Challenges, Inspiration, Latest News

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.

Make sure to keep an eye on our socials or sign up to our monthly newsletter for more inspirational stories!

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YOUR 2026 ADVENTURE CALENDAR

January 13, 2026

Planning for a year of outdoor adventures, new challenges or giving back? Our 2026 Adventure Calendar brings together the very best charity challenges across spring, summer, autumn and winter, helping you find the perfect adventure at the perfect time.

Explore what’s coming up in 2026 and start planning a year of meaningful experiences.

SPRING CHALLENGES

a line of trekkers hiking along a rocky mountain ridge in the indian himalayas

Dalai Lama Himalayan Trek : Fri 10 Apr – Mon 20 Apr 2026

Trek through oak forests, mountain passes and remote villages near Dharamsala. Along the Uhl River, experience high-altitude landscapes, Tibetan culture and life in the foothills of the world’s highest mountains.

11 days | India | Challenging

a group of people sat on a rocky ledge in the jordan desert, looking out at a glowing orange sunset.

Trek To Petra : Sat 11 Apr – Sat 18 Apr 2026

Journey across Jordan’s remote deserts and mountains and rest under the stars at camp. The challenge culminates with a breathtaking back-route walk into the ancient city of Petra.

8 days | Jordan | Tough

Two smiling women wearing headlamps and high-visibility vests pose at a mountain viewpoint during sunrise, raising money for Sands charity and holding a small orange plush toy.

Sands Snowdon by Night Hike : Sat 09 May – Sun 10 May 2026

Take on the highest mountain in Wales at 1085m, at night in aid of Sands charity speaking up about pregnancy and baby loss, saving babies’ lives and supporting bereaved families.

2 days | UK | Tough

VIEW ALL SPRING CHALLENGES

SUMMER CHALLENGES

Hikers on the Icelandic Lava Trek crossing volcanic terrain with sweeping views of lava fields, mountains and glacial lakes.

Icelandic Lava Trek : Wed 29 Jul – Sun 02 Aug 2026

Travel on foot through Iceland’s volcanic terrain, crossing geothermal valleys, glacial rivers, waterfalls and obsidian fields, before unwinding in Reykjavík and the Sky Lagoon.

5 days | Iceland | Tough

a group of trekkers celebrating at the summit of scafel pike during the national three peaks challenge

National Three Peaks Challenge – multiple dates

This iconic fast-paced challenge sees you climb the highest peaks in Scotland, England and Wales within a single 24-hour window. A challenge that tests both physical and mental endurance!

3 days | UK | Tough

Group of people white-water rafting through powerful rapids on the Zambezi River, wearing helmets and life jackets in a yellow inflatable raft.

Zambezi River Challenge : Thu 10 Sep – Sat 19 Sep 2026

Paddle your way along the border with Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe, steadily heading for Victoria Falls where you’ll raft the most tempestuous rapids in the world.

10 days | Zambia | Challenging

VIEW ALL SUMMER CHALLENGES

AUTUMN CHALLENGES

two smiling trekkers wearing green macmillan tshirts during their charity hike

Defeat The Peak Challenge Series – multiple dates

Take on the Surrey Three Peaks, Yorkshire Three Peaks or Snowdon at night Challenge in aid of Macmillan Cancer Research

1 day | UK | Challenging

View of a stretch of the great wall of china in the Yen mountains at sunset.

Great Wall Discovery : Sat 19 Sep – Sun 27 Sep 2026

Journey across restored and wild sections of the Great Wall, tackling steep watchtower climbs, earning vast mountain panoramas, and finishing with a cultural finale in Beijing.

9 days | China | Challenging

Group of cyclists on the Saigon to Angkor Wat bike ride, posing on a rural road surrounded by palm trees in South East Asia.

Saigon to Angkor Wat Bike Ride : Thu 22 Oct – Sun 01 Nov 2026

A cross-border ride from Saigon to Angkor Wat, weaving through Mekong backroads, rural communities and historic landscapes before finishing among Cambodia’s ancient temples.

11 days | Vietnam | Challenging

VIEW ALL AUTUMN CHALLENGES

WINTER CHALLENGES

Trekker celebrating on a snowy slope during a winter ascent of Mount Toubkal in Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains, surrounded by rugged rocky peaks under a clear blue sky.

Winter Toubkal Trek : Sat 28 Nov – Thu 03 Dec 2026

A snowbound journey from Berber valleys into Morocco’s High Atlas, using crampons and ice axes to reach Mount Toubkal’s summit.

6 days | Morocco | Extreme

Smiling woman in winter clothing taking a selfie while dog sledding through a snow-covered forest in Swedish Lapland, with huskies pulling sleds behind her.

Dog Sledding Challenge : Sat 13 Mar – Fri 19 Mar 2027

Led by huskies across frozen forests and mountains of Swedish Lapland, this wintery expedition spans vast Arctic terrain, remote cabins and night skies lit by the Northern Lights.

8 days | Jordan | Tough

VIEW ALL WINTER CHALLENGES

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WHY YOU SHOULD PRIORITISE EXPERIENCES THIS YEAR

December 24, 2025

As a new year begins, many of us start thinking differently about what really matters. Once the excitement of Christmas fades, it’s often experiences and achievements – not possessions – that we desire most. The moments that challenge us, inspire us, and leave a lasting impression.

Read on to discover why you should prioritise experiences this year, and how a Charity Challenge can become a meaningful gift to both yourself and a worthwhile cause that you care about.

A line of people sitting on a section of the great wall of china with their arms around each others shoulders, looking out at the Yan mountain rage.

Experiences That Stay with You

Unlike things, experiences don’t fade or lose value over time. They shape how we see the world and ourselves. Taking on a Charity Challenge is about more than reaching a destination – it’s about the journey, the effort, and the sense of achievement, and the memories that stay long after you return home. 

  • “I kept thinking about the small things we so easily take for granted at home: a shower, a bed, access to clean water. All of which shouldn’t be luxuries, but basic resources accessible to everyone. And when you’re staring at a desert sunset, with nothing but silence, sand, and the moon… you’re reminded of how fortunate you really are.” – Saagar Hand, Sahara Desert Trek Participant
A trekker walking along a sand dune in the sahara desert, under a clear blue sky.

The Power of Training Towards Something Bigger

We’ve all been there – promising yourself in January that this is the year you’ll start going to the gym, or be a healthier, more active version of yourself. Too often, these promises fall apart – naturally, life gets in the way and fitness becomes less of a priority. Committing to a Charity Challenge brings structure, motivation and purpose, turning training into something meaningful rather than just a fitness goal.

Each walk, ride or workout becomes time invested in your wellbeing – boosting routine, time outdoors and self-belief. Following a training plan creates a sense of progress that carries you confidently towards the start line.

  • “Everyone I know said how challenging it would be for me and it was evident a lot of people thought I wouldn’t be able to do it – and I proved them wrong.” – Toni Cox, Yorkshire 3 Peaks Challenge Participant
A group of hikers at the summit of a UK mountain holding a Charity Challenge flat up.

Making a Real Difference 

Fundraising adds another powerful layer to taking part in a Charity Challenge. Knowing that your challenge supports a charity close to your heart brings purpose to every tough moment and makes the finish line even more rewarding. Your training effort is further fuelled by the knowledge that you’re doing your best to help an important cause. Fundraising infuses your goals with a deeper meaning and accountability.

With your challenge date set and your supporters cheering you on, what could be better for providing that lasting motivation we so often need?!

  • “It’s hard to put into words what an incredible experience it is to take part in a charity challenge. It’s an amazing opportunity to connect with like-minded people, go on an adventure, and have a greater purpose – to raise money and awareness for a cause that is dear to your heart.” – Saira Reynolds, Trek Angkor Wat Participant
Three people dressed in cycling gear cheering.

Personal Growth

Completing a Charity Challenge is very likely to change you. It may reveal a version of yourself you have not met before – one shaped by resilience, determination, and purpose. When you commit to something bigger than yourself, you may discover strengths you didn’t know you had.

Stepping outside your comfort zone is where real growth happens. Training, fundraising, and facing challenges head-on pushes you beyond familiar limits. What once felt impossible becomes achievable, and that belief carries into every part of your life. By the time you cross the finish line, the challenge is no longer just about what you’ve completed, it’s about who you’ve become.

  • “You don’t just create experiences; you change lives, build lifelong friendships, and give so much back to communities around the world… I may be just one person, but I know there are thousands of us who often reflect on the opportunities and experiences you made possible.” – Nicola Long, Participant
A group of trekkers at the summit of Scafell Pike, cheering with their arms in the air, during their National Three Peaks Challenge.

A Space to Be Yourself

The magical thing about a Charity Challenge is that it creates a safe, supportive space to be your true self. No masks, no predefined roles, just you. You’re surrounded by people who share your goals and values, encouraged to show up honestly, ask for help, and support others when you can. There’s no pressure to be perfect, just gentle encouragement to keep moving forward.
Remember our leaders are there for you every step of the journey so you can fully immerse yourself in the experience and focus on the task in hand.

  • “The challenge leaders are fantastic people… truly inspirational and helped me push through the grind of climbing three mountains. Thank you to you all. This experience has changed me.” – Jessica Dunne, National Three Peaks Challenge Participant
5 trekkers wearing Sands Charity tshirts placing their hands on the trig point at the summit of Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa).

Shared Moments and Lasting Connections

And as if that wasn’t rewarding enough, remember, a Charity Challenge is a shared experience. Whether you sign up solo or with friends, you’ll take on the challenge with a group of like-minded, determined individuals, each with their own story and reason for being there. Supporting one another through the highs and lows often becomes one of the most memorable and meaningful parts of the journey.

  • “Mindset is key, conversations on the trail rise like the climb itself – sometimes breathless, sometimes quiet, but always deeper the higher we go.” – Nick Turner, Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa) at Night Challenge Participant
Four trekkers wearing sunglasses and smiling and hugging during their Sahara Desert Trek.

Find Your People

For many, a Charity Challenge becomes the start of a new community – one built on encouragement, teamwork, and giving back. Not everyone in your life may want to take part in a challenge or fully understand the journey you’re on.

On the challenge, you might find yourself walking, trekking, or camping alongside someone who has faced a path much like your own. It can be both a joy and a relief when someone understands the real you, and what you have been through.  In those moments, you feel like you’ve found your people and you are exactly where you are supposed to be. Long after the challenge is over, the friendships and support often remain, turning a single experience into something lasting.

  • “We recommend you talk to as many people as you can on your challenge. The universe has put you all together for a reason!” – Jenn Payne, Head of Sales & Marketing
A smiling trekker wearing warm hiking gear and a charity challenge neck buff during the Icelandic Lava Trek challenge.

A Different Kind of Resolution

This year, consider choosing an experience that challenges you, gives back and leaves a lasting impact. A Charity Challenge could be the moment that defines your year.

Still unsure about signing up? Check out Charity Challenge boss Simon’s End of Year Reflection here to hear first-hand how much positive impact joining a challenge can have, and why it’s the perfect way to live for the moment!

We offer a wide range of challenges to suit everyone, from UK-based to Overseas destinations, with different activities, ranging from a ‘challenging’ difficulty level up to ‘extreme’.

Group of cheerful hikers celebrating at the summit of Mount Toubkal under a blue sky. Additional text is promoting Charity Challenge's 2026 new year sale .

Take Advantage of our New Year Sale

Start your year right: don’t miss out on our New Year Sale offers!

Receive up to 50% off reg fees on selected 2026 & 2027 UK and Overseas challenges. Sale ends Midnight 31st January 2026! T&C’s Apply.

EXPLORE OUR NEW YEAR SALE OFFERS
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