Machu Picchu
15 years ago, a small group of women power walked the New York Marathon in their bras. The one off fundraising event snowballed into one of the UK’s biggest charities, Walk The Walk, who to date have raised £82 million for breast cancer causes.
The charity, which fundraises through sponsored walks and marathons has revealed the dates of its latest expedition - The Inca Trail in Peru.
The 25 mile walk will take place between 12 June 2013 and 26 June 2013 and will lead explorers to the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
While the trek itself takes four days, the two week trip will prompt fundraisers to delve into local culture, exploring local cuisine and visiting historic Inca sites in the Cuzco region. Trekkers can also try out some white water rafting in the Sacred Valley before sleeping for three nights under canvas, stargazing in the clear nights.
With the help of specialist guides, the group will trek up the mountainous terrain and through the cloud-high forests before joining the spectacular celebrations of South America’s largest Inca festival, Inti Raymi. The festival, which traditionally celebrates the sun, is a wonder of colourful outfits, and local food, dance and music.
The South American summer sun offers perfect temperatures and clear skies. It is the perfect destination to escape civilisation and really clear the mind of stress and worry. The trek offers the opportunity and teamwork and challenge and Walk The Walk find that many people come back with a new lease of life when returning home.
Trekkers near the ruins of Machu Picchu
Nina Barough, Founder and Chief Executive of Walk The Walk said: “I am so proud that Walk the Walk not only raises millions of pounds for the fight against breast cancer but also encourages women and men to step out of their comfort zone and to take on adventures.
“Whenever I think of this challenge it immediately makes me smile with lovely memories of the wonderful friendships that are formed, and with whom you share the highs and lows.”
Nina on the Inca Trail trek
Sophie von MaItzahn completed Walk The Walk’s Inca Trail in Peru and said:“I will never forget the breathtaking view over the tops of the Peruvian mountains, the pink sky just sitting on top of them as the sun started to rise and the cloud sitting low on the peaks. I was on my own for just a few moments, exhilarated and feeling quite literally on top of the world.”
The cost of the trip is £3,375 which includes flights, accommodation, guides and interpreters. Participants need to raise a minimum of £600 for the charity and the opportunity to travel for free can be offered if a participant raises over that mark.
Visit Walk The Walk’s website for further details.
Have you ever visited Machu Picchu? Are you raising money for charity? Tell us your stories by commenting below or tweet us @FemaleFirst_UK
Female First
James Mellan @jamesmellan1