October 16, 2019 Oak duo prepare to trek Machu Picchu

The route is off the beaten track but it joins the Inca Trail on the last day for the 3,000-step ascent to the Sun Gate where the trekkers will see Machu Picchu for the first time. The Trek Machu Picchu Challenge will follow the spectacular Lares Valley route surrounded by snow-capped mountains, raging rivers, hot springs and remote mountain communities

The pair are part of a group of intrepid local adventurers who are planning to trek up to the lost city of Machu Picchu in Peru to raise much needed funds for Autism Jersey. The ten-day trip is tough but the team will be accompanied by an experienced leader and guides. The hike is slow, allowing for acclimatisation to the altitude and the opportunity to enjoy the unique surrounds and traditional Peruvian culture.

Vanessa and Emma have self-funded their trip, so all money raised goes directly to the charity. The pair organised a number of fundraising initiatives in the run up to the challenge including a family fun Rock ‘N’ Roll Bingo evening, cake sales and a bonus ball draw raising more than £2,000 for Autism Jersey in the process.

“We’re both really looking forward to the challenge in Peru, trekking the route and seeing the amazing architecture and scenery,” said Emma

“We’re hoping we’ll see a few alpacas and llamas on the way and that we get the chance to try the country’s famous Coca tea which will help make up for the thousands of steps we’ll have to climb to Machu Picchu and the 10 days of camping!

“The challenge has been a great way to raise funds for Autism Jersey which is such an important charity that does amazing work in our community,” said Vanessa.

“We’re both so honoured to be taking on this trek to help raise money for a purpose-built centre that will improve services for people with autism in Jersey. Everyone has been so generous and we’d like to say a huge thank you to our Oak colleagues and everyone else who has supported our fundraising.”

Autism Jersey is the leading charity in Jersey dedicated to the assistance and support of people on the autism spectrum. The aim of the charity is to enable people with autism to lead a full and inclusive life and enjoy a reasonable degree of independence.

Autism Jersey is the leading charity in Jersey dedicated to the assistance and support of people on the autism spectrum. The aim of the charity is to enable people with autism to lead a full and inclusive life and enjoy a reasonable degree of independence. The charity provides essential support for families, individuals and carers, and have pioneered bespoke services and support packages for both adults and children.