Reviews

Most Inspirational Moment

Its dificult to say the most insiprational moment, from getting to the start and crossing the river to reaching the sun gate there were so many, getting to the top of dead womans pass on day two (which is by far the hardest part of the trip) waking up on day four to be surrounded by snow top mountains and finally reaching the sun gate and seeing Machu Picchu all were pretty amazing but the most inspiration for me came from my fellow travellers we all got on so well from the very start, there was no split at all, for the whole trip we helped and encouraged each other, we ate, drank, laughed ( so much) and on more than one occasion shed a few tears together, we even had a little disco in our dinner tent one night with the music from the phones and the flashing lights from our head torches much to the bewliderment of the other trvellers on our campsite. The whole trip was an incredible, exhilarating and inspirational journey and I feel very very lucky not only to have done the Inca Trail but to have done it with 12 other fabulous people.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Cesar who we christened Top Cat and Anthiny (chicken legs) were absolutely first class, their sense of humour, patience and knowledge was amazing and the pride that they clearly have in not only the Inca Trail but also Cusco and the country itself was evident for all of us to see and really enhanced the whole experience. In my opinion they are a credit to Peru and its fantastic culture and Exodus are very lucky to have them both. Also a special mention for Paloma who met us a Lima airport, took us to our hotel and then went out of her way to give us a little tour

Advice for Potential Travellers

Follow the trip notes, DO take at least one walking pole they really help espescially going down hill. buy a poncho (£2) and buy a scarf, there are people selling them just before you start for 8 soles (£2) it will keep the sun of your neck. Bond with your fellow travellers help and encourage each other all the way, don't rush take your time( there were other groups who seemed to think it was a race, surely not the idea) if you feel tired turn around take in the amazing scenery it will inspire you to carry on And most importantly try the pisco sours they are lovely, but dont have more than two or maybe three, or you may end up like one of our group who tried playing musical chairs......... on her own......... with one chair....... and still lost.

Most Inspirational Moment

Actually starting the trek and walking over the very first bridge after receiving our permits and having our passports stamped. A feeling of elation and trepidation all at the same time.Dead Woman's Pass - an incredible feeling to have made it (and survived!) Getting up before dawn to see the sunrise over the snow capped mountains on our 4th day. The views were breathtaking.Reaching the Sungate after a copious amount of steps and seeing Macchu Pichu for the very first time. Being over-awed by its size - so much bigger and more impressive than I ever imagined. 

Thoughts on Group Leader

Filumenia was real trooper - encouraged us all when we found it difficult, made us all laugh, was a fabulous photographer taking all our cameras at one time to snap a group shot for each of us. She was exceptionally knowledgable, pleasant and fun to be with and worked extremely hard to fulfil everyone's needs, a great asset to the Exodus team. We couldnt have asked for anyone better - thank you.

Advice for Potential Travellers

However fit you think you are - take walking poles - there are more steps than you can imagine! Walk slowly, have the best equipment you can afford. You dont need a lot of clothes and certainly no make-up!Dont opt for single tents even if travelling alone as they are very small!!!! No space to sit upright and if it rains its almost impossible not to touch the sides thus letting in the damp.Remember your swimming costume as the hot springs on the final evening of the trek are a pure delight! Towels can be rented.Buy a poncho in Cuzco - about £1. Very useful - used to protect you, your clothes and your rucksackExpect variable weather Enjoy and take loads of photos - its incredible to look back and remember what you achieved.Local currency is required and used more than Exodus states although you can pay in dollars (exchange rate ok!)

Most Inspirational Moment

Seeing Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate, having just scaled what felt like an impossible set of steps! Experiencing the warmth of the Peruvian people and generally just pinching myself that I really had just unzipped my tent to reveal a snow covered mountain shrouded in wisps of mist right outside. The scenery was stunning and we experienced sun, rain and cold weather during our trek.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Flaminia was incredibly patient, well organised and keen to share her knowledge of the country which was appreciated by all members of the group. Freddie helped me get through the worst parts of the trek for me, in terms of my difficulty with heights and was unfailingly patient.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Walking poles were great for the harder parts of the trek and helped me keep my balance. Wipes and loo paper were essential for loos etc. Hand sanitizer was a must. You can hire a towel and buy shampoo when you get to the hot springs in aguas calientes which was well worth a visit as after four days we all felt in need of some hot water. Don't forget your swimming things as the springs were incredibly relaxing after the trek. Also take some small coins with you to pay for some of the loos on the trip, also for some extra water if you need it. I had a warm waterproof hat which was really useful. Every night we filled our water bottles at camp with hot water and these were great when put in your sleeping bag to keep you warm during the colder nights. A disposable camera is great if you have problems with your camera, like one member of our group. The ponchos are really good as they are lightweight and keep you and your rucksack dry and are easy to take on and off. Don't underestimate the altitude and several members of our group took altitude sickness tablets. This helped one of our group who had been very ill on arrival in Cuzco.

Most Inspirational Moment

Many things made this trip inspirational; admiration for our porters, getting to know my fellow Exodus travellers, the amazing Inca architecture, the stunning vistas round every turn ... but the highlight for me was reaching the Sun Gate after four days trekking up and down passes. The first views of Machu Picchu were simply awesome; made all the more impressive as we had worked really hard to get there and felt like we owned them more than the day trippers! It was a special moment that will live with me for always.

Thoughts on Group Leader

"Fab" was a good group leader, always there with practical information and local knowledge. His patience and encouragement on the trek was appreciated and for me he found the right balance of leadership with a laid back style. He also managed to stay looking pristine on the trek ... we want to know his secret!

Advice for Potential Travellers

Follow the trip notes! The advice they give is accurate and a good starting point. In addition take ‘baby wipes’ which help keep smells at bay, especially as it can get quite hot in the day. We were glad we'd taken a fresh t-shirt for each day and sports (moisture wicking) ones are best ... you will sweat with the effort even if it's cooler, particularly on Trek Day 2! It can get cold at night and at the top of Dead Woman's Pass, so don't forget the layers too. A poncho is also a worthwhile investment as it will cover your day pack should it rain. They're cheap enough from Cuzco. Trekking poles were a godsend for me as I have an old knee injury. The descent after Dead Woman's Pass in particular is difficult if you do have bad knees and it will take you longer to get to camp, so do think about this trip if you would not be able to get down steep uneven stone steps that continue for ages! However, if you can manage it with poles, even if it takes you longer than the group, in my opinion it's still worth it. Get practicing beforehand though by swapping any lifts for stairs! Don't forget spare batteries for your cameras ... and even an auxiliary compact camera if you have one! Whilst I didn't need to use mine myself, it came in handy for a fellow trip member whose camera packed up whilst walking round Machu Picchu itself! Oh, and if you like your cocktails, do try a Pisco Sour!

Most Inspirational Moment

It was all just a brilliant trip

Thoughts on Group Leader

Elijah our trek leader was informative, amusing and very efficient. A great chap, the chef , Wilbur, seemed to magic the most incredible three course meals out of the kitchen tent.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Think about the Moonstone trek as an alternative to the Inca Trail, you will not be disappointed

Most Inspirational Moment

The great local people who seem to have fewer material things but are happy, it made me think about what's important

Thoughts on Group Leader

She was great, very patient and helpful as well as totally professional

Advice for Potential Travellers

Altitude sickness can be a problem, take the advice of your guide, slow down and believe that you will feel better soon!

Most Inspirational Moment

There are so many.  the group waiting for me to finally get to the top of Dead Womans pass before us all taking the final step together.  The first glimps of Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate.  Sitting quietly imagining what it would have been like all that time.  Camping on what felt like the top of the world.

Thoughts on Group Leader

He was great, very knowledgeable and helpful

Advice for Potential Travellers

  Take walking poles, they are invaluable and can be picked up fairly inexpensively.  A saviour for tired legs and really helpful for all the down hill walking.

Most Inspirational Moment

Meeting the Sherpas , getting to know them by their smiles , they are warm hearted exceptional people with a super human strength and stamina .

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our group leader , Holger or Olly as we came to know him by. Is a very kind and understanding person, that understood each individual Trekkers needs , he has a methodical walking pace to suit all abilities. Thank you for all your help Olly .

Advice for Potential Travellers

Best buy was a Poncho, buy one there then pass on to a Sherpa

Most Inspirational Moment

The journey along the trail was amazing.  I haven’t got the words to begin to describe the views....you need to book NOW and see for yourself! The second day up to dead womans pass was hard, but I loved every minute of it.  Felt such a sence of achievement when I got to the top. Of course the emotional arrival at the sungate....we were all smelly, dirty and must have looked a sight standing next to the day trippers in their flip flops and white shirts....but we earnt that view!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Rene was fabulous, extremely knowledgeable and very proud of his country.  He always had a smile on his face and would make sure we did too!  Carols was also fantastic and supportive. 

Advice for Potential Travellers

Take wet wipes for the trek.  I didn’t need them myself but I would recommend blister plasters.  Take warm clothes for the night on the mountain including wooly hat! Take full advantage of your time in Cusco, explore the old town and have a few Pisco sours!  Take a good camera with lots of spare batteries.  I took quite a few movies which capture so much more than a photo and have been great to watch back. 

Most Inspirational Moment

The Sun Gate, brought tears to my eyes.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Absolutley fantastic, helpful, knowledgeable, sense of humour, aproachable. Her vocabulary was good.Kept us informed all the time of what would happen next.