Case Studies, Inspiration, Latest News

OUR CLIENTS: ROYAL LEPAGE SHELTER FOUNDATION

April 23, 2026

Over the last 26 years, we have helped raise over £95,000,000 for thousands of incredible causes. Our charity clients include: The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity, CoppaFeel!, the British Heart Foundation, Mind, Cancer Research UK, Macmillan Cancer Support, Sands, Alzheimer’s Research UK, Prostate Cancer Research, the NSPCC, Comic Relief, UNICEF, Save the Children and hundreds of smaller organisations. We are hugely experienced at operating challenges to the highest standards of quality and safety and will do all we can to help your organisation recruit and engage participants and supporters.

We caught up with Royal LePage® Shelter Foundation™ on how their recent Cambodia Challenge went…

A large group of smiling people posing for a photo in front of a temple entrance featuring tiger statues and serpent motifs, holding a banner that reads "CHARITY CHALLENGE BELIEVE >> ACHIEVE >> INSPIRE"

Please introduce yourself…

I’m Carly Neill, Fundraising and Communications Manager at the Royal LePage® Shelter Foundation™ and in October 2025, 117 Royal LePage professionals took on the Cambodia Challenge for Shelter, trekking for 5 days through Phnom Kulen National Park. Together, an incredible $1,620,000 Canadian Dollars were raised for our mission to help women and children safely escape intimate partner violence.

A large group of hikers in casual of an ornate gateway and lush greenery, holding banners that say "Royal Lepage Shelter Foundation."

Why did you choose Charity Challenge to run this challenge?

We began our partnership with Charity Challenge in 2014, and they have since become a long-standing and trusted collaborator. Over the years, we have delivered five Royal LePage treks together, collectively raising more than $5,539,000 in support of the Shelter Foundation. These initiatives include the Cambodia Challenge (2025), Ecuador Challenge (2023), Sahara Desert Challenge (2019), Iceland Challenge (2017), and Machu Picchu Challenge (2015).

A group of hikers with backpacks walk along a dirt path surrounded by lush green vegetation under a cloudy sky.

What were you hoping to achieve with the Cambodia Challenge?

We are always looking to diversify the locations and experience of our challenges. This particular challenge offered a hot climate and a jungle trekking experience that we hadn’t done on previous challenges. We were also intrigued by the distance from Canada. The distance provided a level of challenge in getting to the start point that wasn’t going to be easy in terms of long flights, connections, and the jet lag that follows! We knew this would push our trekkers outside of their comfort zones and create another element of ‘challenge’ that we could incorporate into our fundraising materials.

A large group of hikers pose for a photo in front of a lush waterfall, holding banners that read "Thank You" "Merci" and "Royal LePage Shelter Foundation."

How did it go?

The challenge went exceptionally well! Four full groups signed up, and we got an incredibly positive response. We were delighted by the fundraising success of the challenge. $1.6 million dollars is an astounding amount of money raised that will make an incredible difference for so many families seeking safety, hope and healing at their local women’s shelter.

We also had really great feedback from our trekkers about the experience – they were especially pleased with the catering teams, the quality and quantity of food, and accommodations and tents. I think they were really wowed by how varied the terrain and vistas were. They were walking through rice paddies, then into the jungle, then alongside rural roads. The experience changed day by day, keeping people engaged throughout. There was also some climbing which spoke to the people in the group who liked the challenge of a tough ascent!

A group of Charity Challenge participants wearing medals and scarfs as they celebrate completing their Cambodia Challenge for Royal LePage Shelter Foundation.

What were your highlights?

The teamwork was the main highlight – watching people from across the country bond and make lifelong friendships. Witnessing them turn from strangers into people that were crying because they won’t see each other the next week! That was really special.

Charity Challenge participants receiving their medals at the finish line of their Cambodia Challenge.

What did Charity Challenge do well?

During the planning, we always feel like Charity Challenge has thought of everything. From tiny details like making sure there is decaf tea available, to safety and risk management and monitoring situations geo-politically around the world. They’ve got their eye on every important detail.

The leaders and ground team were very experienced in the logistics of guiding groups throughout the challenge. They understand how to move people from point A to point B. They understand footcare, proper hydration and they were a great support system for our trekkers in this capacity. Importantly, they were also experienced in the dynamics of people. Being cheerleaders and encouraging our challengers, but never babying anybody. The guides did a great job of stepping into a leadership role among a group of adults who were professional leaders themselves, and making them feel safe and supported.

I appreciated having a debrief session post-challenge with the Charity Challenge staff, where we unpacked every detail of the experience. We shared what we felt went well, or where we could make changes. Charity Challenge constantly striving to make the experience better for us, and for our participants, is much appreciated.

A group of hikers with backpacks trekking along a dirt path in Cambodia, next to some lush green fields.

Photo credit: WENU Media Production

Testimonial

Rating: 5 out of 5.

There’s a lovely element of a one-on-one relationship working with Charity Challenge. I can ask anything, and there’s always someone who’s going to get back to me personally. It’s not like a corporate travel company where you just ‘sign here and show up’ – it really feels like a collaborative process in building an unforgettable bucket list experience for our clients.

– Carly Neill, Fundraising and Communications Manager at Royal LePage® Shelter Foundation™

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

Check out the challenge video below:

Learn more about our corporate challenges here or download our corporate brochure.

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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Latest News

INTRODUCING OUR OFFICIAL FUNDRAISING PARTNER: GIVESTAR

April 20, 2026
Man covered in mud running an obstacle race beside bold text reading “Next Gen. Fundraising,” with the Givestar logo on a black background.

Charity Challenge are proud to announce that they have partnered with givestar, a fantastic, forward thinking and dynamic company, as its official fundraising platform.

Simon Albert, Charity Challenge’s founder said “Our participants invest a huge amount of time, effort and energy raising the vital funds for their chosen charity and we felt it was our obligation to ensure they have the best tools to do so.”

givestar is a mobile first service, available online and on an app for mobiles, which not only enables friends and family to donate online, but also allows participants to use their own mobile phones with the Tap to Donate feature, to take payments in person from colleagues, friends and family, by debit or credit card with just a tap. It’s quick and really easy to use. 

We believe this will be a game changer for fundraisers and will not only help them to reach more supporters more easily, the statistics show that donations are higher when given in person rather than online. So we hope it will be easier and more effective at helping participants reach their fundraising targets quicker.

Two smartphones held close together showing a contactless payment in progress, with one phone displaying a digital card and the other showing a payment confirmation of $17.25.
Mobile app screens promoting a fundraising challenge, showing a campaign page with £720.75 raised (57% of target), “Share” and “Give Now” buttons, AI writing feature, notifications of donations, and a bright yellow background.

Tom Montague, givestar’s Co-Founder said “Partnering with Charity Challenge marks a major milestone for us. For decades, they’ve inspired people to push their limits and, in doing so, have helped generate tens of millions of pounds for charities around the world. We’re proud to bring our technology to such an established and purpose-driven community. Together, we’re ensuring every challenge translates into even greater impact for the causes participants care about”

You can set up your own fundraising page via www.givestar.io and Charity Challenge offers all exclusive challenges (both charity and corporate) the chance to have these online fundraising pages automatically created when participants book onto a challenge.

You can find out more about givestar for charities here and for corporates here. If you would like to set up a call to hear more about givestar, please reach out to our Customer Experience Team via info@charitychallenge.com.

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Challenges, Latest News, Tips & Advice

COSTA RICA: VOLCANOES, RAFTING AND RAINFORESTS – AN ESSENTIAL GUIDE

April 16, 2026

The Costa Rica: Volcanoes, Rafting and Rainforests challenge is a thrilling expedition, taking you from volcanic highlands, through dense rainforest and along fast-flowing rivers to the Caribbean coast. It’s a true test of endurance and adaptability for those ready to step outside their comfort zone and experience one of the world’s most biodiverse landscapes.

Keep reading this Essential Guide for top tips, highlights and challenger insights to help you make the most of this unforgettable rainforest adventure.

What is the Costa Rica: Volcanoes, Rafting and Rainforests challenge?

The Costa Rica: Volcanoes, Rafting and Rainforests challenge is a multi-activity expedition that takes you from the volcanic highlands around Volcán Irazú, through tropical rainforest, and remote river valleys, before finishing on the Caribbean coast. It’s a journey across one of the most ecologically diverse countries on Earth, combining trekking and white-water rafting in one unforgettable adventure.

This is a rare opportunity to experience Costa Rica on foot and by raft, following trails alongside the Pacuare River and deep into rainforest landscapes rich in wildlife and natural beauty.

Highlights include:

  • Discover Costa Rica’s rich biodiversity, from rainforest canopy to Caribbean coastline, with chances to spot exotic birds like toucans and kingfishers.
  • Pass through remote indigenous communities and experience local ways of life.
  • Camp in the heart of the jungle, surrounded by the sounds of nature.
  • Experience a full day of white-water rafting on the Pacuare River.
  • Visit Irazu, Costa Rica’s highest volcano (3,432m).
  • End your journey on the Caribbean coast, with time to relax and celebrate your achievement.

What will I achieve?

This challenge is graded as tough due to the varied terrain, high humidity, heat and multiple nights camping. This 10-day expedition involves 5 days of trekking and 1 full day of white water rafting. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll accomplish (and can proudly share with your sponsors):

  • Trekking for 6–8 hours per day.
  • Navigating steep inclines and descents, orienteering through dense vegetation and undulating terrain. 
  • Experiencing high humidity (90%+) and temperatures regularly exceeding 30°C.
  • Spending 5 nights camping in remote jungle and rural locations.
  • Taking on a full day of white-water rafting on the Pacuare River (Grade 2-4 rapids).

I’m thinking of booking, what do I need to know?

For a quick overview of what to consider, we’ve pulled together some advice below – including top tips from our past challengers. For full details, please visit our Costa Rica: Volcanoes, Rafting and Rainforests webpage.

1. Training for a Trekking and Rafting Adventure

Building strong endurance fitness is essential for this challenge. Focus on long walks (6–8 hours), hill climbs, stair training, and gradually adding weight to your daypack to prepare for sustained trekking in hot, humid conditions. With undulating terrain throughout, some time spent conditioning your legs and knees will really pay off!

The rafting element may feel daunting at first, but it’s a real highlight for many participants – with expert guides supporting you throughout, no prior experience is needed. Some general upper body conditioning can be beneficial to support this part of the challenge.

Top Tips:

  • “Costa Rica is an awesome trip, especially with the rafting element to mix it up. Some were really nervous about this but everyone loved it, felt safe and were eager to do it again!” – Penny Knight, Challenge Leader

2. Adapting to Rainforest Life

You’ll be fully immersed in rainforest life, with humid trekking days followed by basic camping in remote locations. Adapting well to the conditions is key to staying comfortable throughout the expedition. Good hydration is essential, and electrolytes or rehydration sachets are highly recommended to replace fluids lost in the heat and humidity.

Practical kit choices also make a big difference – a second set of dry evening clothing helps you stay comfortable at camp, while lightweight camp shoes, a dry pair of socks and some talc powder can help feet recover after long trekking days.

Top Tips:

  • “Even when arriving at camp cold or tired, it’s important to maintain good hygiene where possible. In warm, humid conditions, sweat build-up can sometimes lead to skin irritation, so facing the cold water and taking a quick shower can make a real difference!” – Penny Knight, Challenge Leader

  • “You’ll see and hear wildlife you’ve never experienced before. Keep your eyes peeled for colourful birds, sloths slowly moving through the trees, monkeys playing, and lots of amazing little frogs and lizards!” – Jenn Payne, Challenge Leader

3. Packing Tips for Costa Rica

Packing light is key on the Costa Rica: Volcanoes, Rafting and Rainforests challenge, as you’ll be carrying a daypack of your essentials during your long trekking days. Focus on lightweight, breathable layers, including loose long-sleeved clothing to help protect against insect bites and jungle scratches. A light waterproof jacket and waterproof cover for your bag are also essential for sudden tropical showers.

Due to the tropical conditions, kit can be difficult to dry during the expedition, so multiple dry bags are vital to keep wet and dry items separated and organised.

Footwear is particularly important: lightweight, broken-in hiking boots for varied terrain will be your main shoe, alongside a lightweight pair of trail shoes or sports sandals for camp, river crossings and giving your feet time to recover in evenings. You can read the full Kit List here.

Top Tips:

  • “As far as kit is concerned – spare torch batteries as it gets dark early and the torch gets used a great deal, more dry bags than you can imagine necessary! And those who had bought a spare lightweight pair of trail shoes were the envy of the group!” – Penny Knight, Challenge Leader
  • “Don’t pack what you don’t need. It’s nice to have conveniences, but it’s even nicer to carry a light pack!” – Alex Romano, Challenge Participant
  • “Everything will get wet due to the humidity and rain, so quick-drying shorts and tops are essential. Sometimes it’s easier to put wet clothes back on rather than carry around extra wet items. Remember the rain will be a lot warmer that the UK and your clothes will dry in the sun!” – Jenn Payne, Challenge Leader

Why should I book the Costa Rica: Volcanoes, Rafting and Rainforests with Charity Challenge?

Over the years, Charity Challenge has built up a wealth of experience delivering safe, responsible and immersive adventure travel experiences. The Costa Rica: Volcanoes, Rafting and Rainforests has been carefully designed to combine trekking, rafting and responsible connection with nature.

  • Expert leadership – Experienced English-speaking leader, local guides and medical support crew ensure you are fully supported throughout this remote and varied expedition, including trekking, jungle navigation and white-water rafting sections.
  • Fully immersive itinerary – From volcanic highlands to rainforest trails, indigenous communities and the Caribbean coastline, this challenge offers a rare opportunity to experience Costa Rica’s biodiversity, culture and landscapes up close. Camping in remote locations and travelling off the beaten track allows you to fully disconnect and experience the country at its most authentic.
  • Responsible Tourism – During your trek you will pass through lots of local communities. This will ensure that you not only will have a much higher level of engagement with the local culture, but also knowledge of the environment, local ways of living, history and experiences from the locals.

Fundraising – Since 1999, we have specialised in operating challenges for charity fundraisers. We partner with 1000’s of UK and Irish charities already – and our team is happy to reach out to a charity of your choice to make your dream fundraising challenge happen. (Or, if you don’t fancy fundraising, the good news is you can simply self-fund and join us anyway!).

To conclude… start prepping!

If you are now seriously considering taking on the Costa Rica: Volcanoes, Rafting and Rainforests, we recommend heading over to our website to read through our full Itinerary, Costs, Kit List and extensive Essential Information tabs. You’ll find everything you need to know here in detail, from timings, locations, accommodation, difficulty level breakdowns, training advice, group safety and much, much more (including answers to those all-important ‘what if?’ questions).

Our blog also hosts a wealth of resources to help prepare you for your fundraising challenge.

Remember, the Costa Rica: Volcanoes, Rafting and Rainforests is graded as Tough – a rewarding test of endurance through diverse terrain, offering an unforgettable mix of trekking, camping, rafting and natural beauty. A compelling choice for a multi-activity Overseas Charity Challenge!

BOOK YOUR COSTA RICA: VOLCANOES, RAFTING AND RAINFORESTS CHALLENGE
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Inspiration, Latest News

CHALLENGER STORIES: SHARON MYERS

April 10, 2026

We’ve had the privilege of meeting countless incredible fundraisers at Charity Challenge, all driven by causes close to their hearts. In this latest Challenge Stories blog, we’re honoured to be shining a light on repeat challenger and dedicated fundraiser, Sharon Myers.

Sharon Myers, a Charity Challenge participant, holding up a Charity Challenge flag against a backdrop of snow-capped Himalayan mountains and forested hills in India.

Which Charity Challenges have you completed?

To date I have completed four overseas Charity Challenge treks and I am already signed up for my fifth! I have previously raised money for various charities as I have always been rather adventurous and have always enjoyed challenging myself. I first raised money for charity by completing a solo static line parachute jump, having never at the time even flown before. I also climbed Mount Snowdon in Wales, on that occasion raising funds for Help for Heroes. 

A group of people trekking together on an uphill section of a Charity Challenge in the Indian Himalayas.

My first Charity Challenge trek was the Great Wall of China back in April 2012. I loved how the whole trip was organised, how the guides looked after you, how friendly everyone was in the group and how we walked several different sections of the wall. To sit eating your packed lunch on the wall and to see the sights with your own eyes is quite something. Very magical. 

More recently, I completed three Charity Challenge treks within a twelve month period: Trek to Petra, Jordan in November 2023, the Dalai Lama Himalayan Trek in March 2024, and Trek to Machu Picchu in September 2024. 

A smiling woman wearing sunglasses and a trekking daypack on a section of the Great Wall of China.

What compels you to take on a challenge?

The reason I now undertake these treks is because sadly, I lost my son Christopher to suicide in October 2018. He was just 26 at the time. Since then, I have attended a monthly support group ‘Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide’, where you do not feel alone amidst the complicated and complex grief that follows a loss to suicide. 

After attending this group for two years, I completed the training to become a volunteer myself to help run the monthly sessions. And now I find myself the lead volunteer, setting up a safe space and guiding the group (along with two other amazing volunteers). 

Sharon wearing her Charity T-Shirt and stroking a local mule, whilst on an overseas Charity Challenge trek.

I have raised funds for SOBS, however what is more important to me is raising awareness. I therefore wear the t-shirts with pride. I undertake these challenges for myself. This is what I need to do, to push myself both mentally and physically and feel proud of myself once I have completed the trek, and been awarded the much-deserved medal.

A woman overlooking the site of Machu Picchu, a New Wonder of the Modern World during her Trek to Machu Picchu Challenge.

What’s it like sharing the challenge journey with others?

I would never wish to participate with any other company, as I value how well taken care of we are. We are at all times safe, and that of course, is very important to me, as I need to avoid stress at all costs. It is so inspiring to trek alongside others, who are each completing the treks for their own reasons. Everyone has a story and we share them openly. We are all just human beings who have been through the worst of times.

A woman wearing a Charity Challenge T-Shirt, smiling for the camera against a backdrop of the Andes Mountains in Peru.

I have met some amazing, incredible people and I can honestly say that I have kept in touch with people who I met on each of the treks. So I have made several new and valuable friends. In fact recently, after eighteen months, most of the Himalayan group met up for a reunion lunch in London. It was so special, we never stopped smiling. 

a group of trekkers celebrating as they crossed the finish line with the local villagers in India

What’s been your favourite Charity Challenge so far and why?  

My favourite trek was the Dalai Lama Himalayan Trek.. I was part of an incredible group of challengers. Every single aspect of that trek was astounding, from arriving to the sights and sounds of Delhi, to travelling on an overnight sleeper train, to the car travel along the steep winding roads that made me feel quite sick, to seeing the snow-capped mountains. Wow.

We had two dogs join us and follow us for days. They became part of our team. As we crossed the finish line the local villagers celebrated joyously with us. Such memories will last a lifetime and I do wish we could all go back and experience the magic again.

Sharon Myers meeting his holiness the Dalai Lama during her Dalai Lama Himalayan Trek with Charity Challenge.

On the Himalayan trek, our highlight was having the privilege of meeting with His Holiness the Dalai Lama and receiving a personal blessing. I felt that he actually looked into my soul and knew that I had suffered. He held my hands and touched my cheek. Needless to say it was an emotional encounter and I cried, and I do not cry very often. 

Sharon wearing her Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide T-shirt at the site of The Treasury in Petra, Jordan during the Trek to Petra Charity Challenge.

Any other Charity Challenge moments that stand out?

The trek to Petra was across the desert, up and down mountains and traversing through a canyon. It felt like we were part of an Indiana Jones movie with epic sights seen such as The Treasury, Monastery and the Royal Tombs carved into the rocks. 

The most difficult trek for myself was Machu Picchu in Peru due to the effects of high altitude but I was looked after exceptionally well by our accompanying doctor and the whole support team. I was thankful to be helped along by one of the horses in particular. 

Sharon Myers Challenger Stories: Sharon stood at the site of Machu Picchu, in an archway of an Incan stone building, with a mountain peak behind her.

Any advice to someone thinking of doing their first Charity Challenge? 

For anyone considering taking on a trek with Charity Challenge, I would say do not hesitate, and my advice is to go for it. These are once in a lifetime opportunities to be a part of something special. There are simply not enough words to express my gratitude for the positive impact Charity Challenge has had on my life.

I am just one person trying my best to appreciate and enjoy life and grab opportunities. I am so excited to continue booking challenges over the next few years. 

I was fortunate enough to complete the Dalai Lama Himalayan trek with both Simon and Jenn from Charity Challenge, both of whom were supportive, positive and passionate about the value of these treks. 

A woman dressed in trekking gear jumping up in celebration, looking out at a view of the Indian Himalayan Mountains.

What’s next for Sharon? 

Needless to say, I have not been deterred and my next trek is booked! I cannot wait to head off to the Sumatra Jungle this September 2026. In conclusion, being bereaved by suicide is extremely traumatic but I hope I can help others by being, in some way, a positive role model.

You can learn more about Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide and find support via their website: Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide – Overcoming the isolation of people bereaved by suicide

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Challenges, Latest News, Tips & Advice

SUMATRA JUNGLE CHALLENGE: AN ESSENTIAL GUIDE

March 25, 2026

The Sumatra Jungle Challenge in Indonesia is one of our most unique and immersive expeditions, taking you deep into the heart of one of the world’s last remaining tropical rainforests. It’s a true test of resilience for those ready to step far outside their comfort zone and experience nature at its most raw and untamed.

Keep reading this Sumatra Jungle trekking guide for top tips, wildlife highlights and challenger insights to help you make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime rainforest adventure travel experience.

A group of trekkers in the Sumatra Jungle in Indonesia, wearing Charity Challenge medals, stood under a Charity Challenge flag.

What is the Sumatra Jungle Challenge?

Step deep into the heart of the Sumatran rainforest in Indonesia and trek through one of the most biodiverse ecosystems on the planet – Gunung Leuser National Park, a protected UNESCO World Heritage rainforest site. This remote destination is one of the only places on Earth where you can encounter wild orangutans in Sumatra in their natural habitat, making this a truly rare and unforgettable wildlife trekking experience.

Highlights include:

  • Trek beneath tropical jungle canopy, surrounded by incredible wildlife and natural beauty.
  • Spot incredible wildlife in their natural habitat – the rainforest is home to Sumatran orangutans, gibbons, elephants, hornbills, Thomas leaf monkeys, macaques, sun bears and the elusive Sumatran tiger!
  • Camp in the rainforest, falling asleep to the sounds of the wild.
  • Learn about the Sumatran rainforest ecosystem and how local communities live alongside it.
  • Unplug from the modern world and fully immerse yourself in nature.
Two trekkers wearing Charity Challenge t-shirts, looking out at a lush green rainforest view, surrounded by the Sumatran rainforest canopy.

What will I achieve?

This 10-day jungle expedition in Sumatra is graded as ‘Tough‘ and involves 5 days of trekking through challenging conditions, humid weather and steep and varied trails. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll accomplish (and can proudly share with your sponsors):

  • Trekking for around 5-7 hours per day, covering approximately 45km of jungle trekking in Sumatra over 5 days.
  • Carrying all of your jungle gear on your back throughout each day!
  • Battling the heat and humidity a tropical rainforest climate.
  • 4 nights of sleeping in a shelter with the rest of the group, in the jungle environment.
  • Attempting steep climbs and descents on muddy slopes, with the help of the occasional tree branches and ropes. Trails can vary from well-worn paths to barely visible breaks in the undergrowth, all in challenging humidity! You will also be undertaking many rainforest river crossings throughout your journey.
People taking photos of a Sumatran Orangutan in the wild, during the Sumatra Jungle Challenge with Charity Challenge.

I’m thinking of booking, what do I need to know?

For a quick overview of what to consider, we’ve pulled together some advice below – including top tips from our past challengers. For full details, please visit our Sumatra Jungle Challenge webpage.

1. Kit Must-Haves and Packing Tips

During the 5 day trek, you’ll carry all of your necessary gear with you in a daypack – 40-45L in size and no more than 10kg in weight. Packing lightweight is key, remember that wet clothing adds weight! We highly recommend studying the full jungle trekking Kit List to plan your packing to perfection!

Lightweight, durable, and water-resistant kit is essential for tropical trekking conditions, including proper river shoes, a light sleeping bag or liner, dry bags for organisation and protecting kit. Humidity and river crossings make re-wearing kit unavoidable, so focus on practicality and comfort over style… this is all part of the challenge!

Top Tips:

  • “The weight of the bag on the trek is crucial – plan to go as light as possible!” – Penny Knight, Challenge Leader
  • “Definitely bring gloves, as there’s lots of times you’ll be reaching out for trees and branches when walking up or down. – Paul Albert, Participant
  • “Read all the information thoroughly and ask questions if unsure. Get the best kit you can afford and break it in well before the trek.” – Wendy Mould, Participant
  • “Pack your daypack and train with it! Don’t overpack as you are carrying it daily, and remember your bag will get heavier with wet clothes!”  – Bekki Bale, Participant

Water will be boiled to reduce the use of plastic bottles but we highly recommend that you also purchase a Water-to-Go filter bottle, so you have extra filtration and can top up your water on the go! Read our Clothing and Equipment Participant Discounts blog for more info.

Trekkers crossing a rocky, shallow stream in the Sumatran rainforest, wearing day packs and using sticks for support.

2. Training for the Jungle Terrain

The Sumatra Jungle Challenge is a physically demanding jungle trek that requires adequate training! Expect steep, slippery terrain, river crossings, and long days in humid conditions.

Your training should focus on:

  • Hill walking with your weighted backpack
  • Building endurance for long-distance trekking
  • Improving balance for uneven terrain
  • Strengthening upper body for jungle support movements

Top Tips:

  • “Train your upper body, there are some significantly challenging ascents and descents in which you’ll be required to use branches, roots and trees to stabilise you on the terrain. It becomes even more challenging during the wet weather and people need to be prepared for that.” – Amy Neal, Participant
  • “TRAIN! The fitter you are, the better. Do not underestimate the effort required. Embrace the experience – it’s possibly a once-in-a-lifetime trek.” – Wendy Mould, Participant 
A Charity Challenge Guide helping a trekker up a steep section of the Sumatra Jungle.

3. Immerse Yourself in the Jungle Experience

Trekking through Gunung Leuser National Park in Sumatra is a unique test of endurance and curiosity. Along the way, you’ll encounter rare rainforest wildlife while learning from expert local guides. Each day tests you, but the reward is powerful: biodiverse rainforest scenery, close-up wildlife encounters, and a deep sense of achievement.

Top Tips:

  • “Ask questions to the in-country guides and ask for their stories, they really are incredible!”–  James Knight, Participant
  • “Bring light games and puzzles to play with your group, as it gets dark around 6pm” – Penny Knight, Challenge Leader
  • “Seeing orangutans close up along with lots of monkeys, monitor lizards and the occasional snake was a dream come true.” – Paul Albert, Participant
  • “The jungle really is a unique environment with a myriad of challenges, which will absolutely push you, but if you’re looking to explore somewhere really special with some incredible people then I can’t recommend this challenge enough!” – James Knight, Participant
A happy group of Charity Challenge trekkers and guides, smiling and doing a 'roar' sign with their hands.

Why should I book the Sumatra Jungle Challenge with Charity Challenge?

Over the years Charity Challenge has built up a wealth of experience that has enabled us to create a responsible adventure travel itinerary and immersive, off-grid experience:

  • Expert leadership – English-speaking leaders, local guides, and an expedition medic ensure safety on this remote jungle expedition.
  • Small group trekking experience – Groups of 10–16 minimise environmental impact and create a supportive atmosphere, where you’ll make new connections and motivate each other throughout.
  • Immersive rainforest itinerary – Disconnect from technology and fully experience life in the Sumatran jungle. Camping beneath the rainforest canopy, your senses will be spoilt with the sounds of the wild.

Fundraising – Since 1999, we have specialised in operating challenges for charity fundraisers. We partner with 1000’s of UK and Irish charities already – and our team is happy to reach out to a charity of your choice to make your dream fundraising challenge happen. (Or, if you don’t fancy fundraising, the good news is you can simply self-fund and join us anyway!).

Up close shot of wild orangutan in the Sumatra Jungle.

To conclude… start prepping!

If you are now seriously considering taking on the Sumatra Jungle Challenge, we recommend heading over to our website to read through our full Itinerary, Costs, Kit List and extensive Essential Information tabs. You’ll find everything you need to know here in detail, from timings, locations, accommodation, difficulty level breakdowns, training advice, group safety and much, much more (including answers to those all-important ‘what if?’ questions).

Our blog also hosts a wealth of resources to help prepare you for your fundraising challenge.

A Charity Challenge leader and participant 'fist bumping' as they sit and look at views of the lush Sumatran Rainforest.

Remember, the Sumatra Jungle Challenge is graded as ‘tough’. This demanding trek tests both your physical strength and mental resilience as you navigate a beautiful environment far from your comfort zone. It offers rare wildlife encounters and a deep sense of accomplishment – making it a standout choice for an Overseas Charity Challenge.

BOOK THE SUMATRA JUNGLE CHALLENGE
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MEET THE TEAM: TONI HOWDEN

March 11, 2026

At Charity Challenge, we’re extremely proud of our brilliant head office team. In this Meet the Team feature, we’re delighted to introduce our experienced UK Operations Manager, Toni Howden, and share a little about her background, favourite challenges and top tips!

A woman and small boy looking out at a mountain range against a blue sky.

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

I joined Charity Challenge in May 2023, so I’m coming up to three years now.

What’s your role at Charity Challenge?

I’m a UK Operations Manager. A big part of my role is managing our National Three Peaks and Snowdonia events, overseeing the planning and logistics that sit behind the challenges to make sure everything runs safely and smoothly.

A group of female mountain leaders smiling together whilst holding a Charity Challenge banner.

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

I’ve worked in the outdoor industry for over 20 years. After studying Outdoor and Environmental Education at university, I opened my own adventure company in North Wales. I then spent the next decade leading overseas expeditions with teenagers across Central America, Southeast Asia, Africa and the Himalayas, which meant a lot of travel, a lot of fun, and more than a few interesting adventures along the way.

A group of mountain leaders dressed in warm hiking gear, stood on a dock next too a lake.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I really enjoy the early planning stages, working out how everything is going to fit together. But the best part is being out on the events themselves, seeing it all come together and watching how much effort our participants have put in to get there.

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

Start training earlier than you think you need to. Train in the kit you’ll actually be using, especially your boots. Even if you can’t get into the mountains, get outside and build up steadily. Consistency makes a big difference. And once you’re on the challenge, you’ll have great support from our leaders.

A group of Charity Challenge leaders smiling together at the top of Snowdon.

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

We’ve had some memorable ones, but a bespoke challenge walking from London to Brighton really stands out. It was tough, but the group were incredible and their attitude made it a genuinely special event.

Do you have any challenges left on your bucket list?

Patagonia is definitely high on the list. My little boy is desperate to get out there too! 

A group of female mountain leaders smiling together and holding a Charity Challenge banner.

Tell us an interesting fact about yourself…

I missed my graduation to lead my first overseas expedition at 21 to Costa Rica and Nicaragua. I didn’t hesitate when I was offered the role, and it turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve made. It set the direction for everything that followed.

Meet the team: Toni Howden, in Costa Rica at 21 years old.
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