Common questions

When does the trip take place? Back to top

The trip will take place from 4-13 May 2013.

What do I have to do to take part? Back to top

Simply pay a £450 registration fee* and return this with a completed application form| .
You will then need to raise a minimum of £3,800 , of which £1,450 must be received by Macmillan Cancer Support four months prior to departure. The outstanding amount must be with us within one month of the event taking place.

 

*This can be paid in full or in two installments of £225 (full details on application form)

What sort of person takes part? Back to top

The group will be made up of around 50 people, both men and women, from all backgrounds, abilities and ages, although you must be 18 or over to take part.  Whilst some take part with friends, most people come on their own, so it's a great way of meeting new people.  You will find that the group quickly bond and support each other throughout the challenge.

Where will we stay while hiking? Back to top

While hiking on the trail we will be camping in two man tents, staying at basic campsites with few facilities.

 

At the start and end of the trek we will be staying in a comfortable 3* hotel in Cusco

Do I have to carry my own kit? Back to top

Throughout the trek we will be accompanied by porters who will carry all our equipment and supplies. You will carry a day pack to hold any equipment you might need during the day.

Am I fit enough? Back to top

Macmillan challenges are designed to suit people of average fitness.  However, if you do not already walk on a regular basis you will need to commit to a considerable amount of training during the preceding months. A full training programme will be included in your fundraising pack.

Do I have to meet any medical requirements? Back to top

Everyone on the challenge is required to complete a medical form that must be signed by your GP. Medical forms will be provided in your fundraising packs and individual surgeries may charge for this service.

How does Macmillan benefit? Back to top

At least 62% of the £3,800 minimum sponsorship will be treated as a donation to Macmillan. If you raise over £3,800 the entire surplus will benefit the charity.

What if I can't raise the minimum sponsorship? Back to top

We will provide you with a fundraising pack full of ideas on how to reach your target. You will also have the support of the Challenge Team and our extensive network of Macmillan fundraisers throughout the UK. However, if you do not manage to raise £1,450 four months prior to departure you will have the choice of making up the shortfall yourself or transferring to a later challenge, and thereby giving yourself longer to fundraise.

How do I convince people that they are not sponsoring me to go on 'holiday'? Back to top

While you are sure to have an incredible time on the challenge, our challenges can never be described as holidays.  You will need to spend months training and fundraising, before undertaking a demanding physical challenge. The days on the challenge will be long, facilities will be basic and the conditions tough. All of this takes time, effort, dedication and commitment and is far from just a holiday.

Of course, if you would prefer to cover the costs of the challenge in order to ensure that 100% of your sponsorship goes towards the work of the charity we would be delighted to discuss this option with you.

What will the weather be like? Back to top

Temperature: May 4-22°C.
Average number of days of rain in May - three.

What is included? Back to top

What is not included? Back to top

What else do I need? Back to top

A valid 10-year passport is essential, but there are no visa requirements for UK citizens.
We recommend you consult your doctor about necessary vaccinations.

What is the hiking like? Back to top

Each participant will need to carry a day pack for items needed during the day: water, sunscreen, camera, waterproofs etc. Trekking time varies from 3-12 hours per day. The route is on terrain ranging from gentle grassland paths to steep cloud forest trails which are stepped in places and can be uneven and muddy. Some paths have long, steep drops and gullies to the side, therefore, if you suffer from vertigo this trip is not recommended. The trip is challenging mainly because of the altitude at which we are trekking, however, plenty of time is built in to acclimatise.

Who organises the trip? Back to top

This trip is conceived and operated by Discover Adventure Ltd, ATOL 5636, whose booking conditions apply. If you have any more questions, please call the Challenge Team on 020 7840 7887 or email us at hiking@macmillan.org.uk| .

Can I offset my carbon footprint? Back to top

One of the key determining criteria. Macmillan looks for when selecting a tour operator to organise our events is a demonstrable appreciation of environmental concerns. Our tour operator Discover Adventure has links with 'Climate Care', a service that enables participants to neutralise the carbon emissions caused by taking long-haul flights.

For full details of how to offset your carbon emissions visit the Discover Adventure website| .