If you have ever wanted to follow the original Inca Trail to the ‘lost city’ of Machu Picchu, there is now a perfect opportunity to realise your dream with a fundraising trip being organised by The Children’s Centre. It follows the success of a similar trip organised by the charity in 2009 which saw 33 Island residents complete the trek to the ancient city which is one of the seven wonders of the world. Elly Duchars and her husband Peter were on that trip and they are urging adventurers to sign up for this year’s event. Elly said: “Walking through the Sun Gate and seeing Machu Picchu for the first time is an amazing experience - no photograph can convey what it’s like to see it in person. But the other great thing I remember about the Inca Trail trip was the camaraderie and support from the other members of the group. We all supported each other along the way and everyone in our group will carry forever a tiny piece of Peru in our hearts.” On February 15 at 6pm a launch evening for anyone who wants to find out about this year’s charity trek along the original Inca Trail is being held at The Children’s Centre, Woodbourne Road, Douglas. It’s the ideal opportunity to find out more about the event and for the organisers to answer questions and give advice about fundraising. Mark Eastham, Fundraising Co-ordinator for The Children’s Centre, said: “This year’s Inca Trail trek begins on November 1 and will be a nine day trip with four days of walking. Following the success of the 2009 event we are expecting a high level of interest this year and would urge anyone who missed out last time to sign up as soon as possible. It’s an amazing experience to see Machu Picchu, and the memories of Elly and Peter are typical of those who have walked the original Inca Trail.” You don’t have to be super fit to do the trek (on the 2009 trip the oldest person to complete the walk was a woman in her 60s) and all of those who take part will receive expert advice and guidance leading up to, and during, the trek. The Inca Trail is said to be one of the top 10 trekking trails in the world and it’s not surprising given that Peru is one of the most fascinating countries in South America with its breathtaking landscapes, stunning scenery and mysterious Inca sites. The Children’s Centre Inca Trail trek begins in the Inca Capital of Cusco – a fascinating city in the heart of Andes Mountains. At an altitude of approximately 3,300metres, trekkers will spend their first day acclimatising by taking a trek around the famous Inca sites surrounding Cusco. The Manx trekkers will set off on the Inca Trail the following morning with the adventure culminating four days later when they arrive at Machu Picchu – one of the world’s most important archaeological sites. There are literally thousands of Inca Trails within Peru and many other charity events sound similar, but there’s only one Inca Trail that leads to Machu Picchu through the majestic Sun Gate, and then onto the fascinating ruins of Machu Picchu. This classic Inca Trail takes in three high mountain passes – the highest being 4,200metres - offering some spectacular views. Anyone wishing to attend the 2012 Inca Trail trip launch event on February 15 must register in advance by emailing markeastham@thechildrenscentre.org.im or by calling Mark on 01624 631917. Alternatively, you can sign up for the Challenge by going to www.thechildrenscentre.org.im - ENDS -