Inspiration, Latest News

100 FACES OF £100 MILLION

September 10, 2026

After almost three decades of fundraising challenges, we’re getting closer to a huge milestone: £100 million raised for good causes since 1999.

To celebrate the people behind the miles, memories and fundraising, we launched 100 Faces of £100 Million. Every fundraising challenge has a story – we asked, what’s yours? Entries had the chance to win a place on our exclusive 100km Sahara Desert Trek in April 2027.

The response was incredible – with stories from across the Charity Challenge community and beyond that inspired, surprised and moved us!

Meet Our Sahara Desert Trek Winner: Naida! 🏆

nadia's story

Watch Naida’s Story ▶️

We were blown away by Naida’s beautifully spoken words of mountains, friendship, community and resilience. Her entry captured exactly what challenge events are about – and why we keep going.

As our trek winner, Naida will also be joining us in April 2027 to trek 100km across the Sahara Desert, as we celebrate £100 million raised for good causes since 1999.

Alongside our overall winner, we selected Gold, Silver and Bronze winners across three categories: Most Inspiring Story, Outstanding Fundraising Achievement, and the Legacy Award for Long-Term Supporter, recognising some of the incredible stories and achievements shared with us.

Most Inspiring Story

liz's story
▶️ Liz’s Story
emma's story
▶️ Emma’s Story
michelle's story
▶️ Michelle’s Story

  • 🥇 Gold | Liz’s Story: Liz turned one spontaneous Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge into a trekking journey spanning eight more challenges, at age 85!
  • 🥈 Silver | Emma’s Story: After being diagnosed with breast cancer at 31, Emma has pushed her physical limits through Charity Challenge treks, raising money for CoppaFeel! along the way.
  • 🥉 Bronze | Michelle’s Story: Through illness, loss and adversity, Michelle has continued to challenge herself, raise money for charity and inspire others to make every opportunity count.

Outstanding Fundraising Achievement

kerry's story
▶️ Kerry’s Story
kate's story
▶️ Kate’s Story
matt's story
▶️ Matt’s Story

  • 🥇 Gold | Kerry’s Story: Since 2012, Kerry has taken on Charity Challenge treks every two years, raising an incredible £360,000 for Breast Cancer Now along the way.
  • 🥈 Silver | Kate’s Story: Kate ran over 1,000 miles in 2024, raising £30,000, before bringing together a team of 23 to climb Kilimanjaro and raise a staggering £293,000 for Greenfingers Charity.
  • 🥉 Bronze | Matt’s Story: Matt and his daughter Holly raised an incredible £35,000 for the Bowelbabe Fund through their Himalayan Trek, contributing to more than £250,000 raised by the wider team.

Legacy Award for Long Term Supporter

rachel's story
▶️ Rachel’s Story
dawn's story
▶️ Dawn’s Story
naomi's story
▶️ Naomi’s Story

  • 🥇 Gold | Rachel’s Story: Rachel’s Charity Challenge journey began in 2005 with the Inca Trail, and 13 challenges later, she’s still going – with the Sahara Desert Trek in 2027 marking her 14th challenge with us.
  • 🥉 Bronze | Naomi’s Story: From sponsored walks in the 1960s to marathons, cycling challenges and Charity Challenge treks, Naomi has spent decades raising money for good causes. She also created the Telford T50 route, which continues to help others fundraise today.
charity challenge 100 faces of £100 million graphic

Thank You for Sharing Your Stories

A huge thank you to everyone who took the time to share their story with us, and to our judging panel – Simon Albert, Lizzy Codd, Ian Morton and Jennifer Payne – for the incredibly difficult job of choosing our winners.

We received so many amazing, personal and emotional stories that narrowing them down was no easy task. There were plenty of laughs, more than a few tears, and countless moments that reminded us just how special the Charity Challenge community is.

We’re incredibly proud of everyone who has taken on a challenge, raised money, supported others and played a part in helping us reach £100 million raised for good causes since 1999.

Every challenge has a story. Thank you for sharing yours.

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Latest News, Tips & Advice

PACKING TIPS FOR A MULTI-DAY CHALLENGE 

September 3, 2026

So, you’ve got your day pack, your duffle bag, and everything listed on the kit list from Charity Challenge… and now you’re staring at it all thinking: there’s no way this is going to fit. 

It’s a completely normal reaction. Packing for a multi-day challenge can feel overwhelming at first, but with a bit of structure (and a few tried-and-tested tricks), it quickly becomes much more manageable and even satisfying. Keep reading for our Challenge Leader’s top packing tips for a multi-day challenge.

a trekker packing up her daypack

Start Smart Before You Even Leave Home 

Before you think about how to pack your bag for the challenge itself, it’s worth considering your journey to the destination. 

A simple but important strategy is to split essential items between your main luggage and your day pack. This gives you a safety net in case your main bag is delayed. 

It’s worth keeping a few key things with you in your day pack:

  • A full day of trekking / cycling clothes  
  • Basic toiletries  
  • Any essential medication  
four backpacks packed and prepped with kit, trekking poles and water bottles

You might also want to wear your trekking boots while travelling. It’s not the most glamorous airport look, but it ensures they arrive with you and saves space in your bag. 

A couple of practical reminders that are easy to overlook: 

  • Walking poles should go in your main luggage  
  • Battery packs must go in your hand luggage  
  • Any liquids in hand luggage need to follow airport restrictions  

It’s a small bit of planning that can make a big difference if things don’t go exactly to plan.

3 different sized packing cubes containing folded clothes

Build a Simple System (and Stick to It) 

Once you arrive and start preparing for the challenge itself, organisation becomes your best friend. 

The easiest way to stay on top of your kit is to create a packing system you can repeat every day. When you’re tired, possibly in low light, and packing quickly in the morning, knowing exactly where everything lives saves time and stress. 

One of the most effective ways to do this is by separating your gear into smaller bags. You could use: 

  • Dry bags  
  • Packing cubes  
  • Even simple plastic bags  

This doesn’t just help with organisation – it also protects your kit if your luggage gets wet during transit, which happens more often than people expect.

multi-day trekking kit organised and laid out ahead of being packed

Organising Your Trekking / Cycling Clothes

When it comes to your daily gear, there are two common approaches, and both work well. 

Some people prefer to group similar items together, such as: 

  • One bag for socks and underwear  
  • One for tops  
  • One for bottoms

Others prefer to pack by outfit, keeping everything needed for a single day in one place. 

There’s no right or wrong approach here. The key is choosing a system that makes sense to you and sticking with it throughout the challenge. 

trekking kit laid out on the floor

Don’t Forget Your Non-Challenge Essentials

Once your main challenge gear is sorted, you can move on to everything else. This includes: 

  • Toiletries and wash kit  
  • Snacks and nutrition  
  • Camp clothes  
  • Your outfit for the final evening  
  • Any extra comfort items  

It’s easy for these bits to become disorganised, so giving them their own space within your bag helps keep everything under control.

a person looking through their large backpack during a multi-day trekking challenge

Pack with Efficiency in Mind

A small shift in how you pack which can make your daily routine much smoother is thinking about how often you’ll need each item. For example:

  • Items you use regularly should be easy to access  
  • Things you won’t need until later (like your final night outfit) can go at the bottom  

It sounds simple, but it makes a big difference when you’re unpacking and repacking every day.

a group of people trekking in Peru, wearing daypacks

Always Do a Test Pack

One of the most useful things you can do before your trip is a full test pack at home (and don’t leave it till the last minute!).

Pack both your main bag and your day pack exactly as you would for the challenge, then: 

  • Check everything fits comfortably  
  • Make sure you can find items easily  
  • Weigh your bags to stay within limits  

It’s much easier to adjust things at home than it is the night before you start trekking.

trekkers walking alongside a riverbed, wearing daypacks

Final Thoughts 

Packing for a multi-day challenge isn’t about squeezing everything in at the last minute, it’s about creating a system that works for you. 

With a bit of planning, some simple organisation, and a focus on efficiency, you can turn what feels like a daunting task into something straightforward and stress-free. 

And once you’re on the challenge, you’ll be glad you took the time because when everything has its place, life on the move becomes a whole lot easier. 

By Ian Morton, Challenge Leader

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Case Studies, Latest News

OUR CLIENTS: MASTHAVEN FINANCE

August 26, 2026

Since 1999, Charity Challenge have worked with hundreds of businesses to provide innovative and dynamic solutions for employee engagement and CSR. Our exclusive corporate challenges help companies develop stronger team bonds, demonstrate corporate responsibility and have amazing experiences, all whilst supporting their charity partnerships. 

Masthaven Finance National Three Peaks Challengers holding up 'Spread a smile' charity flags during their fundraising trek

Please introduce yourself…

I’m Abby Butler, Head of Office & EA at Masthaven Finance. In June 2026, a team of 14 colleagues took on the National Three Peaks Challenge in support of Spread a Smile, raising over £15,000 for the charity.

The challenge involved climbing Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon within 24 hours, and while it was physically demanding, it was an incredible experience that brought our team together and supported an incredible cause.

a group of trekkers smiling for a photo along a bridge near scafell pike

Why did you choose Charity Challenge to run this challenge?

We wanted to organise a significant team challenge that would bring colleagues together, push us outside our comfort zones and raise meaningful funds for charity. The National Three Peaks Challenge felt like the perfect fit.

Charity Challenge came highly recommended by Spread a Smile, our chosen charity partner, and from our initial conversations it was clear why. Their experience, professionalism and expertise in delivering large-scale fundraising challenges gave us confidence that the event would be well organised and enjoyable for all participants.

Throughout the planning process, they were supportive, responsive and knowledgeable, making them an easy partner to work with.

a group of trekkers smiling at the summit of a mountain during their national three peaks challenge

What were you hoping to achieve?

Our primary goal was to raise as much money as possible for Spread a Smile, while also creating an opportunity for colleagues from across the business to come together and achieve something memorable outside of the workplace.

With participants from different departments taking part, we hoped the challenge would strengthen relationships, encourage teamwork and give everyone a shared goal to work towards.

People trekking downhill during the national three peaks challenge

How did the challenge go?

The challenge was a huge success. Fourteen colleagues took part and successfully completed the National Three Peaks Challenge over a 26-hour period.

While the traditional challenge target is 24 hours, we were incredibly proud to get the entire team safely to the finish. Managing a group of 14 people across three mountains, varying weather conditions and a demanding travel schedule is no small feat, and completing the challenge together was an amazing achievement.

We faced everything from warm sunshine to snow and high winds across the mountains, making the experience even more memorable. Despite the challenging conditions, the team remained positive and supportive throughout.

Most importantly, we exceeded our fundraising target. Having initially set ourselves a goal of £10k the team went on to raise over £15k for Spread a Smile. Seeing the support from colleagues, industry partners, friends and family was incredible, and it made crossing the finish line even more meaningful.

trekkers dressed in rain coats and wearing charity challenge medals at the summit of a rainy mountain

What were your highlights?

To complete the Three Peaks Challenge within 24 hours is a tough event, but also incredibly rewarding for all 14 people in Team Masthaven. A real highlight was seeing how everyone rallied together when things got tough – there was always someone offering encouragement, a joke or a snack when it was needed most.

Through every weather condition, the team kept each other going, and reaching the final summit together was a lovely moment. Knowing we were raising money for an incredible charity like Spread a Smile kept us motivated throughout. We’re hugely proud of what Team Masthaven has achieved together.

The feedback from participants afterwards was tremendously positive, with many describing it as one of the most challenging but rewarding experiences they had ever undertaken.

trekkers dressed in rain coats at the summit of a rainy mountain

What did Charity Challenge do well?

Charity Challenge were excellent from start to finish.

  • Before the challenge, communication was clear and organised, making it easy for participants to understand what to expect and how to prepare.
  • During the challenge, the guides were excellent. They were knowledgeable, supportive and did a great job of keeping the group motivated and on track throughout a very demanding schedule. Particular thanks go to Alex and David, whose encouragement and leadership played a huge role in helping the team succeed.
  • Post-challenge, the follow-up and support were equally impressive, helping us celebrate the achievement and share the success of the event.
Masthaven Finance National Three Peaks Challengers at the start of their Scafell Pike trek

Testimonial

Charity Challenge delivers an outstanding experience from start to finish. Their professionalism, organisation and support allow participants to focus on the challenge itself, while knowing they are in safe hands. We would highly recommend them to any organisation looking to deliver a memorable fundraising or team-building challenge.

– Abby Butler, Head of Office & EA at Masthaven Finance

Read more about our customers have to say on the Google Reviews link below:

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To learn more about our corporate challenges click here, download our corporate brochure – or watch our new corporate video.

If you’re interested in engaging your employees with a challenge event – book your free initial consultation now! 

During our consultation, we will discuss your business needs, goals and values, provide you with options aligned to your objectives, and then of course, answer any questions that you might have. We’ll also discuss what support we offer and how we will work together throughout your challenge journey. 

You can expect this call to last about 30 minutes. We look forward to speaking with you soon!

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Challenges, Tips & Advice

SAHARA DESERT TREK: TIPS FROM PAST TREKKERS

August 25, 2026

Heading into the Sahara? Our past trekkers have shared their tried-and-tested tips to help you prepare, pack smart and make the most of your Sahara Desert Trek challenge.

Two people looking towards a glowing sunset in the sahara desert, morocco

Footcare is Everything

You simply can’t search ‘Sahara Desert Trek tips’ without being advised about proper footcare. It’s one of the most vital areas to get right! Over the years, our past trekkers have shared plenty of advice about taking care of your feet in the desert.

  • “You can never train too much and if you think your boots are broken in, they’re not. Break them in some more.” – Wendy Ebbrell 
  • “Learn how to tape your feet before you go – it will save them!” – Lucie Green
  • “Prevent blisters before they form! Tape your feet from day one using kinesiology tape, such as SportTape, to reduce friction between your skin, socks and shoes. Practise during training walks to identify and protect your blister hotspots”. –Team Charity Challenge
  • “Make sure you practice plenty in your boots and size up, as the heat made our feet swell“. – Roxane Caplan
Trekking boots and sand gaiters on sand during a Sahara Desert trek.
  • “When sand gets in your boots or socks, it acts like sandpaper against your skin and can worsen blisters. Try to keep it out the best you can, by emptying your boots/socks regularly, wearing walking boots that cover your ankle and tucking your trousers into your socks.” – Richard Simpkin, Challenge Leader 
  • “Consider trying toe socks, which separate your toes and can help reduce rubbing between them – a common spot for blisters to develop.” – Team Charity Challenge
  • “Sand gaiters are designed to stop sand getting into your boots/socks, they’re particularly useful when wearing shorts or walking through soft sand and dunes. Some trekkers simply tuck their trousers into their socks, but gaiters provide an extra layer of protection.” – Team Charity Challenge
  • “I highly recommend carrying a spare pair of dry socks in your daypack, so you can change into fresh socks during your lunch break – giving your feet a chance to dry out and recover.” – Jenn Payne, Challenge Leader
contents of a trekking daypack laid out before packing up

The Art of Keeping Organised

A little organisation goes a long way when you’re living out of a rucksack for five days.

  • “Pack your belongings in dry bags. Such as t-shirts in one bag, trousers and medicines in another – because living out of a ruck sack can be difficult. But if you are organised in this way, not only will keep items dry but it will save time and effort searching.” – Rebecca Rigil
  • “Try packing each day’s clothes into a separate packing cube or drybag and keeping your next day’s set at the bottom of your sleeping bag overnight. This makes early-morning packing much easier!” – Team Charity Challenge
  • “Make sure you follow the checklist to the ‘T’. Literally almost everything I needed was mentioned in the list (and I brought everything suggested). Even some of the things I brought that I personally didn’t need, I shared with others who did. Also as suggested, bring lots and lots of blister plasters. You can never have enough blister plasters“. – Ugonna Okoro 
a group of trekkers walking in the sahara desert near sunset
  • “Try not to overpack your duffle or daypack. Leaving a little room between items makes it much easier to quickly grab what you need when you’re on the move.” – Laura O’Connor
  • “A handy tip is to use a daypack with a hip-belt pocket, or carry a small bum bag, so you can keep essentials within easy reach while walking, Perfect for items like SPF lip balm, tissues, your phone and high-energy sweets!” – Team Charity Challenge
people trekking up a steep sand dune in the sahara

Kit Tips from Past Trekkers

From desert essentials to keeping comfortable at night, here’s the kit our past trekkers recommend. If you’re booked onto a Sahara Desert Trek, you should of course always refer to the full Kit List, found here.

  • “Remember to take the baby wipes!” – Salwa Karoji 
  • “Dry wash and wet wipes can be a real help on the Sahara Desert Trek, particularly when shower facilities are limited. They’re an easy way to freshen up at the end of a long day between proper showers.” – Team Charity Challenge
  • “Don’t dismiss trekking poles! Whilst the terrain is more flat than you may first think, the trekking days are very long, so any knee support is a bonus.” – Hayley Gilling
a group of people smiling for a mobile phone selfie during their sahara desert trek challenge
  • “There are no charging facilities in the desert but plenty of photographic opportunities with magical sunsets and stunning sand dunes, so make sure you take a portable battery charger. Even better, if you can get a solar one, you can make sure it charges your phone, headtorch and any other essential kit, and stays charged itself!” – Simon Albert, Charity Challenge Director 
  • “It is much colder at night than you think, so take plenty of warm clothes!” – Emma Thami 
  • “Temperatures can fluctuate enormously between day and night in the desert, so lots of light layers are key. Consider that lightweight long sleeve tops and long bottoms provide an extra layer of protection from the harsh sun in the day, as well as from insect bites at night!” – Team Charity Challenge
a trekker in the sahara using their water bladder to sip water

Fuel and Hydration Advice

Staying hydrated and well-fuelled is essential when trekking long days in the desert heat.

  • “Rehydration sachets were essential – two bottles, or a bladder and a bottle, one with Rehydration salts and one without was a great shout!” – Bea Footitt
  • “You should carry at least 3 litres of water while trekking to stay hydrated, particularly in hot conditions. If you sweat a lot, rehydration salts and electrolytes can also help replace what you lose – pack both!” – Team Charity Challenge
  • “Practise using your water bladder before the trek, and avoid overfilling it to reduce the risk of bursting. It’s also important to keep the mouthpiece clean and protected from dirt and germs.” – Richard Simpkin, Challenge Leader
charity challenge trekkers on the sahara desert trek, wearing sun hats, sunglasses and neck buffs to protect themselves from the elements

Keeping Cool

With hot days and strong sun, these simple tips can help you stay cool and protected.

  • “Wet your Charity Challenge neck buff, and place it around the neck to help you cool down.” – Simon, Charity Challenge Director
  • “For daytime sun protection, bring sun cream and an SPF lip balm/stick for lips, scalp, backs of hands (minimum factor 30 with UV and UVB protection), a wide brim hat and lightweight, moisture-wicking long-sleeved shirts/t-shirts to protect yourself from the harsh midday rays.“ – Laura O’Connor
  • “I recommend taking a small microfibre flannel to clip on to your day pack, so you can wet it and keep cool as you walk.”– Rosie Graham
  • “Don’t underestimate the use of a small foldable trekking umbrella for some instant shade.” – Ian Morton, Challenge Leader
a person applying SPF suncream during their sahara desert trek challenge

Prepare Well and Enjoy the Journey!

Following the full information, advice and recourses found within your Participant Account Area will best prepare you for your desert adventure – leaving you free to fully enjoy each moment.

  • “Read all the documentation and information provided thoroughly, as it tells you everything you need to know!” – Sarah Taylor
  • “Follow the training plan! I did – in fact I did it and a little more and suffered no aches, no pains, no blisters and felt fresh on a daily basis.” – Sioux Bingham
  • “You are in for an adventure. Put your phone away. Look at the stars. Pack ear plugs. Lean on others if you need to. Enjoy all the chats. Wear SPF. Be prepared to pack and unpack your bag a bazillion times a day. Bring an extra lip balm. Hand sanitizer is your friend. It’s a beautiful world out there, go explore it!” – Fiona Hatton 
a landscape shot of sahara desert sand dunes against a blue sky, with trekkers walking along in a line
BOOK YOUR SAHARA DESERT TREK
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Challenges, Latest News

WHY YOU SHOULD TAKE ON A HALF MARATHON CHALLENGE

August 20, 2026

Did you know we now offer the Manchester Canals Half Marathon and Thames Footpath Half Marathon – two 21km urban trekking challenges packed with iconic sights, scenic routes and a real sense of achievement?

For exclusive groups, a selection of our one-day marathon challenges are also available in half marathon distances, offering a more accessible option for your team. These include the Peak District Challenge, South Downs Challenge, Chilterns Challenge and the Bristol Gorge, Bridge and Castle Trek

But what makes a half marathon challenge worth taking on? Keep reading to discover the benefits and why you should take on a half marathon challenge…

A group of trekkers walking along a sunny path in a section of woodland in the UK,

A Challenge That Fits Around You

With a distance of around 13.1 miles (21km), our half marathon challenges offer a significant personal achievement while being more manageable than a full marathon or multi-day trek. They’re also designed as one-day challenges, meaning there’s no need to take several days out of your schedule, while giving you more flexibility to choose how you travel to and from the event.

a large group of challengers all wearing medals and smiling for a group photo at the end of their thames footpath challenge

Convenient UK Locations

Our half marathon challenges (Manchester Canals Half Marathon and Thames Footpath Half Marathon) take place in accessible locations in major UK cities, making them easier to reach by car or public transport.

Each route offers a different way to experience the city on foot, from Manchester’s historic canals, waterways and industrial landmarks to London’s iconic riverside sights – and lot’s of greenery along the way. You’ll get to explore familiar places from a completely different perspective!

a challenger leader trekking with challenge participants through a woodland section of the manchester canals trek

Perfect For Your First Challenge

Never taken on a Charity Challenge before? A half marathon is a great introduction!

You’ll have the motivation of a group around you, support from our experienced Challenge Leaders and a clear goal to work towards. You don’t have to be an experienced trekker or long-distance walker – just a willingness to train and take on the challenge.

a person walking along a section of the Manchester canals, on a sunny day

Push Yourself For A Good Cause

Taking on 21km is no small achievement! Whether you’re looking to challenge yourself, raise funds for a cause close to your heart, or both, a half marathon trek offers a clear, meaningful mission.

As a leader-led challenge, you’ll trek with a group of like-minded individuals and follow the planned route, with experienced Charity Challenge leaders there to guide you throughout the day. Plus, your Participant Account Area will be full of useful information on kit, training and more – to help you fully prepare beforehand.

And remember, a Charity Challenge isn’t just about the distance. Every step can help raise vital funds for a cause you care about. When booking, you can choose to fundraise for any UK or Irish registered charity you wish, or you can simply self-fund your place – the choice is yours!

a group of people wearing challenge medals and smiling for a photo at the end of their uk fundraising challenge

The Journey To Something Bigger

For some people, 21km might be the ultimate goal – and that itself is a worthy achievement. For others, it could be the beginning of something bigger.

Completing a half marathon challenge can give you the confidence to take on a marathon distance challenge, a multi-day trek, a triple challenge – or even an overseas adventure next time! More often than not, our participants get the ‘challenge bug’ – and can’t wait to book their next one!

a group of people wearing smiling for a photo during their manchester canals trek with Charity Challenge

Ready To Take On A Half Marathon Trek?

If you’re looking for a one-day UK challenge that’s achievable, rewarding and easy to fit around your life, our half marathon treks could be perfect for you. Top Tip: Book early and maximise your training and fundraising time!

CHOOSE YOUR CHALLENGE
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Latest News, Tips & Advice

CULTURAL TIPS FOR TREKKING IN CHINA

August 3, 2026

If you’re heading to China for a multi-day trek like our Great Wall Discovery challenge, you’re in for an unforgettable experience – not just because of the landscapes, but because of the culture. There’s a phrase many travellers come back to again and again: only in China. And it really does sum things up.

China is vast, diverse, and deeply rooted in traditions that can feel very different from what many Western travellers are used to. The key to enjoying it? Go in with an open mind, a sense of humour, and a willingness to embrace the unexpected. Keep reading for our top cultural tips for trekking in China.

A challenge leader trekking with a participant along a section of the Great Wall of China

Expect Curiosity (And Embrace It)

One of the first things many challengers notice is just how curious people can be, especially in more rural areas.

You might find locals:  

  • Wanting to practise their English 
  • Asking questions about where you’re from 
  • Showing interest in your appearance (yes, even touching your hair or face!) 

It can feel unusual at first, but it almost always comes from a place of friendliness and genuine interest. If you lean into it, smile, and engage, these moments often become some of the most memorable parts of your trip.

A charity challenge leader taking selfie with a young local in China.

Understanding Mealtime Etiquette 

Food is a big part of Chinese culture, and meals are often a shared, social experience. Typically, you’ll be eating around a large round table, with multiple shared dishes using a rotating centre platform (a ‘lazy Susan’).

One thing that can catch people out is the order food arrives. Dishes come when they’re ready not in courses, so it’s perfectly normal to start eating straight away. 

A few cultural nuances to be aware of: 

  • Rice or noodles often come towards the end of the meal.  
  • Asking for them earlier can suggest your host hasn’t provided enough food.  
  • Leaving food is fine but avoid placing chopsticks upright in rice, as it symbolises funerals and is considered bad luck. 
  • If you completely clean your plate, some hosts may think you’re still hungry and they didn’t provide enough food – leave a small bite or two. 

It’s these small details that show respect and help you feel more comfortable in the setting. 

Plates of chinese food presented on table.

A Few Habits That Might Surprise You

Travel always brings moments of culture shock, and China is no exception. 

For example, in some areas, particularly rural regions or among older generations, spitting is still relatively common. While this is becoming less frequent, it can still catch visitors off guard. 

It helps to remember that cultural norms go both ways. Something that feels unusual to you may be completely normal locally and vice versa.

A sign in china that says No Spitting

Food, Temperature, and Traditional Beliefs

In China, food isn’t just about taste, it’s closely tied to health and balance. 

Traditional Chinese medicine places importance on maintaining harmony within the body, particularly around temperature and digestion. As a result: 

  • Food and drinks are rarely served very hot or very cold.  
  • A balanced internal temperature is seen as important for wellbeing.  

If something isn’t quite what you expect temperature-wise, it’s best to accept it as part of the experience rather than sending it back. 

A close up of a woman preparing some traditional chinese tea leaves.

Mind Your Gestures

Small gestures can carry different meanings across cultures, and in China, subtlety is valued. 

For example: 

  • Pointing directly at people or things can be seen as rude  
  • Prolonged direct eye contact may feel uncomfortable in some situations  

You might notice guides or locals using more indirect ways of communicating like nodding or gesturing gently. 

It’s all rooted in a cultural emphasis on respect and harmony, influenced by traditions such as those of Confucius. 

A group of trekkers and their local guide holding up a charity challenge sign on their great wall discovery challenge.

Asking for Directions? Be Aware

If you find yourself needing directions, there’s a small cultural nuance worth knowing. 

In China, people often avoid saying “I don’t know” outright, as it can be seen as losing face. This means you might sometimes be given an answer – even if it’s not entirely accurate. 

To make things easier: 

  • Use maps on your phone where possible. 
  • Keep your hotel’s address written in Chinese.  
  • Don’t rely on just one set of directions.  

It’s a small adjustment that can save a lot of confusion.

A direction sign saying upgoing on a section of the great wall of china

Staying Connected: Apps and the Internet 

China’s internet landscape is quite different from what many travellers are used to. Some familiar apps and platforms like Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp are restricted. If staying connected is important, you might consider setting up a VPN before you travel (though reliability can vary).  

Tip – Ensure you choose a VPN that is known to work in China and you set it up before you arrive as they may be blocked in country. 

Alternatively, many visitors choose to embrace local apps such as: 

  • WeChat (for messaging, payments, and more)  
  • Weibo (a social media platform)  

You may even find yourself wishing these apps existed back home as they’re incredibly versatile.

a person holding their phone which has a VPN screen on

Tipping Culture 

Tipping in China is very different from places like the UK or the US. 

In most everyday situations: 

  • Tipping is not expected. 
  • It’s not part of the culture in restaurants, taxis, or hotels.  

However, there is one key exception. On organised treks such as those run by Charity Challenge it’s customary to tip local guides and support teams, as this forms an important part of their income. We suggest around 700 Yuan (approx. £75). This should be given to the challenge leader who will distribute it among the support team, including guides, assistant guides, cooks and drivers.

a local chinese guide standing with a microphone at the front of a tour bus.

Final Thoughts 

Trekking in China is about so much more than the physical journey. It’s an opportunity to step into a culture that’s rich in history, tradition, and unique ways of seeing the world. Some things may feel unfamiliar at first but that’s part of the experience. 

Approach it with curiosity, respect, and an open mind, and you’ll not only complete an incredible trek, you’ll come away with a deeper appreciation for a country that stays with you long after you’ve returned home.

By Lizzy Codd, Challenge Leader 

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