Reaching New Heights: Inside Medcan’s Peru Expedition 

The thought of Machu Picchu often evokes images of ancient ruins, soaring peaks, and ambitious trails reserved for the ultra-fit. But for one group of Canadians, this year’s Inspire by Medcan journey along Peru’s Salkantay Trail became something more—a transformative experience where the journey was just as powerful as the destination. 

This year’s expedition was the eighth of its kind, following five climbs up Kilimanjaro and two through Patagonia.  

“The itinerary was perfect,” said trip participant Ian Cowan. “It had the right blend of physical challenge, breathtaking scenery, and days with a more relaxed pace to explore archaeological sites, markets, and experience the local culture.” 

Our adventure program has quietly built a legacy of helping ordinary people achieve extraordinary feats, proving that with the right preparation and support, almost anyone can take on such a challenge. 

The scenery and landscape were breathtaking, but the real story was in the moments of resilience: when fatigue set in, doubt crept up, and encouragement made all the difference. 

Age is Just a Number 

Expedition leader Rob Turner, a Medcan Fitness Trainer and Exercise Physiologist, has witnessed people work through limitations including age, pain and self-doubt to reach the summit. 

“Many people would have thought they shouldn’t be going on this trip,” Turner says. “But with the right preparation, they persevered and made it.” 

One thing that stands out? Age is not a defining factor. These expeditions have included participants in their 70s and 80s—people you wouldn’t expect to be climbing mountains. In Patagonia, one of our oldest participants was in their 80s, and Rob notes they were “faster than the rest of us and didn’t want to slow down. It was incredibly inspiring.” 

An Ambitious Trek 

While not as aggressive a climb as Kilimanjaro, this trip brought its own challenges. Participants faced rugged terrain and rapid elevation gains, starting off the trip by flying 11,000 feet between Lima and the jumping off point of Cusmo, then climbing up to 15,000 feet soon after. Trudging the path for hours on end can lead to strain, risk of injury, and both physical and emotional fatigue.  

Behind every successful climb is a blend of physical training, mental preparation, and emotional support. Rob coaches participants to take a holistic approach, focusing not just on fitness, but on building habits and mindsets that carry them through the toughest stretches. 

Turner’s mantra is simple: “One foot in front of the other. Don’t think about how long it will be. Just get through the steps.” It’s advice that applies as much to life as it does to the trail. 

Preparing for a ‘Bucket List’ Climb 

Rob recommends specific training strategies that will help build your overall fitness, balance, endurance, and strength so you can manage long days, endure uneven terrain, and prevent fatigue: 

• Lower Body Strength and Joint Stability: Squats, lunges and emphasis on unilateral movements to increase strength and stability in your lower body - crucial for long descents and the rigors of uneven terrain
• Balance: Use a BOSU ball or wobble board for balance drills. Try lunges on a gym mat to increase difficulty and improve ankle stability. Practice standing on one leg while brushing your teeth
• Core Strength: Engage your core during exercise of any kind. When hiking, keep your abs tight and posture tall, especially when carrying a pack. Good posture can prevent headaches and back pain. 
• Muscular Endurance: The pace on the trail is slow and steady, so train for stamina rather than speed. 
• Practice: Go out for long and challenging hikes in your area; Rob trains on the Hamilton escarpment which includes rigorous stair climbs and steep, rugged, hiking trails. Carry a hiking pack to simulate the climb.

Training shouldn’t end before the adventure begins. It’s important to keep your both your mind and body sharp during the climb: 

• Emotional Resilience: Fatigue and doubt are normal. Support from guides and teammates, and a focus on small steps, help build resilience. 
• Eat & Stay Hydrated: At altitude, appetite fades and headaches can set in. Force yourself to eat and drink regularly—plenty of water can reduce the effects of elevation.“The better shape you’re in, the less you’ll struggle with fatigue or injuries,” says Turner. “That’s always been my message, whether it’s Kilimanjaro, Peru, or any big adventure.” 

The Human Side of Adventure 

What makes Medcan’s expeditions special isn’t just the scenery or the physical challenge, it’s the stories of people discovering their own strength. On the Peru trip, one client nearly quit three hours before the summit. With encouragement, she kept going—and made it. “That’s the breakthrough moment,” Turner says. “It’s about resilience, about pushing through when you think you can’t.” 

That resilience builds a powerful connection. “I went with two friends, but made eight new ones that I feel will be lifelong acquaintances,” said Cowan. “I would travel with any of them again in a heartbeat.” 

Medcan’s adventures are open to anyone willing to commit. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or someone who’s never set foot on a mountain, the message is clear: with preparation, support and determination, adventure is within reach. 

As Turner puts it, “We can get you there. Just put one foot in front of the other and keep going—you’ll surprise yourself with what you can achieve.” 

Interested in pursuing your own bucket list adventure?

Medcan can support you. Connect with our fitness team for your own personalized training program, and contact robturner@medcan.com if you’d like to learn about planned Inspire by Medcan expeditions in 2026. 

Expedition photo gallery - congratulations to all of the participants!