leaves and drink coca tea, and take Paracetamols to help with altitude sickness... That's what I did and it helped a lot. Beware you may start to experience altitude sickness when you get to your hotel in Cuzco...you will be at 3,300m above sea level then!!! But above all .... enjoy the Inca Trail .....such an amazing experience!!!! I still cannot believe I have done it!!!

THE INCA TRAIL

The Inca Trail was amazing, it was everything I expected it to be and I'm so glad I finally ticked it off my bucket list. The trek was fantastic. I thought I'd love Machu Picchu more, but I didn't - the walk was definately the most exciting part. 

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Getting to the sun gate after 4 days of hiking up and down Inca steps. I didnt think that was the end and thought I had hours to go but then Machu Picchu was there in front of me. I'll never complain about walking up the stairs at work ever again. The campsite on the 3rd night was beautiful and waking up to alfresco breakfast (the porters took away the breakfast tent) surrounded by mountains was amazing. My favourite day was the 3rd day hiking through the cloud forest with steep sided ridges and rocky paths, I wish this day would last longer. The porters were fantastcic and woke us up every morning with smiles on their faces and coca tea and cooked delicious 4 course meals every day. 

What did you think of your group leader?

Wilfredo was great. He was forever telling us Inca stories and made sure the group had chance to socialise together and spend time apart. He recommended delicious restaurants and bakeries and promoted ethical tourism by showing us local artisan shops and taking us to weaving villages so we knew our souveniers were locally sourced and made. He made sure we were all safe on the trek and having a good time, even after walking 4 long days he went to the town and got ingredients for pisco sours because we all wanted to make some. He encouraged us to learn some Spanish and Quechua - even if the only words I remember are 'basos' and 'sulpayki'. He has set a high standard now for all other tour leaders to follow, whichever trek / trip I book next. 

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Take trekking poles and try and do some trekking first to get used to rocky, uphill terrain. Take proper hiking boots. For the ladies - the toilet is a bucket and a plastic bag - either learn how to squat properly or take a shewee. Also spray on hair shampoo, baby wipes and talc came in useful. Take spare camera batteries - you will take lots of photos and there is no electric on the 4 day trip. Ear plugs are good idea - the tents are pitched close together sometimes and you will hear your fellow campers snoring. 

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The Inca Trail is fantastic. Exodus were very profesional and always kept in contact and were quick to answer questions via email. The whole trip was well organised from getting picked up at the airport and looked after in the hotel to going home. The hotel staff were friendly and helpful and the support team of porters and cooks were amazing. I would definately book with exodus again, especially when going on a trip that requires porters, guides and visiting less travelled area. 

THE INCA TRAIL

We were well looked after and the trail was magnificent with awesome views. Arriving at the sun gate overlooking Machu Picchu was emotional after four days trekking. Really felt like I had achieved something.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Waking up early to see our campsite floating above the clouds and the distant mountains tinged with pink as the sun rose on day four.

What did you think of your group leader?

Flaminia was very knowledgeable, understanding and fun.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Keeping warm at night required extra layers of clothing inside sleeping bag. Antiseptic handgel and wipes helped me to avoid any tummy problems.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

My wife was taken ill just prior to the trek while in Peru and Exodus were exemplary in helping us with the doctor, the hospital admission, discharge and getting the necessary drugs sorted. Although my wife missed the main part of the trek she was able to join us for the final night Camping and the visit to MP.

THE INCA TRAIL

Trip of a lifetime. Fantastic scenery, fantastic group. You will lose weight as the food rations are quite small.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Coming through the Sun Gate

What did you think of your group leader?

ok

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

This trip is brilliant, but the organisation was disappointing in several areas: 1. Promised a private toilet tent for each night of camping - Exodus changed their mind, but neglected to inform us pre-trip. This was inexcusable. One night this meant a long and unsafe walk to a shared toilet.  2. Flights changed by Exodux but no new ATOL certificate sent 3. Whole group made to check in on-line in LAN offices in Cusco day before we left. This did not work. 4. Insurance paid for but not sent a certificate until requested 5. Never received an evaluation form from Exodus Word of warning - tried to pick up bags in Lima but they were not there. Had to take next plane to Cusco - bags eventually arrived 24 hours later after a LOT of airport hassle. Not the best start to the day

Is there anything else you would like to add?

THE INCA TRAIL

well organised trip with excellent porterage with quality leadership from Fabrizio and Roberto. A well paced walk taking in breath taking scenery with the flora and fauna being regularly highlighted by the knowledgeable Roberto.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

arriving at the Sun gate taking in our first view of the Macchu Pichu site. The leaders well prepared us for this and ensured we arrived in good time to enjoy the mid afternoon sunny clear panoramic views . The third night's campsite will be remembered for ever as the constantly changing views due to the clouds movements were spectacular .

What did you think of your group leader?

Excellent as he had everyone's wants at heart, particularly the lost luggage on the day of arrival at Cusco? He was also very concerned at Our miss management of our supposedly booked extra days in Cusco.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

I never use walking sticks but my advice would be to take them as the ascents can be long and steep, so to the descents however, the scenery is breathtaking. In Cusco take the open top bus tour as it really takes you on a grand tour of the centre and the Christ statue , the views are stunning.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

We took an extra 4 days in Lima which was well worth the effort . The bike tours are excellent and the distinctive areas are all special in their own way. Miraflores is perhaps the better part to stay in as it is lively and close to the coast. Booking our own flights was beneficial as it allowed us to pencil in a few extra days in Cusco to acclimatise to the altitude. Also to avoid Heathrow. We flew Manchester to Paris then on to Lima.

THE INCA TRAIL - Moonstone Trek

Originally we wanted to do the Classic Inca Trail, however because Exodus run out of lincences for this particular trip we did a variation of this trek: Moonstone Trek, which is much higher that the Inca Trail. This did not put us off and actually was better as we went on very remote, secluded paths that are not part of the massive tourist highway. During the whole trip it was only 6 of us + leader + cooks + sherpas and few local people that we past occasionally. PERFECT for those who want to experience the beauty of mighty Andes, beautiful nature, make new friends and clear mind from daily life! You still get to see all the good places including ending the trek in Machu Picchu! We came back very happy and whatever we spent was definitely worth it all!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Camping in the middle of nowhere, getting up at undecent hours in the morning, walking all day and at the end of the day surprising ourseves with a happy thought that tomorrow is yet another day we will discover something new! You surprise yourself how far you can push yourself!

What did you think of your group leader?

We had two leaders, both Juan Manuel and Jesus were great, looked after the whole group at all times, checking whether we adjust well to the altidue. They have paced the trek fantasticly making sure no one is left behind and we stick as a group. They are both experienced leaders and showed us trully amazing places!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Take a good sleeping bag, clothes for every weather condition, camera and good humor! Personally I found walking poles a saver on gravel, steep slopes and while jumping through the river. Won't hurt if you pack set of cards, we found playing UNO a great entertainment in the evenings!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Enjoy every moment! It's a trully amazing experience with such views that to say they take your breath away is understatement! They blow your socks off!!! :-)  p.s. don't worry about the food, we ate like kings! That was one of the bigger surprises of this trek!  

THE INCA TRAIL

For me this was a Dream of a Lifetime, since I was 11 years old and learned about it in a geography lesson, I always wanted to go on the Inca Trail. It lived up to all my expectations and more, an unforgettable experience.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Being told by everyone that I was amazing, inspirational,brave, super fit by the team and even complete strangers we met on the trek. I thrived on this and although it was challenging at times I was more than ever determined to complete it. Being given a standing ovation by the rest of the team and the porters when I arrtived in camp at the highest point  Winay Wayna 4150m ( it means forever young female) and since everyone else was about half my age I did feel proud to have done this. Similar experience at the Sun Gate after climbing those practically vertical steps having abandoned my trekking poles and did on all fours hands and knees, many photos were taken. Was presented with the tee shirt 'I survived the Inca Trail' at Machu Pichu, by our guide Juan. Willl treasure it forever.

What did you think of your group leader?

Juan was excellent he explained in clear detail the days' proceedings and also gave descriptions of interesting features on the way. He was extremely knowledgable about the whole area. For me personally he was very encouraging, he said I was his 'challenge'!!! Often he would help by carrying my day pack. Also on the cold camping nughts gave me his hot water bottle!! He should share in the achievement as without his help and encouragement I may not have  'survived'

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

I trained for about a year prior to going because I knew that as an older member it would be challenging. This paid off and I think even younger persons should do some kind of training. Most people felt it was a bit more than 'Moderate'. The mantra for going upwards was attitude not altitude and for coming down concentrate. I found going up I got breathless so you need to try and increase your lung capacity. Coming down I was fine as I do not have any knee problems. Overall try and increase your stamina and endurance.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I loved the morning cup of tea and the bowl of hot water for ablutions.  Plus Juan's hot water bottle! The food was excellent, although I was often a bit too exhausted to eat lunch. The porters were magnificent, always there to lend a helping hand or arm especially for me!!! Hernan our second guide was also magnificent and never complained if those of us in the rearguard needed a rest. It was for me the best Exodus trip I have done.

THE INCA TRAIL

Amazing trip, could only recommend especially if you are interested in knowing more about the Incas

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Visiting the Incas ruins (there is so much more than Machu Picchu!) and the cities in the shape of Llama

What did you think of your group leader?

Couldn't have asked for more from our guides, amazing people and such a passion for their country, their job and so knowledgeable and helpful. Truly felt like a part of their family.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Take the moonstone trail!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

September moonstone

A great trip with good company.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Looking down at Machu picchu from the sun temple and standing at 4800 metres and looking at the world.

What did you think of your group leader?

She was excellent. Very informative and good company for the walk.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Be aware that some of the paths can be narrow at times.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

To the top.

Exodus have an amazing trip here which I highly recommend to anyone wanting to visit Peru.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

For me the whole trip was inspirational but two days stand out the most. The first being day two and the the climb to dead woman's pass at 4200 meters. The challenge was great, and for me arriving at the summit with a couple of our groups porters really made it for me. The second was on day four when we visited Wiñay Wayna after lunch. Our group had the place to ourselves except a couple of Lama and this time here gave me those few peaceful moments to reflect on the trip knowing that after a short (6km) walk we would see Machu Picchu. As I said though it was all inspirational and we were blessed when we arrived at Machu Picchu with no tourists on the site so our photos and first impressions were undistracted.

What did you think of your group leader?

Reny (Renaldi) our group leader had a passion for his history and expressed this as he taught us about the Inca sites we visited. He is an exceptionally nice guy and now a friend.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

some advice for future travellers is insect repellent is a must. A good one I think everyone got bitten. Drink plenty of water, it helps with altitude and dehydration cause if the suns out your going to sweat carrying your bag. And if you're hotel is the Warari in Cusco then pack a suitcase and take your hold-all inside, you can leave suitcases at the hotel full of any extra gear your not taking on the trek.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

One more thing don't think about it just do it you won't be disappointed.

THE INCA TRAIL

This was a holiday that i had dreamed about taking for many years, and it turned out to be everything and much much more than i could have ever hoped for! Thank you to all the 'Motley Crew' i met, Flaminia (our guide) and to Exodus for yet another brill holiday!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

It wasnt a particular moment it was the people i did the trip with.  We had such a laugh from the first night out in Lima, to Cusco, the whitewater rafting, the trail, the team work and encouragement when the going got tough, our first night and every night camping - Machu Picchu is nothing like any photo you will ever find on the internet......WOW! - our cold beers in the hot spring in Aguas Calienties to finish the trail, the last couple o nights in Cusco, to our last breakfast again in Lima. It doesnt get any better!

What did you think of your group leader?

Flaminia is ace. She seems to know more than any book, is so organised its scary, and anyone who could have managed to keep our very mixed and sometimes demanding team together deserves a medal. We are all still emailing her!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Pack well but lightly. Plastic bags for clothing. Asprins worked for me but some of the team took Diamoxin. Take a good sleeping bag, some of our team got cold at night. Handwarmers in the bottom of your sleeping bag worked. You can get a shower just once (albit a very cold one i was told...i chickened out!) along on the trail. You are roughing it so go with that in mind. You WILL be fed amazingly well. And you CAN get beer along the trail....in certain camps! See www.incapink.com for photos and extra info.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Superb holiday, brilliant bunch of people, made some good friends, cannot believe its been nearly a month since we came back.  Thanks again so much to all the Motley Crew and to Exodus!

The Inca Trail

Just the best way to see Machu Picchu. It is a tough walk, but well worth it and makes a memorable experience. Our leader's knowledge of the Incas and the Andes was excellent and allowed us to understand how the Incas worked within their environment.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Watching the sun go down from the campsites, clutching a hot drink, with the cloud settled in the valley.

What did you think of your group leader?

Excellent

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Walk as slowly as you can, and if your knees are even slightly dodgy use sticks. They still be sore by the end though!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Adrienne

Heel goed georganiseerd in samenwerking met Exodus. Hadden de kans en vrijheid om zelf ook de omgeving goed te verkennen. Indrukwekkende tocht door het immense Anded gebergte waar we niemand zijn tegengekomen

I stood speechless as I looked down over the wonderful Magestic Machu Piccu

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

We sat on one of the terraces overlooking Machu piccu a few thousand metres high my feet were daggling over the ledge it was the most emotional feeling almost as if I was one  with the magnificent mountains that surrounded me. 

What did you think of your group leader?

Fabrisio was so passionate about the Inca's he never stopped telling us of their skills and  lifestyles   he was also informative about the flora and forna of the region. All round nice guy.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Just try to enjoy every bit of the trek even when the going gets a bit tough  because its over too quickly.  

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The Andes have a mystical beauty and the people you meet on the way are a good natured people a little poor in places but they always have a smile.

Suddenly it was there in all its glory and I had to pinch myself!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Walking through the Sun Gate having not realised where we were and seeing Machu Picchu lying down  below us. When the sun came out and lit up the site, it was as if someone had switched on a switch Camping at the highest site on the night before we made it to Muchu Picchu and standing up on the highest point looking out at the stars etc, it was magical and you felt like you were on top of the world. All these amazing archological sites

What did you think of your group leader?

She was so well informed on such a range of subjects She was always willing to ask questions She was approachable and sensitive to our needs She was fun and interesting to talk to. She was always professional

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

ask lots of questions so you know exactly what to expect do your research talk to others who have done the trip get fit

Is there anything else you would like to add?

THE INCA TRAIL

Fantastic time lived upto and exceeded my expectations, the climax of seeing Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate was awe inspiring, followed by the awesome sight of Machu Picchu at sunrise!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

There are few moments on a trip that define a trip and for me these where undoubtely the view of Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate, sunrise at Machu Picchu and the Peruvian locals, especially the Porter team who were amazing people, humble, hardworking and a real credit to their nation. I fell in love with Peru and its many contrasts!

What did you think of your group leader?

Cesar Farfan was brilliant and would encourage and cajole us when it got tough especially on "Top Day", he was a well educated person who knew so much about his country, but also socialised with us too. He trusted us to set our own pace, and really made the trip very very special

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

The Inka Trail maybe set as a moderate Trek, but do not be fooled into thinking it is easy. do some pre-fitness work, especially on your legs/knees and calves, listen and adhere to the advise you receive about cocoa leaves and cocoa drinks (no sugar).

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Thank you thank you and thank you - i was a virgin traveller who had never done a holiday like this before. Peru was my dream holiday and thanks to Exodus, Inka Tour and Travel and Kontiki Travel, they made my dream come true. I absolutely love Peru and its People regardless of how poor it is. I would definately recommend Exodus to anyone.

THE INCA TRAIL

A fantastic trip!Good bits - The trekking wasn't too easy.  The staff were very helpful and friendly.  The trek food was amazing! - just what you need to keep you going!  The views and sights are beyond words to describe!  Not so good bits - The tents are obviously well worn, zips and ground sheets need replacing.  Just hope it doesn't rain too much!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Being on the top of a mountain on the third night of the trip with only us and one other group in the campsite and watching the sun set.

What did you think of your group leader?

Caesar was brilliant!  Friendly, helpful and made us laugh!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

If you are fairly fit, try a more challenging and less tourist travelled route.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

THE INCA TRAIL

A very good allround trip transfers were smooth, hotels were clean and comfortable. Just what I expected. A good company.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

 Pisac ruins,Getting to the top of Dead womans pass with all the group together, Seeing MP For the first time and the hot thermal baths in Aguas Calientes. 

What did you think of your group leader?

Flaminia, very small, very proffesional and very cute a good leader.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Try to make sure you can trek to the sungate to see the sunrise.  We didn`t because our camp site was too far away and three of us had to get up at four in the morning to get the first bus back up to MP, which only opens at six and then walk as fast as we could to get to the sungate before sunrise. But boy was it worth it! Take some ear plugs to cut out the loud Americans watching the sunrise at the sungate:) better still take your ipod with you fave tunes on. The sunrise lasts maybe 45 mins, it was the best time of my life, I had to stop and have little cry on the way down it ment so much to me. A life times ambition achieved.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Take or hire a good sleeping bag I hired mine it was clean and warm it gets cold on the trail. Proper waterproofs make it more comfortable. Take a good hand wash gel, and use it all the time. Dont eat too much breakfast I always seemed struggled the fist hour. Have patience its not a race and enjoy the group struggle. I would have liked to have had a meal in Aguas Calientas after coming of the trail instead of going back to the camp site. Enjoy Cuzco, I had a great afternoon just wandering round on my own doing a bit sight seeing and shopping, try the bungee jump, Lima was a bit of a dissapointment. See www. incapink.com for photos.