Most Inspirational Moment
Getting to the top of dead woman's pass.......I did'nt think that I would make it.3 people almost did'nt,but were given all the help and encouragement they needed to get to the top. Arriving at the sun gate was a bit of a let down, after all the hyp;what was this funny little pile of ruins?.........then I saw Machu Picchu and it all fell into place.When we walked to the city I found myself keep turning towards that gate,and thought about that insignificant entrance to such a wonderful panorama.How I would love to be there at the solstice, to see the sun shine through the gate and into the city.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Disnarda was quite exceptional.........she worked so hard attending to our every need.Nothing was too much trouble:she was out 2 nights running,sorting out a doctor and collecting medicine for one of our number who was ill.Disnarda knew the best places to eat,and when we had a meal together on the last night,and I received change in soles(which I did'nt want as I was returning to the UK the next day)she had it changed to dollars.Disnarda did not abandon us at the airport,ensuring that we all knew where to go when we had checked in our baggage ,and she was incredibly sensitive to our needs when walking,giving us time to rest and reminding us to drink.She also arranged for porters to return along the trail to carry the backpacks of those who were struggling.She was always available.
Advice for Potential Travellers
You do need to be fit,and I am glad that I went for long walks before going.The toilet tent may well be difficult for some........it was not easy in the middle of the night struggling with the entrance zip, and slipping around in thick black mud in the dark,because the rains had arrived.Be prepared to be breathless with the altitude.......all of us struggled at times.You also need plenty of 'Deet" for the mosquitoes.