Global Charity Challenges

Take on the ancient pilgrim route of the Portuguese Way, a life-changing walk through history, culture and stunning natural landscapes: all while fundraising for SWFT Charity.

Overview

Join a small group for an unforgettable 8-day trekking challenge along the iconic Portuguese Way (Camino de Santiago). Starting in the riverside town of Tui on the Spain–Portugal border, you’ll walk through rolling countryside, peaceful woodlands, vineyards, historic towns and charming Galician villages, finishing at the magnificent Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, the legendary end point of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage.

This trip blends physical challenge, cultural discovery and a sense of personal achievement, with full support from experienced local guides and a Different Travel UK tour manager.

Trek Highlights

• Walk the ancient Camino de Santiago’s Portuguese Way, one of the most iconic pilgrimage routes in the world.
• Trek through undulating terrain including country roads, dirt paths, forest tracks, and village streets.
• Experience the rich heritage and local culture of Galicia, including historic bridges, Roman roads, fields, forests and the famed final square in Santiago.
• Enjoy delicious regional cuisine and warm hospitality each e vening.

Rough Itinerary

Day 1: Fly UK → Spain, transfer to Tui + briefing & dinner
Days 2–6: Daily walks from Tui to Santiago de Compostela via O Porrino, Arcade, Barro and Padron, covering approximately 17–29 km per day (5–7+ hours trekking) through countryside and historic towns.
Day 7: Leisure day in Santiago de Compostela to explore, relax, celebrate your trek!
Day 8: Return home to the UK.

Fitness & Terrain

This trek is graded moderate to challenging and you’ll be walking long distances (often 7–8+ hours) on a mix of paths and gradients. Regular walking and hill training ahead of departure is strongly recommended to ensure you’re prepared and get the most out of the experience.

If this trip interests you, please fill out this short contact form and a member of the SWFT Charity team will be in touch.

Take on one of the world’s greatest adventures and trek the iconic Great Wall of China while raising funds for SWFT Charity. 

This unique challenge blends cultural immersion, remote trekking and breath-taking views across ancient landscapes; all while supporting a great cause.

Overview

Join a small group for an unforgettable 9-day challenge along remote sections of the Great Wall - from ancient passes at Gubeikou to the rugged ridges of Jinshanling and Simatai. Expect days spent walking centuries-old stone pathways, hiking through forests, rolling hills, and experiencing traditional Chinese hospitality in guesthouses along the route.

This is a moderate to challenging trek: perfect for anyone who enjoys pushing their limits, training in advance, and wants an authentic cultural experience deep in the heart of China’s history. 

Trek Highlights

• Trek across remote, rarely-visited sections of the Great Wall with dramatic views.
• Stay in local guesthouses, enjoy authentic regional cuisine and connect with fellow trekkers.
• Explore both restored and unrestored wall sections, offering varied terrain and historic insights
• Finish with cultural experiences in Beijing, including visits to Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square.

Sample Itinerary

Day 1: Fly London → Beijing
Day 2: Arrive Beijing, welcome dinner & briefing
Day 3–7: Trek from Gubeikou → Jinshanling → Simatai, returning to Beijing
Day 8: Beijing guided sightseeing & farewell dinner
Day 9: Return flight to London

Daily trekking varies from 6–15km through rugged terrain with significant elevation.

 Fitness & Terrain

This challenge is graded moderate to challenging. You should be prepared to walk 5–8 hours each day over steep, uneven ground and historic stone stairways. Training beforehand with hill walks will help you make the most of the experience.

If this trip interests you, please fill out this short contact form and a member of the SWFT Charity team will be in touch.

Step out of your comfort zone and into one of the world’s most iconic landscapes, the Sahara Desert, while raising vital funds for SWFT Charity. This extraordinary trek takes you deep into the heart of Morocco’s vast sun-baked plains, across rolling sand dunes and dramatic rocky terrain, with nights under the stars and days filled with adventure and discovery.

Overview

Join a guided small group trek across the legendary Sahara — from the vibrant city of Marrakech, over the majestic Atlas Mountains, and into the sweeping deserts of southern Morocco. Over two full and two half days on the trail, you will walk across ancient dried riverbeds, climb sandy dunes, and navigate expansive plains, all supported by an expert local team. Camping beneath the desert sky each night offers a unique and unforgettable experience far from the bustle of everyday life. Different Travel

Trek Highlights

• Sahara Desert trekking adventure across varied terrain including dunes, plains and rocky outcrops.
• Camp under the stars and soak in the beauty of clear desert skies.
• Support from Berber guides, camel handlers and local crew, carrying equipment and offering cultural insight.
• Discover the traditional Berber way of life and enjoy hearty Moroccan meals prepared by your trek chef.
• Finish the adventure in Marrakech with a farewell dinner and time to explore this vibrant city.

Rough Itinerary

Day 1: Fly UK → Marrakech
Met on arrival and transfer to your hotel. Dinner and trip briefing.

Day 2: Marrakech → Sahara Desert
Cross the Atlas Mountains and follow ancient caravan routes into the Sahara. Begin your trek and camp under the stars.

Days 3–4: Sahara Trek
Walk through rolling sand dunes and across expansive desert terrain with support from guides and camels carrying your kit.

Day 5: Final Trek → Marrakech
Finish your desert hike and travel back to Marrakech for a farewell dinner.

Day 6: Marrakech → UK
Enjoy some free time in Marrakech before flying home.

Fitness & Terrain

This challenge is moderate to challenging -the terrain is mainly flat, but sand dunes and heat (historically up to ~40°C) make this trek physically demanding. A good fitness level and training ahead of departure are recommended to fully enjoy and complete the journey.

If this trip interests you, please fill out this short contact form and a member of the SWFT Charity team will be in touch.