Peruvian Soles should be sufficient although of course it depends on how many drinks and souvenirs you wish to purchase! You can purchase soft drinks and snacks at some of the campsites, as well as occasional opportunities to pay for a warm shower. Ensure you take plenty of low denomination notes with you as change is difficult to come by. Please note that it is becoming increasingly difficult to exchange travellersâ€&#x; cheques and as such these are perhaps best avoided. There are lots of ATMs in Cusco and Lima if you wish to withdraw cash, but be aware that your bank may charge for overseas withdrawals and transactions and some banks block overseas transactions so inform your bank before departure. There are no places to withdraw cash along the trail. E is also for Electricity. Electricity is 220v 60HZ. Outlets in Peru are either two flat parallel prongs (US style) or two small round pins (European style). F is also for First Aid kit. You should have a small first aid kit of essential items which is for your own personal use. You must ensure you have access to your own first aid kit in your daypack. Suggested items to include: personal prescription medicine, Diamox (see your GP), Paracetamol, ibuprofen, plasters/blister plasters, insect repellent (containing 50% DEET), anti-histamine tablets, Imodium (loperamide), rehydration sachets, lip balm with SPF, antiseptic cream, Strepsils, tiger balm/Deep Heat, zinc oxide tape etc. F is for Food. On this trip we provide breakfast, lunch and dinner. Tea or coffee will also be included with each meal. The food is plentiful and delicious based on a combination of Peruvian and European dishes. A variety of cereals, bread and egg dishes are generally available for breakfast. Local fruit may be available for purchase along the trail. G is for Gloves. It can get very cold during the trek days and keeping your hands warm will help keep your entire body warm. Windproof and ideally waterproof gloves are recommended. F is also for Fitness. This tour is graded challenging so a good general level of fitness is required. Please note that most of the trail involves ascending and descending uneven terrain and this can be very tiring particularly in conjunction with the altitude. It is very important that you start a programme of training before your departure including walking and cardiovascular workouts to improve both your stamina and your ability to walk up and down gradients. This is not an „easyâ€&#x; trek or comparable to trekking in the UK, so adequate fitness preparations must be made prior to arrival. Training tips will be provided upon booking. DTC has the right to refuse anyone who they feel is not fit enough for the challenge. H is for Haggling. When purchasing items from markets and shops where prices are not listed you are expected to haggle. Please do so with respect, and pay a fair price. H is also for Head Torch. This is essential for finding your way to the toilet at night or reading in the evenings etc. The Petzl Tikka headlamp is an example of a very high quality head torch but there are some very good inexpensive head torches available if you shop around. Please ensure you take an LED torch, as ones with bulbs are not bright enough, and bring some spare batteries. H is also for Health. Different Travel regrets that we cannot provide medical advice on recommendations on vaccinations you should have. You MUST see your own GP or travel health professional for a personalised medical assessment. Please note that failure to be adequately vaccinated and protected against diseases can sometimes invalidate travel insurance policies as it is considered that you have not taken necessary precautions. You are advised to seek medical advice at least 8 weeks before travelling to ensure that all appropriate vaccinations are up to date. If your GP does not specialise in travel vaccinations, please contact the Nomad Travel Health Clinic. Different Travel and Nomad have teamed up to offer you a 10% discount on kit and vaccinations (discount code given on booking). For general information on vaccinations, visit http://www.fitfortravel.scot.nhs.uk but your GP or travel health professional should be the first stop for an in depth consultation tailored to your medical history.
This challenge is operated by Different Travel, ATOL 6706 for The Salvation Army, registered charity number 214779