Tag Archives: Adventure

Trail Etiquette: Rules Every Hiker Should Follow

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Going for a hike seems like a pretty self-explanatory endeavour, right? Put one foot in front of the other, enjoy the scenery and navigate your whereabouts accordingly. While the motions are easy to put into play, there’s also such thing as ‘good hiking etiquette’ .

So before you lace up your boots, we’ve compiled some “unwritten rules” every good hiker should follow.

Leave Only Footprints

The most universal rule of hiking is to leave the untouched places you visit the way you would like to discover them. As the old adage says, ‘pack it in, pack it out.’ Dispose of waste properly and don’t leave anything behind – this includes organic waste like fruit peels, apple cores and seeds, and most notably, non-biodegradable materials such as plastic bottles, wet wipes, candy wrappers and so on. These waste products can pose great harm to native fauna and wildlife, pollute waterways and impact the experience your fellow hikers have on the trail.

Stop and Say Hello to Fellow Bushwalkers

This is probably an easy rule to follow, but we will say it anyway: you should always be polite and humble to others on your outdoor adventure. Your fellow hikers are a friendly bunch and often have some vital information about the trail they can pass on, like hazards ahead or camouflaged wildlife only locals know about.

Hike Quietly and Welcome the Sounds of Nature

Any experienced hiker will tell you that silence is golden while hiking. To enrich your experience on the trail, it’s recommended you try to keep your voice down, turn off external music devices and enjoy the great outdoors as Mother Nature intended.

Connect with your senses and listen to native birds chirping and water tickling down rocks, and soothe your nature- starved soul with the calming fresh air against your skin.

When Nature Calls…

So what do you do when nature calls and there isn’t a beckoning blue sign labelled ‘Toilets’ in sight? Unbeknownst to many, but there is actually toilet etiquette while hiking. It’s not too complex, but there are a few things to note. Before you seek out your location, ensure it is at least 100m away from water sources and campsites to prevent contamination – and also just to be considerate. Then simply dig a hole, do as natured intended and bury it with soil. If the inevitable strikes and you need to go number two, make sure you ditch the wet wipes and use biodegradable camp toilet paper – it will have a minimum impact on the environment you are visiting.

Set a Safe Pace

While it’s always encouraged to be relatively fit before you set off on a long pilgrimage, everyone’s fitness levels vary. Ensure you set a comfortable pace for the slower hikers so nobody falls too far behind. Alternatively, if people in your group prefer hiking at their own pace, choose a designated destination where you can all reconvene for refreshments or lunch.

Feeling inspired? Check out the upcoming challenges on our calendar and find your adventure!

5 Reasons to Camp in Winter

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Ah winter… the season to fasten down the hatches and hibernate until the spring – said not us!

Too often we channel our inner hermit as soon as temperatures drop, but unbeknownst to many, winter is actually the perfect time to reap the benefits of the outdoors.

Our favourite and most tried and true cure for cabin fever during wintertime is to go camping.

Here’s why:

Less People

Camping is a great way to swap the hustle and bustle of city life for the soothing sounds of nature – and it’s even better to do it in winter. There will be less people pitching tents at your choice of campground (if any!) and those last minute reservations are always welcomed. You will have first dibs on the perfect spot as well as the communal BBQ facilities, showers and toilets. Massive pros!

Fewer Bugs

After a gruelling summer swatting flies and running from cockroaches, you can finally rest easy because those pesky bugs are few and far between in wintertime. Like certain animals, many types of insects will go into hibernation to escape the cold temperatures.

For precautionary purposes, we still recommend you stay armed with aeroguard – just in case…

An Excuse to Upgrade Your Gear

Winter camping offers a scenic splendour that is often unrivalled, however those breathtaking surroundings can turn from beautiful to unbearable in an instant. To enrich your experience outside and stay comfortable while you camp, don’t skimp on quality.

Opt for a dome or tunnel-shaped tent as it will retain heat and withstand wet weather. Choose a 4 seasons sleeping bag or add a thermal liner to keep you warm after dark, and separate yourself from that bitterly cold ground by adding a foam strip under your inflatable mattress.

Campfire and S’mores

An open campfire accompanied by some tasty s’mores is a sure way to create a warm winter wonderland outside. But before you grab the guitar and ignite the night with standout sing-alongs, always follow the campfire rules and etiquettes – and be sure to check your campsite’s fire restrictions and regulations.

Witness More Wildlife

During peak camping seasons, the presence of wildlife can be scarce. With fewer campers around in winter, your chances of seeing more wildlife are very high. Some of Australia’s most spectacular species can be found across a range of National parks – and they’re worth keeping an eye out for.

Check them out here

Feeling inspired? Check out the upcoming challenges on our calendar and find your adventure!

5 Tips For Eco Friendly Travelling

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Whether you’re planning a new adventure or you’re set to jet soon, we’ve rounded up a few simple tips to make your journey greener.

1. Walk, Cycle or Take Public Transport

Reduce your carbon footprint by opting for eco-friendly modes of transportation. If you’re sightseeing, hire a bike or take public transport – you’ll enjoy the social and economic benefits too! Just got off a long haul flight? Stretch your legs by walking to your destinations. The World Health Organisation recommends individuals should increase their physical activity to 10,000 steps per day to improve health and vitality – glow green more like it!

2. Be Water Wise

Plastic water bottles are one of the main culprits generating an enormous amount of waste in Australia and around the world. To help reduce the number of plastic bottles going into landfill and the environment, consume your h20 on the go with refillable BPA-free water bottles.

As the old adage goes, “Water, water everywhere, nor any drop to drink!” Two-thirds of the global population live under conditions of severe water scarcity, affecting more than 1 billion people. Every drop is sacred and should be conserved. Be shower smart by limiting your showers to just one per day and turn the water off while your scrub, shampoo and condition. Keep it short, turn taps off properly and recycle your towel – you’d do that at home anyway, right? Go that extra green mile by packing eco-friendly, organic body care products such as body wash and hair care – they won’t pollute the water going down the drain.

3. Preserve Energy

This one is pretty easy; just adapt your home life to hotel life. You can do this by leaving the trusty ‘Do Not Disturb’ sign on your door for most of your stay. Housekeeping wouldn’t be vacuuming your floor and cleaning your bathrooms every day at home, so why do they need to abroad? If you run out of amenities, simply request them at the front desk.

Always ensure all lights and electrical appliances are switched off before you leave the room – just like you would at home.

4. Participate in eco-friendly activities

Skip the helicopter or speedboat ride and go snorkelling, climbing or hiking! You will not only soak up the natural beauty of your surroundings, you’ll be minimising your environmental impact and reducing the use of fossil fuels.

Don’t let the TV hold you captive while you’re on holiday. Put the remote down and immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of your destination. Meet the locals, try the cuisine and explore everything that passport stamp has to offer.

5. Travel Lightly

The less you pack, the less fuel your mode of transport will use. Keep your nomadic wardrobe minimal and opt for lightweight, warm, versatile, wrinkle-free and quick drying pieces. With less weight on your back, you will also glide through the gates with ease.

Craving a new adventure?

Check out the upcoming challenges on our 2018 calendar and find your next adventure!

5 Tips For Packing Light

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Whether you’re about to embark on your first overseas adventure or you’re whisking yourself away for the weekend, the most important rule of thumb for travellers is to not weigh yourself down.

To help you travel light, we’ve rounded up 5 simple tips so that you can master the art of packing smart!

1. Don’t leave it to the last minute

While we understand that life can get busy and time can get lost, a common rookie error for travellers is leaving the packing to the last minute. If you’re rushing or tired, you’re more likely to forget the essentials – and we’re not talking about your toothbrush. Think important travel documents, medication and that incredible DSLR camera sitting beside your bed.

Give yourself enough time to thoughtfully process and plan out your checklist. This will also allow you to include smart staples to help lighten your load.

2. Opt for lightweight clothing

Your sightseeing capsule wardrobe should include lightweight, warm, versatile, wrinkle-free and quick drying pieces. Merino wool is a popular all-round natural fabric that will become your lifeline on the road. It will keep you warm in frosty conditions and cool in humidity – plus unlike synthetic fabrics, merino wool is odour resistant – so perfect for multiple wears!

3. Roll, don't fold

While rolling may not necessarily lighten your load, it will certainly help you maximise your space, combat creased clothing and help keep your bag organised. This simple tactic is perfect for your carry-on luggage where bulky culprits reside.

4. Minimalism is a must

Some like to stay stylish while they stride, but your time abroad will be infinitely easier if you just pack the basics alongside a few statement pieces. We’re not saying cute and cosy can’t co-exist; you just have to exercise your creative flair by mixing, matching and layering your garments.

What about your feet? Opt for a neutral pair of everyday shoes that are comfortable, waterproof and practical for your destination.

5. Choose the right luggage

Depending on the location, type and length of your adventure, try to limit the number of bags you’ll be carrying. Steer clear of awkwardly large and heavy suitcases that will drag you down while you try to navigate your way through busy crowds. If possible, try stick to luggage that is within the carry-on bag size limits (your arms will thank you!).

Did we just give you the travel bug? Check out the upcoming challenges on our 2018 calendar and find your next adventure!

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What’s it really like to
trek to Everest Base Camp?

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The allure of Everest has captivated daring adventurers since the 1920s, with many making huge sacrifices to reach the summit.

Almost 3,500 metres below the summit, however, is Everest Base Camp, and although not your average adventure, it is steadily becoming a destination of choice for ordinary people looking to catch a glimpse of the world’s highest peak.

Arriving into Kathmandu, you are immediately immersed in the charming confusion of Nepal’s capital city. While hurtling towards modernity, Kathmandu stoically maintains its traditional, religious and cultural uniqueness, as evidenced by its many World Heritage-listed sites.

From Durbar Square, the beating heart of the city, to Freak Street where hippies gathered in the 1960s and 1970s on their way to Europe, the experience of Kathmandu is as unique as each person who visits it.

From the hustle and bustle of the city, it’s only a short flight to Lukla and the majesty of the Himalayas. Landing at the airstrip, built by Sir Edmund Hillary and sherpas in the 1960s, you will realise that it is now that the real adventure begins.

Along narrow mule tracks, you will trek for 12 days between snow-capped mountains, into birch and rhododendron forest, across pristine rivers and through alpine meadows. Under the expert care of local guides and sherpas, you will experience the exquisite scenery and culture of the Himalayas as you steadily ascend to your destination.

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From the pine and cedar woods along the Dudh Kosi River you will trek to the Pema Choling Monastery, perched on a hillside high above the village of Phakding. Climbing still, you cross the river and make your way through blue pine and rhododendron forest. As you traverse Sagamartha National Park on the way to Namche, the snow-capped peak of Mount Everest will appear in the distance.

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With a day to acclimatise in Namche, you can explore a town that was once the staging point for trading expeditions to Tibet. Even today, Tibetans are often seen in the village, trading rugs and Chinese-made goods, clothing, salt and dried meat.

Farewelling Namche, you will then make your way to Tengboche, by far one of the most spectacular treks of the adventure. As you journey through pine, fir and black juniper forest, the mighty mountain as your beacon, you will follow the snaking path to victory.

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Crossing a line of Cairns, the temperature begins to drop and you will trek in single file, following in the footsteps of those before you and willing the finish line closer. From Loboche alongside the Khumbu Glacier and down to Gorak Shep, you are now among the glaciers of the world’s highest peaks. And just as you think your goal may be unattainable, you will reach Everest Base Camp. With colourful prayer flags flapping in the crisp mountain air, you will look around you and begin to appreciate the enormity of your accomplishment.

Take a look at our latest adventures to Everest Base Camp!

Everest Base Camp is a truly rewarding challenge to take on. Our 2018 adventures include:

Everest Base Camp: Trek for Cerebral Palsy
UNICEF Climb for Kids: Everest Base Camp 2018
Together to Give Everest Trek 2018
Beat Blood Cancer Everest Challenge 2018

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6 signs you’re ready for your next adventure

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True adventure can re-awaken your zest for life – here are 6 signs you’re ready for your next adventure!

1. You crave excitement

The routine of everyday life is making you feel restless, and you want to shake things up and create more excitement in the everyday. Do you feel like you’re sitting still too long? Then it’s probably time to get up and get moving.

Group hiking
Adventure Travel

2. You don’t feel challenged

Challenges help us to grow and learn about ourselves. If you no longer feel challenged in whatever you are doing, it might be time to start creating an environment where you can grow. Many of our Inspired participants claim that the adventure helped them realise that challenging yourself is the best way to realise what you are capable of, even if you didn’t know it.

3. You feel listless

When was the last time you felt passionate about something? Feeling listless is common when we aren’t living for something, and getting up each day without a goal to work towards. If you’re feeling like this, it’s time to start thinking about what you want to achieve, where you want to be and how you want to get there.

4. You find it hard to get up every morning

If you’re slogging through your mornings, and using coffee to get through the day it may be that your zest for life has taken a hit. For some of us, waking up in the morning is always going to take extra effort, but if you’re struggling everyday and getting no better, it might be time to start thinking about how to add more adventure to your life.

5. You’re daydreaming about travel

Whether it’s the peak of Machu Picchu, or China’s Great Wall, you spend your days thinking about being somewhere (anywhere) more exciting.

6. You want to prove something to yourself

Achievement is a hell of a feeling. Maybe you don’t know whether you can reach Everest Base Camp, but knowing that it’s possible makes you want to prove that you can do it.

If you’re itching for adventure, check out the upcoming challenges on our 2018 calendar and find your adventure!

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5 Surprising facts about fundraising challenges you probably didn’t know

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Inspired has been in fundraising for a long time, and in that time we’ve learnt a few things. So without further ado, we’ve compiled this list of facts about fundraising challenges to shed some light on the motivation behind why your supporters might take on an adventure.

1. Challenges raise more money than non-challenges

Research undertaken by psychologist Christopher Olivola found that not only are people drawn to fundraisers that require physical effort, but that these challenges raise significantly more funds than non-challenges. This could be because a difficult challenge holds greater value in people’s minds.

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2. People love to be challenged

Many fundraising challenges are not only physically demanding, they are also a test of will and spirit. When we are not challenged, we may fall into a routine that doesn’t excite or motivate us. A challenge forces us to look into the face of adversity and persevere. By establishing our own goals, we can break your routine and focus on something new and exciting. Many Inspired participants reveal they never knew they could achieve what they did, until they did it.

3. People are more likely to participate when the challenge relates to the cause

Olivola’s study also revealed that willingness to donate is higher when the challenge relates to the cause. Remember the Ice Bucket Challenge? This viral phenomenon motivated people from all walks of life to dump a bucket of ice water over their heads on camera, all to raise awareness for ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or motor neurone disease). It was intended to simulate the sensation of one of the symptoms of the disease. This challenge raised an incredible $115 million, funds which went towards research, community services and education.

4. Participants are not always who you may think

Fundraising challenges don’t necessarily attract athletes or fit people. Rather, these participants are inspired by the cause, and often have a strong calling to do the challenge either for themselves or for a loved one.

5. There’s a challenge to suit everyone

Not everyone will want to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, and that’s okay. A challenge for some may not work for everyone, that’s why it’s good to know who your supporters are, and what kind of challenge appeals to them. Whether that’s cycling the Cambodian countryside or trekking the rocky rugged outback, Inspired challenges are all unique and designed with difficulty level in mind. Ultimately, people are drawn to fundraising challenges because they can give back in a meaningful way, while also pursuing something outside of their comfort zone. This experience can be tremendously rewarding, as evident by the feedback we have received from participants, many of whom are willing to sign up to subsequent adventures. Stay tuned for our downloadable paper “No Pain Less Gain: How Physical Challenges Impact Charity Fundraising” which will be available soon.

Feeling inspired?

Check out our adventures calendar!

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Ten days in New Zealand’s South Island

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Have you thought about making your way to New Zealand’s South Island for a trekking adventure, but don’t know where to go or what to do? Look no further! I was lucky enough to explore the South Island by campervan last December and have put together a 10-day itinerary, which includes trekking through mountains and valleys, gazing at glacier views, cruising Milford Sound, and a fair bit of driving. If you’re not keen on camping, this itinerary can easily be adjusted to drive between locations with overnight accommodation in hotels. If you have less time, base yourself in Queenstown and choose a few days from this itinerary to catch the highlights. Of course, there’s always the option of joining one of our New Zealand challenges next year as well!

Day 1: Christchurch to Arthur’s Pass National Park

Grab your campervan/car, stock your chilly bin, and hit the road towards Arthur’s Pass National Park. After about 2-3 hours driving up to the mountains, you’ll find yourself in Arthur’s Pass Village, where you can head to the Visitor’s Centre for some local insight on the available walking paths. If you’d like to fit in a few shorter treks, check out the Bealey Valley Trek for a 1 hour return walk. On this walk you’ll make your way through the valley before coming across a beautifully calm waterfall and creek where you can relax and take it in before heading back on the same route. After this, head over towards the Devil’s Punchbowl track for some stair-climbing and stunning waterfall views. Set up camp for the night in the campground across from the Visitor’s Centre or settle into accommodation at one of the town’s hotels.

New Zealand South Island
New Zealand South Island

Day 2: Arthur’s Pass to Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers

Start the day off with a drive towards the west coast where you’ll find Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier. If you’re looking to trek on the glaciers, you’ll need to book this in with a specialised tour group, but if you’re like me and want a cost-effective (read: free) opportunity to view the glaciers, there are other options! Both glaciers have self-guided walks available through the valleys with viewpoints of the glaciers. On each walk you’ll have lush green cliffs rising up on either side with flowing waterfalls. Keep in mind the lookout points for each glacier are dictated by weather patterns and glacial movements, so some days you’ll be able to get closer to the base than others.

Day 3: Franz Josef or Fox Glacier to Queenstown

Today, take the drive south from Franz Josef or Fox Glacier all the way to Queenstown. It’s a longer day of driving, but a beautiful one as you coast alongside Lake Wanaka and Lake Hawea, both with picturesque views of the mountains in the background. Spend the afternoon relaxing in Queenstown along Lake Wakatipu and if you’re after a short walk to stretch your legs, head to the Queenstown Gardens where you can enjoy a nice stroll and stunning views of The Remarkables mountain range. If you’re camping tonight, drive to Moke Lake, just outside of Queenstown, for a scenic lakeside campground tucked away in the valley.

Day 4: Queenstown

If you’re looking for a thrilling adventure day, Queenstown is your place to do it! They’re known for their adventure sports and offer day tours from bungy-jumping to white-water rafting. If these activities aren’t for you, enjoy a more relaxed day on a Lake Wakatipu cruise to soak in the views, or explore the downtown centre. If you’re somewhere in the middle between seeking adventure or relaxing, the Queenstown luge is a fun (and less extreme) option!

Day 5: Queenstown to Fiordland National Park

This morning, start the drive south towards Milford Sound via Te Anau where you can stop for a picnic lunch on the lake and pop into the Visitor’s Centre for some local insight on the area. From here, keep driving towards Milford Sound and stop off for a beautiful hike on the Key Summit Trek. This trek is roughly 3 hours return with a steady incline up the mountainside until you reach Key Summit. At the top, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. There is also a self-guided nature walk with information on the local flora, fauna and glacial history of the region.

New Zealand South Island
New Zealand South Island

Day 6: Milford Sound

Today, make the rest of the drive to Milford Sound. The most popular activity here is to board a boat and cruise the Milford Sound, or consider booking in a kayak tour instead. This area of Fiordland National Park is not to miss, with cliffs stretching high to the sky on either side of the sound. If you’re lucky, you may spot the local bottlenose dolphins or spot a fur seal. After you take in Milford Sound, head for an afternoon trek up to Lake Marian where you’ll be treated to a clear glacial lake with stunning mountain surrounds. The trek is about 3 hours return and well worth it!

Day 7: Fiordland National Park to Wanaka

Hop back in the car for a longer day of driving and make your way from Fiordland National Park to the lakeside town of Wanaka. If you’re up for a short walk, check out the Mount Iron walking track, a relatively easy 1 hour loop providing views overlooking the town and lake.

Day 8: Wanaka to Mount Cook Aoraki

Spend some time in Wanaka this morning and begin the drive to Mount Cook. On the drive you’ll pass by Lake Pukaki, a bright turquoise lake with views of Mt. Cook/Aoraki in the background. Drive to Mount Cook Village and head to the Hooker Valley walking track. This is a relatively flat 4 hour return walk through the Hooker Valley. On the walk you’ll cross over three suspension bridges as you meander towards Hooker Lake with views of Mount Cook in the background. If you’re camping, set up camp at the campsite near the start of the walk and enjoy the clear skies for some stargazing tonight.

Day 9: Mount Cook to Christchurch

Hit the road again towards Christchurch to wrap up your adventure. Explore the city and check out the Re:Start mall in town for a unique shopping experience. Walk through the town centre and Cathedral Square and meander down Regent Street where you’ll feel like you’ve wandered into a town in Europe.

Day 10: Christchurch

Enjoy breakfast at one of the many cafés in Christchurch and board your plane back home to wrap up your adventure! Keep in mind that these are just a few highlights from the South Island. If you have more time to spare, I would highly recommend heading further up north and down south to enjoy the diverse landscape that the island has to offer!

A few tips to keep in mind for your adventure:

  • Always allow for extra time when planning your drive each day as the roads can be quite windy and narrow, meaning even Google Maps is not always accurate!
  • Summertime in New Zealand means the days are quite long. This is ideal when you are driving and camping as you’ll enjoy a few extra hours of daylight, with the sun going down around 9pm.
  • If you decide to camp, check out the app Campermate which will help you plan out where to stay each night. It can even be accessed when out of range, so is quite handy when you’re on the move and need to find a spot for the night.

Wherever you go, you can’t go wrong! New Zealand is a stunning destination with gorgeous views at every turn.

Feeling inspired?

Check out our calendar for upcoming adventures, or take a look at our New Zealand trips and plan your next adventure!

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Lares Trek vs Inca Trail

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Machu Picchu is a site that gathers crowds, with thousands of tourists visiting on a daily basis. Trails wind up towards the mountain peaks over some incredible views of the rugged, ancient landscape. The Inca Trail is the popular tourist route we all know about, but there’s more than one way to get there. One alternative to the Inca Trail is the Lares trek, if you’re hiking Machu Picchu, both these trails offer exciting views and are equally as challenging to get through. Here is your guide to the Lares trek vs Inca Trail.

Lares Trek

Distance: 34 kilometres
Altitude: 4,550 metres

The Lares trek is by no means an “easier” trek compared to the Inca, it has a similar difficulty rating, making it an excellent alternative to the Inca Trail if you want to avoid the crowds. Despite its proximity to Cusco and other touristic spots, the area of Lares features a very traditional way of life. You’ll be taken off the beaten track through the spectacular Lares Valley. On the road less travelled, you have the opportunity to take a step back in time and experience a rural traditional life, as you pass through remote mountain communities.

You’ll likely witness locals carrying goods on horseback, which is the only form of transport in the area. If you’re looking for a more cultural experience, then the Lares trek is an excellent alternative. You will have the opportunity to visit and interact with the Andean communities, share experiences and learn about each other’s lives. This trek offers a real insight into the lives of the people of Cusco.

THE TREKKING TERRAIN

Lares is characterised by its wide, glacial valleys and Andean moorland. As you descend to lower elevations near the Sacred Valley the area is much greener. As with all treks to Machu Picchu the paths will be rocky, so it is recommended you wear hiking boots to protect your feet and support your ankles. You also need to prepare for the sometimes icy temperatures at night. There will be times where the elevation is higher, and you will often walk up sloped hills, so bear that in mind to avoid any injuries.

CROWDS

This area is much less visited than other treks to Machu Picchu, which means you likely won’t find it very crowded. The Inca Trail is known to get booked out well in advance of its peak season, so it’s great to have this trek as an option.

Machu Picchu, Peru
Machu Picchu, Peru

Inca Trail

Distance: 45 kilometres
Altitude: 4,200 metres.

Everyone has heard about the Inca Trail, because it is one of the most popular trails to Machu Picchu. However, it is only one part of the huge network of paths winding their way up the mountain.

The actual Inca Trail doesn’t start until day two or three of our adventure, as the original has been restored in most other parts. Day two is a tough day with a steep climb and plenty of steps, but you will be rewarded with stunning views into the valley when you reach the top. The declines can be steep, and hard on the knees. On day three, you’ll climb up and down with a view of the lakes and beautiful ruins below.

THE TREKKING TERRAIN

The trekking terrain is difficult and challenging you will have to walk very carefully. In the beginning, the terrain is quite flat but will gradually steepen. The terrain on day three is the most different from the other days, with plenty of lush greenery. Otherwise, you can expect rocky, uneven surface on your ascent. We don’t recommend you attempt the Inca Trail if you suffer from vertigo as there are many high spots with narrow walkways.

CROWDS

It can be quite crowded during peak season, and places usually fill quickly. There will be days when you don’t see any people, depending on the season you go, but there may be times when you see other tour groups along the way.

What our team says…

JOHANNA – INCA TRAIL

“Walking along the Inca Trail was one of the most majestic things I have ever done, and it made me fall in love with trekking even more.

An old family member of mine did the trek about 5 years ago, and I was so captivated by what she had been through, trekking at a high altitude, and seeing those beautiful ruins and views. She told me it was hard, and that she had to take it very slow, as breathing at that altitude was very tough. I couldn’t really understand what she meant until I actually arrived in Cusco. You step out of the plane and straight away the air is so thin that walking up a set of stairs is ten times harder than back home. However, with two acclimatising days in Cusco, the Inca Trail felt achievable.

Despite going at the busiest time of the year, it never felt overcrowded. You’d definitely come across different groups along the way, but everyone walked in a different pace and to be honest, it was nice to meet other people than just my tour group (which consisted of just me, my dad, and staff). It gave me a chance to talk to them about what they were doing here, if they’ve done any other trails that could go on my bucket list – and a chance for me to rest and breath!

I’m not going to lie; day two on the steep ascend and the peak at 4,200 metres was very long and tough. But once I got to the top, the feeling of what I had just achieved together with my dad was amazing. Overall, I didn’t find the trail too hard as everyday is so different, and you see so much along the way that you forget how hard it actually is.

If I was asked to do this trek again tomorrow – I would go in an instant. That’s how incredible it was.”

IMOGEN – INCA TRAIL

“When I decided to tackle the Inca Trail after hearing so many incredible stories, I didn’t really know what to expect apart from a difficult climb and a step back in time.

We departed from Cusco on the morning of the trail in what felt like the middle of the night. Arriving at the start of the trail was very exciting with a real busy buzz of activity from all the porters, trekkers and leaders, and not forgetting a donkey or two. Every turn and step revealed a stunning view or ancient ruin buried on the hillside, it was quite amazing. I had a lovely group of 15 people that came from the USA, UK and Germany. We all helped each other to climb the trail each day with encouraging words and advice.

Every night we gathered in the tent for the most incredible three course meals prepared by our phenomenal porters and chefs. I really don’t know how they carry such huge bags up the mountain especially as they seem to run most of the time! The second day was the most challenging in terms of climbing as there were a lot of steps and it was almost all uphill! But we all made it and cheered each other when we reached the top.

The final day required us to be up and out of our tents by 3am! We then sat in the dark waiting for the gates to open. When they did, it was a mad rush of people trying to get to the top first. After a fast hour and half climb, we made it! Machu Picchu was a marvel with so many nooks and crannies to explore. I loved every minute of this adventure!”

We hope our guide has made the decision a little easier, but your Machu Picchu trek will be amazing no matter how you choose to get there!

Llamas, Peru
Machu Picchu, Peru

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Fundraiser of the Month – Tracey Murrin

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Tracey Murrin

Cause: Crohn’s & Colitis Australia
Adventure: China Challenge 2017
Fundraising Page: everydayhero.com/au/tracey
Social: @tracey_murrin

As our Fundraiser of the Month, Tracey has scored herself a $50 donation to her fundraising page. To be our next month’s winner, make sure you’re uploading your journey to social and use the hashtag #IveBeenInspired.

What inspired you to take on your first Inspired Adventure?

I was on Facebook and saw that Crohn’s & Colitis Australia had announced the China Challenge and were looking for participants. At first I dismissed it, thinking ‘well I could never do anything like that’ but it kept playing on my mind.

I went back and re-read it and thought, actually what is stopping me? Nothing! It came along at a time in my life when I needed a focus and a challenge. After fighting the physical battle with Crohn’s for so many years I was finally feeling better physically but feelings of depression were taking over. This was the perfect distraction and focus that I needed. And to quote Legally Blonde “Exercise gives you endorphins; endorphins make you happy”.

Why did you choose to fundraise for Crohn's & Colitis Australia?

I have Crohn’s Disease, I was diagnosed about 11 years ago and this disease has changed my life. I must say, not all for the worse. It has changed me as a person, made me stronger, more appreciative, and grateful for the small things in life, not to mention life itself.

You are clearly really involved and invested in the art of giving back to the community, what do you think is so exciting about being able to take on an adventure as well as give to a cause you care about?

I am excited and a little scared about the adventure. For me, the ability to fundraise and give some awareness to a disease that I feel has little to no awareness means a lot. Having IBD myself and seeing how cruel this disease can be makes me so passionate about getting the message out there to others.

If I had not been so embarrassed of my symptoms and sought help sooner then maybe I would still have a bowel. The ‘toilet’ stigma has to stop; Crohn’s and Colitis are so much more than just bowel diseases. The fact that Crohn’s and Colitis affects 1 in 250 Australians and rising is astounding that it gets such little support and awareness.

"Just feeling I am helping others is reward enough"

What are your total funds raised so far? Are there any key fundraising ideas that have been the bulk of your success?

To date I have raised over $4,000 on my Everyday Hero page, and I managed to raise $4,200 through Cow Poo Bingo! What’s this you may ask?

Well, although Crohn’s and Colitis are much more than toilet related, it seemed pretty appropriate for a bowel disease fundraiser! So you get some temporary fencing, line mark a field and borrow a calf or two! You sell squares at $10 each and give the winner $500 – basically the square that the cow poo’s in first on the day is the winner.

We were a little nervous, as my calf seemed to have some performance anxiety. However, to the crowd’s applause she eventually decided to relieve herself. I also had a jumping castle, games for the kids, face painting, a mechanical bull ride, live music, ongoing raffles all afternoon. Approximately 200 people would have been there on the day. It was exhausting but a complete success.

My next fundraiser will be an online auction. My sister is a well-known artist and she has kindly offered to donate a painting (minimum bid $1,000) to paint a customised painting for the winner.

Tracey Murrin Crohn's Colitis

What have been some of the highlights of your fundraising experience so far?

Educating others and raising awareness, I enjoy that aspect and really it almost feels selfish to say it but it is in my nature to help others so this feels good. Cow Poo Bingo day was exhausting, but when it all came together and the day was so brilliant, I would have to say it was my highlight for sure. Just the feeling that I am helping others with my illness is reward enough.

What have been your biggest challenges in taking on an Inspired Adventure? How did you overcome this?

My biggest challenges have been time for one, having Crohn’s myself I get rather tired and I also work full time, so it’s hard to make the extra time to work on the training and fundraising.

The biggest challenge has been getting my fitness up to par. For those who don’t know, Crohn’s is completely unpredictable and in my case I also have arthritis due to Crohn’s and am susceptible to infections. I have just had to keep chipping away at the training and my dog loves the extra walks. The biggest trigger for my disease is stress, so I have tried at all times to stay calm.

Running for Crohn's & Colitis

Have you noticed any changes or transformation in your life since taking on your first adventure?

Absolutely, other than physical fitness. I am enjoying the outdoors more than I have in years. But I have become much more confident in talking to people about bowel disease and excited about making a difference.

"Set realistic goals, if you are competing a challenge and also have health issues, know your limitations"

What advice would you offer to other people looking to complete a challenge like this?

Make sure you manage your time well. Give yourself plenty of time to organise events and have a back-up plan. My Cow Poo Bingo day was rescheduled due to rain, but still worked out well. Set realistic goals. And if you are completing a challenge and also have health issues, know your limitations.

It is also a good idea to ask a friend or family member to help keep you motivated with your training, it is always nicer to go walking with someone else than on your own. And they can give you a little ‘push’ when you slacken off!

Fundraiser of the Month

Become our Fundraiser of the Month to win a $50 donation to your fundraising page!

Take a picture whilst fundraising for your adventure and use the hashtag #IveBeenInspired and your adventure hashtag. The most exciting use of the hashtag, with a fundraising focus will be our Fundraiser of the Month – it’s that easy!

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