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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EVEREST BASE CAMP: AN ESSENTIAL GUIDE

February 25, 2026

Everest Base Camp is one of our most iconic and demanding mountain trekking challenges. It’s a true endurance test for those willing to push their body and mind to the next level. Keep reading this Everest Base Camp Essential Guide for our top tips and challenger advice to help make yours the adventure of a lifetime!

Three people celebrating on top of a large stone that has Everest Base Camp 5364m written on it. Snowy Himalayan peaks are in the background.

What is the Everest Base Camp challenge?

Trek to the base of the world’s highest mountain, Mount Everest, starting from Lukla and passing through Sherpa villages, monasteries, and jaw-dropping suspension bridges. Standing at 8,848m, Everest provides the ultimate backdrop for this life-affirming adventure.

Highlights include:

  • Trek under the presence of the mighty Mount Everest and take in breathtaking Himalayan panoramas.
  • Cross suspension bridges and traverse the formidable Khumbu Icefall.
  • Visit Everest Memorial Ground and historical landmarks along the route.
  • Experience the colourful, bustling Sherpa Capital of Namche Bazaar.
  • Awe at the sight of Everest’s peak from the top of Kalapatthar.
  • Explore Nepal’s magical capital, Kathmandu.
A trekker dressed in a red coat, smiling in front of a view of Mount Everest.

What will I achieve?

This 18-day expedition is graded as ‘extreme’ and involves 12 days of trekking through difficult terrain, cold weather and high altitude. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll accomplish (and can proudly share with your sponsors):

  • Trekking for 12 days consecutively, without access to showers, proper washing facilities or home comforts.
  • Trekking at high altitudes of up to almost 6000m!
  • Suffering temperatures below zero degrees, especially overnight and on early morning starts.
  • Staying overnight in accommodation with very basic facilities.
  • Traversing uneven terrain, multiple steep ascents and descents, and crossing hair-raising swing bridges.
Sunrise over snow-covered Himalayan peaks, with colourful prayer flags fluttering in the foreground.

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

For a quick overview of what to expect, we’ve pulled together some advice below – including top tips from our experienced team and past participants. For full details, please visit our Everest Base Camp webpage.

1. Kit and Sleeping System Considerations


Trekking to Everest Base Camp demands careful planning when it comes to your kit and sleeping system. With freezing night-time temperatures, basic teahouse facilities and trekking at altitude, staying warm, dry and organised is essential! A comfort-rated sleeping bag (0°C to -10°C), light layered clothing, reliable worn-in boots and a well-fitted day sack will form the foundation of your gear. Prioritising sleep, sanitation and packing organisation will not only keep you comfortable but also help you recover properly each day and perform at your best on the mountain. Remember, always refer to your challenge Kit List for a comprehensive run down of what to pack.

Top Tips:

  • “Having a good quality down sleeping bag, along with a liner will keep you warm. Work out how to create a pillow (I took a pillow case which I stuffed with various items of clothing). Also take thermal trousers and tops to keep you warm at night. It’s a long trip, so being warm and cosy so you can get a good nights sleep makes all the difference!” – Andy Killey, Head of UK Operations 
  • “It’s always very important to make sure you keep as clean and healthy as possible to be able to complete the challenge. Loads of hand gel and wet wipes are a must!” – Matthew Holdsworth, Participant
  • “Take a warm pair of trousers to change into at the end of the day… use dry sacks for organising clothes, keep your camera batteries warm during coldest weather and put your clothes for the next day inside your sleeping bag.” – Ann Harper, Participant
A person sat outside an orange tent at nighttime, looking up at a Himalayan mountain range and a starry night sky.

2. Make Your Training Count

This is an ‘Extreme’ challenge for a reason – give yourself enough time to train and don’t take it lightly. Consecutive days, high altitude, cold, and lower quality sleep make it tougher than regular hikes. Focus your training on endurance with long weighted hikes, hill climbs, and stair training, gradually building up to prepare your body for the demands ahead. The standout advice from our participants is that you should aim to get your fitness level as high as you can, to make your trip as enjoyable as possible.

Top Tips:

  • “Make sure you train properly; there are several steep slopes which are even more difficult at high altitude; be prepared for long days walking. If you accept the terrain, altitude, possibility of bad weather and delays to flights, and lack of creature comforts for what they are before you go, you’ll have a really good time and find the whole experience really rewarding. If you don’t, you’re probably on the wrong trip!” – Andrew Wilmot, Participant
  • “Train on steps! There’s a lot of uphill climbs in the trek. With the altitude affecting breathing and muscle strength, it does get difficult! Stair training will definitely help. Also practice squatting – for the toilets! After a hard day walking, squatting over a hole in the ground to do your business is surprisingly tiring!” – Iona Nelson, Participant
  • “Get as fit as you can – really worth it and you will enjoy the trek so much more.” – Ali Cork, Participant
A group of trekkers climbing the steps of a green, forest section of the Everest Base Camp Trek.

3. High Altitude Preparations

Everest Base Camp takes you to altitudes above 5,000m, where oxygen levels are significantly reduced and your body must work harder to adapt. That’s why we carefully build acclimatisation days into the itinerary, allowing your body time to adjust gradually and helping to reduce the risk of altitude sickness.

Remember, anything over 2,500m is considered high altitude and affects the body, so proper acclimatisation is key. Take advantage of our expert partners at The Altitude Centre, who offer Charity Challenge participants free online group consultations covering acclimatisation, altitude advice, training tips and Q&A sessions with their specialists. Our participants also receive 50% off bespoke training plans tailored to specific treks like Kilimanjaro.

Top Tips:

  • Staying well hydrated is vital, as it helps maintain circulation and oxygen flow while your body adjusts to reduced oxygen levels at altitude. Steady hydration is key – drink little and often, and use electrolytes. If you experience symptoms like headache or nausea, don’t ignore them; keep sipping, listen to your body, and speak to your leaders. – Jenn Payne, Challenge Leader
  • Follow the advice of your local guides – they’re the experts! Keep to the recommended pace, even if it feels slower than usual. – Andy Killey, Head of UK Operations
Three trekkers dressed in warm layers walking through a snowy section of the trek to Everest Base Camp.

Mind Over Mountain

Mentally preparing for Everest Base Camp is just as important as physical training. Building resilience, setting realistic expectations, and visualising the journey ahead will help you stay focused and ready to tackle the long days and mountain conditions. Remember, when you choose to travel with Charity Challenge, you’ll be in a group of like-minded, determined individuals. The genuine support your fellow challengers provide on the journey will be invaluable!

Is booking Everest Base Camp now on your bucket list? Here’s some extra inspiration straight from our challengers…

  • “Getting to the top of Kalapatthar and seeing Everest in the glorious sunshine was one of the high spots in my life so far.” – Ali Cork, Participant
  • “Absolutely Phenomenal! The best thing I have ever done in my life. We were blessed with a great group and even better leaders. The views will stay with you forever, and the Sherpa’s and guides could not do enough for you, they made the trip for us. Thoroughly recommend this trip to anyone!” – Jessica Bye, Participant
  • “To say it was the adventure of a lifetime is actually underselling it and words really don’t describe the experience. The scenery was stunningly majestic, the people we met along the way were gentle and welcoming, the people I trekked with were supportive and great company and really were a truly extraordinary bunch. The Sherpas who supported us were exceptional and very patient, the route was brutal and unforgiving in places – but I wouldn’t change a single thing.” – Deborah Stott, Participant
A group of trekkers walking up a green, rocky mountain slope, with snowy Himalayan peaks in the background.

Why should I book Everest Base Camp with Charity Challenge?

Over the years Charity Challenge has built up a wealth of experience that has enabled us to create an exhilarating and responsibly-led Everest Base Camp expedition.

  • Expert high-altitude support – Led by experienced trek leaders, Sherpa guides and dedicated medics, with safety and wellbeing prioritised every step of the way.

  • Built-in acclimatisation days – Carefully planned rest days in Namche Bazaar and Dingboche maximise your chances of reaching Everest Base Camp safely and successfully.

  • Contingency planning included – Flexible scheduling and reserve days account for potential weather delays on the flight to Lukla, reducing risk and protecting your experience.

  • Thoughtfully crafted itinerary – The optional ascent of Kalapatthar ensures you witness Everest’s summit – something not visible from Base Camp itself!

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!).

A trekker dressed in warm layers walking along a rocky section of the Everest Base Camp trek.

To conclude… start prepping!

If you are now seriously considering taking on the Everest Base Camp 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.

Remember, Everest Base Camp is an ‘Extreme’ challenge. It’s an endeavour to be taken seriously, committing to as much physical and mental preparation as possible. Above all, it’s an overwhelmingly rewarding trek to complete – making it an impressive choice for an Overseas Charity Challenge!

BOOK EVEREST BASE CAMP HERE!
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WHY CHALLENGE EVENTS ARE WHERE REAL CONNECTIONS HAPPEN

February 12, 2026

In a world of endless swiping, filtered profiles, and half-finished conversations, many of us are quietly craving something more real. Not another notification. Not another match. But a moment of shared effort. Shared laughter. Shared purpose. Challenge events offer that shift into deeper connection. They bring people together around a shared purpose and through the challenge journey, genuine connections grow. Keep reading to learn why challenge events are where the real connections happen…

Four silhouetted people sitting beneath an orange sunset sky, talking together.

How Charity Challenges Bring People Together

For many, a Charity Challenge is more than a chance to earn a medal – it’s where connections spark and a sense of community begins to grow. You’re surrounded by people who share a purpose, a drive, and a curiosity, even if those closest to you don’t fully understand the journey you’re on.

Tackling the trials of a challenge together, with common goals of reaching fundraising targets and finish lines, creates a powerful bond. Early mornings, tired legs, and unpredictable weather strip away small talk and surface impressions. When you’re climbing a hill in the rain or pushing through the final miles, there’s no space for curated versions of yourself. What’s left is honesty, encouragement, vulnerability and that’s where real relationships begin.

Three people trekking together on the South Downs Challenge with Charity Challenge.

From Strangers to Soulmates: Sparking New Connections

Joining a challenge can even spark unexpected romance! Adventure in the great outdoors and fundraising for a cause brings like-minded people together. On long treks, bonds form organically as people find themselves opening up and exchanging stories. When people meet while doing something meaningful, something physically and emotionally stretching, they see each other at their most authentic. It’s no surprise that some of those connections grow into something lasting.

As Charity Challenge boss Simon retells:

“Over the years, many weddings have been created from initial connections made on the challenges…  When I launched Charity Challenge, I was interviewed by a journalist for the local newspaper… I encouraged her to join one of the challenges to see it for herself, so she joined a Trek to Machu Picchu. That journalist became my girlfriend and best friend, then my wife! We now have three grown sons who are also taking on challenges of their own around the world!”

Two people smiling for a selfie whilst on an overseas Charity Challenge.

One participant first met his future wife on a Kilimanjaro Summit Climb and 15 years later, he undertook the same challenge, this time with his daughter. A lovely full circle moment of Charity Challenge connections!

It’s not just our participants who’ve found love: challenge leaders Tom and Emily first met whilst working on a challenge in summer 2015. Their bond began whilst stationed in a challenge support tent near Scafell Pike – and they’re now happily married:

“Five years after that event we got married in the Sticklebarn pub, which was the exact place we met the night before that challenge on the event staff briefing. Lots of our lovely Charity Challenge friends joined us for our special day!” – Tom, Challenge Leader

Two people smiling as they cut their wedding cake together.

Strengthening Current Relationships Through Shared Adventure

Away from constant notifications, packed schedules and daily distractions, something powerful happens. You talk properly. You listen fully. You notice things about each other you’d forgotten. Challenge events create space, which is often what real connection needs most.

Committing to a challenge with family or close friends will deepen the bonds you already share. Working together on your training and fundraising can help boost your relationships as you motivate each other to achieve your goals. When the challenge finally comes, the escape from everyday routines and into a thrilling adventure will strengthen your trust and bring you closer than ever.

Charity Challenge boss Simon often joins challenges with his wife or sons – and always returns home with a new sense of appreciation for their quality time spent together and for the importance for making new memories:

“You really get to know people well, away from work, mundane routines, constant connectivity, social media, TV and so on. You just walk, talk, share, listen, and people really connect with one another.”

A group of trekkers smiling together in the Costa Rican rainforest whilst on a Charity Challenge group adventure.

Friendships Beyond the Finish Line

Strangers turn into teammates almost instantly during a challenge. In a stripped back environment, rapport quickly forms as you overcome obstacles, support each other and laugh along the way. Many friendships last long after the challenge, filled with “remember when” moments and a sense of community that actually sticks. Many of our participants go on to join other challenges with their new-found friends (a great way to make use of our Loyalty Scheme repeat participant discount!). Because the bond wasn’t built on convenience – it was built on effort. And effort creates stories. Stories create belonging.

“The experience was amazing, the relationships I formed are life long friendships and I have come back home feeling like a better version of myself all while making an incredible difference for the lives of people living with Cystic Fibrosis.” – Kimberly Evans, Sahara Desert Trek Participant

A group of trekkers dressed for cold, wet weather on the Isle of Skye CoppaTrek! Challenge.

Find Your Community with Charity Challenge

Maybe it’s time to swap swiping for stepping forward. To trade curated conversations for shared miles. To choose connection built on effort, purpose and real moments.

Join a Charity Challenge and discover just how powerful real connection can be.

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MEET THE TEAM: CARI EVANS

February 4, 2026

At Charity Challenge, we’re extremely proud of our brilliant team of leaders. In this Meet the Team feature, we’re pleased to introduce experienced leader Cari Evans and share her story, top tips, and favourite challenges.

charity challenge leader cari evans stood in front of mossy green rocks and mountains during the icelandic lava trek challenge.

How long have you worked as a Charity Challenge Leader? 

I’ve been working as a Charity Challenge leader for 9 years.

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

I can’t honestly say I’ve worked on a challenge that I haven’t enjoyed, but my favourite would have to be the CoppaTrek! in the Brecon Beacons in 2024. The CoppaFeel! events are always a firm favourite to work on and being on my home turf with such an incredible team was fab!

four trekkers wearing waterproof trekking gear posing for the camera in a line as they stand on a steep grassy cliff with the sea in the background

Do you have any challenges left on your bucket list? 

Oooh, that could be quite a list… The Dalai Lama Himalayan Trek is definitely in the mix, but I think my greatest wish would be to work on one of the overseas CoppaTrek! challenges.

The charity has come to mean a great deal to me and it would be great to work with and support a team on a big overseas challenge. 

four people, two wearing CoppaFeel! t-shirts and two wearing Charity Challenge crew t-shirts, stood smiling with their arms around each other at a UK campsite.

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

Hiking through the winter as often as possible, even when the weather’s not great. I’ve also started doing a little yoga at home a couple of times a week which helps with core strength and flexibility  

a challenge leader wearing a charity challenge neck buff as a headband whilst out on a walk in a grassy field

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

I don’t really snack that much, but a local Welsh delicacy called a Tregroes Waffle (choccy covered, toffee filled waffle, yum!) is a firm favourite. I’m also known to be partial to a Tunnock’s Teacake, and I’ve usually got a bag of ready salted crips hidden in my pack somewhere.

I usually drink lots of water to keep hydrated on a challenge and carry a rehydration sachet, just for if needed. 

A challenge leader in front of a grassy hill, smiling, wearing a rain coat, day pack and a charity challenge neck buff as a headband

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

1. Train, train, train! Before you start your trek, make sure you’re physically prepared, it will make the challenge easier and much more enjoyable. 

2. Pack smart! Don’t overpack, but try make sure you have the right gear for the weather conditions. Remember, you’ll be carrying your backpack for hours each day, so keep it light. 

3.  Stay motivated! Focus on your why – remember the charity you’re supporting and the people you’re helping. Break your trek into smaller, manageable chunks, and celebrate your progress along the way. Don’t be afraid to lean on your leaders and fellow trekkers for support. 

two challenge leaders wearing rain coats smiling for a selfie at the top of a rainy scafell pike

What 5 items do you always pack in your daypack? 

Waterproofs, headtorch, spare buff, small first aid kit and a decent lip balm with SPF.

What is the best thing about being a leader? 

Meeting the participants and getting to listen to their inspirational stories and then being able to help them achieve their goals on the challenge, as well as working alongside our other leaders – we have the most amazing team. 

a group of icelandic lava trek challengers stood together in front of rugged icelandic rocks, smiling and wearing Charity Challenge medals

What is your proudest achievement to date? 

It’s hard to pick out one thing, crossing any finish line with participants and seeing them being welcomed proudly by friends and family always brings a tear to my eye, being allowed to share in those moments is really special and makes me feel privileged and proud to have been part of that team.

One moment that has stuck out for me this year was completing our trek in Iceland, I had an incredible team of ladies, and it felt amazing to help them on their journey. 

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CHALLENGER STORIES: EMMA BAKER

January 28, 2026

Over the years, we’ve met countless inspiring fundraisers at Charity Challenge, each driven by a cause close to their heart. This month, we’re proud to share the story of trekking and fundraising superstar and repeat challenger, Emma Baker!

A selfie of Emma Baker and Giovanna Fletcher smiling together at a CoppaTrek! event with Charity Challenge.

Which Charity Challenges have you done?

My first CoppaTrek! with Gi challenge was the 5-day 100km Pembrokeshire Coastal challenge in 2022. I have taken part in 3 CoppaTrek! with Gi marathon-length challenges in the Peak District, Yorkshire and the Cotswolds – and I’ve also trekked a 1/2 marathon in the South Downs.

Three people walking together during a sunny UK trek.

What compels you to take on a challenge? 

I see first hand the difference the charity makes to people by being a volunteer speaker ambassador for them. CoppaFeel! has changed my life and in turn I have helped change other’s lives by delivering their message! I see the hard work that CoppaFeel! does behind the scenes and the time the charity take to really make a difference. These charity treks are what helps CoppaFeel! continue to save lives, so when I complete a challenge it feels so good to be helping in a small way! 

Three people smiling for a selfie, after a CoppaTrek! challenge.

What’s been your favourite Charity Challenge so far? 

They’ve all been epic but I will say the Cotswolds I really enjoyed! Camping for the whole weekend and having the full experience was awesome. I love meeting new people and the beauty of the challenges is you can talk to so many different people along the way. Also great to catch up with trekking friends I’ve made over the years and fellow ‘Boobettes’. 

A group of people smiling in a sunny UK campsite, surrounded by green tents, grass and the distant sea.

How much have you raised overall?

I have raised £5,600 so far. I’m taking part in the CoppaTrek! Alumni – Montenegro challenge in July, and I hope to raise loads more with a target of £3,000!

A group of people smiling at the start line of a sunny CoppaTrek! in the UK.

Any special fundraising tips to share? 

Share share and share again! Be seen! Share your page each time you do a workout a walk or post a pic so it’s seen by all. Go big with an event to advertise! When doing raffles, approach businesses and ask for donations of prizes or vouchers. This ups the ante and gets people interested. We all love a freebie! 

A person standing on a grassy, green country path in the UK, wearing a hiking boots, walking poles a day pack and sunglasses.

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

Be prepared for standing for long periods of time, get your legs walking and ready as soon as you can. The right walking boots will make all the difference to your walk, make sure to break them in weeks before. Get good quality hiking socks too – they’re a little more expensive than you’d usually pay for socks, but the experience will be so much better. Practice with them during training so your feet are the right fit in the boot with the socks! (Check out our blog Taking Care of Your Feet on Challenges for more tips!)

I also wouldn’t trek without walking poles, they’re a go-to if you need support on hills. If you have all the tools, you’ll be good to go! But don’t over think it. As Gi always says, it’s just walking!

Two people smiling for the camera, dressed to go trekking in the UK.

What’s next for Emma?

In July 2026, I’m taking on another CoppaTrek! in Montenegro, so I’ll be doing lots of training and fundraising events for that. I also deliver the breast cancer awareness talks for CoppaFeel! and have done 98 talks and stalls since starting in 2022, so I’m hoping this year will have lots more planned. Then maybe later in the year, another trek with CoppaFeel! and Charity Challenge. 

You can discover more about Emma’s challenge journey and donate to her fundraising page here.

A group of trekkers celebrating in front of a finish line, wearing medals and CoppaFeel! t-shirts.

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