Michelle's Chile Trek 2002

Some Frequently Asked Questions.

These are answered in more detail in the information pack, contact Mencap directly for more advice.

Can I really do this?

Yes - anyone aged 18 to 65 who has the energy to FUNraise and the enthusiasm to get fit.

Do I need to be fit?

Yes, but don't panic! Trekking across rugged terrain in a different climate will be a challenge. A training guide is sent through upon registering and the advice is to start a fitness programme as soon as you can.

Will I be supported on the event?

Across the Divide - a company specialising in adventure travel, is organising the event for Mencap. They will be providing a doctor, experienced guides and support staff throughout the trek.

Will I get help before the event?

Yes, fundraising advice comes thick and fast. There is an opportunity to meet your fellow trekkers at a warm-up meeting early December in London.
I strongly advise you try to attend this - I was not going to go, as I was not doing very well at the time. Meeting with the mixed ability group, (some who'd got all of their money and others like me, who didn't think - but hoped - they'd make the minimum of £1500 by New Year), really gave me the confidence to 'go for it' big style.

What's provided?

All flights, accommodation and all meals except lunch on the last 2 days, water, medics and guides.

What will the weather be like?

March is the beginning of the dry season. During the day temperature can range from 5°-20° (41°-68°F) and at night 1°-5° (34°-41°F). However, as you know the weather in any country can be erratic and you should therefore come prepared for all eventualities.
Accordingly to Dan, one of Across the Divide's guides, last year's trekkers had exceptionally good weather (note the blue skies in David's photos), knowing my luck and the fact that until very recently I only had been trekking in the most atrocious weather. Whatever it'll still be grand.

What do I need to organise/bring?

The fundraising - 60% (£1500) to Mencap 10 weeks before you depart to guarantee your place and the remaining £1000, 5 weeks after your return.
A kit list is sent on registering, but the most important items are:

• Good boots - you'll be spending A LOT of time in these, so comfort and durability is VERY important.
• Recommended a 4-Seasons or equivalent sleeping bag and ground mat.
• 2 rucksacks - 1 main and 1 day sack.
• Layers of clothing - to combat the possible variety of conditions namely wet, wind and possibly warm.
• Camera.
• Sense of Humour!! (Yeah, yeah, I've ripped this off the BMF Kit list - but it is true!)
• Adequate Travel Insurance, Airport Tax (2002 prices - UK £60 and Santiago $18 US Dollars) & Inoculations, which are according to current World Health Organisations recommendations: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Polio, Tetanus & Typhoid. (Hepatitis B is a course of 3 injections and a booster after 1 year at £25 per jab, although this may vary with your Doctors Surgery)

How much money will go to Mencap?

Out of the initial Registration fee £250 and the minimum £2500 sponsorship - Mencap will get approx. £1500. The remaining goes to paying for the flights, accommodation, transfers, Across the Divide and administration. There is always the option to pay the costs of the trip yourself.
BUT (here's the Maths bit - concentrate!) with the 2 trips running and a MINIMUM of 30 and MAXIMUM of 80 people per trek, all who raise the MINIMUM sponsorship of £2500 - Mencap could raise a staggering £90,000-£240,000. This will go directly to the people that it was set up to help.