When I visited Peru I was on an organised tour with an excellent Australian-based firm called Geckos (we booked through Exodus in London): this turned out to be a really good way to see a lot if you're short on time.

The Hotel Regency in Lima was very good, and the El Conquistador in Arequipa was lovely and not far from the main square. As for the Inca Trail, I honestly think anyone can do it. Our tour leader had taken a 90-year-old up it, and I wasn't planning on doing it initially as I have been diabetic for two years and was a bit nervous. However, the diabetes was no problem and I wouldn't have missed it for anything. We tended to start very early in the morning and would be at our campsite no later than two in the afternoon, so there was plenty of time to recover.

The end of day one and the beginning of day two are quite tough, but as long as you go slowly you'll be fine - it's your knees on day three that you have to worry about! We had brilliant porters who carried everything and set up camp, so there was very little you had to do except walk. I honestly think it was one of the best things I've ever done, and you'll love it. I can't remember the names of the other hostals offhand that we stayed in but we had a lovely one in Cusco (an amazing place that is a must see) and a fantastic jungle lodge... if you want me to try and find the details, let me know.

All the best,

Hettie