Challenges

5 REASONS TO TREK ANGKOR WAT, CAMBODIA

November 17, 2023

Visit the temple of Angkor Wat – a UNESCO World Heritage Site

At 402 acres the huge, historic complex containing the temples of Angkor Wat and Ta Prohm (as seen in “Tomb Raider” – which you will also have chance to visit) covers more than three times the area of Vatican City and contains over 79 major temple complexes and hundreds of minor sites. Dating from the 12^th century, Angkor Wat, with its world-famous skyline makes a memorable finishing point for this exciting trek. You will also enjoy a personal tour of the complex to explore it fully – look out for for the wild macaques as you do!

The journey

This exceptional challenge includes five days exploring the glorious rural landscape of Cambodia finishing at the Khmer masterpiece of Angkor Wat. Travel through traditional local villages with friendly locals greeting you as you pass through. Experience camping in the grounds of traditional Buddhist temples and receive a blessing from a local monk. Trek through fields of tapioca and rice paddies.

Spot water buffalo and marvel at the abundance of nature – particularly butterflies. Finally, prepare for the next day’s trek by enjoying freshly-prepared local dishes – eaten under the stars each night,

The Cambodian people

Cambodians are renowned for their hospitable and generous nature. From the moment you arrive our amazing local team will make you feel incredibly welcome – they really cannot do enough to make your challenge as memorable as possible. Everything from the campsites to the catering arrangements are designed to allow you to rest and recover between your trekking days. As you trek, your local guides will explain the history, geography, flora and fauna of this unique area – and as you wind your way through the rural beauty of the Kulen National Park you will find the local people equally accommodating and friendly. This local flavour really does enhance the whole experience.

A sense of achievement

As you relax under the stars each night in camp, you can start to realise your accomplishments as, over the five days of the challenge you trek over 80km in temperatures that can reach 35°C or higher – with each day revealing a different aspect of Cambodian life, culture and landscape. Add in a spectacular jungle walk up the sacred Mount Kulen, a visit to the huge, carved reclining Buddha and the awe-inspiring Kulen Waterfalls and you can be rightly proud of your achievements. This is a tough challenge but one which will live long in the memory!

A life-changing trip

Time and again our participants say that taking part in a one of our challenges is a truly life-changing experience. Immerse yourself in the experience, invest in the group and you will earn dividends way above any investment. You will learn about yourself without the trappings of everyday life – which is exactly as travel should be.

The shared experiences of a challenge like Trek Angkor Wat creates bonds that last a lifetime among a group – and quickly turns what can start as a group of strangers meeting at the airport into firm friends. It’s one reason why we have so many participants who book further adventures with us!

Article written and photo credit by Ian Morton, Challenge Leader

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Inspiration

MEET THE TEAM – Ian Waddington

November 9, 2023

At Charity Challenge we are extremely proud of the amazing crew we have. We know it can be a little daunting joining a challenge for the first time so we thought you might like to meet the team in advance of your Charity Challenge. Today we introduce you to Challenge Leader – Ian Waddington

Name

Ian Waddington

How long have you been a Challenge Leader?

Ive been with Charity Challenge about 6 years

What’s been your favourite challenge (so far)?

My favourite challenge was the Coppafeel Scottsh HighlandsTrek in Glen Lyon. Fabulous people, coping with so much.

Do you have any challenges left on your bucket list?

I don’t think my bucket will ever run dry, I love going to new places and experiencing somewhere new. Iceland, Annapurna circuit, paragliding in Nepal, etc.

How do you keep your body in tip top shape for the challenge season?

Carrying 10kg of stone up my nearest hill helped me get back in shape after the Covid lockdown, it didn’t really get easier, the time taken just got shorter.

What are your go to snacks to keep you fuelled and hydrated on a challenge?

My go to snack on the hill is a Go Bar, for me it is the right combination of carbohydrate with a bit of sweetness. I usually have some sort of ’treat’ though.

Any top tips to share with participants signed up to a challenge?

Staying hydrated, thirst is a bad indicator of dehydration, a little bit of water often is better than a deluge.

What 5 items do you always pack in your day rucksack?

Personal first aid, 4 person group shelter, bit of insulated map to sit on (warmer backside and less ticks), head torch (learnt the hard way), dreams and aspirations.

What is the best thing about being a leader?

Being a leader means you meet wonderful people who are doing something that is for more than themselves, the bonus is going somewhere new, we also get to work with like minded leaders.

What is your proudest achievement to date?

I’ve done some crazy personal challenges, learning to short rope someone off the Matterhorn back in the 1980’s is definitely up there.

Inspiration

MEET THE TEAM – Ray Smith

October 9, 2023

Name

Ray Smith

How long have you been a Challenge Leader?

I’ve worked for Charity Challenge for eight years.

What’s been your favourite challenge (so far)?

I’ve two UK favorite challenges for two reasons :

1 – Hadrians Wall Trail Challenge because it’s a difficult challenge, the history and if the weather is kind you get spectacular views.

2 – Coppatrek with Gi The challenge moves around the UK each year so its not the challenge that makes it special, it’s the people. It’s a great event with lots of fun and laughter.

Do you have any challenges left on your bucket list?

I would love to lead on the Icelandic Lava Trek and Everest Base Camp

The GR20 in Corsica as a personal challenge.

How do you keep your body in tip top shape for the challenge season?

I live in Cumbria so I’m lucky to have the hills on my doorstep. I also cycle a lot.

What are your go to snacks to keep you fuelled and hydrated on a challenge?

Chunky Kitkats (it’s an art packing them in your rucksack so they don’t melt in the heat) and SiS Hydration tablets in my water.

Any top tips to share with participants signed up to a challenge?

Time on your feet! If you don’t have hills nearby then look at the estimated time your challenge will take. Pack your rucksack and look to build up your training walks towards that time.

What 5 items do you always pack in your day rucksack?

Apart from the essentials K Tape, Chocolate, Gaffer tape, my Leatherman and Spencer bear

What is the best thing about being a leader?

Helping people achieve their goals.

What is your proudest achievement to date?

As a leader it has to be guiding “Blind Dave” on the Great Wall Discovery Challenge. An amazing guy who has done so much, just google his name!

Inspiration

MEET THE TEAM – Phil Nelson

September 7, 2023

Name

Phil Nelson

How long have you been a Challenge Leader?

I have been a Challenge Leader for Charity Challenge since 2014, my first being a Yorkshire 3 Peaks Challenge in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support

What’s been your favourite challenge (so far)?

Tough one, I have been privileged to be part of a lot of amazing Charity Challenge events from Macmillan Treks, Jeff Stelling Football Marches in aid of Prostate Cancer UK, the Caroline Flack Memorial 24 Peaks with Olly Murs, CoppaFeel! Nortumberland Challenge and many others. However, the one that sticks with me the most is the 2018 RNIB Ben Nevis Challenge, where I helped guide a lady called Sue reach the top of the UK’s highest mountain. What made it even more special, is that Sue is registered blind, having lost her sight over a period of years. With the aid of 2 helpers and a charity rep, she made it to the summit and back down in 11 hours 36 minutes in less-than-ideal conditions. A very special event to be part of with a lot of money raised for charity.

Do you have any challenges left on your bucket list?

I have lots left to do still! Kilimanjaro Summit Climb, Mount Toubkal Trek, Great Wall of China, Everest Base Camp Trek and Trek to Machu Picchu are top of my list!

How do you keep your body in tip top shape for the challenge season?

I’m pretty boring…I just climb mountains and go trekking! I guide and walk throughout the year, so can maintain my fitness and skills over the cold, dark, winter months too. I spend somewhere in the region of 100 days on the mountains every year, for either guiding groups or personal trips. I’m known for guiding on Ben Nevis regularly (around 200 ascents in total, of which a lot are for Charity Challenge), but it only makes up 20 – 30 days out of the 100 per year. When I’m not guiding, I like to climb mountains I’ve not been up before and do new treks; the Haute Route from Chamonix to Zermatt being my all-time favourite trek. I have also climbed all 316 of the UK and Ireland’s Munro status mountains and am currently working through the 222 Scottish Corbetts.

What are your go to snacks to keep you fuelled and hydrated on a challenge?

Having tried all manner of weird and wonderful things over the years, my tip is to just eat things you like and lots of them. Sometimes participants turn up with lots of energy gels and electrolyte powders for water, which are all good but sometimes, real food is not taken too. These gels and powders are no substitute for real food and on a mountain, you may be walking all day, burning thousands of calories. My go to snacks for the UK is a good old fashioned meal deal; sandwich, snack like a samosa or pork pie, some chocolate bars, bags of salty crisps if its hot weather to replace lost salts, and a pack of sweets like Jelly Babies or Sour Patch Kids. To drink, I find water a little boring so often carry one of those little squeezy bottles of squash to jazz it up…if it tastes nice then I’ll drink more!

Any top tips to share with participants signed up to a challenge?

As someone who spends a lot of time on my feet and as a former footwear fitter in an outdoor shop then, what you wear on your feet is so important. We see on treks and events a lot of blisters, damaged toenails and foot pain. This is often because the wrong size, type or brand has been chosen for the foot shape and event.
A quick pro tip that anyone can do to ensure they buy the right size is before you try on a boot, walking shoe, trail runner etc. is to take out the insole and place your foot on it. Try to wear socks that you would wear with the footwear. Then stand up as the weight of your body will spread your feet out more and you are looking for 3 things.

Is there a thumb width of space at the end of the insole? If not, as your feet expand throughout the day and as you walk downhill, your toes will strike the inside of the footwear. This is the most common cause of people losing toenails and is easily avoidable.
Do your feet overhang at the sides of the insole? If yes, the footwear will be too narrow and may cause pressure points, blisters, and premature wear on both your socks and footwear.
Is there excess space at the front or sides? For standard mountain footwear (extra space is needed in specialist cold weather and high-altitude boots), you shouldn’t have excess space at the sides and anything more than a thumb width at the front may mean that the footwear is to broad or big for your foot shape and size. This will cause blisters as your feet will move about too much and your heel lifting too much at the back. The latter can be reduced by lacing techniques, a higher volume
 Each footwear brand fits and sizes differently, even within specific brands you may find some footwear feels different on your feet at the same size. There are 3 main foot shapes, and finding the brand of footwear that best fits your feet takes trial and error, so try many. Some brands also come in small on their sizing, so don’t be surprised if you need to go a whole shoe size up or more when purchasing.
 Don’t skimp on socks! Good quality merino wool socks which stay warm when wet and don’t smell too much after a few days are worth extra investment. Cheap socks, ski socks and football socks are all quick ways to blister town! Some say wear 2 pairs of socks, I’ve tried this, and it didn’t work for me, although for some it may do. I found that my feet overheated and made my footwear feel tight, so I just wear one pair of high-quality merino socks.
 Check your footwear! Each year on treks and events, many boots and shoes catastrophically fail. Often, it’s because they are a little bit too much ‘broken in’ and should have been replaced a while ago. Check over your footwear making sure all the lace hooks are still solid and check that the stitching, glues, and sole unit are still very secure. If in doubt, get some new footwear and try to break in as best as possible.
 Drying footwear on radiators causes the glue to melt and eventually the sole to fall off. Equally if you have left footwear in a damp garage/shed/basement/not wash the mud off them for a long time, seriously increases the chance of boot/shoe failure. Washing and reproofing can make a difference to the comfort and lifespan of your footwear.
 Spare laces cost around £3, weigh nothing and are worth taking on multi day treks in case of breakages.

What 5 items do you always pack in your day rucksack?

Suncream – I learnt the hard way, even on snowy or overcast days you can get a lot of harmful UV rays and sunburn.
Walking Poles – these are great for saving wear and tear on your knees, helping with balance, poking boggy ground, crossing streams and rivers and many other uses – essential bit of kit!
A Water-to-go filter bottle – the latest bottles have a great flow rate so are much better to drink from and it means you can fill up from a freshwater stream or lake and not have to worry about purifying first. For overseas treks, these are a must have!
Spare Warm Jacket – for high, dry, and cold places (e.g. Alpine, Kilimanjaro, Toubkal, Everest Base Camp, Desert Treks) I use down jackets. The colder the location, the more grams of down you need. These provide a warmth boost for when stationary or sitting around a campfire at night in the cold. For wet, windy and damp places (e.g. UK and Iceland treks) I use synthetic filling as even waterproofed down stops working when soaked.
Group Shelter/Bothy Bag – As leaders we carry these to provide protection from the elements and often, we will carry ones that can take up to 10 people. However, if I am solo walking, I still carry one but a much smaller 2 person one. These are so much more comfortable than an emergency blanket or bivi bag as your entire body is enclosed and creates a warm microclimate where you can eat, rest, do first aid. Quick pro tip…dump the stuff sack it comes with and use a dry bag instead as it will be much easier to stuff back in on a windy mountain top.

What is the best thing about being a leader?

The people…I have met, walked, and guided with so many amazing people from around the world. You can’t always guarantee views, sometimes we have to turn back from a summit, but all of this doesn’t matter if you are sharing an amazing experience and having great chat with people. Don’t ever be afraid to go on a trip solo, you will meet likeminded people; the friendships and bonds you make in a short space of time, can last for many years.

What is your proudest achievement to date?

My proudest 3 are guiding Sue on Ben Nevis (see above), Completing the 282 Scottish Munros in 2020 and getting my Winter Mountain Leader award. The latter requiring a high level of fitness, commitment, and skill in demanding, snowy conditions and a culmination of years of mountain climbing in all weathers.

Inspiration

Meet the Team – Steve Berry

August 14, 2023

Name

Steve Berry

How long have you been a Challenge Leader?

8 years

What’s been your favourite challenge (so far)?

First Icelandic Lava trek with Royal Le Page. I met Marc Berlin for the first time; we’ve since become very good friends

Do you have any challenges left on your bucket list?

That’s a tough question! I would love to go and have a look at K2, its always fascinated me

How do you keep your body in tip top shape for the challenge season?

Its no fun being a ‘mature’ leader, and that’s the challenge. I structure my preparation around the challenge. Some require a lot more, lots of gym work; judo and time on my feet carrying a heavy bag. I never want to be the weakest link in the group; always the oldest but never the weakest!

What are your go to snacks to keep you fuelled and hydrated on a challenge?

Water and lots of it, always works for me!

Any top tips to share with participants signed up to a challenge?

Good structured preparation is key. your fitness levels will improve along with your confidence. Good food and hydration are super important too.

What 5 items do you always pack in your day rucksack?

# 1 A good sense of humour #2 Water #3 Wet wipes #4 Gaffer tape #5 First aid kit

What is the best thing about being a leader?

Helping clients achieve their goal.

What is your proudest achievement to date?

I have achieved a lot during my career but by far my proudest moment was summiting Mt. Kilimanjaro with my younger daughter Kirsti. It was an emotional roller coaster for us both!

Challenges

Last remaining spaces for 2023!

July 18, 2023

Think it’s too late to book an epic adventure for 2023? Insider info – it’s not!

We’ve got some amazing UK challenges this year with limited spaces remaining. Need some inspiration on where to go? Check out our challenges below.

With limited spaces available, act fast so you dont miss out!

National Three Peaks Challenge

Take on the three highest peaks in England, Scotland and Wales. Considered one of Britain’s toughest outdoor challenges, the National Three Peaks Challenge takes in the dizzy heights of Ben Nevis (1,344m), Scafell Pike (978m) and Snowdon (1,085m) over 42kms in just 24hrs.

Fri 06 Oct – Sun 08 Oct 2023

Ben Nevis At Night Challenge

Beginning in Glen Nevis, in the heart of the Scottish highlands, this spectacular challenge will take you to the top of Ben Nevis (1345m)….at night! Reach the summit as the sun starts to rise and you will be rewarded with spectacular views of the Scottish Highlands.

Sat 14 Oct – Sun 15 Oct 2023

Snowdon At Night Challenge

Beginning in the town of Llanberis, in the heart of the Snowdonia National Park, this spectacular challenge will see you and fellow fundraisers trekking to the top of Snowdon (1085m) … at night! Trek under the starry skies of Snowdonia in order to reach the summit of the highest mountain in Wales.

Sat 14 Oct – Sun 15 Oct 2023

Yorkshire 3 Peaks At Night Challenge

Challenge yourself to complete this classic UK trekking challenge, but with a twist! 38km trek at night to summit the Yorkshire Three Peaks – Ingleborough, Whernside and Pen Y Ghent. Start as the sun sets, and aim to reach the final peak as the sun begins to rise.

Sat 21 Oct – Sun 22 Oct 2023

Edinburgh 7 Summits Challenge

Take part in this tough 35km urban challenge set in the heart of Edinburgh. Experience hidden routes through this beautiful Scottish city, and experience it from 7 incredible viewpoints! You’ll follow historic waterways, forgotten railways, stop off at castles and palaces and climb to the summit Arthurs Seat – an extinct volcano!

Sat 28 Oct 2023

London Royal Parks Challenge

Challenge yourself to this 45km distance trek between the 10 London Royal Parks. This epic route will take you across historic parkland and beautiful green spaces, while passing some of the finest architecture in London.

Sat 04 Nov 2023

London 10 Peaks Challenge

Discover ten of London’s often hidden peaks on this marathon distance walking challenge. See a different side to London and journey through 42km of beautiful woodland, nature reserves and quieter spaces

Sat 11 Nov 2023

If the timing is not right this year for a challenge, fear not, we have a fabulous selection of challenges available for you next year! All 2024 challenge dates are now live on our website.

Whether you are looking for popular challenges in the UK, or epic expeditions in magical far off distant places, we have it covered at Charity Challenge.

VIEW ALL CHALLENGES

Inspiration

MEET THE TEAM – Andy Baker

July 14, 2023

Name

Andy Baker

How long have you been part of the Charity Challenge team?

Too long! 🙂 It will be 10 years at the end of this year. I have been promised a prize!

What’s your role at Charity Challenge?

Head of UK Events

Tell us a little bit about your background and what you did before joining Charity Challenge?

I worked over in Egypt setting up an EU funded trekking company with local Bedouin. It was great craic, and the Sinai mountains are still my favourite place to go trekking.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

The winter months when I have no UK challenges taking place! But other than that, I love the sense of being part of such a great team of office staff and leaders. It’s a lovely environment to work in.

What advice would you give someone who is looking to do a Charity Challenge?

Blister management! Buy yourself a roll of K-Tape and learn how to tape up your feet to avoid blisters.

What’s been your favourite charity challenge (so far)?

I still have a real fondness for the MIND hikes that we used to organise. It was our first venture into doing bespoke itineraries, and some were more successful than others! I loved leading on our Greenland trek a few years ago. Being helicoptered into the wilderness to start the trek was very cool.

Do you have any challenges left on your bucket list?

A few more things in South America, maybe. I’m always pretty jealous when I appoint leaders to go to Patagonia. But there is no chance my wife would ever allow it so I’ll keep my ambitious more modest. I’d like to get our Isle of Skye Challenge running.

What three things can’t you live without?

Coffee. My copy of Sign O’the Times by Prince. My daughter. Probably in that order.

Tell us an interesting fact about yourself…

I once spent an entire day being escorted around the Congolese town of Goma by an armed group of local people (one of whom was carrying a bazooka) as they helped me search for some Um-Bongo to drink. I had asked them whether it was true when the TV ad had said “Um-Bongo, Um-Bongo, they drink it in the Congo”. At the end of the day one of the men turned to me and very sadly said, “I don’t think it’s true!”

Challenges

5 REASONS TO TAKE ON THE GREAT WALL DISCOVERY TREK, CHINA

June 28, 2023

The Great Wall Discovery Trek is back and it is one of our top life-changing challenges, according to so many who have taken on the challenge! In agreement with this, is many of our Challenge Leaders who are beyond excited that China is back on and ready for you to take on the challengeing five day trek on the Great Wall.

Jo Warren is the Operations Manager for this challenge, has previously led five groups on the wall and is joining our October departure. She has endless reasons why you need to take on this challenge, but has tried to narrow it down (…very difficult!) to the TOP FIVE.

Check them out…

1. The best journey you have ever taken…

The Great Wall Discovery is a fantastic first time, second time or tenth time challenge. Whether you have travelled independently before or not, been to Asia before or not, taken on a Charity Challenge before or not, this five day challenge will take each trekker on a very special journey that they will remember for the rest of their lives. From arriving into Beijing , checking into your first family run lodge to trekking through villages, farmland and onto the steep, stony and sometimes narrow paths of the Great Wall that wind their way through the mountains, you will experience a week of absolute highs and of course sometimes a few lows! The first time you look up at the many steps ahead of you to climb to that watchtower, to discovering the encouraging words of the Chinese guides or the friendly hand of a team mate to help you make your way to the top! The feeling of elation when you stand at the top of each tower and look back to where you have come from and look forward to the many winding miles of the wall in front of you in all its glory! Trekking the Great Wall is an iconic experience that will leave you with life long memories.

“A trek to remind us that it is very much about the journey and not the destination” (Former Great Wall Discovery Trekker)

2. One of the Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site

As the largest man-made structure in the world, the Great Wall of China is one of the most iconic and popular heritage sites anywhere! Believe me when I say looking at a postcard of the wall, will never capture its absolute magnificence. You just have to be there to see and feel it! The Great Wall is more than 21,000km long (according to the National Cultural Heritage Administration) and the most part built during the Ming Dynasty (1368 – 1644), I say for the most part (in fact approx., 8,850km of it) as there were several dynasties before and after that played a part. Rack your brain around those figures! Your Chinese guides will have a wealth of knowledge and will be able to help you visualise the construction of this impressive structure and the length of its history.

“I felt like I was on the top of the world when we climbed the highest point of the trek on our last day. The views were amazing and I truly felt like I have fulfilled my challenge and my dream!” (Former Great Wall Discovery Trekker)

3. The guides

I may be biased but we have just the BEST team of trekking guides. You will be met at the airport by the local Chinese Guides with big smiles and excitement to show you their China. They just LOVE to Trek and chat, share their knowledge, their childhood stories, with a joke or two thrown in. They will guide you every step of the way but will also become a very dear friend with a helping hand whenever you need it. Follow their pace and each and every footstep they take and you will achieve every watchtower, every step, every km. My oldest and dearest memories of the wall is watching the guides zigzag their way down the many steep sections of the wall. This looks like it would take longer but as they explained, why put unnecessary impact on your knees when you can trek smarter. Not to mention trekking poles are a game changer.

“A life changing experience. Well worth all the hard work and an amazing feeling to have completed the challenge.” (Former Great Wall Discovery Trekker)

4. A sense of achievement

The best bit about this challenge is every step of the way you have that sense of achievement. You don’t have to wait until you reach that summit or finish that 50km mark etc. From your very first rest stop you can look back and see how far you have come. Every day is different! If you have in mind that you will be walking those picture perfect, nicely laid blocks of the wall then I have news for you! Parts of the wall are maintained, parts are … lets say a little more warn out! We will take you on a mix of both, spice it up with a village or two, some countryside, farmland, meet some locals etc. at the end of each day you feel you have achieved a very varied day! Not to mention all the other factors of a challenge, trying new food, meeting new friends. Which brings me onto number 5!

“A truly incredible challenge! Breath-taking views and unimaginable landscapes that you get to walk through. A challenge where every day is different from the last, and you can really feel a sense of achievement looking back at where you came from. Everyone will wish they could have gone with you!”(Former Great Wall Discovery Trekker)

5. Life-changing!

Picture this, Meeting a group of strangers at the airport for the very first time. All with one thing in common – no one knows what lies ahead. Now picture the end of the first day! A tough but exhilarating, long but rewarding day , legs sore from climbing all those steps but knowing everyone with you is in the same boat. Your day ends with friendly faces from the lodge owners, some culture and discussion from the guides and a table full of delicious food with new friends. A week full of ups and downs (literally, with over 10,000 steps), The Great Wall Discovery Trek will bring you friends for life, a lifetime of memories and I guarantee after this challenge you will be hooked and ready to sign up for the next one!

“ An amazing week of challenges that uplifted my soul” (Former Great Wall Discovery Trekker)

If you are interested in joining us in China for your next challenge click on the link below for more details :

Great Wall Discovery 2023 & 2024 dates

Photo credit : Philip Ammon

Inspiration

MEET THE TEAM – Simon Albert

June 5, 2023

Name

Simon Albert

How long have you been part of the Charity Challenge team?

Since its foundation in 1999.

What’s your role at Charity Challenge?

Being the founder and Managing Director, I get involved all over the business, but primarily I set the vision and goals for the business and specifically I work on business development.

Tell us a little bit about your background and what you did before joining Charity Challenge?

I was a Graduate Trainee at Nestle working in the marketing team on Nescafe coffee. During my time there I took on personal challenges to raise funds for charity in Jordan and Kilimanjaro, where I developed a passion for travel, and for helping others, and then organised and led a few trips voluntarily to Tanzania, Cuba and Zimbabwe before realising this was something I wanted to do with my life.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I have worked in Charity Challenge for 24 years now, since its inception and I can honestly say that I am as passionate now (in fact probably more so) than at any time during the life of the business. The last few years of covid have been incredibly tough on the business and me as the owner, with a heavy feeling of responsible for the people who work for the business in the UK, for our leaders and support teams around the world. But now that we have emerged from the lockdowns and grounded international travel, the business is growing fast and we are building back up with a great team of people and getting back to what we do best… providing life changing challenges, inspiring people to believe in themselves and to achieve incredible physical goals, all whilst raising millions of pounds for good causes. I’m loving it!

What advice would you give someone who is looking to do a Charity Challenge?

Make sure you are pushing yourself out of your comfort zone, but be realistic. Read the Trip Notes with all of the necessary detail and allow yourself time to improve your fitness and raise the funds for your cause. If you can, choose to raise funds for a cause you are personally passionate about as it will inspire you in all aspects of the process (fitness training, fundraising, and the challenge itself). BELIEVE in yourself. We will give you all of the support and encouragement to ACHIEVE your goals and INSPIRE your friends and family.

What’s been your favourite charity challenge (so far)?

I have been incredibly lucky to take on a number of challenges around the world over the years, including with my three sons, Benji, Gadi and Nathan, who are all teenagers now and who (thankfully) love nature and adventure. But the best for me in the last few years was the Trek to Petra in Jordan last year, for a number of reasons. My wife, Lianne, came with and we celebrated her 50^th birthday in the desert. It was also the first time in 20 years that we had taken on a Charity Challenge together, since we started a family. So for me, having Lianne come on the challenge and walk with participants, many of whom had done 5, 6 or 7 challenges with the company, made me especially proud! And then of course there’s the Roman ruin in Amman, the Dead Sea, five days of incredible scenery and Bedouin hospitality, and all topped off with a visit to Petra, the ancient Nabatean city, over 2000 years old, and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Modern Wonder of the World.

Do you have any challenges left on your bucket list?

For sure. The world is a big place and there’s lots to do that I haven’t had the chance to. Just this year I went on our Dog Sledding challenge in Lapland, and discovered a new activity, the Northern Lights, and living within the Arctic Circle. So yes, there are lots more on my bucket list. Some I probably haven’t yet considered, and many I have been hearing about over the years from returning participants (Dalai Lama Himalayan Trek, Everest Base Camp, Winter Mount Toubkal to name a few)

What three things can’t you live without?

My family, nature, and new adventures/experiences.

Tell us an interesting fact about yourself…

On my previous adventures over the years (outside of Charity Challenge I should add), I have experienced a crocodile attack in Nepal, a near miss with tiger sharks in Australia (whilst bleeding in the water), an earthquake in Egypt, flash floods in Tanzania and a rather serious bike crash in France.

Challenges

Dog Sledding Challenge with Simon Albert, Charity Challenge Director

June 5, 2023

Charity Challenge Director, Simon Albert, shares his latest experience on the Dog Sledding Challenge, Sweden.

In March I returned from the most incredible week of dog sledding in the Arctic, in minus 30 degrees Celsius. I was travelling with a great team of nine Geordies, who were raising money for a homeless charity, and who filled the week with humour and laughter.

We saw moose, reindeer and Arctic hares, and each had the task of working with a team of 3 or 4 powerful huskies to sled through the Arctic wilderness. We learnt about the indigenous people, the Sami, and stayed one night in a Sami tee pee sleeping in minus 15 degrees. Lunches were cooked on an open fire, and in the evenings, after a plate of moose stew, we lay on the frozen lake on reindeer skins, watching the stars above including the odd shooting star.

But to cap it all, we watched streaks of green in the sky one evening and out of nowhere, a light show began that left us in complete awe. It’s hard to put into words, and even the photos and videos don’t really do it justice, but the entire sky lit up and danced magically in an array of colours, back and forth. It was like something out of Avatar, created in someone’s imagination purely to blow your mind. I shall never forget that moment!

Each day, the dog sledding got a little more challenging, in distance and terrain, as we honed our mushing skills. The final day saw most of us struggle to stay upright on the sled, as we fell into four feet of snow to the side of the trail.

I’ve been privileged to have taken on many of our challenges over the years, and this really has to rank as one of the best! It’s totally different to anything I have done before, in so many ways, and I ticked a number of things off of my bucket list, but it was nothing like I had imagined. The truth is, I really didn’t know what to imagine.

It’s true that the dogs do most of the physical exercise on this challenge, pulling you along on your sled, through the snowy Lapland terrain, but don’t under-estimate the nature of the challenge for participants.

It’s an incredibly inhospitable environment. Firstly because the outside temperature is consistently between minus 15 and minus 30 degrees. It can drop 10 or 15 degrees in an hour. For the dogs, their comfort temperature is minus 15. For our entire group, we were well outside of our comfort zone! It’s so cold at times that with each intake of breath through my nose, I could feel the hairs in my nostrils freezing. The dogs would urinate against the trees, and it would freeze to an icicle before reaching the ground.

Then there’s living with minimal home comforts. You are staying overnight in a wilderness cabin in the woods, on an island, next to a frozen lake, 5kms from the nearest neighbours. It’s a stunning setting, but there is no electricity, no running water and the toilet is an outside long drop toilet in a hut. For water, you need to head to the lake and with an axe and a 4 foot drill, to get through 60cms of ice to reach the water below. The water then needs to be carried back to the cabin.

With the freezing temperatures, comes the needs to dress appropriately. From thermal underwear, to fleece lined trousers and a fleece and jumper and coat on top, with a thick snow suit over the top of everything from head to toe. Then thick woollen socks, heavy snow boots, gloves and mittens on your hands, a scarf, buff, and balaclava on your head. It makes moving around difficult and energy sapping. Just harnessing the dogs for 20mins leaves you sweating, and when sledding uphill, you have to jump off the sled and hold on whilst running alongside or behind, to support the dogs. The distances aren’t huge but the physicality for short bursts can be very demanding.

And finally, there’s the actual activity of dog sledding. Like most people, I didn’t know what to expect, but assumed my main challenge would be to hold on to the sled as the dogs manoeuvred through the Arctic wilderness. Well, that’s certainly one element to the challenge but there’s so much more.

Each day the terrain got slightly more challenging, taking bends and corners, or where the ground is either angled leaning to the left or the right, so a good sense of balance is required. The dogs are incredibly powerful and when they pull off from a starting position, you need to use your strength to hold on. There’s no first gear, second gear, they go from nothing to full power instantly! You need to break with your left foot, right foot, both feet, soft break, hard break, lean to keep upright when moving over uneven terrain, and keep the right speed. Too fast means you will run into the sled in front, or the dogs will try and run around the team in front, meaning they run off the path which could be 4 feet deep in snow! Breaking too late if you’re not paying attention could mean the sled runs in to the back of your dogs as when they stop, as the sled will keep going unless you control it.

You can’t switch off your focus for even a second and that’s particularly challenging.

It really was an incredible experience, one I will never forget, and one I would whole heartedly recommend to anyone with a sense of adventure, and full acceptance of the Arctic conditions, and all that it entails.

I have so much respect for Kent and Jordana who operate the challenge in Lapland, for living in such a hostile environment whilst bringing up their young family, for operating an incredible business, and all whilst caring passionately for 91 dogs!

For more information, go to https://www.charitychallenge.com/expedition/3736/Dog-Sledding-Challenge

Inspiration

MEET THE TEAM – John Allen

May 18, 2023

Name

John Allen

How long have you been a Challenge Leader?

2023 will be my 7^th year working for Charity Challenge.

What’s been your favourite challenge (so far)?

It would probably have to be Everest Base Camp. There is something about the Himalayas that has to be personally experienced rather than seen through a screen.

Do you have any challenges left on your bucket list?

To complete a challenge as a participant, rather than the leader!

How do you keep your body in tip top shape for the challenge season?

In the winter season I install bathrooms. Climbing thousands of stairs with heavy loads keeps me surprisingly fit!

What are your go to snacks to keep you fuelled and hydrated on a challenge?

I quite like dried mango. It’s a taste of sunshine, which is nice when the rain is lashing down! Just plain water for me as it can be used for more than just drinking. Try washing your hands or cleaning a wound with a sports drink!

Any top tips to share with participants signed up to a challenge?

Spend some time before hand walking uphill, preferably with your packed rucksack on – if you have no hills near you, stairs in high rise buildings work just as well.

What 5 items do you always pack in your day rucksack?

A windproof top, a Buff, a large bag of Colin the Caterpillars’ (vegan), some sunscreen and a tick remover!

What is the best thing about being a leader?

Learning about the lives of the wonderfully varied people who sign up to complete a challenge and their reasons for doing so. The shared life experiences and stories of all those participants has enhanced my life immeasurably.

What is your proudest achievement to date?

Qualifying as a Mountain Leader at 46 years young. It was the first ‘exam’ I ever fully passed and has given me more opportunities and experiences than I could have ever dreamed were possible.

Inspiration

MEET THE TEAM – Danny Barden

April 19, 2023

Name

Danny Barden

How long have you been a Challenge Leader?

8 years

What’s been your favourite challenge (so far)?

Great Wall Discovery, China

Do you have any challenges left on your bucket list?

Too many to list them all here (!) but top of the list would be anything with mountains: Simien Mountain Trek, Kyrgyzstan Trek and of course Everest Base Camp trek.

How do you keep your body in tip top shape for the challenge season?

Once the festive season is well and truly over it’s back to keeping an eye on the calories and getting out into the mountains at least once a week.

What are your go to snacks to keep you fuelled and hydrated on a challenge?

Nakd bars and a dark chocolate, honey roast peanut and dried mango pieces trail mix.

Any top tips to share with participants signed up to a challenge?

The higher and longer the hill training you can fit in before you head off on your challenge the better prepared you’ll be; get yourself a pair of walking poles and learn how to use them for best effect; similarly, get yourself a hydration bladder and get used to using it.

What 5 items do you always pack in your day rucksack?

Apart from food, water & waterproofs: spare gloves, an extra warm layer, head torch, first aid kit, and a bag of ‘morale-raising’ vegan friendly jelly babies.

What is the best thing about being a leader?

Getting to help people achieve their goals while often being well outside their comfort zones.

What is your proudest achievement to date?

Receiving feedback from challenge participants about how my support, encouragement and advice helped them to keep taking the next step towards their goal.

Challenges

TEACHER FRIENDLY CHALLENGE DATES

February 21, 2023

This one goes out to all of you amazing teachers out there!

You may think your strict holiday availability would make it impossible for you to take on the challenge of a lifetime.

Well, we’ve just released some teacher friendly dates for a few of our amazing challenges, such as the Icelandic Lava Trek, Saigon to Angkor Wat Bike Ride and our Trek to Machu Picchu in Peru.

So, if you’re a teacher who’s always wanted to take on a charity challenge and explore some amazing places checkout our range of teacher friendly dates below:

Defeat the Peak : Scafell Pike Challenge, UK

Sat 27 May – Sun 28 May 2023

Join us in May as we defeat the peak and take on Scafell Pike at Night in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support. Beginning in the Langdale, in the heart of the Lake District National Park, this spectacular challenge will see you and fellow fundraisers trekking to the top of Scafell….at night!

Snowdon By Moonlight Challenge, UK

Sat 03 Jun – Sun 04 Jun 2023

Join us in June as take on Snowdon at Night in aid of Sense. Beginning in the town of Llanberis, in the heart of the Snowdonia National Park, this spectacular challenge will see you and fellow fundraisers trekking to the top of Snowdon….at night!

Welsh 3000’s Challenge, UK

Fri 21 Jul – Sun 23 Jul 2023

Take your challenge experience to the next level with this classic mountain challenge in stunning Snowdonia. All 3000ft mountains, in a single epic weekend. One incredible adventure to test yourself against.

Snowdon At Night Challenge, UK

Sat 22 Jul – Sun 23 Jul 2023

Join us in July as take on Snowdon at Night in aid of CALM, Campaign Against Living Miserably. Beginning in the town of Llanberis, in the heart of the Snowdonia National Park, this spectacular challenge will see you and fellow fundraisers trekking to the top of Snowdon….at night!

Icelandic Lava Trek, Iceland

Wed 02 Aug – Sun 06 Aug 2023

Host to some of Europe’s most incredible wilderness, this Icelandic itinerary takes in thundering waterfalls, steaming lava fields, plunging fjords and spouting geysers. Trek 58kms over 3-days through one of the planet’s most volcanic regions.

National Three Peaks Challenge, UK

Fri 04 Aug – Sun 06 Aug 2023

Brace yourself for a fast-paced and physically challenging adventure, as you take on the three highest peaks in England, Scotland and Wales, in aid of Norfolk and Waveney Mind

Giants Causeway Challenge, UK

Fri 04 Aug – Sun 06 Aug 2023

This tough one day challenge has you trekking a marathon distance along the dramatic coastline of the Giant’s Causeway UNESCO World Heritage site.

Lake District 5 Peaks Challenge

Fri 11 Aug – Sat 12 Aug 2023

Prepare for an epic challenge through the rugged and dramatic landscape of the Lake District, as you tackle five of England’s most demanding peaks, including its highest – Scafell Pike.

London 10 Peaks Challenge, UK

Sat 19 Aug 2023

Trek to Machu Picchu, Peru

Sat 21 Oct – Mon 30 Oct 2023

The Trek to Machu Picchu follows the uncrowded Ancascocha trail, surrounded by the spectacular Andes mountains, raging rivers and remote mountain communities. Celebrate your success as you marvel at the awe-inspiring lost Incan city of Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Saigon to Angkor Wat Bike Ride, Vietnam

Thu 19 Oct – Sun 29 Oct 2023

Follow the road less cycled from Saigon to Angkor Wat, through endless miles of quiet backwater roads, passing ancient temples and bustling markets, beautiful and varied rural landscapes, and quaint villages. Cover 450km across seven days, from the waterways and rice paddies of the Mekong Delta, finishing at the astonishing Angkor Wat to celebrate a cycle well done.

Charity Challenge - Saigon to Angkor Wat Bike Ride

Trek Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Sat 21 Oct – Sun 29 Oct 2023

Finishing at the Khmer architectural masterpiece of Angkor Wat, this 5-day trek will take you into the heart of the stunning Phnom (Mount) Kulen National Park. Along the way, you will have the chance to experience the rhythm of rural life and marvel at the dazzling landscape that surrounds Siem Reap.

Edinburgh 7 Summits, UK

Sat 28 Oct 2023

Kilimanjaro Summit Climb, Tanzania

Wed 24 Jul – Sun 04 Aug 2024

Follow the uncrowded Lemosho route to conquer the famous ‘roof of Africa’ – Mt Kilimanjaro (5,895m). Embrace a truly life-changing journey and trek through five incredible, unspoilt eco-systems.

VIEW ALL CHARITY CHALLENGES

Inspiration

MEET THE TEAM – Duncan Turnbull

February 14, 2023

Name

Duncan Turnbull

How long have you been a Challenge Leader?

This is my 5th year with Charity Challenge

What’s been your favourite challenge (so far)?

100% the CoppaFeel! Scottish Highlands Challenge

Do you have any challenges left on your bucket list?

Oh yes! Mt Toubkal Trek, Icelandic Lava Trek, Trek to Machu Picchu, Mongolia, and GR20 Corsica.

How do you keep your body in tip top shape for the challenge season?

I’m on my feet all day with my daytime job, I also swim and go to the gym, any free time I’m out on the hills

What are your go to snacks to keep you fuelled and hydrated on a challenge?

I love pork pies, crisps, and my own special trail mix of mixed nuts, dried fruit, dried bananas, and Smarties yum yum!! Plus plenty of water. The reason for the pork pies and crisps is the high calorie intake to replace calories burned during ascents and crisps to help salt replacement!

Any top tips to share with participants signed up to a challenge?

1/ Properly worn in boots

2/ Take waterproof jacket and pants as they are also wind proof

3/ Drink plenty of water 2ltrs on a normal day and 3ltrs on a hot day

Do training walks with your pack on to get used to carrying it preferably with with kit in it!

Carry some of your favourite snacks to enjoy during the day (also to share with your leaders)!😁

What 5 items do you always pack in your day rucksack?

1/ Compass and paper map

2/ GPS

3/ First aid kit

4/ Group shelter

5/ Hard shell jacket and pants

What is the best thing about being a leader?

I love sharing knowledge and tips to the clients, I also get a huge buzz helping them to complete which ever challenges

What is your proudest achievement to date?

Helping the girls to complete the CoppaFeel! Scottish Highlands Challenge

Sales & Promotions

⚠️ FLASH SALE ⚠️ – £100 off the reg fee on our NEW Isle of Skye Challenge

February 7, 2023

Isle of Skye Challenge flash sale is on now!

Book your spot for Sun 14 May – Fri 19 May 2023 and get £100 off your reg fee with the code SKYE100.

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to challenge yourself and explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Isle of Skye.

This discount is only available to the first 4 bookers so make sure you get booked in quickly!

Offer ends midnight Friday 24th Feb.

SIGN UP TODAY

Overview

Challenge yourself to a spectacular 4-day trekking adventure on the legendary ‘Misty Isle’. With dramatic ridges, a coastline steeped in Gaelic myths and jaw-dropping views, join us for this new challenge on one of Scotland’s most iconic islands – the Isle of Skye.

6 days | UK | Extreme

Highlights

Four days of trekking on the Isle of Skye’s iconic ridges, glens and coast
Summit one of the peaks of the UK’s most challenging mountain range, the Black Cuillin
Discover spectacular hidden corners of the captivating ‘Misty Isle’
Traverse the Trotternish Ridge, one of the most dramatic ridge traverses in Britain
Trek through one of Scotland’s most impressive glens, Glen Sligachan

Inspiration

PARTICIPANT STORIES – Joining a challenge as a solo trekker

January 27, 2023

When Ann Ogley joined her first Charity Challenge trip back in September 2014, she did so with a good friend.

Together the pair rose to the challenge of trekking through the Gunung Leuser National Park on the Sumatra Jungle Challenge.

A year later Ann’s friend was involved in an accident, however, which meant she could no longer commit to another challenge.

“So that’s how I ended up going on the next challenge to Brazil on my own,” said Ann, 62, from Rotherham whose trips have supported two local charities.

“I had been looking at things on the website and thinking that I really wanted to do that one – it wasn’t just trekking, but also canoeing and fishing for your supper.

“There had been one or two solo travellers on the Sumatra trip and I thought ‘if they can do it, I can too’.”

Not only did she rise to the challenge, but Ann has since participated in a further two Charity Challenges as a solo traveller – one to the Albanian Alps, and most recently to the rose city of Petra in Jordan.

“You’re always a bit apprehensive about who you’re going to meet and whether you’re going to get on with people but everyone is there for the same reason,” she said.

“They are there to challenge themselves and to raise money for something that’s close to their heart so you don’t really have any problems because you have common ground before you even start.

“There are going to be some people who you get on with better than others, but that’s just life. When you are stuck in the middle of a jungle or a desert you don’t really have any other option but to get on with things as you see fit.”

The only down side to joining a challenge on your own, as far as Ann sees it, is that you “miss out on the build up”.

“It’s the build up and the anticipation and having someone to bounce off,” said Ann. “But once you’re there, there’s quite often a lot of other solo people too.”

Recently back from Jordan, Ann is already looking to the future.

“It’s addictive and it’s something that I want to get more into,” she said.

Next up may well be Charity Challenge’s Trek to Machu Picchu – but will she go it alone?

“My husband keeps hinting that he might do it, but I’m not sure he’d keep up with the rusticness of it so watch this space!”

Interested in joining us on a challenge?

Book before midnight 31st January 2023 and you can get up to 50% off the reg fee on selected 2023 & 2024 challenges in our New Year Sale. Use the code NY2023. Sign up here

Latest News

TRAVEL ADVISORY

January 23, 2023

Updated : 23rd Jan 2022

We are saddened to see the closure of Machu Picchu within the last few days due to the political protests in Peru. Our thoughts are with our partners in country and everyone impacted by the current protests. We are in contact with all of our groups travelling to Peru this year, but if you are considering joining a challenge and wish to discuss the situation, please feel free to get in touch with us by emailing info@charitychallenge.com.

Charity Challenge - Trek to Machu Picchu

Updated : 21st Mar 2022

UK Challenges: Covid Update

With a diary bursting full of exciting challenges, it’s set to be another wonderfully adventurous year. The start of our UK season is already underway, with several successful events already complete. Our challengers have scaled the height of Ben Nevis (in winter no less!), conquered Edinburgh’s seven summits and trekked through the night to overcome the rollercoaster of the South Downs.

Whilst Covid-19 rules in the UK are being relaxed, Covid-19 is still very much present and so we will continue to keep our challenges ‘Covid-safe’. We therefore encourage all of our groups to follow these simple instructions in order to reduce the risk of transmission:  

We strongly advise that anyone doing a challenge with us is fully vaccinated and has any recommended boosters when offered.
We recommend that you carry a face mask with you at all times. You may be asked to wear it at your accommodation, whilst using transport and in case of medical emergencies.
Carry a small bottle of personal hand sanitiser and use this before and after using stiles and gates that result in you needing to touch surfaces. 
Avoid sharing food or water with other members of the group.
Respect other people’s personal space.

Please do not attend the challenge if you have symptoms of or have tested positive for Covid-19. Similarly, if you have come into close contact with someone who has tested positive for Covid-19 then you should not travel to the challenge and should follow government advice about getting tested and potentially staying at home.

If you cannot attend a challenge because you, or a close contact, has symptoms of or has tested positive for Covid, please email challenges@charitychallenge.com to inform us of your situation and we will advise you about your options.

We also ask everyone to make sure they are familiar with the latest government guidelines on how to stay safe and help prevent the spread of coronavirus. These can be read here.

We will continue to monitor the government’s advice regarding travel, social-distancing, group sizes, use of accommodation and transport. And we will ensure that everyone on our challenges is briefed on specific safety measures in place to keep the group safe and so you can relax and enjoy the challenge ahead.

Our current Covid Safe Health & Safety guidelines can be found here.

Thank you for your patience whilst we have dealt with the obvious impacts of the pandemic on our travel business.

We look forward to a busy and adventurous 2022 with you!

The Charity Challenge team

Updated : 24th Jan 2022

We are delighted to now be operating some overseas challenges again for the first time in almost two years, we have a number of challenges departing imminently for Tanzania, Nepal, Peru, Argentina and Sweden.

We are constantly reviewing relevant information from our local in country partners, airlines, and local and international government authorities. Restrictions and advice are subject to change, sometimes at very short notice, so we are updating all groups due to depart within the next three months as to the requirements for leaving the UK, travelling to their challenge destination, and returning home afterwards.

Today the UK government announced that, as of 4am on 11 February, fully vaccinated participants will not need to take any covid tests on their return to England (at the time of this update, Scotland, Wales and Ireland are yet to confirm if they will follow suit).

We strongly advise that anyone travelling with us is fully vaccinated and has any recommended boosters when offered.

We will therefore provide information on entry / exit requirements on that basis. If anyone is not fully vaccinated, it is your responsibility to check the requirements surrounding Covid-19 as soon as possible. If you require any further support prior to departure or whilst in country you must contact us about this as soon as possible.

We will continue to touch base with each international group no later than 12 weeks before departure to give you an update on any covid restrictions or requirements.

Our UK challenge portfolio has been fully operational since July 2020 and we envisage all challenges operating as planned throughout 2022. However, if there are any issues or concerns we will inform you about these at the appropriate time before your challenge. Please continue to fundraise and train for your challenge!

We will continue to carefully monitor the government’s advice regarding travel, social-distancing, group sizes, use of accommodation and transport. Our current Covid Safe Health & Safety guidelines can be found here

Thank you for your patience whilst we have dealt with the obvious impacts of the pandemic on our travel business.

We look forward to a busy and adventurous 2022 with you!

The Charity Challenge team

Updated : 29th Nov 2021

On the 27^th November 2021 the Prime Minister confirmed new measures following the emergence of the Omicron variant in the UK. These measures are precautionary, and will be reviewed in three weeks.

All international arrivals must take a PCR test before the end of day 2, and self-isolate until they receive a negative result.

The latest set of announcements does not currently impact our ability to operate, however if this situation changes we will be in touch directly with any affected groups. If you don’t hear from us then your challenge will be proceeding as planned.

For now, our advice remains the same to everyone booked on a challenge with us: –

Overseas Challenges

We will be in touch no later than 12 weeks before departure to give you an update on your individual trips status. We will do all we can to run the challenge but please be aware that there are still likely to be some additional requirements for yourselves, such as testing on your return to the UK.

UK Challenges

Our entire UK challenge portfolio is now fully operational.

We will continue to carefully monitor the government’s advice regarding travel, social-distancing, group sizes, use of accommodation and transport.

Our current Covid Safe Health & Safety guidelines can be found here

Thank you for your patience whilst we review all of the new information and timelines.

The Charity Challenge team

Updated : 15th June 2021

Charity Challenge has successfully operated a number of its UK challenges over the past 10 days and we hope to be able to run the vast majority of our remaining UK challenges this season.

However, with the latest government announcement delaying Step 4 of the roadmap (removal of all restrictions) from Monday 21^st June to Monday 19^th July, it does mean that a number of challenges due to take place in the coming few weeks will have to be modified or postponed.

If your challenge is affected we will be contacting you over the coming few days, so please bear with us as we clarify what’s needed and then contact groups in a chronological order.

For now, our advice remains the same to everyone booked on a challenge with us: –

UK Challenges

We will contact you no later than 8 weeks prior to your challenge should be unable to go ahead, or if we need to make any changes due to the impact of social distancing and any other restrictions in place.

Overseas Challenges

We will be in touch no later than 12 weeks before departure to give you an update on your individual trips status. If your destination is in the ‘green list’ we will do all we can to run the challenge but please be aware that there is still likely to be some additional requirements for yourselves, such as pre departure testing.

We will continue to carefully monitor the government’s advice regarding travel, social-distancing, group sizes, use of accommodation and transport.

Our current Covid-19 Protocols can be found here.

Thank you for your patience whilst we review all of the new information and timelines.

The Charity Challenge team

Updated : 7th May 2021

Charity Challenge welcome’s the latest announcement from the UK Government around the slow re-opening of international travel.

The traffic light system, of categorising each destination, means we need to look at each of our challenges in turn and see what may be possible; we don’t only have to look at what the UK government are saying, we also need to have a clear idea of what each destination government are instructing as well.

We are very excited that we are beginning to move towards a date when we can resume operating our international challenges again, but we will need some time to make sure we fully understand the implications on our participants, our leaders, the local teams and the itineraries that we have planned.

For now, our advice remains the same to everyone booked on a challenge with us: –

Overseas Challenges

We will be in touch no later than 12 weeks before departure to give you an update on your individual trips status. If your destination is in the ‘green list’ we will do all we can to run the challenge but please be aware that there is still likely to be some additional requirements for yourselves, such as pre departure testing.

UK Challenges

Our plans for all our UK challenges are progressing well and we hope the UK roadmap continues as planned. We will be operating our first UK challenges again shortly, starting at the end of May. We will contact you no later than 8 weeks prior to your challenge should your challenge be unable to go ahead, or if we need to make any changes due to the impact of social distancing and any other restrictions in place.

We will continue to carefully monitor the government’s advice regarding travel, social-distancing, group sizes, use of accommodation and transport.

Our current Covid-19 Protocols can be found here.

Thank you for your patience whilst we review all of the new information and timelines.

The Charity Challenge team

Updated : 23rd February 2021

Charity Challenge welcome’s the latest announcement from the UK Government about its step-by-step plan to ease restrictions in England.

We are very excited that we are beginning to move towards a date when we can resume operating our challenges again, and to have an end in sight for the majority of the restrictions that have impacted on all of our lives over the past year.

We recognise that there could potentially be a variation in the guidelines from the different nations of the UK, and we are awaiting the latest updates from the Scottish and Welsh governments too, as well as updates from our transport and accommodation partners, before we make any final decisions on what actions to take regarding our upcoming UK challenge season.

For now, our advice remains the same to everyone booked on a UK Challenge – your challenge is scheduled to continue as planned, and we will contact you no later than 8 weeks prior to your challenge should it be unable to go ahead, or if we need to make any changes to fully reflect the impact of social distancing and restrictions in place.

If you are booked on an Overseas Challenge, we will be in touch no later than 12 weeks before departure to give you an update on your individual trips status.

We will be carefully monitoring the government’s updated advice regarding travel, social-distancing, group sizes, use of accommodation and transport. We are hopeful that this will mean that we will be able to begin operating our UK challenges again very soon, but with certain measures in place to make sure that they are done safely.

Our current Covid Safe Health & Safety guidelines can be found here.

Thank you for your patience whilst we review all of the new information and timelines.

The Charity Challenge team

Updated : 5th February 2021

With the ongoing lockdowns, throughout the UK, we continue to review and postpone our challenges as necessary. We will be in touch with all challengers as and when needed in line with the timelines below.

UK Challenges

Our next UK challenges are due to take place in April 2021 and we hope to be able to run these, we will keep this under constant review.

Please note: If for any reason we don’t feel your challenge can proceed we will make a decision approximately 8 weeks prior to your challenge date (the only exception to this would be if the Government advice suddenly changed – between 8 weeks and your challenge date – and then we would be in touch at the earliest convenience). We’ll be in touch with final details and joining instructions for your challenge closer to the event.

Overseas Challenges

We have cancelled, or postponed, all overseas challenges from March 2020 to May 2021 to now operate later in 2021 and into early 2022. We are dealing with future challenges in chronological order.

Please note: If for any reason we don’t feel your challenge can proceed we will make a decision approximately 12 weeks prior to your challenge date (the only exception to this would be if the Government advice suddenly changed – between 12 weeks and your challenge date – and then we would be in touch at the earliest convenience). We’ll be in touch with final details and joining instructions for your challenge closer to the event.

Keeping COVID-19 Safe

We wish to reassure you that we will be reviewing the implications of any continued restrictions being in place at the time of your event. In 2020 we were very successful in running a number of UK challenge events by putting in place a variety of additional measures to ensure that the challenge could take place safely and within the latest regulations and guidance. To give you an idea of some of these measures they included:

Producing ‘safety briefing videos’ that were sent to all challengers in the week before the challenge to reduce the need to gather in large groups at the meeting point
Staggering registration and start times to reduce the number of people gathering in one place
Providing a ‘Challenge Safe Kit’ to every challenger that included hand sanitiser, a face mask and a buff
Where accommodation was required we were able to provide single rooms for all challengers

Please do read our Covid Safe Health & Safety guidelines and our FAQ page for further information. If you have any further questions please do not hesitate to get in touch by emailing challenges@charitychallenge.com.

Updated : 6th January 2021

With further lockdowns now announced, throughout the UK, we continue to review and postpone our challenges as necessary. We will be in touch with all challengers, that are due to take part over the next 3 months (in the UK and overseas), to inform them of new dates for their challenge as well as any options we can offer them.

UK Challenges

Our next UK challenges are due to take place in March 2021 and we will be in touch with groups shortly to provide new dates and any other options available to them. We hope to be able to operate trips again from April but we will keep this under constant review.

Please note: If for any reason we don’t feel your challenge can proceed we will make a decision approximately 8 weeks prior to your challenge date (the only exception to this would be if the Government advice suddenly changed – between 8 weeks and your challenge date – and then we would be in touch at the earliest convenience). We’ll be in touch with final details and joining instructions for your challenge closer to the event.

Overseas Challenges

We have cancelled, or postponed, all overseas challenges from March 2020 to April 2021 to now operate later in 2021 and into early 2022. We are dealing with future challenges in chronological order. If you have a trip due to depart in May we will be in touch about your challenge in the coming weeks.

Please note: If for any reason we don’t feel your challenge can proceed we will make a decision approximately 12 weeks prior to your challenge date (the only exception to this would be if the Government advice suddenly changed – between 12 weeks and your challenge date – and then we would be in touch at the earliest convenience). We’ll be in touch with final details and joining instructions for your challenge closer to the event.

Producing ‘safety briefing videos’ that were sent to all challengers in the week before the challenge to reduce the need to gather in large groups at the meeting point
Staggering registration and start times to reduce the number of people gathering in one place
Providing a ‘Challenge Safe Kit’ to every challenger that included hand sanitiser, a face mask and a buff
Where accommodation was required we were able to provide single rooms for all challengers

Updated : 15th December 2020

Over the last few months we had a further lockdown in England and currently many areas of the UK are living under tier-2 and tier-3 restrictions (or the equivalent in Scotland, Wales and N. Ireland).

Unfortunately this means that we had to cancel some of our Winter Challenges that were due to take place in England over the last few months. We will be in touch with all challengers, that are due to take part over the next 3 months (in the UK and overseas), to inform them of new dates for their challenge as well as any options we can offer them.

UK Challenges

Our next UK challenges are due to take place in February 2021. As restrictions in different areas are changing regularly we plan to wait until the first week in January to make decisions about whether these challenges will be able to proceed as planned or not.

Please note: If for any reason we don’t feel your challenge can proceed we will make a decision approximately 8 weeks prior to your challenge date (the only exception to this would be if the Government advice suddenly changed – between 8 weeks and your challenge date – and then we would be in touch at the earliest convenience). We’ll be in touch with final details and joining instructions for your challenge closer to the event.

Overseas Challenges

We have cancelled, or postponed, all overseas challenges from March 2020 to mid-March 2021 to later in 2021 and into early 2022. We are dealing with future challenges in chronological order. If you have a trip due to depart in late March or April we will be in touch about your challenge in the coming weeks.

Please note: If for any reason we don’t feel your challenge can proceed we will make a decision approximately 12 weeks prior to your challenge date (the only exception to this would be if the Government advice suddenly changed – between 12 weeks and your challenge date – and then we would be in touch at the earliest convenience). We’ll be in touch with final details and joining instructions for your challenge closer to the event.

Updated : 2nd November 2020

Over the weekend the UK government announced a further lockdown across the whole of England from the 5^th November – 2^nd December 2020.

Unfortunately this means that we have now had to cancel some of our Winter Challenges that were due to take place in England over the next two weeks. We will be in touch with all challengers, that were due to take part this month, to inform them of new dates for their challenge as well as any options we can offer them.

UK Challenges

Our next UK challenges are now due to take place in February 2021.

Please note: If for any reason we don’t feel your challenge can proceed we will make a decision approximately 8 weeks prior to your challenge date (the only exception to this would be if the Government advice suddenly changed – between 8 weeks and your challenge date – and then we would be in touch at the earliest convenience). We’ll be in touch with final details and joining instructions for your challenge closer to the event.

Overseas Challenges

We have cancelled, or postponed, all overseas challenges from March 2020 to January 2021 to later in 2021. We are dealing with future challenges in chronological order. If you have a trip due to depart in February or March, we will be in touch about your challenge in the coming weeks.

We have cancelled, or postponed, all overseas challenges from March 2020 to January 2021 to later in 2021. We are dealing with future challenges in chronological order. If you have a trip due to depart in February or March, we will be in touch about your challenge in the coming weeks.

Updated : 14th October 2020

Over the last few days England, and the devolved administrations of the UK, have all announced a further tightening of guidance/rules, in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, in order to stem the flow of new Covid-19 cases.

Some of these announcements now impact on our ability to operate challenges within the guidelines; if this is the case then we will be in touch directly with affected groups. If you don’t hear from us then your challenge will be proceeding as planned.

We ask that everyone take personal responsibility and follow the guidelines from their local area. If you are unable to travel to the challenge because of local restrictions then we ask you to contact us as soon as possible on challenges@charitychallenge.com in order that we can discuss your options.

Updated : 25th September 2020

What happens if I live in an area where there is a local lockdown, or restrictions put in place, that mean I cannot take part in my challenge?

We ask that everyone takes personal responsibility and follows the guidelines from their local area. If you are unable to travel to your challenge then we ask you to contact us as soon as possible. Unfortunately we will not be able to offer refunds as we will have already incurred costs for your place. We will do our best to move you to a later challenge date but there will be a fee to do this, this will vary depending on what costs we have already incurred; please email challenges@charitychallenge.com to inform us of your situation and we will do our best to help.

Updated : 23rd September 2020

Yesterday England, and the devolved administrations of the UK, announced a tightening of guidance/rules, in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, in order to stem the flow of new Covid-19 cases.

The new guidelines do not impact or alter the way in which we are already operating under significant Covid 19 safety protocols and all of our UK challenges are still therefore scheduled to continue as planned. Please do read our previous update from the 11^th September, in order to familiarise yourself with the reasoning behind our decisions, as well as the measures we have put in place to keep you safe on your challenge. Please also read our FAQ’s which will answer lots of your questions.

Updated : 11th September 2020

As you may have seen in the press yesterday the guidance/rules around social gatherings (the rule of 6) in England will be changed from Monday 14th September as the government moves to stem the “concerning” rise in cases of Covid-19. We have been monitoring all information being released from Public Heath England and the UK Government, and assessing what actions to take with regards to all of our upcoming UK challenges.

We have since reviewed the advice and, with input and professional guidance of Sport England and the British Mountaineering Council, can tell you that the government has confirmed that “organised sports and activities that have been through return to play protocols can continue. That’s because these sports and activities have stringent plans in place to reduce the risk of Covid-19, and because these venues are classed as Covid-secure given the measures they’ve introduced.”

You can rest assured that we will be following the guidance and protocols of the Government, Public Health England, Sport England and the British Mountaineering Council.

What are the new guidance / rules around social gatherings?

On 9 September, the government announced upcoming changes to simplify restrictions and ensure the virus is controlled. The government statement read; “From Monday 14 September, you must not meet with people from other households socially in groups of more than 6.” Following this statement we have worked hard to gain clarification from the appropriate governing bodies who provide advice around the operating of sporting activities and events.

Yesterday Sport England announced that:

“While social gatherings of more than six people will be banned in England from 14 September, the government’s confirmed that organised sports and activities that have been through return to play protocols can continue, as can organised outdoor sports and physical activity events such as parkrun, which is due to return next month.

People can also continue to use leisure facilities, including gyms and pools – classes within these venues can continue as they are now. People should not go to these venues socially in groups of more than six.

That’s because these sports and activities have stringent plans in place to reduce the risk of Covid-19, and because these venues are classed as Covid-secure given the measures they’ve introduced.”

This announcement was similarly backed-up by the British Mountaineering Council, who are the organisation who represent the interests of companies and individuals who work in the outdoors:

“Following the statement by the Prime Minister on 9th September relating to restrictions on groups of people meeting in the outdoors in England (the ‘rule of 6’) we can confirm that if clubs follow the steps as detailed in the BMC guidance above then organised club meets will be able to take place with more than 6 people attending).”

What does this mean for your upcoming Charity Challenge?

All of our UK challenges are scheduled to continue as planned. We have worked hard to put in place the appropriate plans to reduce the risk of Covid-19 and, as highlighted in our Covid Safe Health & Safety guidelines, we are currently implementing reduced group sizes and staggered starts.

What changes have we made as a result of this week’s announcement from the government?

Since restarting our UK challenges, we have been using a greater number of leaders to ensure that the group will be able to maintain social distancing whilst providing you with the same level of support.

On challenges with larger group sizes we may ask people to choose a ‘walking speed’ group. This will enable us to separate out the group at registration and the start of the challenge and enable social distancing more easily.

Specific measures for our National 3 Peaks groups

The government has made clear that transport providers are also allowed to continue operating for groups, provided that they have procedures in place to operate safely. All of the bus transfers on our National 3 Peaks challenges will continue to adhere to the government’s latest safer travel guidelines, that can be viewed here.

We have halved the number of people per bus, from 16 down to 8 people, to ensure that everyone has a double seat allocated to them throughout the challenge, and you will be asked to sit near the window to maximise social distancing. Everyone will be provided with a facemask, and you will be asked to wear it for every section of the journey.

For the latest version of our Covid-19 Health & Safety Guidelines please visit our website here.

You can also have a look at some Covid-19 (UK Challenges) FAQ’s here.

If you have any further questions please do not hesitate to get in touch by emailing challenges@charitychallenge.com.

Updated : 7th July 2020

Following months of global lockdown, closed international borders and social distancing due to the outbreak of Covid-19, restrictions are starting to ease. Charity Challenge have therefore carried out a thorough review of how we operate our challenges and how we can adapt and respond to the new logistical challenge of being Covid safe.

We are VERY pleased to share that we are looking to restart operating our UK challenges from mid-August in a safe and responsible way. International challenges will follow in time when safe to do so.

For anyone booked on a National Three Peaks Challenge, we are still awaiting the latest government guidelines regarding transport and accommodation before we make an informed decision on when your challenge is safe to go ahead.

Covid-19 – Keeping you Safe on your Challenge

The safety of our customers, leaders, doctors, local ground teams, and the communities we interact with on our challenges, is of paramount importance to us.  A large part of our safety system is ensuring that you, our customers, are fully informed and updated of the best practice guidelines and the measures that we have put in place to keep you Covid safe.  

For the latest version of our Covid-19 Health & Safety Guidelines please visit here.

We understand that all the changes in the current environment can be extremely overwhelming and may leave you with many questions as we all adapt to the new way of being. To hopefully ease some of your concerns we have pulled together some Covid-19 FAQ’s

Information below still applicable : 26th June 2020

Updated : 29th May 2020

The government’s recent announcement means that we are cautiously optimistic that we are beginning to move towards a date when we can resume operating our challenges again.

UK Challenges

We have postponed all of our challenges up until the end of July, and we are looking carefully at our challenges due to take place in Aug.
Please note: If for any reason we don’t feel your challenge can proceed we will make a decision 8 weeks prior to your challenge date (the only exception to this would be if the Government advice suddenly changed – between 8 weeks and your challenge date – and then we would be in touch at the earliest convenience). We’ll be in touch with final details and joining instructions for your challenge closer to the event.

Overseas Challenges

All of our overseas challenges from October onwards are set to take place as planned. We have cancelled, or postponed, all overseas challenges from March-August to later in the year, or to early next year. Passengers travelling in September have been offered the opportunity to postpone their challenge to a later date and we are currently working through options with individuals and charities.
Please note: If for any reason we don’t feel your challenge can proceed we will give you as much notice as possible. We can’t give an exact number of weeks prior to departure date, as it will vary depending on the destination and flexibility of the airline, but we will be in touch at least 12 weeks before departure to give you an update on your individual trips status.

We understand that there may be a little uncertainty around booking in the current climate so we have created a Booking with Confidence policy to help you book your next overseas Charity Challenge with absolute confidence.

Updated : 13th May 2020

What does the updated (10th May) Covid-19 lockdown guidelines mean for getting back in the outdoors?

Charity Challenge welcome the government’s inclusion of amended guidelines regarding outdoor activities and exercise earlier this week. However, we fully recognise that there is variation with regards to the guidelines from the different nations of the UK, and that there is a need for local communities to be given time to plan and adjust for these changes.

The overarching trajectory towards easing restrictions and opening up our ability to travel to places in the great outdoors and exercise is a positive sign for our UK challenge’s that are due to take place later this summer.

We would like to take this opportunity to encourage anyone booked on a Charity Challenge trip to read the government’s updated guidelines carefully before undertaking any travel to begin walking or cycling in the outdoors in the coming days and weeks.

In particular we would encourage everyone to read local authorities advice and requests before choosing to travel. Whilst an easing of lockdown guidelines is very welcome, everyone should consider how their actions may impact on the communities and the areas that they are planning to visit.

There is a lot of excellent sources of information available out there. Amongst them we would encourage people to look carefully at some of the following:

What does this mean for Charity Challenge’s UK challenge events?

The government’s recent announcement means that we are cautiously optimistic that we are beginning to move towards a date when we can resume operating our UK challenges again. Currently (as of 11^th May) we have postponed all of our challenges up until the end of June, and we are looking carefully at our challenges due to take place in July.

Many of our challenges are reliant on facilities such as accommodation and catering suppliers in order for them to go ahead. The government has indicated that certain hospitality businesses may be able to open in July and we will be closely looking at the advice given and the likely impact on our challenges.

However, our advice remains the same to everyone booked on a UK challenge. Your challenge is scheduled to continue as planned, and we will contact you at 8 weeks prior to your challenge should your challenge be unable to go ahead, or if we need to make any changes to fully reflect the impact of social distancing.

We will be carefully monitoring the government’s updated advice regarding travel to the outdoors, social-distancing, group sizes, use of accommodation and transport. We are hopeful that this will mean that we will be able to begin operating our UK challenges again, but with certain measures in place to make sure that they are done safely.

What does this mean for Charity Challenge’s Overseas challenge events?

The government’s recent announcements don’t give much reassurance, or certainty, around when we will be able to travel overseas again. For the time being our advice therefore remains the same to everyone booked on an overseas challenge:

All of our overseas challenges from September onwards are set to take place as planned. We have cancelled, or postponed, all overseas challenges from March-August to later in the year, or to early next year.

If for any reason we don’t feel your challenge can proceed we will give you as much notice as possible. We can’t give an exact number of weeks prior to departure date, as it will vary depending on the destination and flexibility of the airline, but we will be in touch at least 12 weeks before departure to give you an update on your individual trips status.

We understand that some of you are concerned about travelling overseas this year, and worried about raising your sponsorship money, so in many cases we are also offering people the opportunity to postpone their challenge to a later date. If you would like to know what options we can give you please feel free to drop us an email at challenges@charitychallenge.com, we are here to help and support you.

At the point that we are able to operate our challenges, we will ensure that we take all professional guidance and adopt relevant measures to support you and the local communities during the challenge. We will also confirm any such measures that are put in place.

We would like to say a huge thank you to all of our participants, suppliers and leaders who have been incredibly supportive and patient through what has been a very difficult time.

We can’t wait to be able to get back to what we do best, running incredible challenges for fantastic people raising money for very worthy causes.

Information below still applicable : 24th April 2020

Updated : 17th April 2020

At Charity Challenge, we continue to monitor and assess the various updates, guidelines and requirements being released from Public Heath England and the UK Government in order to guide the actions that need to be taken with the upcoming UK and overseas challenges. The latest update from the UK Government is that the current restrictions must remain in place for at least the next 3 weeks.

What does this mean for your upcoming challenges? This does not change the current actions Charity Challenge have already taken regarding your UK and Overseas challenges.

UK Challenges

All of our UK challenges from July onwards are set to take place as planned. All April, May and June challenges have been rescheduled to later in the year.
Please note: If for any reason we don’t feel your challenge can proceed we will make a decision 8 weeks prior to your challenge date (the only exception to this would be if the Government advice suddenly changed – between 8 weeks and your challenge date – and then we would be in touch at the earliest convenience). We’ll be in touch with final details and joining instructions for your challenge closer to the event.

Overseas Challenges

All of our overseas challenges from August onwards are set to take place as planned. We have cancelled, or postponed, all overseas challenges from March-July to later in the year, or to early next year.
Please note: If for any reason we don’t feel your challenge can proceed we will give you as much notice as possible. We can’t give an exact number of weeks prior to departure date, as it will vary depending on the destination and flexibility of the airline, but we will be in touch at least 12 weeks before departure to give you an update on your individual trips status.

As we adapt to the new way of being, the team at Charity Challenge have come up with numerous tips and advice to support our colleagues, challengers, leaders and partners through this unsettling time.

Read our NEW tips and advice on training at home
Have a look through our TOP TIPS on how to fundraise while social distancing
Combine TRAINING and FUNDRAISING by taking on a VIRTUAL CHALLENGE – Once you have completed your Virtual Charity Challenge we will message you a certificate of completion on social media for you to share with all your supporters

We also hope the following FAQ’S will help answer some of your queries in the interim but if you have any further questions please do not hesitate to get in touch.

Stay safe, stay home, stay healthy

Updated : 30th March 2020

As the Covid-19 situation continues, we at Charity Challenge continue to monitor and assess the various updates, guidelines and requirements being released from Public Heath England and the UK Government in order to guide the actions that need to be taken with the upcoming UK and overseas challenges.

During these unsettling times our Charity partners need our support more than ever. The current situation puts them in an extremely vulnerable position as a huge portion of their income comes directly from fundraising events such as the London Marathon and other challenge events and races which they have now lost. Now is the time we all need to come together to ensure we can continue to help those most in need. It is our priority to ensure that, where feasibly and practically possible, all Charity Challenge events will run later in the year if they are able to do so, so that we can continue to support our charity partners.

Depending on destination, departures within an approximate three to six-month rolling timeframe are being rescheduled, postponed or in rare instances cancelled. Participants, corporate clients and charity partners are being contacted directly for their particular trip and we would be grateful for everyone to wait for these initial communications from us.

The Charity Challenge team, like many businesses, have reduced its staffing levels as we have initially postponed almost all of the challenges that would otherwise have been operating from March to June this year.

UK Challenges

We have rescheduled all April and May challenges to later in the year and we are currently in the process of rescheduling our June challenges.
Currently all of our UK challenges from July onwards are set to take place as planned. We will, of course, update you should this change.

Overseas Challenge

We have cancelled, or postponed, all challenges from March-July to later in the year, or to early next year.
Currently all of our overseas challenges from August onwards are set to take place as planned. We will, of course, update you should this change.

We have thousands of participants on dozens of challenges that we are trying to support, and we ask you to please be patient and understanding of the situation, as it may take us slightly longer than usual to respond to your query. We will do our best to get back to you ASAP and we are prioritising the challenges in chronological order.

If you cannot reach us on the phone, please send your enquiry to info@charitychallenge.com and we will do our best to get back to you as soon as we can.

For all the trips later in the year which we hope will not be affected, if you are worried about fundraising when you are social distancing then the team at Charity Challenge have put their creative hats on and come up with the following ideas to help: https://bit.ly/3djryeN

Please stay safe, follow the government guidelines and where possible take advantage of opportunities to keep mentally and physically fit so that you are in good health to tackle your Charity Challenge when it can be done!

Updated : 16th March 2020

In response to fast-moving events, including the ever more restrictive travel actions being imposed by countries globally, Charity Challenge has taken the blanket step to cancel all remaining overseas trips up to the end of May this year. All participants have been contacted and offered a postponement, a transfer onto another trip or a full refund. Subsequent overseas trips will be reviewed on a rolling basis in conjunction with the prevailing Covid-19 situation. It is guaranteed that the outbreak will end – the only question is when!

For those on UK trips, the outlook is more positive, although under constant review to ensure adherence to government advice. At this moment all our UK trips will run as planned and should there be any changes participants will be informed immediately.

In the meantime, our thoughts are with you all; our loyal customers, our supportive charity and corporate partners and our dependable operational partners all over the world, and we wish everyone to be sensible, remain positive and to stay safe and secure until this is over. We have put together some Frequently Asked Questions here

Updated : 11th March 2020

As a result of the Covid-19 spread, some governments are implementing strict entry restrictions or bans on travellers who have recently lived in or passed through affected areas, including Italy as the most recent example. Travellers are responsible for ensuring they satisfy the entry requirements into a country and Charity Challenge would encourage all participants to check their own situations regularly and also ahead of travel, especially if they have visited an affected area recently. It is also advised that entry requirements, be that visas or electronic travel authorities, are checked to confirm they are still valid, as some governments have annulled existing documentation and require travellers to re-register as a result of the Covid-19 outbreak.

For the latest information and advice please use the following links to the international WHO, Public Heath England’s NaTHNaC and the relevant destination from the UK’s FCO.

Charity Challenge will continue to closely monitor events and provide updates as necessary. It is important for Charity Challenge employees and its overseas partners, many of whom are small businesses or family owned enterprises whose livelihood relies entirely on the travel industry, that participants continue to travel as long as it is safe to do so. Safety, however, will always come first.

Updated: 28th February 2020

The Covid-19 outbreak continues to spread globally and the WHO provides good daily summary situation reports. An aspect that doesn’t gain much media attention are the recovery rates which are slowly but steadily increasing; statistics which are good news given the levelling off (certainly in China) of the total caseload. A good online interactive real time statistics dashboard has been produced by the Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) at Johns Hopkins University, USA.

Charity Challenge customers can continue to book trips with confidence, knowing that they are in safe hands.

Currently there is no advice against travel to any of the destinations that Charity Challenge operates in, other than China. Imminent trips to China have already been postponed and challenges for later in the year are planned to run as normal; they are of course constantly under review.

If at any point a booking is affected such that Charity Challenge cannot provide the challenge itinerary in that country, customers will be offered the chance to postpone the challenge, to book on to another destination, or to receive a full refund.

Charity Challenge is committed to ensuring all its customers continue to remain in safe hands during this global outbreak. Charity Challenge recognises that the situation is changing rapidly and is monitoring things very carefully.

Updated: 31st January 2020

ADVICE TO TRAVELLING PARTICIPANTS

Charity Challenge will continue to be directed by relevant government authorities regarding health and safety in connection to the coronavirus outbreak. Currently, the only official UK government travel advisory (from the FCO) to avoid travel is to China and it is currently deemed safe to travel to all other Charity Challenge destinations. Should that change, the groups and individuals affected will be contacted directly to discuss options and to make alternative arrangements.

All travelling participants, wherever they are going in the world, are requested to apply a high degree of awareness and common sense in the run up to, and during an expedition. Charity Challenge is committed to not becoming a part of the problem!

Participants are requested to apply a high degree of self-regulation to avoid joining a trip as an infected individual and spreading it, and to avoid contracting or spreading it whilst overseas. The following is advised:

Prior to Departure

– Check the latest travel advisories in your home country and follow the guidelines carefully. Authoritative advice for UK citizens can be found at NHS Scotland’s fitfortravel and Public Health England’s National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC). The advice and guidelines can sometimes be targeted at those travelling specifically to China but Charity Challenge considers these sensible precautions regardless of expedition destination.

– Limit your risk to exposure by avoiding people or places where risks of infection may be high. Following your country’s official guidelines carefully will reduce your chances of unwittingly becoming a carrier.

– Do not join a trip if you feel ill or think you may have been exposed to the virus. There are early reports that the virus can spread asymptomatically i.e. the virus may be transmitted to you via an infected individual who has no idea themselves that they are infected and who shows no signs or symptoms of being ill. Please do not risk the health of your fellow expedition companions.

– Ensure you have adequate health cover to ensure comprehensive cover should you fall ill prior to the trip and have to cancel or require medical support and /or evacuation on the trip itself.

– Take extra hand cleansing products such as alcohol-based hand washes. Currently there is insufficient evidence to support the use of face masks but that may change. If however, you feel more comfortable when transiting airports, you may consider wearing a face mask.

During the Expedition

– Maintain extremely high hand and personal hygiene standards. Hand washing with soap, water and clean towels regularly is the best and, where not available, use alcohol-based hand cleansers. Cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, use tissues only once, disposing of them promptly and carefully, wash hands frequently.

– Avoid sharing personal items like drinking bottles

– Avoid close contact with people who appear unwell and their personal items

– If you become unwell with a fever, cough or difficulty breathing, promptly seek medical attention through your Challenge Leader. Follow all medical advice given.

On Return Home

– Pay attention to your health on return, particularly over the first 14 days.

– If you develop symptoms such as those mentioned above or any other ‘Flu like’ or respiratory illness during this period, follow your country’s guidelines carefully, which will likely suggest calling medical providers by telephone in the first instance for advice, to avoid inadvertently spreading the virus. In England the advice is to call NHS 111 and explain your circumstances.

– Inform Charity Challenge immediately if you develop symptoms so that others in the group can be informed, authorities contacted, and any control measures can swiftly be put into action.

Charity Challenge will continue to adhere to international guidelines and be directed by official government authorities. Participants are advised to keep abreast of developments and apply caution. Charity Challenge is confident that trips will be run safely and just request participants to play their part and help by following the guidelines carefully

Updated: 29^th January 2020

The outbreak continues to spread with confirmed case numbers and fatalities increasing, although mostly still limited to China; numbers outside China are generally still low and mostly single digit. There are four cases in Europe: three in France and one in Germany. There have now been reports of the first cases of domestic infection outside of China, in Japan and Germany. Currently patients commonly present with mild illness although roughly 20% of patients suffer severe symptoms; its widely believed to still predominantly be a risk for the elderly or those with compromised health.

In what is now very much a globally coordinated effort to halt the spread the disease, the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) has now advised against all but essential travel to mainland China.

Furthermore, companies are independently responding, including suspending flights to China. The global effort to address this emergency is phenomenal, particularly from China itself, and confidence in managing this epidemic is currently high. The outlook is hard to predict but experts in China suggest that the epidemic could peak in as little as a week to 10 days.

Due to the new FCO advice against travel to China, Charity Challenge will be cancelling all trips to China that are due to depart over the next 2 months and remain confident that existing trips departing later in the year will remain unaffected.

Groups and individuals whose challenges are affected by this cancellation are being contacted directly to discuss options and to make alternative arrangements.

This advisory will be updated regularly and should any developments in the situation seem likely to impact on challenges scheduled for later in the year, we will contact the relevant participants and groups immediately to discuss options.

Updated: 27^th January 2020

The novel (new) coronavirus, 2019-nCoV, outbreak is spreading as predicted with the first reportedly officially recognised cases in Europe reported in France on Friday 24^th January from patients who had all travelled from Wuhan; the key factor being these were not transmissions from human to human within Europe, as is happening in China, although it is widely accepted as just a matter of time before this changes.

The number of confirmed cases in mainland China has reportedly risen to almost 3,000, including 81 fatalities. At this stage the majority of deaths are still linked to either the elderly or those with pre-existing respiratory problems.

As the outbreak progresses the WHO continues to prepare, coordinate and update on a global level, and governments are responding accordingly. The FCO have increased the restrictions and now advise against all travel to Hubei Province.

Charity Challenge continues to monitor the situation closely.

Original Advisory: 23rd January 2020

Overview

Charity Challenge has been monitoring the latest developments with the China coronavirus outbreak which was first detected in late December 2019 in the city of Wuhan, Hubei Province, a region which Charity Challenge groups do not visit.

As of 22 January there have been 440 cases and 9 fatalities officially reported, including 10 cases (but no fatalities) in Beijing, a city which does feature on Charity Challenge itineraries. In addition, the virus has spread from infected individuals from Wuhan to Thailand (2 cases), Japan (1 case), the Republic of Korea (1 case), Taiwan (1 case) and the United States of America (1 case). The virus is thought to be part of the wide family of diseases which includes the less severe common cold and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) which people recall from 2003. Current unverified reports suggest most of the fatalities have been amongst the elderly or those suffering from other chronic diseases.

It is currently too early to assess the impact this will have in China, regionally in SE Asia and globally and most authorities are waiting for more information upon which to make judgements. The Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) currently only advise against all but essential travel to Wuhan itself, and Public Health England state the risks to travellers to Wuhan itself is moderate and advise travellers there to maintain good hand, respiratory and personal hygiene. The World Health Organization (WHO) does not recommend any restrictions to travel or trade and the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC), Fit For Travel and the National Health Commission of the People’s Republic of China are monitoring the situation closely and providing updates regularly.

What Charity Challenge is doing

The response by Charity Challenge will be very much dictated by the advice and instructions from higher national and international authorities.

As a precautionary measure however, Charity Challenge is re-screening the medical declarations of all participants who are due to travel to China and countries in south-eastern Asia over the next 6 months, who may be at greater risk to respiratory illnesses.

With such a quickly evolving and dynamic event happening, it is too early to predict the outcome of this outbreak and undoubtedly there will be much discussion and development over the next few weeks / months. We continue to monitor the major sources of reliable information such as the FCO and the WHO.

The first Charity Challenge trips to the region are not departing until late March and currently there is no reason to cancel or find alternative options for these trips. Charity Challenge, along with their Chinese in-country partners who are already in contact, will continue to monitor the situation closely and should anything change that may impact on the safe delivery of the challenge, any affected groups will be contacted directly.

Participants should direct any concerns to Charity Challenge who have dedicated staff responsible for safety and security.

Inspiration

MEET THE TEAM – Tom Armes

January 10, 2023

Name

Tom Armes

How long have you been a Challenge Leader?

Six years for Charity Challenge

What’s been your favourite challenge (so far)?

Every event has been special actually, difficult to point out one in particular but maybe the 24 Peaks Challenge with Olly Murs in memory of Caroline Flack – that was very special. Also the amazing Icelandic Lava Trek with the Cystic Fibrious team from Canada, lovely people to be with for the week 😊

Do you have any challenges left on your bucket list?

International Challenges (Off to Everest Base Camp in March with my son and daughter – that will be a special experience for me as a Dad ! Also an exciting trip to Borneo later in the summer will be exciting.

How do you keep your body in tip top shape for the challenge season?

I use the cross trainer at my gym for 60-90 minutes each session usually 4 or 5 times per week. I just watch some trash (or a Manchester United game 😊) on my phone and the time flies while getting fit at the same time !

What are your go to snacks to keep you fuelled and hydrated on a challenge?

Anything with chocolate on lol ….and Haribo’s plus I do like orange squash in my water rather than just plain water !

Any top tips to share with participants signed up to a challenge?

‘The five P’s’ – Proper Preparation Prevents Poor Performance……also ensure you have really broken in those walking boots and cut your toe nails !!!!

What 5 items do you always pack in your day rucksack?

boring stuff really, usual Mountain Leader kit, battery pack, loads of sweets, walking poles, spare insulin as type 1 Diabetic for 40+ years, always a spare T-Shirt to change into and usually some nice deodorant to not put the clients off !!

What is the best thing about being a leader?

The variation of visiting so many beautiful UK locations, great team members who the core team have known each other for 6+ years (including working for Andy Baker 😉) and the opportunity to lead new clients and enjoy the success’s they achieve on a personal level.

What is your proudest achievement to date?

Being a proud Dad 😉 (followed by climbing Mont Blanc solo maybe …)

Inspiration, Sales & Promotions

NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS – What will you achieve in 2023?

January 3, 2023

It’s that time again – new year, new you. But this January, instead of just pledging to give up chocolate or spend more time at the gym, why not go one big step beyond and sign up for a Charity Challenge?

Booking a date for one of our many itineraries will help you rise to the challenge of committing to a whole host of resolutions rolled into one.

New Year’s resolutions

Having a date firmly etched into your diary will give you numerous goals to aim for, with a specific timeframe in mind. Committing to a date will inspire you to work out an action plan to get fit for your challenge, while also laying down fundraising goals in the process.

Shaping up might involve a range of things – an exercise plan, changes to your diet, cutting down on alcohol or giving up smoking.

One way to achieve some of these goals is by signing up with a friend or family member, as research shows training with someone else can help you achieve your goals as it’s often easier to feel motivated with someone else holding you to account.

Much research has also been done into the impact of nature on mental health. Time spent outdoors – both on your challenge and training beforehand – can alleviate stress by reducing levels of cortisol and boosting endorphin and dopamine levels. It has also been shown to boost creativity and energy levels, while also improving sleep quality.

You might also resolve this year to support good causes and meet new people – both of which you are certain to do on one of our trips. For 20 years we have created and managed expeditions which have enabled people to raise in excess of £60 million for over 2000+ charities.

Your efforts can make a real difference to the charity you choose to support, whether large or small, and doing so will leave you with a strong sense of achievement and fulfilment.

And wherever you decide to head for your expedition, know that your challenge will unquestionably broaden your horizons by teaching you new things, introducing you to new people and pushing you further outside of your comfort zone than you ever thought possible.

Sign up to a Charity Challenge in January and you can receive up to 50% off the registration fee on selected 2023 & 2024 challenges. Offer available from 9am Tuesday 3rd until midnight Tuesday 31st January 2023

VIEW ALL CHALLENGES HERE

Inspiration

2022 HIGHLIGHTS FROM TEAM CHARITY CHALLENGE

December 20, 2022

After two years of being grounded due to Covid, it was great to finally travel again.

My highlight (don’t tell my sons, who joined me on challenges to Nepal and Iceland) was a trek just a few weeks ago that I did to Petra in Jordan with my wife. We haven’t taken on a Charity Challenge together since we started a family 20 years ago, but it was special for so many different reasons.

Trekking to Petra back in 1995 as a young fundraiser was what inspired me to set up Charity Challenge, and this was my first trip back.

I had forgotten how incredibly spectacularly stunning the scenery is (you can’t have too many superlatives as it really is breath-takingly awe-inspiringly beautiful).

Wind and river has sculptured the rock formations and canyons over millions of years, and created the most awesome views.

Watching the sun set from our Bedouin camp each night, sat round a fire, eating tasty local cuisine cooked on the fire, and hearing stories about the Bedouin through the ages, we immersed ourselves in desert life.

But what really made this a magical experience for me, was that on top of witnessing the 2000 year old city of Petra carved into the rocks, and the incredible scenery and Bedouin hosts, I was able to walk and talk with 30 amazing participants many of whom had booked years ago and postponed their challenge over and over again as the impact of Covid lingered. They were all fantastic company, with some amazing and inspiring stories, but what touched me most, was the number of people that had done 4, 5, 6 or even 7 previous challenges with us and hearing their stories and experiences.

I spend much of my working life sat at a computer and so being back out on the challenge, with the people that helped us stay in business during the very difficult last two years of covid was humbling and I am grateful for the experience. Shukran lakum ‘asdiqayiy

Simon Albert, Co Founder and Director

I count myself as very fortunate because I do a job that until 10 years ago, I didn’t realise existed and I find it challenging to pick out a single highlight so I’m not going to, I am going to highlight several.

Well, another year over already and WOW what a year with lots of interesting new challenges as well as the old favourites, I don’t think that I have been on Snowdon (Y Wyddfa) summit in daylight this year and there was more good news in March when the overseas challenges kicked off again.

To start with, in the UK I am going to go for two events.

The Coppafeel Pembrokeshire Coastal Challenge, here we spent 5 days trekking along some of the UK’s most beautiful coastline and because this is a week’s itinerary, we really get to know the participants and why they are challenging themselves. As leaders we tend not to work together very often so it’s great to be part of a team, whether you’re walking on the trek, driving the support vehicle, or buying extra toilet rolls from a surprised local convenience store.

I have completed quite a few Snowdon (Y Wyddfa) at night or sunrise events this year but the most poignant one was for Sands Charity. After speaking to many of the participants you realise how lucky you are, it gives you a much clearer perspective on life, as lot of the things that we worry about, aren’t really that important.

On the overseas front the Hope for Justice Trek Patagonia Challenge was a fantastic experience. A great team with participants from many different countries raising funds and awareness for a truly life changing charity. Not only that but we were in a stunningly beautiful part of the world with some interesting weather (yes there was snow) making the challenge even tougher, who could ask for more?

Richard Simpkin, Challenge Leader

What a year that was! It was great to be back up to full speed with events from March all the way through to November.

Looking back it’s fair to say that every event had it’s fair share of highlights but perhaps the one that stands out the most, certainly as my most repeated event this year, is the National Three Peaks Challenge.

I have to say it’s also the one event where I am the most physically challenged, at least at the beginning of the season before I’m fully ‘N3P-fit’.

I look forward to meeting each new group of N3P-challangers on the Friday evening and am always blown away by their enthusiasm and determination to take on one of the harder challenges out there for people who aren’t regular hill walkers in order to raise money for their chosen charities.

The pre-event briefing is designed to lay out the bare bones of the challenge but no one has ever decided to withdraw from the event at that stage even if they know that their training and preparation for the weekend could have been better. After all, the challenge is not against the three peaks, nor their team members. Rather it is an opportunity for each of them to test themselves under the watchful summits of each of the National Three Peaks.

On it’s own Ben Nevis can be considered to be the toughest of the three, having the longest distance and highest ascent. Scafell Pike probably has the lowest percentage of successful summits and whilst Snowdon (Y Wyddfa) is usually considered the easiest of the three, individually, it’s the one where most people can be seen heading down from the summit ‘broken’ by the relentless demands of the challenge.

I’m not writing this to put people off signing up for a Charity Challenge National Three Peaks event next year, rather it’s to highlight the spirit, determination and mental fortitude which every participant I’ve ever had the pleasure to lead on an N3P Challenge shows, no matter whether they have managed to summit all three peaks or not.

Danny Barden, Challenge Leader

For me 2022 stands out for two things – Coppafeel Pembrokeshire Coast Challenge in June and Coppafeel Sahara Desert Trek in November. I love these treks, but most of all, I love the participants and having a whole week to get to know them. I always describe the hardships they go through as three-fold. Firstly they have to trek around 20-25km per day on consecutive days, secondly they are camping, often for the first time (and using “luxurious” wash room facilities into the bargain) and thirdly, many are leaving their families and loved ones for the first time to travel way out of their comfort zone. Oh and this is on top of many of them trekking whilst recovering from chemo or just trying to live the fullest life they can whilst battling breast cancer. One essential item I carry on these treks is an industrial quantity of tissues, and not just to mop up Mr Morton’s tears, I do sometimes get something in my eye too! The trek bonds friends for life, however long or short that is.

Pembrokeshire delivered as Britain’s coastal paths so often do, tough climbs, precipitous drops, crystal clear waters and wall to wall sunshine, oh and the odd pub or ice cream van to invigorate us at the end of the day. Challenges included crossing fields with cows with several members of our team terrified of them, as usual the team naturally worked together with those that were OK in the situation forming a barrier to get their team members across the field. Paddling at the end of a long day, only to see loads of jelly fish homing in on us caused us all to move faster than we’d done all day! Struggling to get a mobile signal in a car park to call back to camp, one leader heading up the hill to get a signal and another trying wifi in the shop, only to find one of the participants was carrying a Sat phone to the surprise of all us leaders. The words “you’ve got a Sat phone” coming from each leaders lips in turn!

The Sahara was a whole different bag, sometimes trekking over 15km across an endlessly flat landscape, our camp seemingly constantly moving further away with each step. However our days were interspersed with sand dunes, rocky outcrops and canyons – my favourite terrain. Running down sand dunes is just the best feeling, even better than the hilarity of climbing up them! And being supported by a local team of over 60 staff wasn’t half bad either, as we filled another cup with local tea from the seemingly never-ending urn!

Roll on 2023!

Lizzy Codd, Challenge Leader

2022 has been another incredible year – reminding me how lucky I am to do the best job in the world.

I led the inaugural Trek Angkor Wat Challenge in Cambodia in October, plus, closer to home, the first West Highland Way Challenge in Scotland in September – one of the best long distance trails in the world. There have been numerous other memorable trips in both the UK and overseas during the season too.

If I had to choose one single highlight from this year though it would have to be the inaugural Trek to Petra challenges which I was lucky enough to lead back in May. This spectacular challenge consists of 5 days of trekking in the heat of the Jordan desert (living Bedouin-style throughout), and includes two big mountain days, plus the chance to float in the Dead Sea – and of course culminates in the team’s arrival at the “Rose City” of Petra. I led the first two trips “back to back” and was quite simply blown away by the whole experience! I can’t wait to go back in 2023!

Ian Morton, Challenge Leader

Many wonderful overseas expeditions during 2022 including Saigon to Angkor Wat Bike Ride, Cycle Albania and Cycle India and The Taj Mahal. However my favourite this year was Cycle Sri Lanka as it was just lovely to be travelling again. Tea plantations, elephants, mountain passes, waterfalls and beautiful beaches made it such an amazing experience. A professional, well liked guiding team combined with a fun group keen to push themselves helped make it a memorable experience.

Colin Lovell, Challenge Leader

On 4 June 2023, I flew to Tirana, the capital of little visited Albania. I was met by a feisty little powerhouse called Antonela who was soon to become my guide, room mate, companion and friend. She and I were to take on the reconnaissance for the new Trek the Accursed Albanian Alps Challenge which runs along the border between Albania, Montenegro and Kosovo. Far from being accursed, they were truly breathtaking. The rock is similar to the Dolomiti stone and rises dramatically in pinnacles to create some of the most stunning mountains I had ever seen.

I was besotted and vowed instantly to explore these mountains further. Since those first days in these mountains and the Charity Challenge trek itself, I have returned already and completed the Peaks of the Balkans 10 day trail and already plan to revisit again next Summer.

So when this small group of 12 Charity Challenge participants arrived at the airport, I was brimming with enthusiasm and excitement to share with them this beautiful country, it’s turbulent history and fascinating culture. I think it’s fair to say that the week just got better and better. Initially stalled by transport problems and challenged with dreary weather, by day 3, the mountains showed us their true potential. The sun came out, the longest trek day stretched ahead of us but spirits were high as we left Vuthaj to walk over the Peja Pass to the ancient town of Theth.

There was still a little snow lying on the highest shaded areas but the meadows were covered in alpine flowers and bird song could be heard as we walked. Much of the first days trek led us through dense beech forests before climbing more steeply through rocky passes as the week continued.

The highlight of the week for me was standing at the top of the Valbona Pass after a picturesque but relentless mountain climb which every member of the group achieved with support and motivation from each other. We were then able to look down into the deep valley below us and wonder at the expansive beauty of this place which feels yet to be fully discovered.

This was an inspirational group of people, very diverse but who worked as a team to get everyone through this challenge with laughter and tears. We were privileged to trek with two of the most experienced Charity Challenges participants who I believe have undertaken more challenges with the company than any other, namely Roger Deeley and Elaine Davey, who provided a wealth of stories to keep us amused, inspired and entertained. I will see you and hopefully the rest of the team on the next new adventure.

Penny Knight, Challenge Leader

2022 has been a busy season of UK challenges for me!

I did 7 x National Three Peaks Challenges, 1 x Scafell Pike at Night, 1 x Lake District 5 Peaks Challenge, 1 x Hadrians Wall Trail Challenge, 1 x Yorkshire 3 Peaks at Night, and of course the Coppafeel Pembrokeshire Coastal Challenge ( 3 forfeits ending with pump it up on the table just for one slight detour!😆)

12th of August National Three Peaks Challenge was definitely a highlight because of the weather and incredible cloud inversions on a clear Ben Nevis. We had 30 degrees on Ben Nevis, 22 degrees at night on Scafell and another 30+ degrees on Snowdon phew!!!

Scafell at night was particularly challenging as visibility was down to less than 3m which tested our skills to the utmost but made easier by having the A team of leaders on the hill, all three challenges were taken by truly exceptional and inspirational clients, busy but satisfying year.

Looking forward to next year and just maybe an international taster!🤞

Duncan Turnbull, Challenge Leader

Though there have been many great opportunities for me to lead all kinds of challenges for Charity Challenge this year, the highlight is an easy choice; Trek to Petra, Jordan!!

It was my first time leading an overseas trip for Charity Challenge and I was lucky that it was in a country with such spectacular scenery, wonderful Jordanian people and a very rewarding if demanding 85 km trek through the mountainous desert, finishing in Petra, “The Rose Red city, half as old as time” and one of the 7 Wonders of the Modern World.

I was also fortunate to be leading a tremendous group of 32 challengers, who’s positive attitude to any situation and sense of fun and adventure made it feel like I hardly had to work at all.

Some intrepid participants already had several Charity Challenge adventures under their belt. There were also some slightly more ‘trepid’ first timers. The experienced travellers understood how the newbies were feeling and gave them all the support they needed, but the challenge and the epic mountain scenery were enough to impress even the most seasoned of explorers… and that’s before you get to Petra!

The trek was a special birthday present for one of the participants, and she said it was the best thing she had ever done.

As well as the challenging trek, there is an opportunity to experience Bedouin culture, taste the delicious cuisine and learn about the complex etiquette surrounding it and to enjoy our hosts traditional dance by the evening fire … and even get involved!

The climax was entering the ancient city of Petra via the north entrance, away from the tourist crowds. After 5 days hiking through the wilderness and having been separated from ‘normal western life’ for this time you can really begin to fully appreciate the ingenuity, complexity and sophistication of the 2000-year-old Nabatean civilisation that created it far better than anyone who arrives by air-conditioned coach from some swanky hotel.

It had been 18 years since I last visited Jordan and I hope it is a far shorter time before I visit again.

Paul Cannon, Challenge Leader

Can’t wait to make your own memories? Visit Charity Challenge to choose your next challenge!

Inspiration

MEET THE TEAM – Colin Lovell

December 19, 2022

Name

Colin Lovell

How long have you been a Challenge Leader?

Apparently my first Charity Challenge trip was Cycle Burma (Myanmar) back in 2014

What’s been your favourite challenge (so far)?

Saigon to Angkor Wat Bike Ride will always be one of my favourites. So much to see along the way and finishing at Angkor Wat is a little special. Also the South Africa Wild Coast Cycle. It certainly lived up to its name.

Do you have any challenges left on your bucket list?

Lots. I just want to ride my bike in cool destinations. Cycle Albania will be a new one for me this year – can’t wait.

How do you keep your body in tip top shape for the challenge season?

I don’t think I ever really stop. On average throughout the year 2-3 hours cardio exercise per day. Bike, climb, kayak, swim, walk – don’t really mind

What are your go to snacks to keep you fuelled and hydrated on a challenge?

Surprisingly on overseas trips I don’t usually worry about snacks. Food is always good enough. For hydration lots of electrolyte tablets and isotonic powders added to water and recovery drinks with milk afterwards.

Any top tips to share with participants signed up to a challenge?

Train well before the event and be fit enough to enjoy every moment. Talk, look around, get out of bed early to see the sunrise, enjoy the experience to its fullest. Plenty of time for rest on the flight home.

What 5 items do you always pack in your day rucksack?

If I’m riding my bike it’s phone, small first aid kit and tool set/ inner tubes etc and I’m off.

What is the best thing about being a leader?

I meet lovely people, go to amazing destinations and I don’t pay for the privilege

What is your proudest achievement to date?

Hate these questions. Can’t I go for most embarrassing moment instead? 🙂

Tips & Advice

12 FUNDRAISING TIPS FOR CHRISTMAS

December 12, 2022

Christmas is a time of year for giving. Since you’ve been nice this year, we’re giving you a list 12 fundraising tips for Christmas.

Get ready to have fun and be inspired with these ideas to help you raise even more sponsorship money for your forthcoming expedition!

1. Bauble decorating competition
Have fun, get crafty and host a bauble-decorating competition! Think of a prize to offer the winner and have fun with the glitter and glue!

2. (Pin the nose on) Rudolph the red nosed reindeer…
Simple but fun and effective! Instead of ‘pin the tail on the donkey’, you can pin the red nose on the reindeer (or the carrot on the snowman)! Blindfold your colleague or party friends, charge them £1 to enter, and give a prize to whoever gets the nose the closest. Continue Reading…

Inspiration

MEET THE TEAM – Richard Simpkin

November 29, 2022

Name

Richard Simpkin

How long have you been a Challenge Leader?

I started as a Leader running some of Charity Challenge’s first UK events way back in 2014 and I have had the good fortune since then to have been involved in many Challenge events both in the UK and overseas.

What’s been your favourite challenge (so far)?

I am going to pick two in answer to this question because I can.

1 – The Greenland Arctic Circle Trek because we need to be self supporting (carry all of our kit) and it was such a privilege to be trekking through such a remote wilderness.

2 –Trek Patagonia because the scenery is absolutely stunning and the weather conditions make for an interesting challenge.

Ophs I’ve slipped a third one in

3 – The Amazon Survivor Challenge because it is absolutely bonkers!

Do you have any challenges left on your bucket list?

I don’t really have a list. I consider it a privilege to be asked to be a Challenge Leader on any of the events but I do have a sneaky desire to be involved in the Kyrgyzstan Trek.

How do you keep your body in tip top shape for the challenge season?

Ha ha ha ha ha

But seriously folks, the best way to keep fit for trekking is to go out on the hill, we have some stunning mountains and walks in the UK. Go visit them.

What are your go to snacks to keep you fuelled and hydrated on a challenge?

Obviously I should have some really sensible and practical answers but I reckon that snacks should be something you enjoy, so Tunnocks bars (I believe that you have to carry them by law in some destinations) and Sports Mixtures…….

Any top tips to share with participants signed up to a challenge?

Prepare yourself by doing the training, walking for consecutive days. This will make the experience more enjoyable. Invest in a pair of walking boots that fit correctly and walk them in, blisters are a sure way of making your life miserable.

Come with a positive attitude, sometimes things don’t go as planned, be prepared to roll with it and embrace the situation after all it is a challenge.

What 5 items do you always pack in your day rucksack?

Half a roll mat for sitting on or for a casualty, a head torch with spare batteries because you never know how long your going to be out on the hill, gaffer tape (wrapped around water bottles/walking poles) as it can be used to fix most problems, reusable cable ties for those problems that gaffer tape can’t fix. 16ft sling for confidence roping, I’ve only ever used it once.

What is your proudest achievement to date?

From the Challenge Leaders perspective then the answer is easy any assistance that I can give or as a team we can give to help a participant achieve their goal is an incredibly rewarding moment.

Sales & Promotions

THE BLACK FRIDAY SALE HAS OFFICALLY STARTED! – save up to £200*

November 25, 2022

Our Black Friday Sale is now Live!

Get up to £200 off the reg fees on selected overseas challenges. Or if you want to stay closer to home, you can get up to 50% off the reg fees on selected UK challenges. *Terms & Conditions apply

To take advantage of these great savings use the promo code BF2022 when booking.

Valid until midnight Mon 28 Nov 2022.

BLACK FRIDAY DISCOUNTS

Need some inspiration for your next overseas adventure?

Everest Base Camp
Stand in the shadows of the world’s highest mountain (8,848m) and explore Nepal’s mystical capital, Kathmandu. Save up to £200 off your reg fee in our Black Friday Sale.

Zambezi River Challenge
Paddle over 100kms along the border with Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe as you make your way towards the mighty Victoria Falls. Save up to £200 off your reg fee in our Black Friday Sale.

Trek to Petra
Discover the ancient city of Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site on this 5-day trek along a breath-taking section of the Jordan Trail. Save up to £100 off your reg fee in our Black Friday Sale.

Trek the Accursed Albanian Alps
Traverse lush green valleys, wildflower meadows and craggy passes in Albania, and conquer Zla Kolata, Montenegro’s highest mountain (2,534m). Save up to £100 off your reg fee in our Black Friday Sale.

Or maybe you want to stay closer to home

Snowdon At Night
Trek under the starry skies of Snowdonia in order to reach the summit of the highest mountain in Wales, at 1085m. Save up to 50% off your reg fee on in our Black Friday Sale.

Lake District Triple Challenge
One incredible day of trekking, biking and kayaking in the stunning Lake District National Park. Save up to 50% off your reg fee on in our Black Friday Sale.

London Royal Parks Challenge
Trek 45km across historic parkland, beautiful green spaces, while passing some of the finest architecture in London. Save up to 50% off your reg fee on in our Black Friday Sale.

EXPLORE OUR FULL RANGE OF CHALLENGES

Inspiration

MEET THE TEAM – Lizzy Codd

October 21, 2022

Name

Lizzy Codd

How long have you been a Challenge Leader?

Since 2017, I started with Jeff’s Stelling’s March for Men for Prostate Cancer UK, walking 15 marathons in 15 days from Exeter to Newcastle upon Tyne

What’s been your favourite challenge (so far)?

Oman Mountain Trek in 2019, I loved the landscape and views of the coast. I’ll never forget camping on the beach and watching the fish jump through the bioluminescent plankton at night and us making glowing footprints as we ran along the sand. The scorpions in camp were pretty legendary too, as was the bucket of ice cream I shared with Ian Morton!

Do you have any challenges left on your bucket list?

Loads, I want to spend some time exploring Patagonia, I can’t wait to get back to New Zealand to continue my adventures down there and in the last couple of years I’ve got into walking long distance trails so I’ve got plenty of those to do when time allows!

How do you keep your body in tip top shape for the challenge season?

I try to get away each winter on some kind of adventure, whether it’s a ski season in the Alps or a long distance trail like the Camino de Santiago. I also run a little and love to get out on my bike in the hills or on gravel trails.

What are your go to snacks to keep you fuelled and hydrated on a challenge?

Something salty such as cashew nuts and something sweet such as jelly babies. Water + salt + sugar = no need for horrid rehydration tabs!

Any top tips to share with participants signed up to a challenge?

Get used to walking on consecutive days, and put the training in to increase your stamina, it doesn’t take long to make a massive difference. Don’t wait to try out new equipment on trek, walking poles and hydration systems need getting used to.

What 5 items do you always pack in your day rucksack?

Half a roll mat (to sit on for lunch and in case of first aid incidents), rock tape for blisters, one of those tiny bottles of concentrated squash to make the water taste better, lots of pairs of gloves as there’s no such thing as a waterproof pair and of course waterproofs and a spare layer!

What is the best thing about being a leader?

Getting to trek with awesome participants and hearing their stories whilst walking in the most beautiful landscapes.

What is your proudest achievement to date?

It was either completing a solo 7 day unsupported hike in the Nelson Lakes area of New Zealand, carrying all my food and gear for the week or helping CoppaFeel! trekkers cope with their fear of heights on the Dalai Lama Himayalan Trek and on the South West Coast Path Challenge of Cornwall.

Challenges

“At Night” Challenge Series

October 10, 2022

Our “At Night” challenges are fast becoming our most popular challenges in the UK. They avoid the need for accommodation or vehicle transfers, operate when the mountains are least busy, and take place entirely in the outdoors from start to finish. The series includes:

Snowdon at Night, Snowdonia, Wales
Scafell Pike at Night, Lake District, England
Ben Nevis at Night, Scottish Highlands, Scotland
South Downs at Night, England
Yorkshire 3 Peaks at Night, Yorkshire Dales, England

Snowdon at Night, Wales

Scafell Pike at Night, England

Trek under a blanket of stars along this magnificent route to the highest mountain in England – Scafell Pike (978m). A unique way to challenge yourself and your senses, whilst racing the sun through the night in the Lake District National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Ben Nevis at Night, Scotland

South Downs at Night, England

Push yourself to the limit on this unique night time trek through the South Downs National Park. 42km along the South Downs Way battling fatigue and the demanding terrain of one of southern England’s newest national parks before reaching Beachy Head and Eastbourne as the sun begins to rise.

Yorkshire 3 Peaks at Night, England

Challenge yourself to complete this classic UK trekking challenge, but with a twist! It’s a 38km trek at night to summit the Yorkshire Three Peaks – Ingleborough, Whernside and Pen Y Ghent. Start as the sun sets and aim to reach the final peak as the sun begins to rise.

You will be fully supported all the way by our experienced Mountain Leaders and then celebrate at the finish line with a celebration breakfast.

Our night time challenge’s will test your physical and mental limits but your efforts will be rewarded by knowing that all your hard work is going towards raising money to help your chosen cause.

BOOK NOW FOR 2024

Challenges

SET YOUR SOUL ON FIRE ON OUR BRAND NEW ISLE OF SKYE CHALLENGE

August 24, 2022

New for 2023 Charity Challenge are excited to be launching our new Isle of Skye challenge. Challenge Leader (and challenge designer!) Laura Harris, shares why she’s so excited about the brand new Isle of Skye Challenge.

That first view of Skye as you drive across the Skye Bridge, with the Atlantic Ocean rolling beneath, always sends shivers of excitement down my spine. As you leave the Scottish mainland well behind, the aptly named Black Cuillin, the UK’s finest and most challenging mountain ridge, fills your view and holds court over this incredible island of coral beaches, high waterfalls plunging into the sea and remote glens haunted by the sounds of red deer.

It’s something of a homecoming for me, a granddaughter of clan McLeod, whose ancestors have lived on Skye in Dunvegan – Scotland’s oldest continuously inhabited castle – for over 800 years. Abandoned grass-roofed crofts stand strong on windswept clifftops and the walls of Skye’s seven castles echo with the island’s rich Gaelic history. In more modern times, Skye has become known for its famous whiskies and jaw-dropping scenery. It has also become a proving ground for mountaineers – notably Edmund Hillary who used the Black Cuillin mountains as training for his 1953 ascent of Everest.

But Skye isn’t just for heroes of mountaineering fame. Our new Isle of Skye Challenge combines some of the best parts of Skye in a bucket-list challenge accessible to all with a taste for adventure and a good pair of walking boots. It’s fully supported by our expert and qualified mountain leaders who will share some of the island’s most spectacular hidden corners. The days are long and filled with wonder, with comfortable beds and good food to recharge your batteries in the beautiful fishing village of Portree.

From low level walking through the remote and hauntingly beautiful Glen Sligachan, fording rivers and discovering remote lochs; to traversing the dramatic landslip of the Trotternish Ridge with the iconic rocky pinnacle of the Old Man of Storr; to finally summiting a Munro on the breath-taking Black Cuillin’s volcanic ridge, with golden eagles soaring beneath you. This challenge is what the phrase ‘set your soul on fire’ was made for and is sure to provide exceptional stories to tell round the fireplace with that wee dram of whisky.

Join Laura on this incredible new challenge in May 2023. Charity Challenge have everything covered for you. To making getting to Skye as easy as possible we have included a bus transfer to and from the Highland capital of Inverness which is well served by flights from around the UK or even the Caledonian Sleeper train! Everything on the challenge is included. There’s hostel accommodation on Skye with all meals included. We provide minibus transfers each day so that we can access Skye’s most spectacular walking routes. And then there’s are fantastic challenge leaders! So join us in 2023 for one of our most exciting new UK challenges!

BOOK NOW FOR 2023!

Challenges

IS 2023 THE YEAR YOU SIGN UP TO A UK CHALLENGE?

May 9, 2022

Can you see yourself trekking under the starry skies of Snowdonia in order to reach the summit of Snowdon?

Or taking on the three highest peaks in England, Scotland and Wales in just 24hrs?

Or maybe being one of the first challengers to sign up to our new 4-day trekking challenge on the spectacular Isle of Skye?

Charity Challenge are very pleased to announce the launch of our 2023 UK Challenges.

VIEW ALL 2023 UK CHALLENGES

Discover some of the most spectacular National Parks, UNESCO World Heritage Sites and cities that the UK has to offer and make 2023 the year you raise money for a worthwhile cause, close to your heart. What challenge will you choose?

NEW FOR 2023

Isle of Skye Challenge, Scotland

Four days of trekking on the Isle of Skye’s iconic ridges, glens and coast to discover the spectacular hidden corners of the captivating ‘Misty Isle’.

TREK CHALLENGES

National Three Peaks Challenge, UK

Lake District 5 Peaks Challenge, UK

Prepare for an epic 22km trek through the rugged and dramatic landscape of the Lake District, as you tackle five of England’s most demanding peaks, including its highest – Scafell Pike (978m).

VIEW ALL TREK CHALLENGES

MULTI-ACTIVITY CHALLENGES

Lake District Triple Challenge, England

Trek to the summit of one of the Lake District’s most iconic peaks, the Old Man of Coniston (803m), before testing yourself on the off-road mountain bike trails of Grizedale Forest, then kayak across the iconic Coniston Water.

Snowdon Triple Challenge, Wales

Pit yourself against the spectacular landscape of Snowdonia National Park in this tough and exciting multi-activity challenge. You’ll summit the mighty Snowdon (1,085m) as well as tackling challenging biking and kayaking sections all the while surrounded by this stunning part of Wales.

VIEW ALL TRIPLE CHALLENGES

URBAN CHALLENGES

L ondon Royal Parks Challenge, England

Edinburgh 7 Summits Challenge, Scotland

Take part in this tough 35km urban challenge set in the heart of Edinburgh. Experience hidden routes through this beautiful Scottish city and experience it from seven incredible viewpoints! You’ll follow historic waterways, forgotten railways, stop off at castles and palaces and climb to the summit of Arthurs Seat – an extinct volcano!

VIEW ALL URBAN CHALLENGES

AT NIGHT CHALLENGES

Snowdon at Night, Wales

Yorkshire 3 Peaks at Night, England

VIEW ALL AT NIGHT CHALLENGES

SNOW & ICE CHALLENGES

Winter Ben Nevis Weekend, Scotland

An incredible challenge to summit the UK’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis (1344m), in winter! Learn key winter skills, including the use of crampons and ice axes, and then put them to good use to reach the summit where you can enjoy the spectacular views of the Scottish Highlands covered in snow.

Can’t wait until 2023 to start your Charity Challenge journey? Don’t worry, you still have time to sign up to a last minute 2022 Challenge!

Inspiration

MEET THE TEAM – Ian Morton

April 19, 2022

Name

Ian Morton

How long have you been a Challenge Leader?

2022 will be my ninth season as a Challenge Leader for Charity Challenge

What’s been your favourite challenge (so far)?

The Ancascocha Trail to Machu Picchu in Peru

Do you have any challenges left on your bucket list?

Everest Base Camp and Trek to Petra (In just over two weeks I shall finally be flying out to Amman to lead this amazing challenge for real – not once but twice! It’s been a long time coming and I can’t wait to get started!

How do you keep your body in tip top shape for the challenge season?

You have seen me right? My body is a temple (ruined and rarely visited!). But in Winter I do occasionally hit the treadmill – otherwise, well, just hill walking whenever I can really.

What are your go to snacks to keep you fuelled and hydrated on a challenge?

Lots of water, Babybels and Tunnocks Bars…

Any top tips to share with participants signed up to a challenge?

Remember these are team events – and the more you put into the team, the more you get out of it
The better your preparation, the more you will enjoy your challenge – keep that training going!
Bring a sense of humour, patience and a flexible attitude – enjoy and appreciate your challenge – even if things don’t go to plan!
If it’s one of my trips, bring Tunnocks bars… 🙂

What 5 items do you always pack in your day rucksack?

Map/Compass, spare warm layer, drinking water, waterproofs, Tunnocks bars…

What is the best thing about being a leader?

Getting to explore so many incredible places with great people and seeing them achieve things they often don’t realise they are capable of.

What is your proudest achievement to date?

Career-wise? I feel the same sense of pride whenever a team achieves success on a challenge.

Tips & Advice

Spring Fundraising Ideas

March 22, 2022

With the start of Spring on Sunday the 20th of March the opportunities for new fundraising ideas begin to bloom. The sun is starting to shine and the days are becoming longer – the perfect time to kick start your fundraising! There are lots of amazing awareness days and holidays coming up over the next couple of months that you can piggy back your fundraising efforts on.

MARCH

APRIL

MAY

National Walking Month
Stroke Awareness Month
2nd – 8th : National Gardening Week
10th – 15th : Mental Health Awareness Week
16th – 22nd : Dementia Awareness Week

JUNE

We have pulled together a few of our favourite fundraising ideas for this spring…

National Walking Month

May is National Walking Month and it’s the perfect opportunity to get outside, start moving and raise much needed funds for some worthwhile causes. Plus, it is also the best time of year to see bluebells so make sure you put on those walking boots and get outside!

Fundraising ideas :

WALKATHON – You, your friends, one day, 26 miles. Pick a route and get going! Ask your mates to sponsor you per mile.
TRY20 – Do the #try20 challenge and aim to walk 20 minutes every day for the whole month – ask your friends and colleagues to sponsor you.
10,000 STEPS – Get active this spring and take 10,000 steps a day for 30 days. Use your smart phone or watch to keep an eye on your progress. Ask you mates to sponsor your efforts.
DOG WALKING – Offer to walk your neighbours and friends’ dogs in return for a donation.

Easter

Easter Sunday this year falls on the 17th of April and it is a cracking time to fundraise! Easter Egg Decorating. Easter bake-offs. Egg and spoon races. Easter flower arrangements. You can even fill a jar with mini eggs, get people to guess how many are in there and ask them to donate. The person with the closest guess wins the jar or a prize (ask local businesses to donate something).

Easter Egg hunts are also a classic spring time fundraiser, ensure you follow the latest set of guidelines from the government. If your garden is big enough invite everyone round for the hunt in return for a donation. Alternatively, you could speak to local parks and gardens and see if they would support your event and allow it on their property – but do ask first!

Earth Day

The theme for Earth day on the 22nd of April is “Invest in our Planet”. What a perfect opportunity to join the world’s largest environmental movement and run a fundraising event that can support our local communities and focus on areas that are affected by environmental issues.

Fundraising ideas:

TREE PLANTING – Plant new trees and plants in your local community. Get volunteers to join you as planters. Accept donations of seedlings and other plantable items, ideally native plants. If you plant on public property, such as in a park, be sure to get permission from local authorities.
PLOGGING / RUBBISH WALK – Set yourself a jogging or walking challenge combined with picking up litter. This will have a positive impact on our environment and our bodies – in other words, it’s an earth-friendly way to get fit.
CLEANUP DAY – Each volunteer gets a roll of rubbish bags, a pair of gloves, and a shovel or rubbish pick, and performs a walking clean-up of a designated area. If you are going on public property, such as in a park, be sure to get permission from local authorities.
PLANT A COMMUNITY GARDEN – A community garden can bring a wide range of benefits – from connecting people with each other to growing fresh food to enjoy. Check out the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) website for tips on how to get this up and running.

Queen’s Platinum Jubliee Party

On 6th February this year Her Majesty The Queen became the first British Monarch to celebrate a Platinum Jubilee, marking 70 years of service to the people of the United Kingdom, the Realms and the Commonwealth. To celebrate this unprecedented anniversary, events and initiatives will take place throughout the year, culminating in a four day UK bank holiday weekend from Thursday 2nd to Sunday 5th June. On Sunday the 5th of June people are invited to share friendship, food and fun with neighbours as part of the Platinum Jubilee celebrations. A Big Jubilee Lunch can be big or small – street party or picnic, tea and cake or a garden barbeque.

Provide food, drinks and entertainment in exchange for donations. The opportunities with this are event are endless! Ask a live band to provide music (lots of new musicians also emerging from lockdown!). Serve food and drinks donated by local restaurants and cafes. Ask local businesses to donate prizes for a raffle, auction or tombola on the big day. Set up a selfie station. Hold a cake sale. Set up a face painting stand. Play garden games…

Sell tickets prior to the event so you know how much stock is required and how many people will be attending your fundraising event.

Spring Clean

It is officially the start of Spring so there is no better time to have a clear out! With spring cleaning comes an excellent opportunity for online and in-person car boot sales to raise money for your good cause. Create an event page on a neighborhood site, such as Nextdoor, and invite your community to donate and/or buy items.

If you wish to sell online there are a variety of platforms that you can use such as Ebay, Amazon Marketplace, Gumtree, Facebook Marketplace, and Shopify. Please ensure that you clean and disinfect everything before passing them on. Don’t forget to share your listings on social media to help increase awareness of your fundraising events.

Inspiration

MEET THE TEAM – PENNY KNIGHT

March 18, 2022

Name

Penny Knight

How long have you been a Challenge Leader?

I’ve been a leader with Charity Challenge for over 11 years now. I started in 2011 when I volunteered to assist with a very large group from Barclays Bank raising money for Elise for Life on the Great Wall Discovery Challenge. Just before the trek, the Challenge Leader was injured and I then had to step up and take the lead. That was the start of what I consider to be the most rewarding dream job of my life!

What’s been your favourite challenge (so far)?

The Sumatra Jungle Challenge holds a special place for me. I love the humid climate, the fun-loving local guides, the wild green lush plants, the exciting array of wildlife, the spicy food and the opportunity to immerse yourself in nature. It’s raw and real, basic and brilliant.

Do you have any challenges left on your bucket list?

There are so many challenges left on the bucket list and there’s nothing I enjoy more than looking through the Charity Challenge website and making a note of them. To mention but a few – the Simien Mountains of Ethiopia, Zambezi River Challenge, Trek Angkor Wat, Trek to Machu Picchu (still to be visited!) Costa Rica Coast to Coast Challenge, Kyrgyzstan Trek, and the Amazon Survivor Challenge . Writing this from Sri Lanka, I’ve just looked at the Sri Lanka Cycle Challenge – what a fantastic itinerary that is!!

How do you keep your body in tip top shape for the challenge season?

To keep fit and ready for the next challenge, I enjoy walking in the Yorkshire Dales, love fell running especially early in the morning and do regular weights, circuits and yoga.

What are your go to snacks to keep you fuelled and hydrated on a challenge?

My go to snacks are flapjacks and salted peanuts – tasty, cheap and packed with calories!

Any top tips to share with participants signed up to a challenge?

My advice would be to embrace every opportunity that comes your way – on a challenge, talk to everyone, stop and hold every moment, smell, breathe deep, listen and see every detail – each child’s face, the fruits on the stalls, the shadows on the hills. It’ll definitely all go too fast.

What 5 items do you always pack in your day rucksack?

In my day sack, there’ll always be a Nivea lip balm, some tiger balm (it solves everything!) my water bladder, a whistle and my loo bag (which I can grab easily if on a bike, running or trekking – it’ll have biodegradable wet wipes, tissues and nappy sacks so no rubbish is left behind.)

What is the best thing about being a leader?

The best thing about being a leader is witnessing the success of the participants. The reward of being a part of their dreams, excitement, friendships and achievements cannot be surpassed.

What is your proudest achievement to date?

My proudest achievement to date is so difficult to pinpoint. I think it would simply be that I’m proud of the fact that I might have helped to inspire some people to achieve more than they thought they could, either during a challenge or following it.

Inspiration

WHAT CAN I DO TO HELP THE PEOPLE OF UKRAINE?

March 2, 2022

It’s good to see how a lot of small gestures can add up and have a big impact.

Banning Russia from the Eurovision Song Contest will not on its own change the conflict, but when coupled with hundreds of other similar gestures and initiatives, it can and will make a huge difference.

Being embedded in the charity sector, we have come across a number of our charity partner’s campaigns that are helping to support the people of Ukraine.

For example, we know from other conflicts, that armed violence is the number one driver of hunger. With war comes displacement, disruptions to local supply chains, little to no income, and soaring fuel and food prices. Families are driven into poverty and struggle to access food and basic needs. It is estimated that at least 2.9 million people in Ukraine will need humanitarian assistance in 2022.

If you wish to support the people of Ukraine, here are some ways you can:

? Action Against Hunger UK, have launched an emergency appeal to support the Ukrainian families affected by the conflict to make sure they have access to the help they need.

? British Red Cross, has launched an appeal to help the Ukrainian Red Cross to provide food, medicine, clothing and shelter, as well as first aid training in bomb shelters and, in the last few days, 15,000 litres of drinking water to villages in eastern Ukraine.

? UNHCR, the UN Ref ugee Agency, is funding emergency shelters, repairs for homes damaged by shelling, emergency cash assistance, psychological support and warm clothing.

? UNICEF, the UN’s children’s charity, is helping to ensure families have clean water and food and that child health and protection services continue.

? Save the Childr en UK, is providing cash assistance, food and other support to refugees crossing into Romanian and Lithuania, as well as in Ukraine itself.

Challenges

CELEBRATE 2022 WITH THE RETURN OF OVERSEAS CHALLENGES!

February 25, 2022

We are delighted to have restarted our overseas challenges again for the first time in almost two years! We have had a number of successful challenges already return from Tanzania and Sweden and others about to depart to Nepal, Peru, Argentina and Morocco.

We are constantly reviewing relevant guidance, and advice from local and international government authorities, about necessary travel requirements. For the the latest travel advisory update please click here.

Now that we have been given the green light on overseas travel, our 2022 dates have started to book up fast!

How are you planning to spend your year?

MAY

Trek to Petra, 7 May 2022
Discover the ancient ‘rose city’ of Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site on this 5-day trek along a breath-taking section of the Jordan Trail. Sign up before midnight 13th Mar 2022 and get £100 off the registration fee! Use the code PETRA100 when booking.

JUNE

Mount Toubkal Trek, 7 June 2022
Summit Jebel Toubkal, Morocco’s highest mountain (4,167m) and get lost in the colourful souks of mystical Marrakech.

Trek Albanian Alps, 10 June 2022
Traverse lush green valleys, wildflower meadows and craggy passes in Albania, and conquer Zla Kolata, Montenegro’s highest mountain (2,534m).

JULY

Giant’s Causeway Challenge, 15 July 2022
Take on a marathon distance trek along the dramatic coastline of the Giant’s Causeway, UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Kilimanjaro Summit Climb, 20 July 2022
Follow the uncrowded Lemosho route to conquer the famous ‘roof of Africa’ – Mt Kilimanjaro (5,895m)

AUGUST

Iceland Lava Trek, 3 Aug 2022
This 5-day Icelandic itinerary takes in thundering waterfalls, steaming lava fields, plunging fjords and spouting geysers. Rewarded with an indulgent visit to Iceland’s famous Blue Lagoon.

SEPTEMBER

Trek Transylvania, 6 Sept 2022
Traverse the Transylvanian Alps on this 60km trek through Romania and explore Count Dracula’s eerie castle.

Everest Base Camp, 29 Sept 2022
Stand in the shadows of the world’s highest mountain (8,848m) and explore Nepal’s mystical capital, Kathmandu.

OCTOBER

Trek Angkor Wat, 8 Oct 2022
Trek into the heart of the stunning Phnom Kulen National Park, visiting sacred waterfalls, the Giant Sleeping Buddha and Angkor Wat.

Great Wall Discovery, 8 Oct 2022
Test yourself against thousands of steps along the Great Wall of China, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, with time to explore China’s historic capital – Beijing.

NOVEMBER

Saigon to Angkor Wat, 3 Nov 2022
Cycle 450kms from the waterways and rice paddies of the Mekong Delta, passing ancient temples, pagodas, and colourful villages before finishing at the Royal Temples of Angkor Wat, Cambodia.

Cuba Revolution Cycle, 4 Nov 2022
Welcome to the land of cigars, revolution, Che Guevara and vintage Chevrolets. Cycle 350km from one beautiful coastline to the other, passing remote villages, fruit orchards and sugar plantations.

EXPLORE OUR FULL RANGE OF CHALLENGES HERE

Tips & Advice

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT TEAM BOOKINGS

January 17, 2022

How do I book a team onto a challenge?

Register yourself onto the challenge via the Charity Challenge website. On the booking form you will have the option to create a team (by adding additional team members to your booking and paying the registration fees for all challengers in your team).

Simply select the number of additional challengers (remember not to include yourself in this total), complete the booking form by completing your personal details, and process the payment for all challengers’ registration fees to reserve your team’s places on the challenge.

Do my team members also need to register?

Yes, all participants need to follow the registration process to be booked onto a challenge (i.e. completing their personal information).

When a team booking is made, the master booker will receive unique booking URL in an email from us. (look out in your junk folder if has landed in your inbox).

You can also find the unique booking link in your Charity Challenge Account Area under the Team Bookings tab.

The person who makes the initial team booking needs to share this URL with their team members in order to link them to the team booking and for their registration fee to be allocated.

Team members should be advised to complete their booking ASAP, especially if they are opting for minimum sponsorship or flexi payment, which requires authorisation from the charity – as we want to make sure they have plenty of time to meet their fundraising deadlines for the challenge!

Any team spaces that have not been completed 15 weeks (for overseas challenges) or 10 weeks (for UK challenges) prior to the challenge departure date will be treated as cancelled under our standard terms and conditions, and the registration fee for that space will be non-refundable. Please therefore ensure that all team members have completed their booking details as requested.

How many people can be in a team?

A team booking is based on two or more participants booking together. There is no limit to maximum team numbers.

If you are looking to book a team of 15 or more, please call the Charity Challenge office on 0208 346 0500 to discuss your booking in more detail.

If you’d like to add additional team member(s) once you’ve made your initial booking, please contact Charity Challenge on info@charitychallenge.com, making sure to include the name of the additional members you’d like to join your team.

Why book as a team?

Be motivated by the team spirit of tackling a challenge together
Simplify the process of booking onto a challenge by having all registration fees paid by the master booker
Guarantee your places on a challenge by booking together
Ensure you are with your team members in the same group

Are the challenge costs and fundraising targets per team or per individual participant?

On all three of our payment options (Self-Funding, Minimum Sponsorship or Flexi), the challenge costs and sponsorship targets are per participant.

Do my team members have to select the same charity or payment option?

Your team members can choose their own charity and payment option when booking – it doesn’t have to be the same as you. However, if you have decided to choose only 1 charity and payment option as a group, please ensure your team members book with those options to avoid any changes which may result in an admin fee.

If you’re all fundraising for the same charity and would like to do this as a group, we advise checking with the nominated charity first – and remember that the sponsorship amounts are per person!

Latest News

BOOKING WITH CONFIDENCE

January 15, 2022

During these unsettling times our charity partners need our support more than ever. The continued Covid-19 situation puts them in an extremely vulnerable position as a huge portion of their income has been lost from cancelled fundraising events in 2020 and 2021. Now is the time that we all need to come together to ensure we can continue to help those most in need.

Charity Challenge have operated close to 100 challenges throughout England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales since the end of the first lock down in 2020. We are pleased to tell you that all of our UK and Irish challenges are now fully operational with Covid-Safe measures in place.

Our international challenges are due to start again from January 2022 and with thousands of trekkers and riders waiting to take part in their postponed challenges, we are getting ready operationally to put into practice all of the learning from operating our domestic challenges. We want anyone considering booking or travelling with Charity Challenge to have absolute confidence, so we have put together the following information to support your decision
making.

For downloadable pdfs of our Booking with Confidence details click on the relevant link below:

Booking with Confidence : Overseas Challenges

1. What happens if my challenge cannot run due to Covid-19?

Please rest assured that if Charity Challenge cannot operate a challenge in the host country due to Covid-19, we will offer you a number of options including:

the chance to postpone your challenge to a later departure (this year or next)
to join any Charity Challenge trip in another country (this year or next)
to transfer your place to someone else
to receive a refund of monies paid for the challenge (excluding admin fees)

2. When are Charity Challenge making a final decision regarding if a challenge can take place?

Overseas Challenges

If for any reason we don’t feel your challenge can proceed we will make a decision approximately 12 weeks prior to your challenge (the only exception to this would be if the government advice suddenly changed – between 12 weeks and your challenge date – and then we would be in touch at the earliest convenience).

UK Challenges

If for any reason we don’t feel that your challenge can proceed we will make a decision approximately 8 weeks prior to your challenge (the only exception to this would be if the Government advice suddenly changed – between 8 weeks and your challenge date – and then we would be in touch at the earliest convenience).

3. Spread the cost of booking a challenge over 2 months

For most international trips, you can book and pay your registration fee in two instalments. You pay the first instalment at the time of booking and we will automatically take the second instalment from the same credit or debit card 31 days later. When paying your registration fee in instalments, a £10 admin fee will be added to your first registration fee payment. Please note that your booking will not be processed (and we will not send an authorisation request to your charity) until we receive the payment for the second instalment. Your place on the challenge will only be held for 31 days from your initial booking. If we are unable to take your second instalment, your booking will be cancelled, and normal cancellation terms will apply. Please see our terms and conditions. (Please note that if you take part in one of our promotions, i.e Black Friday, or New Year Sale, you are unable to spread the cost of booking a challenge over 2 months)

4. What if I postpone the challenge and then the later postponed trip is also affected and cannot run due to Covid-19?

Even if you move on to another challenge later in the year or next year, if we still find ourselves in a position where we cannot operate the challenge due to Covid-19, we will offer you the same options as above, to postpone, to change trips, to transfer your place to someone else or to receive a refund.

5. Can Charity Challenge help me with my fundraising deadline?

As standard, you should send 80% of your minimum sponsorship target to the charity 10 weeks before an international challenge, and 7 weeks before a UK challenge.

However, your chosen charity may be able offer you some flexibility over this either with the % due, or the number of weeks before departure. We therefore recommend that you speak directly to your specific charity. In most cases charities have been extremely understanding of the difficulties around fundraising during the pandemic and have therefore been willing to move their fundraising deadlines in order to support you to take part in the challenge.

6. What safety measures will Charity Challenge have in place to enable overseas challenges to take place safely?

Since May this year, we have operated many of our UK challenges with a range of procedures in place to comply with regulations and guidance and provide a safe environment in which to complete challenges. We were able to do this by vigilantly following a variety of government, local authority and national governing bodies guidelines. We used these guidelines to produce our own ‘Covid Safe’ safety management that all of our events needed to adhere to.
All of our leaders and crew were given online training to understand and carry out these guidelines. We produced a ‘COVID 19 – Keeping you Safe ’ document that was sent to everyone participating on a challenge.

We are already working with our teams overseas to put in place a number of ‘Covid safe’ systems so that our international challenges can get up and running as soon as it is safe to do so. If it is necessary then this will include things like providing single rooms or tents to all participants, increasing space on vehicles used for transfers and providing facemasks and hand sanitiser at all stages of the challenge. Once we have a greater understanding of what will be required in each destination we will make sure that everyone booked onto an overseas challenge is informed of what measures are being put in place to keep you safe.

We have worked incredibly hard to keep everyone taking part on a UK challenge safe. We produced online safety briefing videos for participants to watch before arriving at the challenge, provided single rooms for everyone when accommodation was required, put on extra buses to enable social distancing to take place on all transfers, and provided bottles of hand sanitiser, facemasks and buffs for everyone taking part on a challenge. We will continue to
make sure that your safety is at the centre of every decision we make when it comes to operating our challenges.

7. Is there any travel insurance that provides any kind of cover for Covid-19?

Our travel insurance partners at Campbell Irvine have launched a policy which includes Medical Expenses and Cancellation cover for Covid-19. This is a vital piece of cover for any intended overseas trip, so please do read this information carefully.

Travel Insurance Cover

Medical emergency treatment overseas and medical repatriation if you are diagnosed with Covid-19.
Cancellation cover to reimburse you for any irrecoverable payments and charges made for travel and accommodation if you have to cancel your trip due to a doctor diagnosing either you, a close relative or your travelling companion with Covid-19 and as a result being advised not to travel.
Cancellation due to either you or your travelling companion’s direct exposure to a close relative being diagnosed with Covid-19 resulting in an order via the NHS Test and Trace programme for you to be medically quarantined and not being able to travel.
Cancellation or Curtailment cover due to denied boarding of public transport if displaying symptoms of Covid-19.

Like all insurance policies, there are specific exclusions, so please read all of the detail before purchasing. For further information on the updated Campbell Irvine Direct travel insurance policy including Covid-19 cover, please see:

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the team at Campbell Irvine. 020 7938 1734. info@campbellirvine.com. www.campbellirvinedirect.com

8. What financial security do Charity Challenge provide?

We provide financial security for flight-inclusive packages by way of our Air Travel Organiser’s Licence (number 6546), issued by the Civil Aviation Authority. When you buy an ATOL protected flight-inclusive challenge from us you will receive an ATOL Certificate in your account area. This lists what is financially protected, where you can get information on what this means for you and who to contact if things go wrong. For further information, visit the ATOL website at www.atol.org.uk.

Not all challenge or travel services offered and sold by us will be protected by the ATOL Scheme. ATOL protection extends primarily to customers who book flight inclusive packages originating in the United Kingdom. We also provide full financial protection for any challenges that are packages but DO NOT include flights (and where you are joining from a European country), by way of an insurance policy held with International Passenger Protection Limited and underwritten by Insurers who are members of the Association of British Insurers & Lloyds Syndicates. For further information please go to www.ipplondon.co.uk.

Covid -19 : Frequently Asked Questions

UK Challenges Covid-19 FAQ’s

Oversea’s Challenges Covid-19 FAQ’s

We hope the above information provides some support, but if you have any further questions please do not hesitate to get in touch. challenges@charitychallenge.com +44 (0)20 8346 0500

Tips & Advice

TRAINING FOR YOUR UPCOMING CHALLENGE

January 14, 2022

Do not underestimate the importance of training before your challenge. Even if you are active and exercise regularly, it’s good to adapt your training towards your chosen challenge activity. This is vital in building strength, cardiovascular stamina and muscle endurance for the challenge ahead.

We provide plenty of additional information and guidance in your personalised login area, including warm up, stretching, cardiovascular training, exercise intensity, cross training, resistance (weight) training, cool down and the hazards of over-training.

We recommend you seek advice from a fitness professional, so as to develop a programme tailored to your needs, lifestyle and fitness level. Besides specifying the types of exercise, duration and intensity you need, a good trainer can also advise you on nutrition and diet.

Challenge Training

If you would like to get a feel for our challenges ahead of your departure, why not consider booking on a 1 or 2 day UK Challenge?

We have a variety of challenges, covering all levels of difficulty, taking place in stunning National Parks across the UK that are led by highly qualified and experienced expedition and mountain leaders. These challenges will give you the perfect opportunity to monitor fitness levels, test out your kit, meet people in the great outdoors, share fundraising stories and gain valuable advice and support for the challenge ahead. We encourage participants to make use of our highly knowledgeable leaders and ask them any questions you may have about clothing and equipment, expedition health and wellbeing, trekking skills, walking techniques and teamwork!

We are offering all participants 50% off the registration fee when you book on one of the UK challenges listed below. Just use the code TRAINING when booking. T&C’s – you must have an active booking on a challenge to avail of this offer. Discount can not be used in conjunction with any other offer.

1-Day Challenges

London 10 Peaks Challenge, England

Discover ten of London’s often hidden peaks on this marathon distance walking urban challenge. See a different side to London and journey through 42km of beautiful woodland, nature reserves and quieter spaces on the popular ‘London Loop’ footpath.

London Royal Parks Challenge, England

Edinburgh 7 Summits Challenge, Scotland

2-Day Challenges

South Downs at Night, England

Push yourself to the limit on this unique nighttime challenge through the South Downs National Park. Trek 42km along the South Downs Way battling fatigue and the demanding terrain of one of southern England’s newest National Parks before reaching Beachy Head and Eastbourne as the sun begins to rise.

Lake District Triple Challenge, England

Lake District 5 Peaks Challenge, England

Prepare for an epic 22km trek through the rugged and dramatic landscape of the Lake District, as you tackle five of England’s most demanding peaks, including its highest – Scafell Pike (978m).

Snowdon Triple Challenge, Wales

Ben Nevis at Night, Scotland

Snowdon at Night, Wales

Yorkshire 3 Peaks at Night, England

What grade should I choose?

Whether you are a challenge veteran or this is your first time taking on a Charity Challenge we have something for everyone.

There are three difficulty levels:

Challenging: A “challenging” trip will test someone who is relatively fit and has a spirit of adventure. You may have had some previous experience, but this is not necessary as long as the correct training is undertaken. You will be physically tested but the terrain is often on well-established routes.
Tough: A “tough” trip should be undertaken by someone with previous experience and interest in the activity – whether biking or trekking. A tough challenge will test you both physically and mentally. Both cycle and treks will be hilly, and training is essential. On a UK “tough” challenge, you should expect 10+ hours of exertion over demanding terrain.
Extreme: Extreme challenges will involve a great deal of endurance. These trips are not to be taken lightly. They are usually undertaken by someone with previous experience in a mountain setting, but who wants to take their experience to the next level physically and mentally. Training is essential.

Inspiration

2021 HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE CHARITY CHALLENGE LEADERS

December 23, 2021

As 2021 comes to a close, we look back on everything we have collectively achieved with YOU – our heroic adventurous participants – and to share our gratitude to all those involved.

Clearly, the main achievement this year has been navigating through the many and sudden Covid impacts on international travel and working through the ever changing rules and restrictions. But I am delighted to tell you that we also managed to support almost 4000 participants to take on over 75 UK challenges, which have raised around £3million for many great causes.

We have many thousands of participants who were unable to take on an international challenge over the last two years, who are now lined up to travel on their challenge of a lifetime in 2022, and we look forward to getting those challenges back up and running.

To all of the individuals who came out this year to take on their challenge, and to our many charity and corporate partners, I would like to publicly thank you from the bottom of my heart for your continued support and desire to travel whenever the situation has allowed.

To the leaders, doctors, drivers and other support team members, thank you for your energy and enthusiasm and words of support in the difficult moments.

We can see the light at the end of the tunnel getting brighter and brighter and we hope and believe that 2022 will provide a year of new and exciting travel and challenge opportunities!

Simon and team Charity Challenge,
Simon Albert, Co founder and Director

Looking back on 2021, these are the moments that hold a special place in the hearts of our Charity Challenge leaders.

ANDY BAKER, HEAD OF UK EVENTS

Where do you start trying to pick a highlight from such an incredibly busy year! It would have to be the CoppaFeel! Scottish Highlands Challenge in September. For me personally this was the culmination of an initial idea to organise a trekking itinerary in the UK that would replicate the experience of being on one of our overseas challenges. It worked brilliantly. The varied routes in the Scottish Highlands offered a real challenge, the campsite was great, the food brilliant and the whole group of participants were very special. With no mobile phone signal on the campsite it was great to watch people sit and talk around the campsite….or queue up to use the pay phone clutching 10p pieces!

COLIN LOVELL

My highlight of the year has got to be Palaces on Wheels, the four day cycle ride from Highgrove House to Sandringham with the British Asian Trust. There were so many magical moments from talking to Prince Charles, accessing the various palaces and cycling many new roads. The route took us through the Cotswolds hills, historic Oxford, various royal parks, the chaos of central London and finally the flatness of Norfolk. A lovely diverse group who stayed positive and fun throughout, despite this being a very hard challenge for some of them. The Charity Challenge Team was made up of people I have done many cycle rides with before so it was nice to be part of a well oiled machine.

LOUISE ALLEN

It’s got to be the Mind Hike Hadrian’s Wall and Dawn till Dusk, both of which were on my home territory. Sharing 12 hours of laughs, tears and stories with some extraordinary people. After an extremely tough 18 months it was great to be able to promote and support good mental health through exercise and sharing chat.

PENNY KNIGHT

St Ives was nervous – and rightly so. The G7 Summit was of secondary importance next to the main event. Joe Biden only had G7 but we had the No 1 G and she meant business. The CoppaFeel! crowd were descending en masse in temperatures of 31° to extreme excitement following months of anticipation. OK, it wasn’t the intended Sahara Desert Trek but anyone who has ever come across this inspirational bunch of women would know that was never going to dampen their spirits. Pasties, ice creams, campsite cricket, tin mines and coves, cramp and blisters (wow, the blisters!), sand and rocky ledges – this trek had its highs and lows, tears and laughter, sun and rain, tutus and tits . . . of course, tits!! However there were many more highs than lows, more laughter than tears and more sun than rain. Yet again the CoppaFeel! participants had excelled, bonded like sisters, challenged themselves above what they thought they could and raised a significant amount for this incredible charity. Kris Hallenga (founder of CoppaFeel!), who lives in Cornwall, joined us to celebrate and sealed this for us all up there with the very best of life’s experiences.

LIZZY CODD

Without doubt the two trips that stick in my mind from 2021 are the Coppafeel treks I helped lead in Cornwall in June and the Highlands of Scotland in September. The ladies who joined us for these trips overcame pain, self-doubt, mental health issues, family commitments and fitness to achieve heights they thought impossible. It’s the reason I love leading walks, giving people the chance to achieve things they thought unachievable. They worked together to encourage each other and gain confidence in what they could do. From Tamsin who trekked mile after mile of vertiginous South West Coast Path despite her fear of heights, often in tears but continuing to put one foot in front of the other. To Leanne, who would take shorter breaks than everyone else so she could start up the next hill at her own pace and not feel guilty making people wait for her. To the extremely fit Kelly who despite having stage 4 cancer was always cheerful and quickly reassessed her goals when she realised others weren’t as fit as her and would struggle with hills she could walk with her eyes closed – she turned out to be a real asset to the team. And finally my fellow leaders (the Teletubbies) were also the best crew ever – miss them all!

DUNCAN TURNBULL

There were three highlights for me working on three totally different jobs. All three had truly inspirational people on them for very different reasons. The first was Climb for Caroline in memory of the late TV presenter Caroline Flack. Taking part were her close friends and family in support of the Samaritans, which obviously made it a very emotionally charged event. The next was three days trekking Hadrian’s Wall with nine amputees, among them Rachel Morris a double gold paralympic medalist. They were all very inspirational people.

Then came the big one: Coppafeel in Glen Lyon, a 100k challenge over five days with the most incredible people. Wow! What the body can do when the mindset is right! Thank you for allowing me to lead on these events.

IAN MORTON

In a year of so many highlights it’s been really difficult choosing just one! Exploring the South-West Coastal Path and Scottish Highlands with the ever-inspirational CoppaFeel! team, and the annual 24-hour MIND Hike on Hadrian’s Wall certainly stand out. I have, however, chosen an event that stood out to me personally and professionally even more than those amazing trips – the “Giant’s Causeway Challenge” in Northern Ireland in July. Helping plan and manage this inaugural event as part of a small leader team – involving a marathon-length trek along the Causeway Coast Way from the famous Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge to Portstewart via the World Heritage Site at Giant’s Causeway – was really challenging and interesting. Subsequently seeing the great feedback from the participants after a spectacular day’s walking (and seeing the Causeway myself for the first time) gave me a real sense of satisfaction!

RICHARD SIMPKIN

This year has been an extremely active and eventful one and the final challenge in some ways is the hardest: how to pick one highlight out of a year full of so many challenging, fun and emotional events? I spent some time pondering over the many highlights and decided to head all the way back to June and the LimbPower Hadrian’s Wall challenge. Having completed the recce, I had a picture album full of many stiles and some quite steep climbs as well as a series of alternative routes should the original route prove unachievable for the participants.

The route was a multi-day route which I find more enjoyable anyway as it gives you more time to get to know the participants. Day one went well but day two was the real learning point. There was a spot about a third of the way through when everything just clicked, the participants relaxed and the leaders understood when assistance was needed and when it wasn’t. The event finished with me in a car park next to a coffee shop shouting across to the team “who’s left their leg in the MPV?” much to the bemusement of other customers and the amusement of the team.

TOM RUMSEY

This year’s highlight for me was without a doubt the return of the Prostate Cancer UK March for Men and the opportunity to hang out with the legend that is Jeff Stelling. This event has been the highlight of my calendar for a few years now. Charity Challenge is very proud to be supporting Jeff Stelling complete his 33 marathon walk for Prostate Cancer UK fundraising over £1.2 million! Charity Challenge have had the pleasure of being involved with 23 of the “March for Men” marathons since 2017. That’s over 500 miles visiting over 60 football clubs and cities across the entire of the UK.

The 105 mile odyssey from Tyneside to London via Liverpool and West Yorkshire in 2021 did not disappoint! A team of 50+ staff over four days supporting over 400 charity walkers (including a few familiar faces) visiting, 17 sporting institutions and raising over £300k was full of amazing memories, lots of fun and was an emotional finish. This team photo with Jeff at the finish in the amazing new Spurs stadium pretty much sums up what a great event it is. Roll on 2022.

SAMEED ASGHAR

Having taken part in several amazing charity treks in 2021, the Coppafeel Scottish Highlands trek was definitely the highlight for me. It was great to see such an incredible group of people, who in one way or another were affected by cancer, take on a huge challenge. They were all inspirational individuals and it was an honour to help lead a group who conquered all of the mountains during the week. The bond between the whole group was something really special to see which I have not witnessed to such a deep extent on any other trek. This certainly left a lasting impression.

Just can’t wait to make your own memories? Visit Charity Challenge to choose your next challenge!

Tips & Advice

WINTER FUNDRAISING IDEAS

December 21, 2021

Daylight is in short supply and the nights are getting longer, but don’t let that lull you into hibernation. While many sports activities may be off limits, winter can still be a great time to head outdoors for a fabulous fundraiser.

If you’re more of a homebody, there’s also plenty of options for inspiring indoor initiatives – you just need to think a little creatively.

Give it up

The festive season is over and you’re feeling a little worse for wear. Many of us think about cutting back in January, as we make our resolutions and pledge to shape up. This might mean deciding to go vegan or alcohol-free for a month or more, or staying away from sugar for a set period of time.

Giving something up can often be a payoff in itself, but why not take the opportunity to harness that will power as a force for fundraising? A pound for every pint you forgo? A donation for every day without dairy? Cash for every consecutive day without chocolate? The possibilities are endless.

Unwanted gift sales

Something else you may have a surplus of post Christmas are those unwanted gifts. Without wanting to seem ungrateful, the presents that left you feeling disappointed and downhearted may turn out to do wonders for the greater good.

Rather than sneakily regifting them or trying for a receiptless return, how about gathering up all those cuddly toys, fluffy slippers, cookbook collections and sets of smellies and selling them off for charity? Head for a car boot sale, set up a stall outside your house or just list them online. Remember, every penny counts.

Super soup off

Who doesn’t love a piping hot bowl of soup in winter, especially after a long frosty walk? So why not take the opportunity to stage a super soup off, where friends, family, neighbours and colleagues can come along and sample the best of the bowls.

Consider cooking a selection yourself for an event at home, charging a nominal amount for each bowl served up. Or ask supporters to donate batches of their favourite recipes for a winter warmer sale. Needless to say, you will need a suitable venue and cooking facilities – as well as sufficient crockery and cutlery.

Four legged fun

We’re still so full of lockdown love for our four-legged friends, so perhaps it’s time to recruit your dog to your fundraising efforts? This is your chance to organise your very own woofy walk. You will of course need a specified route laid out in advance and permission from your local authority or park owner to stage a public event.

Alternatively, if you prefer to keep things simpler, why not offer your services as a dog walker? Pet-owners can be hard-pushed to get their pooches out for a wander every day, so consider offering your services in exchange for charitable donations.

Virtual quiz night

It can be hard to get motivated to venture out at night when the mercury drops, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still boost your fundraising efforts with a virtual quiz night.

Enlist video sharing sites like Zoom and Microsoft Teams to stage your very own quiz night. Invite guests along for a specific date and time, charging them a nominal night to participate – either as teams or individuals. Consider adopting a theme, such as a Valentine’s Day quiz or one focusing on eighties music, and don’t forget those all important prizes.

Sales & Promotions

The BLACK FRIDAY SALE has begun – Save up to £300*

November 26, 2021

If you have had your eye on a challenge for 2022, now is the time to book! Spaces are already beginning to fill up fast on our popular challenges after our members only priority booking so make sure you do not miss out on these great savings!

Book before midnight on Monday 29th Nov and get up to £300 off the registration fee on selected overseas challenges and up to 60% off the registration fee on selected UK challenges. Use the code BF2021 when booking your next adventure. *T&C’s apply

VIEW ALL BLACK FRIDAY DISCOUNTS

Visit incredible destinations, go beyond your limits and create lifelong memories in some of the world’s most amazing destinations, while raising money to help your favourite cause. Where and what is next on your bucket list? Below is a little taster of some of the amazing discounts we have on offer this year….

Save up to £300 off your reg fee on Everest Base Camp

Save up to £200 off your reg fee on Trek to Machu Picchu

Save up to £100 off your reg fee on Saigon to Angkor Wat Bike Ride.

Save up to £200 off your reg fee on Kilimanjaro Summit Climb – Lemosho Route

Save up to £100 off your reg fee on Sahara Desert Trek

Save up to £100 off your reg fee on Icelandic Lava Trek

Save up to 50% off your reg fee on National Three Peaks Challenge

Save up to 50% off your reg fee on Lake District Triple Challenge

Save up to 50% off your reg fee on Snowdon At Night Challenge

Save up to 50% off your reg fee on Lake District 5 Peaks Challenge

EXPLORE OUR FULL RANGE OF CHALLENGES HERE

Sales & Promotions

MASSIVE savings coming soon in our Black Friday Sale

November 8, 2021

As the UK season comes to an end, we are very excited to turn our attention to an adventure filled 2022!

Now is the time to sit down with a cuppa and write your challenge bucket list for the year ahead. That is if you haven’t done it already!

We are offering MASSIVE savings on a range 2022 challenges in our upcoming Black Friday Sale.

And… we are offering our wonderful members, PRIORITY BOOKING and first access to these great offers from Mon 22nd Nov!

How do you become a member?

Sign up to our newsletter below to be the first to receive all the latest news, inspiration, and special offers from Charity Challenge, including early access to priority bookings! For more information about how we use and protect your data please see our privacy policy. You can opt out at any time.

SIGN ME UP!

Next steps?

We will be in touch via email at 9am Mon 22nd of Nov with the Black Friday Sale discount code and offers available for your priority bookings. For now, click on the link HERE to view all of our 2022 challenges and start getting your wish list ready for our biggest ever Black Friday Sale!

Latest News

Important News About Virgin Money Giving

November 8, 2021

Virgin Money have made the decision to close Virgin Money Giving (VMG) later this year.

If you are NOT raising sponsorship via the Virgin Money Giving website, you can ignore this update.

If you are using the Virgin Money Giving site, you will hopefully have received an update from them directly to let you know that they are ceasing to operate from 30 November this year. You can read more here.

We would therefore recommend that if you speak to your charity in the first instance and ask them which other platform you should continue to raise funds on.

On the link above, there are some handy Q&As.

If you have any questions about the closing of Virgin Money Giving, we advise you to speak to them direct in the first instance and also to your chosen charity. Please email fundraising@fundraise.virginmoneygiving.com

If there is anything you wish to ask of Charity Challenge, please email info@charitychallenge.com.

Regards

The Charity Challenge Team

Sales & Promotions

FLASH SALE – Only 3 Days Left To Get Up To 30% Off Reg Fees*

July 29, 2021

This is your reminder that you have ⏰ 3 Days Left ⏰ to save up to 30% off registration fees on selected 2021 and 2022 UK challenges in our FLASH SALE.

Offer ends Midnight Saturday 31st July 2021.

Use the code FREEDOM when booking. *T&C’s apply.

Don’t miss out!

VIEW ALL FLASH SALE OFFERS

TRIPLE CHALLENGES

An exciting multi-activity challenge of trekking, biking and kayaking located in stunning National Parks throughout the UK.

Save up to **20% off** reg fees on the Lake District Triple Challenge

Save up to **20% off** reg fees on the Snowdon Triple Challenge

TREKKING CHALLENGES

We are blessed to have some of the most spectacular National Parks, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, coastal walks and trekking trails right on our doorstep.

Save up to **30% off** reg fees on the National Three Peaks Challenge

Save **20% off** reg fees on the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge

London Royal Parks Challenge — Save up to **20% off** reg fees on the L ondon Royal Parks Challenge

Save up to **20% off** reg fees on the Edinburgh 7 Summits Challenge

Save **20% off** reg fees on the West Highway Way Challenge

AT NIGHT CHALLENGES

A unique way to challenge yourself and your senses, whilst racing the sun through the night.

Save up to **20% off** reg fees on the Yorkshire Three Peaks At Night Challenge

Save up to **20% off** reg fees on the South Downs at Night Challenge

VIEW ALL FLASH SALE OFFERS

We understand that there may still be a little uncertainty around booking in the current climate, so we have pulled together “Booking with Confidence”, all the information your supporters require to help them book their next Charity Challenge with absolute confidence!

All of our challenges have updated health and safety measures in place to ensure they are Covid Safe. Read more here Covid-19 : Keeping you Safe

Tips & Advice

Summer Fundraising Ideas

June 24, 2021

With the long summer days, there is so much time to fundraise! Whether you want to run an office sweepstake, host a garden party, or run a bingo event we have the perfect summer fundraising ideas to dive into this this season.

Sweepstakes

Now is the perfect time to set up a sweepstake competition and raise money for charity. We have an exciting season of sport upon us and it would be a shame not to get involved! They are easy to set up and a fantastic opportunity to get your friends, family and colleagues involved in supporting your fundraising efforts.

How to run a sweepstake :

Decide the competition for your sweepstake. For example, guess the winners of Euros.
Set the price of each entry e.g. £5.
Ask your family, friends (or colleagues if it’s an office sweepstake) to make a donation for their entry.
They can pick a possible result from a hat or you can give them one at random.
Whoever guesses correctly wins a prize and the money raised from the entries will be donated to your chosen charity.

Garden Party

The weather is warming up, so get the picnic rugs ready, fire up the barbeque, and throw a garden party. Provide food, drinks and entertainment in exchange for donations. The opportunities with this are event are endless! Hold a themed party. Ask a live band to provide music. Serve food and drinks donated by local restaurants and cafes. Ask local businesses to donate prizes for a raffle, auction or tombola on the big day. Set up a Selfie station. Hold a cake sale. Set up a face painting stand. Play garden games…

Sell tickets prior to the event so you know how much stock is required and how many people will be attending your fundraising event.

Car Wash Fundraiser

A car wash fundraiser is a proven money maker as everyone needs a good car wash once in a while, especially now with all the tree pollen in the air! Plus it is simple to organise. Fun to do. And is a great way to raise funds.

How to hold a car wash fundraiser :

Find a venue for your charity car wash – The choice of venue really depends on whether you plan to target passers-by or wash the cars of people prepared to drive to your site. Access to a water supply is also obviously a must have!
Make sure you advertise your fundraising car wash – posters, flyers, local media, social media, local community centres and forums.
Ensure you have all the equipment required – water supply, hose pipe, buckets, clean rags, Chamois leather, soft cloth for polishing, car shampoo and volunteers!
Utilise all opportunities to raise more funds – while the customers are waiting offer them a beverage / snack, or sell raffle tickets etc..

Bingo Event

A fundraising bingo event is a sociable and fun way to raise money for your chosen charity, plus it is easy to run and you can hold it practically anywhere – from your home to your workplace, online or in person.

How to hold a bingo fundraiser :

Decide on the date, time and venue of your charity bingo event and invite your family and friends to attend for a donation.
You can either purchase your fundraising bingo cards or make one up yourself by creating some grids with 10-14 random numbers between 1-100.
Alternatively, provide your guests with blank grids and they can write the numbers themselves.
Prepare some prizes for the winners.
Contact your chosen charity to see if they have any branded materials you can use to decorate the venue – balloons, posters or banners etc..
Maximise your fundraising on the night by having a charity sweepstake or raffle.

Responsible Tourism

June 24, 2021

At Charity Challenge we acknowledge that it is our responsibility to ensure that we do all we can to contribute to making better places for people to live in, in the countries where we operate, and better places for you to visit. We’re proud to have donated over £500,000 to local community organisations in our host countries, helping to support medical, educational and environmental projects, and to carbon offset projects around the world.

Following some feedback from a recent challenge, we have updated our pre-challenge information and Responsible Tourism Policy to place a greater emphasis on respecting, protecting and enjoying the outdoors.

Our Responsible Tourism aims are to:

Use locally owned services whenever possible
Respect, protect and enjoy the outdoors
Encourage transparency with our ground teams about how responsibly they manage our tours
Support local community projects in the countries in which we operate
Move towards using local leaders on all overseas challenges rather than foreign leaders

To find out more about our policy and see how we are implementing this please click here

We also have the following policies: Child Protection; Animal Welfare; International Porters Guidelines.

How can you be more responsible on a challenge?

You have an important role to play in ensuring our guidelines for responsible tourism are carried out during the challenge. Participants are encouraged to enter into the spirit of adventure, but to do so with respect for the places and people you visit.

Remove all unnecessary packaging

Many countries do not have the same refuse disposal systems as you are used to. A typical challenge itinerary generates a surprising amount of waste. We ask that you all do as much as possible to minimise this, and to see that rubbish is disposed of responsibly. Be particularly aware of the problems of disposing of batteries; if in doubt bring them home with you.

Be conservative with water

In many places, water is a scarce resource and without careful use, local people and wildlife suffer. We provide a generous amount of clean drinking water on our challenges, and as much as possible we use tap, filtered or purified water rather than purchasing bottled water. The water that we provide to drink will always have been treated to make it safe to drink. When cleaning your teeth, turn the water tap off whilst you are brushing. Dirty water used from washing either yourself or dishes should be scattered on the ground 100ft away from river sources if a drain is not available, do not use non-biodegradable soap in lakes or streams.

Don’t leave your rubbish behind

Please take it with you. Your rubbish is not often biodegradable, is always unsightly, and may take years to biodegrade especially in desert or mountain environments. In some instances, rubbish can cause great harm to wildlife. It may seem that local communities have little regard for their environment and contribute heavily to the problem of rubbish, but waste disposal is often very limited. Please don’t let our presence add to these problems. Please carry your rubbish with you and dispose of it at the next camp or town you come to. Try and leave the area as you would want to find it, this may include picking up other people’s rubbish at your camp site.

Smoking

If you must smoke, you should collect the matches and cigarette butts when finished and put them in your pocket and dispose of them properly when you get to camp. Not only does it present a fire risk, cigarette butts take many years to decompose and may harm local wildlife.

Noise

Noise should be kept to a minimum so as not to disturb the animals. Animals should not be touched, goaded, fed or disturbed in any way. Don’t try to approach animals as this may cause them to panic and injure themselves as they try to escape.

Damage

Try not to damage any plant life, which you come across. This includes not picking flowers, which might be rare. When trekking, follow your guides and keep to the path. Going off the beaten track could result in damaging sensitive soil and vegetation. Removing coral damages the marine ecosystem and is nearly always unsustainable. If you are near coral, please bear in mind it is made up of tiny animals and takes centuries to grow. Treading on coral can cause severe long term damage.

Accommodation

Most challenges begin and end in a hotel. Please turn off air conditioning and lights when you are not in the room. Also ask the challenge leader to talk to hoteliers about towel washing options and please use the towels more than once rather than asking for (or allowing) them to be washed every day.

Toilets

As many of our challenges will take you off-the-beaten track, there are often a lack of toilet facilities. On treks it is unlikely you will have a flushing toilet. Instead a toilet tent will be erected and a pit dug. Any paper rubbish should be collected, not buried. If you are out for the day and no toilet is available please ask your challenge leader what the appropriate action is and ensure you don’t leave any paper waste behind (you can take nappy bags for this). Where a toilet is provided, please use it, as opposed to finding your own rock to crouch behind. Toilet paper is unsightly and takes a long time to decompose.

Tipping

Tipping is perfectly acceptable and can form the base of the local economy, with some relying mainly on tips. Please refer to the Trip Notes for the trip for the recommended amount. Your challenge leader will advise you during the challenge how this is distributed between the crew.

Respect

Respect local customs and follow high standards of courtesy. Treat images of the heads of state with respect. Be aware of the differences in social behaviour and behave appropriately. Standards of acceptable behaviour vary greatly from place to place, and people of developing countries can often be easily shocked by ‘western’ behaviour. Displays of intimacy are often considered not suitable in public. Don’t make promises you can’t keep. So if you say you are going to write, do. Learn some words in the local language to help make contact and conversation.

Observe the local dress code in the areas in which you are travelling, e.g. cover up in holy places. Local people can feel deeply offended when visitors do not observe the dress code and this can also cause unwanted attention. Respect property and their surroundings. Leave places you visit as you found them, or even better. Ensure you know the appropriate behaviour for the situation you are in, for example, ask your leader if it is essential to remove your shoes before entering a building.

Photography

Ask permission before taking someone’s photo. Many people don’t like having their photo’s taken and there may be religious reasons for this. Don’t pay children for photos’ as it will encourage them to beg. If they have the opportunity to go to school they may not to be so willing to do so if they can make money from tourists by looking cute. Be cautious when taking photos of bridges, official buildings, persons in uniform, planes and airports, or religious buildings and ceremonies. Ask your challenge leader for advice if unsure.

If you need any help or advice about any of the above points then please don’t hesitate to email us here in the office at challenges@charitychallenge.com and we can give you some additional guidance.

Challenges

FEATURED CHALLENGE: Snowdon Triple Challenge

May 26, 2021

Highlights :

Take on an exciting multi-activity challenge in the heart of Snowdonia National Park
Complete 3 epic activities over 1 day – 15km trek, 17km cycle, and 4km kayak
Cycle around the lake shore of Llyn Padarn and pass the famous slate quarries
Summit the highest peak in Wales, Snowdon (1,085m)
Nestling in Snowdon’s ever-present shadow and amongst the beautiful landscapes of the Llanberis Pass, kayak across Llyn Padam
Book a team (friends or colleagues) and challenge other teams to compete against!

Overview :

Grab this opportunity to pit yourself against the spectacular landscape of Snowdonia National Park in this tough and exciting multi-activity challenge. You’ll summit the mighty Snowdon as well as tackling challenging biking and kayaking sections all the while surrounded by this stunning part of the UK.

The Snowdon Triple Challenge is graded as tough. This is the perfect challenge for participants who are of an adventurous spirit and an open mind, but perhaps haven’t taken on a multi-activity challenge before. You will not need to be to an expert cyclist or kayaker, just somebody with a willing sense of adventure. The trip may be short, but it is far from a walk in the park as you confront steep climbs and gruelling hills over the 36km route.

Why Choose Charity Challenge?

Everything included from the moment you arrive. Unlike other operators we include everything from hotel accommodation, breakfast on the morning of the challenge, and plenty of lunch and snacks whilst on the challenge.
Hire of kayaks is included in the cost. Hire of road bikes can be facilitated or bring your own.
The very best leaders and instructors, who are fully qualified, highly experienced, knowledgeable and fun. They will do everything to help you complete the challenge and have a great time doing it.
Fully qualified cycling and kayak leaders who can also provide expert instruction to guide you through each activity.
Summit the highest peak in Wales, Snowdon, 1085m high

Whats included in the challenge :

One night’s accommodation in a hotel (twin-share)
All meals as stated in the itinerary
Drinking water on challenge days
All equipment for the kayaking section will be provided for you along with safety instruction. Hire of road bikes can be provided.
Fully qualified, highly experienced, knowledgeable and fun mountain, cycling and kayak leaders who can also provide expert instruction to guide you through each activity
Charity Challenge medal
Challenge Safe Kit – a disposable face mask, 100ml alcohol-based hand sanitiser (72%) and a Charity Challenge buff
15% off Cotswold Outdoor, Snow and Rock, and Runners Need
10% kit hire discount with Outdoorhire
Support materials (itinerary, kit list, challenge information, health notes, Covid Safe health & safety guidelines, travel tips, responsible travel policy, and guidance)
Full back-up support including first-aid qualified staff and first-aid supplies
Fundraising advice & fitness training notes
Repeat booker discount for your next Charity Challenge

How to fund your challenge :

Self-funder – Pay a registration fee of £75 when you book. Then a balance of £194 (5 weeks before your challenge). Raise as much as you can for your nominated charity.
Minimum sponsorship – Registration fee of £75 when you book. Raise a minimum of £395 for your nominated charity. You can raise funds for any UK or Irish registered charity.

NB: Please note that the registration fee for 2022 is £85 (£75 in 2021)

For more information please click here

Availability :

Fri 20 Aug – Sat 21 Aug 2021 – Limited spaces!
Fri 24 Sep – Sat 25 Sep 2021 – Limited spaces!
Sat 25 Sep – Sun 26 Sep 2021 – NEW date released!
Fri 06 May – Sat 07 May 2022
Fri 08 Jul – Sat 09 Jul 2022
Fri 16 Sep – Sat 17 Sep 2022

Within our Triple Challenge Series we also have 3 additional UK & Ireland challenges you can get involved with. Do you have what it takes to take on all four Triple Challenges?

Lake District Triple Challenge, England

Scottish Highlands Triple Challenge, Scotland

Join us in the Cairngorms National Park for an exciting weekend of cycling, trekking and kayaking. Culminating with an ascent of Ben Nevis (1,344m) and set within the classic adventure playground of the Scottish Highlands, this is the ultimate triple challenge.

Irish Triple Challenge, Ireland

A breath-taking triple challenge in the Irish adventure playground of Killarney National Park – a UNESCO biosphere reserve. Cycle along the famous Ring of Kerry, kayak in the beautiful Killarney lakes and then trek to the summit of Ireland’s highest mountain, Carrauntoohil (1,038m), all in one incredible weekend of adventure.

VIEW ALL CHARITY CHALLENGES

Challenges

Last Minute UK Challenges!

May 20, 2021

After 6 long months of restrictions, this week sees an extremely welcome return to operating our UK challenges again. Our first set of challengers for 2021 will be taking part in the Yorkshire Three Peaks at Night Challenge this weekend and the Team at Charity Challenge could not be more excited!

We know that everyone is itching to get back outside and dust off their hiking gear, so why not consider one of our easy to commit to, last minute challenges this summer :

5 Reasons To Book A Last Minute Charity Challenge

1) Low registration fee – Each of our challenges listed below has a registration fee of just £35!

2) Low sponsorship – Raise a minimum of £195.00 for your nominated charity or choose the self funded option and pay a balance of £95 plus raise whatever you can for your choice of charity.

3 ) Lots of great inclusions – Drinks and snacks available throughout the day, Celebratory drink and medal at the finish, 15% off Cotswold Outdoor, Snow and Rock, and Runners Need, Challenge Safe Kit (a disposable face mask, 100ml alcohol-based hand sanitiser (72%) and a Charity Challenge Buff), plus fully qualified, highly experienced, knowledgeable and fun Mountain Leaders.

4) Booking with confidence – We understand that there may still be a little uncertainty around booking in the current climate, so we have pulled together “Booking with Confidence”, all the information you require to you book your next Charity Challenge with absolute confidence!

5) Covid Safe – Dont’ forget, all of our challenges have new health and safety measures in place to ensure they are Covid Safe. Read more here Covid-19 : Keeping you Safe

Edinburgh 7 Summits Challenge, Scotland – Sat 17 Jul 2021

The 7 summits include : Corstorphine Hill (161m), Craiglockhart Hill East (175m), Braid Hill (205m), Blackford hill (164m), The Royal Observatory (146m), Arthur’s seat (251m), and Carlton Hill (103m).

Book Now

London Royal Parks Challenge, England – Sat 07 Aug 2021

Challenge yourself to this marathon distance trek between the 10 London Royal Park’s. This epic 42km route will take you across historic parkland and beautiful green spaces, while passing some of the finest architecture in London. From Richmond Park, along the banks of the River Thames, passing iconic Westminster and Buckingham Palace, before ending in Greenwich Park.

By the end of the challenge you will have visited each of the 10 ‘Royal Parks’ – 1) Bushy Park, 2) Richmond Park, 3) Brompton Cemetery, 4) Victoria Tower Gardens, 5) St James’s Park, 6) Green Park, 7) Hyde Park
8) Kensington Gardens, 9) Regent’s Park and Primrose Hill, 10) Greenwich Park.

Book Now

Snowdon at Night Challenge, Wales – Sat 07 Aug 2021

After the elation of reaching the top you must summon up the energy to return to the start where it will be time to relax and celebrate with a celebration breakfast!

Book Now

London 10 Peaks Challenge, England – Sat 21 Aug 2021

Discover ten of London’s often hidden peaks on this new marathon distance walking urban challenge. See a different side to London and journey through 42km of beautiful woodland, nature reserves and quieter spaces on the popular ‘London Loop’ footpath.

The peaks include: White Hill (100m), Pinner Hill (130m), Harrow Weald Common (131m), Stanmore Hill (151m), Deacons Hill (135m), Furze Hill (135m), Mill Hill (111m), Mount Moat (145m), Arkley (147m), Bournwell Hill (129m).

Book Now

We are proud to have acquired the UK Industry Standard mark, “We’re good to go” in partnership with the Tourist Organisations of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. This means that our business has followed government and industry Covid-19 guidelines, has a risk assessment in place and a process to maintain cleanliness and aid social distancing.

VIEW ALL CHARITY CHALLENGES HERE

Challenges

Launch of 2022 UK Challenges – Trek, Cycle and Triple

May 10, 2021

Charity Challenge are very pleased to announce the launch of our 2022 UK challenge dates for our trek, cycle and triple challenge series. We are blessed to have some of the most spectacular National Parks, UNESCO World Heritage Sites coastal walks and trekking trails right on our doorstep. Whether you are a challenge veteran or this is your first time taking on a Charity Challenge we have something for everyone.

There are three difficulty levels:

Challenging: A “challenging” trip will test someone who is relatively fit and has a spirit of adventure. You may have had some previous experience, but this is not necessary as long as the correct training is undertaken. You will be physically tested but the terrain is often on well-established routes.

Tough: A “tough” trip should be undertaken by someone with previous experience and interest in the activity – whether biking or trekking. A tough challenge will test you both physically and mentally. Both cycle and treks will be hilly, and training is essential. On a UK “tough” challenge, you should expect 10+ hours of exertion over demanding terrain.

Extreme: Extreme challenges will involve a great deal of endurance. These trips are not to be taken lightly. They are usually undertaken by someone with previous experience in a mountain setting, but who wants to take their experience to the next level physically and mentally. Training is essential.

Trek Challenges

Lake District 5 Peaks Challenge, England

Prepare for an epic 22km trek through the rugged and dramatic landscape of the Lake District, as you tackle five of England’s most demanding peaks, including its highest – Scafell Pike (978m).

24 Peaks Challenge, England

Unique multi-day mountain challenge in the heart of the Lake District National Park. Attempt to summit 24 peaks over the course of 2 days trekking on some of the most iconic mountains in the Lake District, covering 47km with a total ascent of 3299m.

National Three Peaks Challenge, UK

Giant’s Causeway Challenge, Northern Ireland

Commencing at the iconic Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, this tough one day challenge has you trekking a marathon distance along the dramatic Northern Ireland coastline of the Giant’s Causeway UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Welsh 3000’s Challenge, Wales

Take your challenge experience to the next level with this extreme 45km mountain trek in stunning Snowdonia. Summit all 15 peaks over 3000ft in Wales in one epic weekend, including its highest – Snowdon (1,085m).

South West Coast Path Challenge, England

Join us for three days of trekking and camping along the stunning South West Coast Path. You will experience everything that this popular long-distance National Trail has to offer on this 65km trek, from remote beaches to rugged cliff tops and picturesque fishing villages – perfect for spotting Atlantic grey seals and dolphins!

West Highland Way Challenge, Scotland

Challenge yourself to complete one of the UK’s most popular long-distance treks, the West Highland Way. Trek 154km, and camp en-route, over seven days through the breath-taking and atmospheric scenery of the Scottish Highlands, experiencing incredible loch’s, stunning glen’s and dramatic highland mountains.

Triple Challenges – Trek, Cycle & Paddle

Snowdon Triple Challenge, Wales

Lake District Triple Challenge, England

Scottish Highlands Triple Challenge, Scotland

Irish Triple Challenge, Ireland

A breath-taking triple challenge in the Irish adventure playground of Killarney National Park – a UNESCO biosphere reserve. Cycle 55km along the famous Ring of Kerry, test yourself on a 1.5km kayak in the beautiful Killarney lakes and then trek 13km to the summit of Ireland’s highest mountain, Carrauntoohil (1,038m), all in one incredible weekend of adventure.

Cycle Challenges

Coast to Coast Cycle Challenge, England

Be inspired by some of the most dramatic scenery England has to offer on this classic two-day bike ride from the west to east coast of the country. Departing from Whitehaven, cycle for 225km, crossing through the Lake District, North Pennines, and the ancient fringes of Hadrian’s Wall, before reaching the North Sea at Whitley Bay.

Tour de Cornwall, England

Join us and cycle over 320km’s from Penzance, via Land’s End, to Plymouth. This epic three-day cycle traverses the entire Cornish peninsula, from west to east and from north to south and all the while you will be surrounded by picturesque countryside, stunning villages and historic harbour towns.

Booking with Confidence

We understand that there may still be a little uncertainty around booking in the current climate, so we have pulled together “Booking with Confidence”, all the information you require to help you book your next Charity Challenge with absolute confidence.

All of our challenges have new health and safety measures in place to ensure they are Covid Safe. Read more here Covid-19 : Keeping you Safe. Please rest assured that Charity Challenge will continue to monitor all of the latest advice from both the government and local authorities and will ensure that all of our safety systems are up to date.

Challenges

Launch of 2022 UK Challenges – Winter, Urban and At Night

April 26, 2021

Charity Challenge are very pleased to announce the launch of our 2022 UK challenge dates for our Winter, Urban and At Night Challenge series. Think of a time when Covid-19 is just a distant memory and we can comfortably travel and explore the best the UK has to offer!

Can you see yourself trekking under the starry skies of Snowdonia in order to reach the summit of Snowdon for sunrise? Or take on a marathon distance trek between the ten historic and beautiful Royal Park’s in London? Or maybe you want to test yourselves in a more extreme environment by pitting yourself against the spectacular snowy landscape of the Scottish Highlands covered in winter?

Discover some of the most spectacular National Parks, UNESCO World Heritage Sites and cities that the UK has to offer with our Winter, Urban and At Night Challenge series and make 2022 the year it all comes true, while raising money for a worthwhile cause, close to your heart.

Winter Challenges

Winter Ben Nevis Weekend, Scotland

Urban Challenges

London Royal Parks Challenge, England

London 10 Peaks Challenge, England

Edinburgh 7 Summits Challenge, Scotland

At Night Challenges

South Downs at Night, England

Ben Nevis at Night, Scotland

Scafell Pike at Night, England

Trek under a blanket of stars along this magnificent route to the summit of the highest mountain in England – Scafell Pike (978m). A unique way to challenge yourself and your senses, whilst racing the sun through the night in the Lake District National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Snowdon at Night, Wales

Yorkshire 3 Peaks at Night, England

Booking with Confidence

Challenges

FEATURED CHALLENGE : National Three Peaks Challenge

April 14, 2021

Highlights :

Take on the three highest mountains in the UK – Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike, and Snowdon
Be one of the first hikers of the day to take on Ben Nevis
Hike under the starry skies of the Lake District National Park and summit Scafell Pike at night
Reach the summit of the highest mountain in Wales for sunrise
Aim to summit all three peaks within 24hrs!

Overview :

Brace yourself for a fast-paced and physically challenging adventure, as you take on the three highest peaks in England, Scotland and Wales in 24hrs. Considered one of Britain’s toughest outdoor challenges, the National Three Peaks Challenge takes in the dizzy heights of Ben Nevis (1,344m), Scafell Pike (978m) and Snowdon (1,085m).

Over the course of two days, you will trek around 42km and ascend to a total height of almost 3,000m. The equivalent of a full marathon distance, but with 3 hills! This is a serious and tough challenge which requires a good level of fitness, as well as plenty of grit and determination. Ultimately, however, your hard work will be rewarded with spectacular views and a huge sense of achievement.

Why Choose Charity Challenge?

Over the years Charity Challenge has built up a wealth of experience that has enabled us to create the very best National Three Peaks itinerary that is geared towards providing everyone with the very best experience and opportunity to complete the challenge successfully.

We only use full specification minibuses with luggage carried in a trailer to maximise the space available to you on the vehicles. We use professional drivers, and adhere to driver hour regulations in order to keep you safe. We include proper meal stops to make sure you are fully fuelled and to maximise your chance of success. We employ one leader to look after you for the full event, and then additional ‘fresh’ leader on each mountain to help keep the group moving at an appropriate speed. We have also built in plenty of contingency time to our itinerary as delays can happen and we want to make sure everyone gets the opportunity to complete the challenge regardless as to what the traffic on the M6 is like!

Whats included in the challenge :

Travel to and from the challenge start/finish point (from Chester train station)
One night’s accommodation in a hotel (twin-share)
Three meals a day (unless otherwise stated in the itinerary)
Drinking water on challenge days
Charity Challenge medal
Fully qualified, highly experienced, knowledgeable and fun Mountain Leaders
Challenge Safe Kit – a disposable face mask, 100ml alcohol-based hand sanitiser (72%) and a Charity Challenge buff
15% off Cotswold Outdoor, Snow and Rock, and Runners Need
10% kit hire discount with Outdoorhire
Support materials (itinerary, kit list, challenge information, health notes, Covid Safe health & safety guidelines, travel tips, responsible travel policy, and guidance)
Fundraising advice & fitness training notes
Repeat booker discount for your next Charity Challenge

How to fund your challenge :

Self-funder – Pay a registration fee of £95 when you book. Then a balance of £424 (5 weeks before your challenge). Raise as much as you can for your nominated charity.
Minimum sponsorship – Registration fee of £95 when you book. Raise a minimum of £865 for your nominated charity. You can raise funds for any UK or Irish registered charity.

For more information please click here

Availability :

We currently have 11 departure dates in 2023 for the National Three Peaks Challenge. This is by far our most popular challenge and one we think everyone should tick off their challenge bucket list!

Book your National Three Peaks Challenge here

Tips & Advice

Spring Fundraising Ideas

March 19, 2021

With the start of Spring on Saturday the 20th of March the opportunities for new fundraising ideas begin to bloom. The lockdown measures are beginning to ease, the sun is starting to shine and the days are becoming longer – the perfect time to kick start your fundraising!

National Walking Month

Fundraising ideas :

WALKATHON – You, your friends, one day, 26 miles. Pick a route and get going! Ask your mates to sponsor you per mile.
TRY20 – Do the #try20 challenge and aim to walk 20 minutes every day for the whole month – ask your friends and colleagues to sponsor you.
10,000 STEPS – Get active this spring and take 10,000 steps a day for 30 days. Use your smart phone or watch to keep an eye on your progress. Ask you mates to sponsor your efforts.
DOG WALKING – Offer to walk your neighbours and friends’ dogs in return for a donation.

Bake Off

During lock down we can guarantee that new bakers have appeared amongst our friends and family! Now is the time to put everyone’s skills to the test and get your friends, family and colleagues together for your own Spring Bake Off. Bakers can give money to take part in the competition and people can vote for their favourites by donating. You can also auction off the showstoppers. Perfect for both an online or in person event! With the return of Stand Up To Cancer Bake Off the nation is definitely ready to get baking. #readysteadybake

Garden Party

The weather is warming up, so get the picnic rugs ready, fire up the barbeque, and throw a garden party. The size of the party will be dependent on the latest set of guidelines from the government. Provide food, drinks and entertainment in exchange for donations. The opportunities with this are event are endless! Hold a themed party. Ask a live band to provide music (lots of new musicians also emerging from lockdown!). Serve food and drinks donated by local restaurants and cafes. Ask local businesses to donate prizes for a raffle, auction or tombola on the big day. Set up a Selfie station. Hold a cake sale. Set up a face painting stand. Play garden games…

Sell tickets prior to the event so you know how much stock is required and how many people will be attending your fundraising event. Upcoming dates that you could take advantage of: The Queen’s Birthday 12th June, National Picnic Week 19th -27th June 2021, National BBQ Week July 2^nd – 11^th 2021.

Easter

Easter Sunday this year falls on the 4th of April and it is a cracking time to fundraise! Easter Egg Decorating. Easter bake-offs. Egg and spoon races. Easter flower arrangements. You can even fill a jar with mini eggs, get people to guess how many are in there and ask them to donate. The person with the closest guess wins the jar or a prize (ask local businesses to donate something).

Earth Day

The theme for Earth day on the 22nd of April is “Restore Our Earth”. What a perfect opportunity to join the world’s largest environmental movement and run a fundraising event that can support our local communities and focus on areas that are affected by environmental issues.

Fundraising ideas:

TREE PLANTING – Plant new trees and plants in your local community. Get volunteers to join you as planters. Accept donations of seedlings and other plantable items, ideally native plants. If you plant on public property, such as in a park, be sure to get permission from local authorities.
PLOGGING / RUBBISH WALK – Set yourself a jogging or walking challenge combined with picking up litter. This will have a positive impact on our environment and our bodies – in other words, it’s an earth-friendly way to get fit.
CLEANUP DAY – Each volunteer gets a roll of rubbish bags, a pair of gloves, and a shovel or rubbish pick, and performs a walking clean-up of a designated area. If you are going on public property, such as in a park, be sure to get permission from local authorities.
PLANT A COMMUNITY GARDEN – A community garden can bring a wide range of benefits – from connecting people with each other to growing fresh food to enjoy. Check out the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) website for tips on how to get this up and running.

Spring Clean

Inspiration

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

January 21, 2021

Charity Challenge - Great Wall Discovery

Are you considering what should go next on your bucket list? At Charity Challenge we love nothing more than taking on challenges in locations that allow our challengers to explore inspirational cultural and natural sites around the world, such as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

What is a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

World Heritage Sites are designated by (UNESCO) United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization for having cultural, historical, scientific or natural importance. The sites contain “cultural and natural heritage around the world” that are considered to be of “outstanding universal value to humanity and as such, have been inscribed on the World Heritage List to be protected for future generations to appreciate and enjoy”

As of January 2021, there are currently 1,121 UNESCO World Heritage Sites around the world. At Charity Challenge we are very lucky to run challenges that visit over 50 of these amazing sites. Unfortunately this blog is not long enough for us to cover all of these so we have pulled together some of our favourites!

How many UNESCO World Heritage Sites have you been to?

Charity Challenge - South West Coast Path Challenge

1- Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape – explore on the South West Coast Path challenge, England

Charity Challenge -Hadrian's Wall Trail Challenge

2. Frontiers of the Roman Empire – explore on Hadrian’s Wall Trail Challenge, England

Charity Challenge - Lake District 5 Peaks Challenge

3. The English Lake District – explore on the Lake District 5 Peaks Challenge, England

4. Kathmandu Valley – explore on Everest Base Camp, Nepal

Charity Challenge - Great Wall Discovery Extension

5. Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor – explore on the Great Wall Discovery Extension, China

Charity Challenge - Cuba Revolution Cycle

6. Old Havana and its Fortification System – explore on the Cuba Revolution Cycle, Cuba

Charity Challenge - Giants Causeway Challenge

7. Giant’s Causeway and Causeway Coast – explore on our Giant’s Causeway Challenge, Northern Ireland

Charity Challenge - Jurassic Coast Challenge

8. Dorset and East Devon Coast – explore on the Jurassic Coast Challenge, England

Charity Challenge - Edinburgh 7 Summits Challenge

9. Old and New Towns of Edinburgh – Explore on The Edinburgh 7 Summits Challenge, Scotland

10. Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu – explore on Trek to Machu Picchu, Peru

Charity Challenge - Kilimanjaro Summit Climb

11. Kilimanjaro National Park – explore on one of our Kilimanjaro Summit Climb’s, Tanzania

12. The Great Wall – Explore on the Great Wall Discovery, China

Charity Challenge - Sumatra Jungle Challenge

13. Tropical Rainforest Heritage of Sumatra – explore on the Sumatra Jungle Challenge, Indonesia

14. Angkor – explore on the Saigon to Angkor Wat Bike Ride, Vietnam & Cambodia

15. Petra – explore on
Trek to Petra, Jordan

Charity Challenge - cycle India And The Taj Mahal

16. Taj Mahal – explore on Cycle India and the Taj Mahal, India

Charity Challenge - Amazon Survivor Challenge

17. Central Amazon Conservation Complex ¹ – explore on the Amazon Survivor Challenge, Brazil

Charity Challenge -Zambezi River Challenge

18. Mosi-oa-Tunya / Victoria Falls – explore on the Zambezi River Challenge, Zambia

Want to tick some more UNESCO World Heritage Sites off your list? Choose your next challenge today!

Inspiration

Cervical Cancer Prevention Week (18 – 24 January)

January 20, 2021

It’s Cervical Cancer Prevention Week and we’re supporting Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust because we want you to know where you can get support, the latest information and tips about smear tests.

Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust are the UK’s leading cervical cancer charity. Nine women are diagnosed with cervical cancer every day and 220,000 are diagnosed with cell changes, often needing treatment. Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust want to see cervical cancer prevented and reduce the impact for everyone affected by cervical cell changes (abnormal cells) and cervical cancer through providing the highest quality information and support, and campaigning for excellence in cervical cancer treatment and prevention.

During Cervical Cancer Prevention Week we want as many people as possible to know how they can reduce their risk of cervical cancer and to educate others. The last year has been a challenge with lots of things in life becoming more difficult. But one thing hasn’t changed, the importance of cervical screening (smear test). Smear tests are the best protection against cervical cancer, but they aren’t always easy and coronavirus has added additional challenges to attending.

We want to ensure as many people as possible have reliable information and support about smear tests, results and any changes due to the pandemic.

You can get involved by encouraging your family and friends to go to their smear tests if they get invited. If you get invited to make a smear test appointment, that’s because your GP practice has safety measures in place to make it safe. Government guidance says that you are allowed to go, even within the current restrictions across the UK, as cervical screening is a medical appointment.

You can also join in #SmearForSmear all you have to do is follow these simple steps:

Smear your lipstick and take a photo. Why? Because it grabs attention
Post it on social media using #SmearForSmear and tag us too!
Include a message about the importance of smear tests, tell your friends and family where they can access tips and support
Ask them to get involved too
Don’t forget to be kind. It can be a really difficult test for lots of people, especially at the moment

Our New Year Sale is here! Get up to 30% off registration fees

January 4, 2021

At Charity Challenge, we are very happy to put 2020 behind us and make a fresh start in 2021.

It has been a tough year for us all, but we are ready for some positive change. Now is the time to focus on the new year, and all of the amazing possibilities that it will bring. Is this the year you will do something amazing not only for yourself but also for a good cause close to your heart?

To support you on your journey we are offering up to 30% off the registration fees on selected challenges in 2021 & 2022 in our New Year Sale. Discounts are available until midnight on Sunday 31st January 2021. T&C’s apply.

Click here to choose your challenge and start your next adventure!

Use code NY2021 when booking and enjoy all the incredible adventures that lie ahead. Below is a little taster of some of the amazing discounts we have on offer this year…

Up to 30% off your reg fee on Sahara Desert Trek

Up to 15% off your reg fee on Saigon to Angkor Wat Bike Ride.

Save up to 30% off your reg fee on Trek to Machu Picchu

Challenge - National Three Peaks Challenge

Save up to 10% off your reg fee on National Three Peaks Challenge

Save up to 30% off your reg fee on Icelandic Lava Trek

Save up to 20% off your reg fee on UK & Ireland Triple challenges

EXPLORE THE FULL RANGE OF NEW YEAR SALE DISCOUNTS HERE

Inspiration

We asked the team – what challenge are you most looking forward to in 2021?

December 23, 2020

As 2020 comes to a close, we reflect on what a tough year it has been for us all. The team at Charity Challenge just wanted to reach out and say THANK YOU to all of our amazing participants, who have been so patient and understanding as we have been forced to cancel or postpone challenges, and for being so supportive when we started to reopen our UK challenges back in August.

We look forward to supporting you all in 2021 with our new extended UK challenge portfolio and when the time is right, with challenges further afield. So, instead of dwelling on the past we are very excited to focus our attention on the future. We asked team Charity Challenge – what challenge are you most looking forward to in 2021?

Iceland Lava Trek – Laura, Challenge Leader

Iceland holds a special place in my heart for its otherworldly landscapes steeped in myth and legend. The Laugavegur Trek is still the best trek I’ve been on for packing such an incredible wow factor into a short space of time and I can’t wait to go back. Dramatic vistas, glacial river crossings, camping under the stars… and all nicely rounded off by a relaxing dip in the steaming waters of the Blue Lagoon. The Icelandic Highlands transport you to another world (in fact they’re frequently used as sci-fi film locations).

Walking up through lava fields encircled by colourful stripey mountains to cross snowfields with streams bubbling and rocks steaming around me: 2020 will surely fall away as a distant memory within seconds. Each day offers amazing new vistas, from glass-like obsidian passes to black volcanic ash fields and down into the lush green retreat of beautiful Porsmork. And not forgetting those glacial river crossings for an added sense of adventure and entertainment! The weather can be harsh, which only adds to the raw beauty of the place, and on clear nights after a well-deserved camp dinner there’s no better way of finishing a day than lying back and stargazing with friends old and new. Perhaps I’ll even be lucky enough to get another glimpse of the beautiful Northern Lights.

Find out more about the Icelandic Lava Trek here

Trek to Petra – Ian, Challenge Leader

The trip I am most looking forward to leading in 2021 is the “Trek to Petra” challenge. This exciting new itinerary for 2021 will see challengers given the opportunity to float in the Dead Sea before undertaking a 100km, 5-day trek through the Jordanian desert. Along the way we will camp Bedouin-style under the desert night sky – and of course the trek culminates in our arrival at the spectacular and world-renowned “rose city” of Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of the World. This is one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites and I have wanted to visit ever since I watched Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. I can’t wait!

Find out more about Trek to Petra here

South West Coast Path Challenge – Andy, UK Operators Manager

One of the positives that have come out of 2020 has been the opportunity to design some exciting new multi-day itineraries within the UK. As our UK Operations Manager I’ve often thought that the UK offered a lot of opportunities for people to challenge themselves in a similar style to our overseas treks and cycles whilst exploring hidden corners of our own little island. In 2021 we have several of these new itineraries that range from 4 to 9 days long and I’m particularly excited about this trek down in Cornwall. We’ve deliberately chosen to trek in the most rugged spots along the very tip of the Cornish peninsula and I suspect people will be amazed at how wild and remote this area feels. With stunning secluded bays, rolling dunes and dramatic cliffs I can’t wait to head out on the very first running of this exciting new challenge, and hopefully it will open the door for more multi-day challenges in the UK.

Find out more about the South West Coast Path Challenge h ere

Iceland Glacier Trek – Danny, Challenge Leader

As a very unusual year comes to an end I am now looking forward to what 2021 might bring. If there’s one Charity Challenge Trek I would relish leading it would be the Iceland Glacier Trek. Coming from the Highlands of Scotland I’m sure the Highlands of Iceland are just as stunning when it comes to their mountains, glaciers and other geological features whilst the additional expanse of snow and ice would be like a personal Mecca for me! The trek will no doubt be challenging with it’s daily dose of Nordic skiing and overnight camping on the ice. But coupled with potentially mesmerising views of the Northern Lights from what would be the best seats in the world and other stunning vistas during the day, topped off with a muscle-relaxing soak in a geothermal pool at the end of the trip I imagine there are few better ways to boost your mental, physical and overall well-being.

Find out more about the Iceland Glacier Trek here

Trek to Machu Picchu – Simon, Co-Founder and Director

Of all the places around the world that I have had the pleasure and privilege to have trekked, one stands out above all others for me, and that’s the trek to the Inca city of Machu Picchu. Of course it is one of the UNESCO Modern Wonders of the World, and for good reason, but the reason I love this trek is the combination of the scenery (snow-capped mountains, hot springs, the Sacred Valley, huge rivers), the Andean people and remote communities, and the history and architecture of the area (Spanish Colonial Squares and Inca settlements). It has everything, and that’s before you consider the awesome trekking route and camping out under the stars. I highly recommend it.

Find out more about Trek to Machu Picchu here

West Highland Way Challenge – Jenn, Head of Sales & Marketing

2020 was the year I discovered just how much the UK has to offer! We are blessed to have some of the most spectacular national parks, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, coastal walks and trekking trails right on our doorstep. For me, the challenge I am must looking forward to is the West Highland Way Challenge in Scotland as I am a big fan of taking on multi-day trekking trails. I love that we can disconnect from the world for a couple of days and completely immerse ourselves in nature. The thought of trekking and camping over 7-days through the breath-taking and atmospheric scenery of the Scottish Highlands sounds like my kind of heaven!

One of my favourite things about being outdoors is capturing perfect moments and sharing them with others. The West Highland Way is famous for incredible loch’s, stunning glen’s, waterfalls and dramatic highland mountains. Buchaille Etive Mor (The Great herdsman of Etive), is probably the most photographed mountain in Scotland, showcased recently in the James Bond Film Skyfall. As I have never been to Scotland, I think this challenge will be the perfect introduction!

Find out more about The West Highland Way Challenge here

Click here to view our full range of challenges

Challenges

Launch of 2022 Overseas Challenge Dates

December 22, 2020

Today we are very excited to launch our 2022 overseas challenge dates. Think of a time when Covid-19 is just a distant memory and we can travel and explore the best landscapes the globe has to offer!

Have you been dreaming about summiting majestic mountains, trekking through forbidden landscapes, or visiting one of the amazing Wonders of the World? We know that people want to put 2020 behind them so let’s look to the future, turn your dreams into a reality and do something amazing for a good cause close to your heart.

Booking a Charity Challenge for 2022 is guaranteed to give you something to look forward to when the Covid-19 cloud has passed, and more importantly it will give you a purpose over the coming year, and keep you focused on getting fit. So, the only question that remains is – which challenge will it be?

MOUNTAIN TREK CHALLENGES

Kilimanjaro Summit Climb

Trek through 5 eco-systems (cultivation, rainforest, heather & moorland, alpine desert & arctic) & summit the highest free-standing mountain in the world – Mount Kilimanjaro (5895m).

12 days | Tanzania | Extreme

Cotopaxi Summit – Avenue of the Volcanoes

This beautiful trek is not for the faint-hearted as it culminates in a magical midnight glacier climb. You will feel exhausted but elated as you rise with the sun, rewarded with priceless views over the Andes once you conquer Cotopaxi, one of the highest active volcanoes in the world (5897m).

12 days | Ecuador | Extreme

Trek Machu Picchu

Follow the spectacular and uncrowded Ancascocha trail, surrounded by the snow-capped Andean mountains, raging rivers and remote mountain communities until you reach the lost Incan city of Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

10 days | Peru | Tough

Everest Base Camp

Walking in the shadow of the world’s highest mountain – Mt Everest (8,848m), your route will take you through Sherpa villages, past beautiful monasteries and over jaw-dropping suspension bridges as you traverse gorges, visit the Everest Memorial Ground and trek through the Khumbu ice fall until you reach Base Camp.

18 days | Nepal | Extreme

TREKKING CHALLENGES

Great Wall Discovery

Conquer the imperial masterpiece of the Ming dynasty as you test yourself against thousands of challenging steps along the Great Wall of China, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, with time to explore the cultural highlights of China’s historic capital – Beijing

9 days | China | Challenging

Trek to Petra

Trek across deserts, ascend mountains, traverse high ridges and down into wadis as you camp Bedouin-style in the desert and delight in the ancient hidden city of Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

8 days | Jordan | Challenging

Trek Angkor Wat

Trek 100km through local villages and rice paddies of Cambodia, visit the sacred Kulen Mountain Waterfall and view the Giant Sleeping Buddha, before finishing at the architectural masterpiece of Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world.

8 days | Cambodia | Challenging

Maasai Bush Trek

Join Massai guides – one of Africa’s great nomadic tribes – as you trek across the floor of the Great Rift Valley to the foothills of the Crater Highlands, passing Mt. Kitumbeine, and the game-filled plains of Nagarirat.

9 days | Tanzania | Challenging

CYCLING CHALLENGES

Saigon to Angkor Wat

Follow the road less cycled on this 450km challenge from Saigon to Angkor Wat. Enjoy the endless miles of quiet backwater roads, waterways and rice paddies, passing ancient temples and bustling markets, beautiful and varied rural landscapes, and quaint villages.

11 days | Vietnam | Moderate

Cycle Sri Lanka

Be one of the first to sign up to our brand new cycling challenge, an unforgettable bike ride through Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle. Starting at the famous Lion Rock in Sigiriya, pedal your way through rice fields, spice regions and tea estates, soaking up the Sri Lankan way of life as you go.

9 days | Sri Lanka | Challenging

Cycle India & the Taj Mahal

Discover the chaotic magic of India’s capital – Delhi – and step inside the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World before you cycle 450kms through Rajasthan, a region rich in desert landscapes, fantastic wildlife, exquisite forts, and bustling cities.

10 days | India | Challenging

Cuba Cycle Revolution

Welcome to the land of cigars, revolution, Che Guevara and vintage Chevrolets. The Cuban cycle travels from Havana to the exotic Caribbean. We spend 5-days in the saddle, cycling 350 km from one beautiful coastline to the other, passing remote villages, fruit orchards and sugar plantations.

10 days | Cuba | Challenging

Above is just a taster of some of the amazing challenges we have on offer. To see our full range of challenges available click the button below.

We also understand that there may be a little uncertainty around booking a challenge in the current climate so we have pulled together five reasons to book your next Charity Challenge with absolute confidence!

Click to view our full range of challenges

Sales & Promotions

The Black Friday Sale has begun!! Get up to £300 off*

November 27, 2020

This year we are offering MASSIVE savings on a range of 2021 and 2022 Overseas and UK & Ireland challenges for our Black Friday Sale.

Book before midnight on Monday the 30th November and you can get up to £300 off* the registration fee on selected overseas challenges and up to 75% off* the registration fee on selected UK challenges. *T&C’s apply

Use code BF2020 when booking your next adventure!

Visit incredible destinations, go beyond your limits and create lifelong memories in some of the world’s most amazing destinations, while raising money to help your favourite cause. Below is a little taster of some of the amazing discounts we have on offer this year….

Save up to £200 off your reg fee on Saigon to Angkor Wat Bike Ride.

Save up to £300 off your reg fee on Everest Base Camp

Save up to £100 off your reg fee on Trek to Petra

Save up to £200 off your reg fee on Trek to Machu Picchu

Save up to 75% off your reg fee on selected UK challenges .

Save up to £100 off your reg fee on Icelandic Lava Trek

EXPLORE THE FULL RANGE OF BLACK FRIDAY DISCOUNTS HERE

Sales & Promotions

Massive Savings Coming Soon in our Black Friday Sale…

November 20, 2020

Tis the season to sit down with a cuppa and write your adventure bucket list for the year ahead. That is if you haven’t done it already!

Have you been dreaming of the majestic views of Nepal and standing in the shadows of the world’s highest mountain – Everest – (8,848m) on our Everest Base Camp trek?

Or trekking through Iceland, one of the planet’s most volcanic regions, and witnessing thundering waterfalls, steaming lava fields, plunging fjords and spouting geysers on our Icelandic Lava Trek?

Or staying closer to home and taking on an incredible day of trekking, biking and kayaking in the stunning Lake District Triple Challenge?

Well now is the time to make things happen! This year we are offering MASSIVE savings on a range of 2021 and 2022 Overseas and UK & Ireland challenges for our Black Friday Sale. To get priority booking and first access to these great savings sign up to our newsletter below.

For now, click on the challenges below and start getting your Overseas and UK & Ireland wish list ready for our biggest ever Black Friday Sale!

Tips & Advice

Five reasons to book a Charity Challenge in the current climate

November 6, 2020

We understand that there may be a little uncertainty around booking a challenge in the current climate so we have pulled together five reasons to help you make one of the greatest decisions of your life and book your next Charity Challenge with absolute confidence!

1 – Cancellation flexibility

Book an overseas challenge for 2021 (from 27th Nov 2020 to 31 Jan 2021) and you can cancel your challenge at any point up to 90 days before departure, for whatever reason, and we will give you a full refund! This applies to all overseas challenge bookings made until the 31 January 2021. We want people considering booking a trip now, to have 100% confidence that their registration fee is protected and that they can cancel without any penalty for whatever reason.*

* For any Trek to Machu Picchu bookings, where Inca Passes have been bought and paid for, we will refund the registration fee less £75 to cover the direct costs incurred for your booking. If the passes have not been purchased, we will refund you in full

2 – We are Covid Safe

For the latest version of our Covid-19 Health & Safety Guidelines please visit here.

“It’s been our very own challenge ensuring that our trips are Covid-secure, and that all of our participants feel safe. So it’s wonderful to read comments like Rachel’s, who took part in the Snowdon Triple Challenge for NSPCC in September 2020. Thank you!

Click here to read Rachels’s full review

3 – Support your Mental, Physical & Emotional Health

To protect each other from the spread of Covid-19 we have learnt that we need to “Wash Hands, Cover Face & Make Space”. But what do we need to do to protect our own health?

There has never been a greater need for us to take care of our mental, physical and emotional health. By booking a Charity Challenge event for 2021 this will not only give you something to look forward to when the Covid-19 cloud has passed, it will give you a purpose over the coming year. Due to the immense physical nature of the challenge, you really have to dedicate some time to training and getting your body fit and healthy and up to the task, and there’s little else out there that gives you better motivation to get into shape than the thought that next year, you could be summiting the National Three Peaks, climbing to Everest base camp, or trekking through the Accursed Albanian Alps!

You will also be gifted with a whole host of other life enhancing benefits such as courage, tenacity, self-love, a sense of fulfilment, meeting new friends and the warm glow of selflessness knowing you are helping others as well as yourself!

4 – Support Charities

Charity Challenge has been supporting charities to raise millions of pounds for over 20 years. Helping others is the core of our business. The Covid-19 pandemic has created unprecedented difficulties across every sector of the UK economy. The charity sector in particular is estimated to lose £4billion in income. We have had numerous conversations with charities since the outbreak of coronavirus and, having listened to their needs, we are doing everything we can to support them, such as launching our New UK & Ireland 2021 Challenges and New Winter Season UK Challenges

By taking on a charity challenge, you can play your part and help raise much needed funds for a charity that is close to your heart. If you are worried about hitting the minimum sponsorship target you also have the option of choosing the self-funding or flexi payment options. Click here to learn more about the different payment options.

Plus, we all know that helping others is hugely empowering and, in turn, can make you feel happier and more fulfilled.

5 – Flexibility if Covid-19 continues to impact on travel

Please rest assured that if Charity Challenge cannot operate a challenge in the host country due to Covid-19, we will offer you a number of options including the chance to:

Postpone your challenge to a later departure of the same challenge (up to March 2023)
Join any other overseas Charity Challenge trip from our extensive portfolio (this year or next)
transfer your place to another person
receive a refund of monies paid for the challenge

Please note that in most cases, where trips can be rescheduled in the same financial year, we are waiving our standard admin fees.

We understand that all the changes in the current environment can be extremely overwhelming and may leave you with many questions as we all adapt to the new way of being. To ease some of your concerns we have pulled together some Covid-19 FAQ’s

We hope the above information provides some support and also some comfort in booking with Charity Challenge, but if you have any further questions please do not hesitate to get in touch
Email : info@charitychallenge.com
Call : +44 (0)20 8346 0500

Challenges

Launch of 2022 European Challenge Dates

October 26, 2020

At Charity Challenge we have decided to leave 2020 in the past and look to the future! Today we are very excited to launch our 2022 European challenge dates. Think of a time when Covid-19 is just a distant memory and we can travel and explore the best landscapes that Europe has to offer!

From cycling through the planet’s most volcanic regions in Iceland, to dog sledding across the beautiful, frozen landscape of Swedish Lapland, or visiting Count Dracula’s castle after trekking through the majestic Transylvanian Alps, these extraordinary challenges will make you fall in love with everything Europe has to offer. The toughest part will be deciding which challenge to take on first!

TREKKING CHALLENGES

Icelandic Lava Trek

This 5-day Icelandic itinerary takes in thundering waterfalls, steaming lava fields, plunging fjords and spouting geysers. Trek 58kms through one of the planet’s most volcanic regions and your hard work will be rewarded with an indulgent visit to Iceland’s famous Blue Lagoon where you have the chance rest aching limbs!

Highlights of the Tour de Mont Blanc

The Mont Blanc circuit is one of the most renowned and beautiful trekking routes in the world and this short itinerary takes in the best of the highlights. On this tough 4-day challenge, you will be trekking over 50km on the French, Italian and Swiss sides of the Alps, amid beautiful and raw mountain scenery.

Trek Transylvania

Traverse the Transylvanian Alps, taking in huge mountains, rugged wilderness and small villages on this 60km 4-day trek through Romania. Visit the King’s Rock National Park, home to wolves, lynx and bears plus, no trip to Transylvania would be complete without a stop at Count Dracula’s castle.

Trek the Accursed Albanian Alps

A challenging and spectacular 6-day trek at the very heart of the Albanian Alps, known as ‘The Accursed Mountains’. Traverse lush green valleys, wildflower meadows and craggy passes in Albania and Montenegro. Finishing the challenge by conquering Zla Kolata, Montenegro’s highest mountain (2,534m)

CYCLING CHALLENGES

London to Paris Bike Ride

This classic London to Paris cycle ride takes you through the beautiful Kent countryside before crossing the Channel to Calais. Over the course of four days, cyclists will cover an impressive 435kms through England and France. A challenge for those who are new to the sport, as well as the experienced cyclist.

Cycle Albania

Join us on our new cycle challenge, discovering the highlights of Albania. Cycling 6-days over 400kms on some quiet roads you’ll pass through stunning scenery – from huge snow-capped mountains and attractive rural villages, to the beautiful turquoise coast of the Ionian Sea.

Iceland Fire & Ice Cycle Challenge

Iceland is home to some of nature’s most exciting geography, including active volcanoes, glaciers, thundering waterfalls, steaming lava fields, amazing ice caps and spouting geysers. Our short but tough biking challenge takes in some of the country’s most stunning and rugged terrain as we cycle over 230kms past volcanoes, hot springs and bubbling mud pots.

SNOW & ICE CHALLENGES

Dog Sledding Challenge

A team of loyal huskies leads the way through the snow-covered forests and mountains of Swedish Lapland, across 200kms of beautiful, frozen landscape. Experience the silence of nature over 5-days while gliding through this winter wonderland, taking the opportunity to spot elk and reindeer and even see the spectacular Northern Lights.

Iceland Glacier Trek

This is a challenge to get you out of your comfort zone and onto Iceland’s most extreme glacial landscapes. Based in the highlands of Iceland, you’ll ski-trek across Langjökull glacier ice cap for 5-days while enjoying the stunning scenery of one of Europe’s last great wildernesses while spending your nights camping on the ice under starry northern skies.

CLICK HERE TO EXPLORE OUR FULL RANGE OF CHARITY CHALLENGES

Tips & Advice

Top fitness training tips for your challenge

October 13, 2020

Some of the questions we get asked most frequently at the Charity Challenge office are “how fit do I need to be to take on this challenge?” and “do you have any advice to help me with my fitness training?” These can be difficult questions for us to answer, as different people have different levels of fitness and varying physical conditions.

We understand that the best kind of advice you can get is from people who have been there, done that and have literally got the charity challenge T-shirt. So check out below for our top fitness tips from Charity Challenge leaders and participants on to prepare for your challenge.

Charity Challenge - Top fitness training tips to prepare for your challenge

Before you start

Training Principles

At the beginning of any training programme it’s always a good idea to establish your fitness objectives and goals. These should be realistic and achievable, but definitely challenging. Aiming too high will set you up for a failure, which could dent your enthusiasm for the challenge. It’s equally important not to overdo it and injure yourself. Review your objectives every couple of weeks to ensure you are still pushing yourself and adjust your programme where necessary.

Start your training programme as far in advance of your challenge as possible. We recommend a lead-time of at least 16 weeks prior to departure, but obviously this is not always possible so do your best to start as soon as you can. This will allow you time to build up your fitness level gradually, thereby reducing the risk of injury.

Mix it up

Getting fit isn’t just about going to the gym, the more interesting you can make it for yourself, the more likely you are to stick with it! Join a sports team, take up a new hobby or start power-walking to work. Kilimanjaro conqueror Hanna mixed up her regime by doing a bit of running, swimming and cycling.

Previous Charity Challenger Ken made his time at the gym interesting by keeping it varied – “Before the trek I worked out 6 days/week combining spinning with overall body work out, treadmill, stair climber and yoga (for balance and centering myself).” The more varied you can make your training, the more parts of your body gets a workout and the more prepared you are to meet whatever your challenge throws at you!

Train with your kit

One if the best ways you can prepare yourself for your charity challenge is by getting used to and training with your kit. Previous challenger Neil strongly recommends spending some time in your walking boots “I was able to walk to and from work and broke them in really well…Result for me was that I had no blisters during the trek.”

Previous challenger Becki also can’t recommend training with your kit enough, – “Training with the actual rucksack you will be using is a must! And training with the weight you will be carrying as well!” You can do lots of walking and trekking preparation, but if you don’t get yourself used to carrying the weight of your rucksack on your back it can be a real shock to you when you begin your challenge.

Focus on the leg muscles

Whether you’re cycling, trekking or sledging, you are going to be really working your leg muscles on your charity challenge, so strengthening them up is a must! Hill-walking is a great way of working your leg muscles, building up your endurance and getting used to navigating uneven terrains, as Kilimanjaro trekker Phillip testifies of hill trekking, “what better way to train for climbing a mountain!”

This principle works for Cyclists as well, as Great Wall challenge cyclist Chris says, “get lots of big steep hills practice. I say if you can cycle most the cycle routes in the lakes you will be fine”. If you don’t have the time to disappear into the hillside, there are still lots of other things a little closer to home you can do to work up your leg muscles. If you work/live a couple of floors up, forgo the lift and start taking the stairs, get off a tube/bus stop early and walk the rest of the way home. Exercise Bikes, Elliptical Cross trainers and treadmills are also great gym equipment for working the leg muscles.

Sign up for Challenge Training

If you would like to get a feel for our challenges ahead of your departure, why not consider booking on a 1 or 2 day UK Challenge?

We are offering all participants 50% off the registration fee when you book on one of the UK challenges listed via the link below. Just use the code TRAINING when booking. T&C’s – you must have an active booking on a challenge to avail of this offer. Discount cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Find out more here

So there you have it! Take note of these tips and you should be well on your way to conquering your charity challenge and having the time of your life! For more top tips, and to learn more about all our charity challenges, please visit our website at www.charitychallenge.com, and, to keep up to date on all our challenge news, subscribe to this blog by clicking on the orange RSS button, you can also enter your email address into the adjacent box to subscribe to our mailing list.

Challenges, Latest News

Minds in the Wild challenge in association with Mad World

September 1, 2020

The team at Charity Challenge are delighted to share details of our first Minds in the Wild challenge in association with Mad World, to the outdoor adventure playground of The Scottish Highlands this September.

Now in its fifth successful year, Mad World is the global go-to solutions-focused conference and exhibition for employers who want to proactively support mental, physical, financial and social wellbeing. All funds raised will go to minds@work, a registered charity working to eradicate the stigma of mental illness and create a healthier working world.

This new Minds in the Wild challenge will see you complete three days of tough trekking over the mountains and through the glens of this spectacular part of the Scottish Highlands, whilst focussing on your mental and physical wellbeing. During each day’s trek, you will be afforded time to reflect and learn about your own wellbeing and ways to enhance it; as well as understand some of the best practices required to address the stigma of mental ill health in workplaces. This will occur through informal discussions during the challenge.

Based in the beautiful and remote Glen Lyon, near the town of Aberfeldy, there are three tough days of trekking to test your limits, before you get to celebrate your accomplishments. Over the course of the challenge, you will reach the summit of some of the highest mountains in the Highlands, trek through remote glens and around isolated lochs to experience the very best scenery in the area.

With fully qualified walking leaders, wellbeing ambassadors, and a fantastic camp crew to support you, you’ll have all the help you need to complete this incredible challenge.

For more information on the Mad World Scottish Highlands Challenge click here

Challenge Highlights

Three days of trekking in the mountains and glens of the Scottish Highlands
Trek some of the most challenging sections of the Rob Roy Way and summit Ben Lawers (1214m)
Learn of ways to maintain your wellbeing
Become ambassadors to addressing the stigma of mental ill health in your workplace
Raise funds for the charity minds@work

Mental Wellbeing Ambassadors

On this Mad World Scottish Highlands Challenge you will be joined by a number of respected mental wellbeing ambassadors who will support you and share thoughts and inspiration on improving your own mental wellbeing and that of your friends, family, and work colleagues.

Geoff McDonald

After 25 years with Unilever, Geoff left his role as Global VP of HR to devote his energy to ending the stigma of depression and anxiety in the workplace. As a speaker, a business transformation consultant, and co-founder of minds@work, he inspires leaders to embrace mental health and empower organisations to put purpose at their core and play their positive role in the world.

Further ambassadors to be announced…

For more information on the Mad World Scottish Highlands Challenge click here

Interested in learning more about Minds in the Wild?

Please watch the video above, or visit our website, call +44 (0)20 8346 0500 or email simon@charitychallenge.com.

For more of the challenges organised by Charity Challenge please visit www.charitychallenge.com

Challenges

New UK & Ireland 2021 Challenges

August 12, 2020

In over 20 years of Charity Challenge, one of the most exciting things we’ve done was launching the UK challenge series. Since the series was launched, UK challenges have grown exponentially in popularity. The nation has learnt that we do not always need to hop on a plane for an amazing adventure!

We are blessed to have some of the most spectacular national parks, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, coastal walks and trekking trails right on our doorstep. The UK & Ireland have so much to offer; a wide variety of gorgeous scenery, and plenty of tough hills and mountains to get your heart rate up and leg muscles burning!

The team at Charity Challenge have being working hard on numerous projects to help charities and supporters through this unsettling time. After the very successful launch of our Winter Season 2020/2021 UK Challenges we are very excited to launch to our NEW UK & Ireland 2021 challenges.

Get ready to explore more ways to push yourself to the limit, experience the challenge of a lifetime, and visit some exciting new destinations, whilst raising vital funds for a cause you are passionate about.

Multi-day Trek Challenges

WEST HIGHLAND WAY CHALLENGE

SOUTH WEST COAST PATH CHALLENGE

Join us for three days of trekking and camping along one of the toughest sections of the stunning South West Coastal Path. You will experience everything that this popular long-distance National Trail has to offer on this 65km trek, from remote beaches to rugged cliff tops and picturesque fishing villages – perfect for spotting Atlantic grey seals and dolphins!

Multi-day Cycle Challenges

COAST TO COAST CYCLE CHALLENGE

Be inspired by some of the most dramatic scenery England has to offer on this classic two-day bike ride from the west to east coast of the country. Departing from Whitehaven, this challenging itinerary stretches for 225 km, crossing through the Lake District, North Pennines, and the ancient fringes of Hadrian’s Wall, before reaching the North Sea at Whitley Bay.

TOUR DE CORNWALL

Join us and cycle over 320km’s from Penzance, via Land’s End, to Plymouth. This epic three-day cycle ride traverses the entire Cornish peninsula, from west to east and from north to south and all the while you will be surrounded by picturesque countryside, stunning villages and historic harbour towns.

Multi-Activity Challenges – Trek, Bike & Kayak

IRISH TRIPLE CHALLENGE

1 Day Urban Challenges

LONDON ROYAL PARKS CHALLENGE

Challenge yourself to this marathon distance trek between the ten London Royal Park’s. This epic 42km route will take you across historic parkland and beautiful green spaces, while passing some of the finest architecture in London. From Richmond Park, along the banks of the River Thames, passing iconic Westminster and Buckingham Palace, before ending in Greenwich Park.

EDINBURGH 7 SUMMITS CHALLENGE

CLICK HERE TO EXPLORE OUR FULL RANGE OF UK & IRELAND CHALLENGES

Visit Britain We’re Good to Go”

* T&C’S : Applies to first 10 bookings per challenge. UK 2021 Challenges included in the discount – West Highland Way Challenge, South West Coast Path Challenge, Irish Triple Challenge, Coast to Coast Cycle Challenge, Tour de Cornwall, London Royal Parks Challenge and Edinburgh 7 Summits Challenge. Offer expires 31 August 2020.

Tips & Advice

Five steps to fundraising for your challenge

August 7, 2020

Whether this is your very first fundraising challenge event or you’re a seasoned trekker, cyclist or mountain climber, follow the five steps below to help you raise as much as possible for your chosen charity.

1. CHOOSE A CHARITY THAT’S CLOSE TO YOUR HEART or that of a good friend or family member or a cause that you strongly believe in. You will be more motivated to crack on with your fundraising and you will find the whole fundraising process so much easier and rewarding. Break down your fundraising target and set yourself mini-financial milestones and the pathway of how you’re going to reach them. It’s far less daunting than the big figure.

2. SET UP AN ONLINE FUNDRAISING PAGE through the well renowned providers of Justgiving , Go Fund Me, or Everyday Hero. Each system is user friendly and provides step-by-step guides on how to set up your page. It’s a fast and secure way to donate, and you don’t need to handle any money as these providers send the fundraised monies straight to your charity. Remember to personalise your page with your story and photos!

Key tips when setting up your page to help boost your fundraising potential:

Tell your compelling story as to why you are fundraising for your chosen charity. People will be much more interested if they know your connection and motivations
Briefly explain why you are doing the challenge and highlight any key areas which will motivate people to sponsor you ie. lack of toilet facilities, no showers, the heat, the cold, camping etc
Tell people what your fundraising target is and what their contribution will help achieve for your charity
Treat your fundraising page like a blog by adding updates, photos and progress reports whenever you can
Communication is key. Send an email or pop up a Facebook post when you’ve updated your page, to let everyone know there are new things to see. People who have already sponsored you will be interested in how you’re getting on, and it’s a reminder for those who didn’t sponsor you the first time around to make a donation
Whilst you are building up to an incredible challenge, your fundraising forms part of your journey. Bring your family and friends on this journey with you and upload photos and footage of you training for your event. Images of you getting outside when it’s cold, dark, raining, before work or at weekends will really demonstrate your commitment to the cause and people will be inspired by that.

3. SPREAD THE WORD THROUGH SOCIAL MEDIA and add it to your email signature plus ask your family and friends to do the same for you. Social media offers you a great way to promote your online page and the huge challenge that lies ahead for you. Not only is it quick and easy to use, it can get your message out to a large audience of potential sponsors. Remember to use all platforms too – Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Tick Tok, Snapchat, Youtube, Google +, Blogs. Plus make sure you send an email or pop up a post just before you depart on your challenge – take a photo of your kit bag or the plane as it’s just another reminder for people to sponsor you. Some interesting stats for you – on average, a fundraiser will share their online fundraising page on social media twice a month and 50% of donations on Justgiving come directly from Facebook referrals.

4. EVEN MORE WAYS TO HELP BOOST YOUR FUNDRAISING ‘offline’ which you can update on your online fundraising page with.

At work – cake sale (especially around the time of the Great British Bake Off), guess how many sweets are in the jar, Grand National sweepstake, any World Cup sweepstake, hold a coffee morning, wear jeans to work day for £2 etc. Check with your employer for permission and whether they offer a matched giving scheme i.e. if you raise £500 for your charity, they will match it.
Locally – Offer up your services to your neighbours currently self-isolating by dog walking, shopping, car washing, rubbish collection, gardening etc. Just print off some cards offering your services, deliver them through your neighbours letter boxes and wait for the phone to ring.
Socially – have dinner i.e. at a local Indian restaurant (or a restaurant of the country you are visiting on your challenge), have a car boot sale, arts & crafts, private tuition, brave the shave and shave your head, hold a pub quiz, organise a raffle, go sober for a month (ideal for your training) etc.
Virtually – Fundraising events do not need to stop just because we need to social distance. We live in the digital era so now is the perfect time to use your creative skills and live stream an event – Coffee mornings, Karaoke contest, dance parties, pub quizzes, fitness classes, online auctions, rock-paper-scissors tournament, online gaming tournament, head shaving etc… the options are endless!

5. THANK YOUR SPONSORS. Once you’ve returned from your amazing challenge, upload your photos and footage to social media and your online fundraising page with a brief description of how your challenge went. Send a personal email to all your sponsors thanking them for their support. Plus pop up a post on all social media platforms with your photos and your online fundraising page link as a friendly reminder that people can still sponsor you. Outline some ‘challenging’ encounters that you faced on your event to help encourage more sponsorship and add a thank you note too. If you are still short of your fundraising target, mention this on your post that you only need £X to hit your target.

Good luck with your fundraising. It’s a significant part of the challenge and if you raise most of your sponsorship before the event, it will make the challenge that much more gratifying. You should be proud of what you are undertaking and the difference you are making for your chosen charity.

Challenges

Launch of 2021 UK challenges dates

July 27, 2020

In the UK we are blessed to have some of the most spectacular national parks, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, coastal walks and trekking trails in the world. Charity Challenge is very pleased to announce the launch of our 2021 UK challenge dates.

Can you see yourself summit the three highest peaks in England, Scotland and Wales? Or pit yourself against the spectacular landscape of Snowdonia National Park in a multi-activity challenge (trek, bike and kayak)? Do you dream of trekking along the dramatic and beautiful coastline of the Jurassic Coast UNESCO World Heritage Site or cycling through the beautiful Kent countryside before crossing The Channel to Paris?

Make 2021 the year it all comes true, while raising money for a worthwhile cause, close to your heart. Below we have highlighted a selection of our favourite UK Challenges. Fear not, we have many more for you to choose from! For the full range of challenges click here

Trek Challenges

NATIONAL THREE PEAKS CHALLENGE

JURASSIC COAST CHALLENGE

Join us to explore a section of the most popular National Trail in the UK – The South West Coast Path. This tough one-day challenge has you trekking 30kms along the dramatic and beautiful coastline of the Jurassic Coast UNESCO World Heritage Site.

YORKSHIRE THREE PEAKS CHALLENGE

Complete this classic UK trekking challenge in the beautiful Yorkshire Dales National Park. It entails a 38km trek to summit the famous Yorkshire Three Peaks – Pen-y-Ghent (694 metres), Whernside (736 metres) and Ingleborough (723 metres) within a period of just 12 hours!

LAKE DISTRICT 5 PEAKS CHALLENGE

Prepare for an epic challenge through the rugged and dramatic landscape of the Lake District, as you tackle five of England’s most demanding peaks, including its highest – Scafell Pike.

Multi-Activity Challenges – Trek, Bike & Kayak

SNOWDON TRIPLE CHALLENGE

LAKE DISTRICT TRIPLE CHALLENGE

SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS TRIPLE CHALLENGE

Cycle Challenges

LONDON TO PARIS BIKE RIDE

Visit Britain We’re Good to Go”

CLICK HERE TO EXPLORE OUR FULL RANGE OF UK CHALLENGES

Latest News

New Travel Insurance Policy With Cover For Covid-19

July 24, 2020

Your safety is one of our main concerns at Charity Challenge, which is why ensuring you take out extensive travel insurance is an essential part of every booking.

We are therefore delighted to announce that our travel insurance partners at Campbell Irvine have launched a new updated Campbell Irvine Direct travel insurance policy which includes Medical Expenses and Cancellation cover for Covid-19. This is a vital piece of cover for any intended overseas trip, so please do read this information carefully.

New Travel Insurance Policy

Medical emergency treatment overseas and medical repatriation due to an insured client being diagnosed with Covid-19.
Cancellation cover to reimburse your clients for any irrecoverable payments and charges made for travel and accommodation if they have to cancel their trip due to a doctor diagnosing either them, a close relative or their insured travelling companion with Covid-19 and as a result being advised not to travel.
Cancellation due to either the client or their insured travelling companion’s direct exposure to a close relative being diagnosed with Covid-19 resulting in an order via the NHS Test and Trace programme for your client to be medically quarantined and not being able to travel.
Cancellation or Curtailment cover due to denied boarding of public transport if displaying symptoms of Covid-19.

Additional T&C’s Applicable To The New Cover

There is no cover in respect of any travel to a region or country against British FCO advice. Should a client wish to travel to any area contrary to FCO advice then they will not be eligible to purchase this insurance and specialist cover should be arranged with Campbell Irvine.

There is no cover provided if due a second wave there is another ‘lockdown’, either locally, countrywide or in the destination country resulting in your client being unable to travel either from their home or to the booked destination. Likewise if the FCO subsequently advise against travel to destination there would be no cancellation cover under a travel insurance policy for such an event.

New European only Annual Multi Trip Travel Insurance

Campbell Irvine are also delighted to announce the launch of a new European only Annual Multi Trip travel insurance policy providing cover for unlimited number of trips within the UK and Europe with up to 31 days cover any one trip. Winter sports cover is available subject to payment of an additional premium.

For further information on the new updated Campbell Irvine Direct travel insurance policy please see :

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact the team at Campbell Irvine.

020 7938 1734 | info@campbellirvine.com | www.campbellirvinedirect.com

Do I Need Travel Insurance?

Your safety when travelling with Charity Challenge is our main concern which is why it is a booking condition that you have a suitable travel insurance policy that will cover the adventurous nature of your challenge. We have chosen to partner with specialist travel insurance providers Campbell Irvine, who offer cover for an extensive number of adventurous activities. Cover is available directly from Campbell Irvine for most European residents and includes cover for emergency medical and repatriation and for your cancellation or curtailment of the challenge. Cancellation cover is very important as you need to consider protecting the charity you are raising funds for, as they may be contributing hundreds or thousands of pounds towards your challenge costs.

You can view further details and buy the policy here.

We appreciate that whilst you may already have your own travel insurance in place, it is not administratively possible for us to vet each and every one of your policies. It is therefore the responsibility of each client to check that the policy cover they have in place adequately meets their requirements. Please note you can have more than one policy covering the same trip as many of our clients do. If you are flying directly to join the group in-country, please ensure the period of insurance covers the full duration of your trip for the travelling time to and from your home.

What happens if I make a booking with Charity Challenge and the trip can’t run due to Covid-19?

Please rest assured that if Charity Challenge cannot operate a challenge in the host country due to Covid-19, we will offer you a number of options including:

the chance to postpone your challenge to a later departure (this year or next)
to join any Charity Challenge trip in another country (this year or next)
to receive a refund of monies paid for the challenge

Please note there are no admin fees to either postpone or change destinations, should we be forced to cancel your existing challenge due to Covid-19.

Challenges, Latest News

Exciting UK Challenge Update!!

July 8, 2020

LAKE DISTRICT 5 PEAKS CHALLENGE

Prepare for an epic challenge through the rugged and dramatic landscape of the Lake District, as you tackle five of England’s most demanding peaks, including its highest – Scafell Pike.

JURASSIC COAST CHALLENGE

This tough one day challenge has you trekking 30 kilometres along the dramatic coastline of the Jurassic Coast UNESCO World heritage site.

SNOWDON AT NIGHT CHALLENGE

Beginning in the town of Llanberis, in the heart of the Snowdonia National Park, this spectacular challenge will see you and fellow fundraisers trekking to the top of Snowdon….at night!

LONDON 10 PEAKS CHALLENGE

Discover ten of London’s often hidden peaks on this new marathon distance walking challenge through 42km of beautiful woodland, nature reserves and quieter spaces.

WELSH 3000S CHALLENGE

GIANT’S CAUSEWAY CHALLENGE

This tough one day challenge has you trekking a marathon distance along the dramatic coastline of the Giant’s Causeway UNESCO World Heritage site.

Covid-19 – Keeping you Safe on your Challenge

For the latest version of our Covid-19 Health & Safety Guidelines please visit here .

Visit Britain We’re Good to Go”

Booking with Confidence

We understand that there may be a little uncertainty around booking in the current climate so we
have created a Booking With Confidence policy to help you book your next Charity Challenge with
absolute confidence.

Book with the knowledge that:

We are putting significant measures in place to make your challenge Covid Safe
We have flexible payment options
We have ATOL and International Passenger Protection financial cover for your peace of mind*
We will offer you a number of options if we cannot operate your challenge due to Covid-19 :
- postpone your challenge to a later departure
- join any other challenge
- transfer your place to another person
- receive a refund of monies paid for the challenge

We hope that the above information has brought some cheer to your day as we know how eager everyone is (including Team Charity Challenge) to get back outside and raise some much need funds for charity!

For now, we look forward to welcoming you back to an exciting challenge in a couple of months’ time.

Latest News

Covid-19 : Keeping you Safe on your Challenge

July 7, 2020

Last updated: 10th Sept 2020

The safety of our customers, leaders, doctors, local ground teams, and the communities we interact with on our challenges, is of paramount importance to us. A large part of our safety system is ensuring that you, our customers, are fully informed and updated of the best practice guidelines and the measures that we have put in place to keep you Covid safe.

This impacts on everyone and requires the active engagement and participation of everyone on every challenge, so please read this document in full and please get in touch if you have any questions. We will put in place control measures to protect our customers, leaders and staff by aiming to prevent anyone arriving on the challenge with Covid-19, by minimising the potential spread of the virus to others in the group or to the communities in which we operate, and by having clear guidelines for responding to anyone displaying Covid-19 symptoms during a challenge.

We ask everyone booked on one of our challenges to check this document carefully in the weeks leading up to your challenge, as it will be updated as guidelines change, so that you understand the latest advice and measures in place.

Downloadable version of our Covid-19 Health & Safety Guidelines available here

CLEAR & TRANSPARENT SOCIAL DISTANCING GUIDELINES

The nature of the virus, and the way in which the UK responds with specific social distancing measures and official guidelines, means that our response will be thorough and fully informed by a number of domestic, international and global health authorities, but as it is constantly evolving and changing, so will our response.

Please rest assured that we will remain connected to best practice guidance and advice and adapt our own processes and procedures to match the latest advice.

Social distancing guidelines about what additional safety measures might be appropriate and when they will apply before, during and after your challenge will be made available to participants in the ‘Final Details’ document we send out about a month before departure for UK challenges (two months for international challenges).

SOURCES OF INFORMATION AND GUIDANCE

It is part of our duty of care to keep up to date with all the latest information from a number of domestic, international and global health authorities.