Nineteen adventurous charity fundraisers completed a once in a lifetime trip to Peru to walk the famous Inca Trail. The nine-day event has raised ?17,000 for The Children’s Centre so far, but sponsorship money is still coming in. 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 trek began in the Inca Capital of Cusco – a city in the heart of Andes Mountains. At an altitude of approximately 3,300metres trekkers spent their first day acclimatising by taking a trek around the famous Inca sites surrounding the city. Next day they set off on the Inca Trail culminating four days later when they arrived at Machu Picchu – one of the world’s most important archaeological sites.
There are thousands of Inca Trails within Peru 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 was the route taken by The Children’s Centre group going over three high mountain passes – the highest being 4,200metres - offering some spectacular views.
The Inca Trail Challenge is one of several adventure events that The Children’s Centre organises each year to raise funds for its charitable projects for families and children across the Island. This year’s trip to Peru was organised after a similar event in 2009 proved to be very successful and rewarding for the participants. Michelle O’Malley, Fundraising Manager at The Children’s Centre, was one of the team that completed the Inca Trail trek this year. She said:
“It was a brilliant trip from start to finish and I’m sure it will provide many long-lasting memories for everyone who took part. Thank you to all of the team who worked so hard in training and in collecting sponsorship - and thanks also to everyone who sponsored them. The event raised a fantastic total and the funds will make a valuable contribution to supporting our charitable projects. We have some great adventure challenges lined-up next year, including a trip to Mount Kilimanjaro in September. It’s been a very popular event in previous years so I would advise anyone interested in that trip to register their interest as soon as possible.”
In January The Children’s Centre will be hosting a launch event about the Mount Kilimanjaro trip. The date for this has yet to be finalised but you can check http://www.thechildrenscentre.org.im/adventure-events/ for updates or you can contact Mark Eastham, Fundraising Co-ordinator at The Children’s Centre, by phoning 631917, or by emailing adventuremann@thechildrenscentre.org.im.
Photo caption - The Children’s Centre group fly the Manx flag in Peru during their expedition to Machu Picchu.
