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Peru trek experience

MS Trust trekkers at Machu Picchu

On completion of their intrepid trek in Peru during September-October 2006, we asked our supporters to tell us about their experience. Here's what they said...


On the whole experience...

'When I got back I was shell-shocked. It took a few weeks to absorb the enormity and wonder of what we achieved.' Jacqui

'A fantastic achievement - I felt fulfilled.' David

'Thank you very much for making this a truly life-changing experience for me. I learned a lot about myself and felt hugely humbled by the Peruvian people I met. It also gave me an insight into the symptoms of MS (altitude sickness) - I am grateful that I have recovered from them.' Carole

'Fantastic.' Jo

'I feel satisfaction, relief and sadness that it is now all over.' Grace

'Absolutely fantastic, one of the best experiences of my life.' Jean

'I feel exhilarated, pleased and surprised, what an experience. It is not a walk in the park, but an ADVENTURE!' Gail

'I felt relieved, happy and humble.' Miles

'I felt elated, and especially moved by the Peruvian people.' Dot


On training...

'Training certainly helped to prepare for the trek, but you do not know how you will cope with being at altitude. For the first few days my legs felt like lead weights. Tip: prepare for uphill walks.' Diane

'The long days were tough. Cannot prepare for altitude sickness. Best to take it steady and listen to your body.' Laura

'Training for me was vital, and I think whatever your age or fitness levels, it is a must.' Miles

'Training certainly helped me improve stamina and leg strength - you need to do this unless you are already super fit!' Gail

'I trained hard prior to the trek and felt fit. Altitude sickness kinds of creeps up on you. Drink plenty of fluids and eat well prior to trekking.' Jean

'Some aerobics fitness training is useful as well as the long walks.' Val

'I trained in the gym for three months to increase my fitness levels, plus went hill-walking whenever I could.' Grace


On fundraising...

'I was lucky, in that I have never asked for sponsorship before (I have given plenty) so it was very easy.' Dot

'Fundraising was stressful, but I did manage to reach my target much easier than I thought. Start early so you can concentrate on your training.' Susan

'The fundraising was fine, my only tip is enjoy it, it is not a task, it can be real fun trying to reach your goal.' Keith

'Fundraising was easier than I thought, you have to get into people's faces!' John

'The fundraising was a challenge; I have never asked people to support me before. I was amazed at the generosity of friends, family and strangers. I met new friends along the way and raised the funds far more easily than I thought I would. Use your talents and interests, make sure people enjoy your fundraising.' Jacqui

'Fundraising started slow, but in the end was in excess of £4,000. Using an online sponsor form makes it easy to reach a wide group of people.' David

'I hated asking people for money, but I was surprised how easy it was to reach my target.' Grace

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