Embark on Barnardos Aotearoa Brighter Futures Challenge – Great Wall of China 2025 (one of the Seven Wonders of the World!), and help tamariki in Aotearoa thrive.
11-19 October 2025
Travel Dates
$430
NZD$265
Registration Fee
NZD $3,530
Trip Cost
Paid upfront or in instalments
3/5
Challenge Grade
NZD $3,500
Fundraising Target
Early bird offer: sign up before 14 March 2025 and save $165 on your registration fee!
The Difference You'll Make
At Barnardos, we believe every child deserves to feel safe, supported, and heard. But for many tamariki in Aotearoa, life can feel overwhelming. This is why for over 23 years, Barnardos’ helpline, 0800 What’s Up, has been a lifeline for many tamariki and rangatahi.
In the last year alone, our counsellors have answered 12,724 phone calls and chats from tamariki, some of whom are as young as five years old, seeking help for challenges that no child should face alone – relationships issues, grief and loss, loneliness, deliberate self-harm, mental distress and suicide ideation.
Barnardos 0800 What’s Up is a free, confidential counselling service for children and young people aged 5–19. Open 365 days a year, 0800 What’s Up provides a safe space for tamariki to talk about whatever’s on their mind, from everyday worries to life’s toughest challenges. Our trained counsellors are here to listen, empower children to solve their own problems, and find hope.
This vital service supports more than 12,000 children and young people every year. Government funding to 0800 What’s Up accounts for half of the total funding we require to run our helpline. Barnardos is still working hard to fundraise the remaining $500,000 a year needed to keep the helpline running.
Join us for an incredible fundraising trek along the Great Wall of China. Walk through history, experience breathtaking landscapes, and make every step count for a cause that changes lives. Together, we can ensure that every child has someone who will listen, no matter what.
We know that every child needs a village – and for some whānau, that isn’t always available, so at Barnardos Aotearoa, we create a village. Every day, we stand alongside tamariki and whānau, providing social services, early learning, care services, and practical support to help them thrive. At Barnardos, children and families find not just support services, but connection and community – a village where no one walks alone.
Sign up today and make a difference — for tamariki, for their futures, and for a better Aotearoa.
How it works
FLEXIBLE BOOKINGS
Make a difference
Commit to raising the minimum fundraising target and make a positive difference to worthwhile causes.
You'll be supported by our team of fundraising experts to reach and exceed your fundraising goals.
Be part of a team
Join like-minded travellers, and representatives from the charity, all united in their adventurous spirit and commitment to making a positive impact in the world. Make lifelong friends during a shared challenge experience.
Trip notes
** PLEASE NOTE: The travel team recommends that you arrive into Beijing International Airport no later than 4 pm on Day 1 so you can make it in time for the welcome briefing in the evening.
On your descent into Beijing Capital International Airport or Daxing international airport, you are treated to a birds-eye view of this ever-expanding city. Upon arrival, please make your own way to the hotel. Today is free for your leisure to relax after your long-haul flight or to explore this bustling city. We will gather in the evening at 7pm in the hotel lobby for our welcome briefing.
Accommodation: 3-star hotel
Meals: Nil
After breakfast, we transfer to the western square of Ming ancient city wall relics for some morning Tai Chi - the perfect immersion into traditional Chinese culture. Then, we set off to visit Tiananmen Square, which is the cultural and political center of China and continue on to the Forbidden City. This is a great complex that served as the Chinese Imperial Palace for 600 years during the Ming and Qing Dynasties. After lunch, we will trek up to Jingshan hill which offers a bird’s eye view of the yellow roofed Forbidden City.
The Hutong Tour will be our last activity for the day, where we learn about the daily life of the common people followed by our first group dinner together.
Accommodation: 3-star hotel
Meals: B L D
Today skyscrapers make way for fields and farmlands, as we bid farewell to Beijing and head to the Great Wall at Taipingzhai Gate. En route, we stop at The Dule Temple (Temple of Solitary Joy), which is a Buddhist temple located in Jizhou District of suburban Tianjin. The temple is of historical and architectural significance. Its oldest surviving buildings are two timber-frame structures - the front gate and the central hall (pavilion) that houses a colossal clay statue of the Eleven-Headed manifestation of the Bodhisattva Guanyin (Avalokiteśvara). Both structures date back to the Liao dynasty (984 AD) and are among the oldest surviving wooden buildings in China.
After an early lunch, it’s time to begin our trek! From Taipingzhai Gate, we follow the winding back of the Great Wall to Huangyaguan, one of the most strategically important sections of the wall, as Huangyaguan is almost entirely unrestored. We will trek slowly, paying close attention to every step, especially when we reach Eight Diagram Street, a maze-like structure originally designed to confuse and eventually capture invading armies. This evening, we enjoy dinner together and an early night after our first day on the wall.
Accommodation: 3-star hotel
Transfer time: 2.5 hours
Trekking distance: 2.5km
Meals: B L D
This morning we wake to the Great Wall towering high above us. After breakfast, we transfer to our starting point at Gubeikou, the most invasion-prone section of the wall during the Ming Dynasty. Originally built in 1378, Gubeikou was designed to assist in repelling the Mongols from the north. We begin our trek amidst the Woho (Crouching Tiger) and Panlong (Hidden Dragon) mountains and pass numerous watchtowers and garrisons, before making a diversion through dense forest to bypass a military area. When we reach Gubeikou, we begin hiking from the village next to the main road, then continue on the trail up to the Great Wall. We walk along the wall towards Jinshanling, following some steps down to a village where we will rest for the night.
Accommodation: Homestay
Transfer time: 2 hours
Trekking distance: 6-9kms
Meals: B L D
Today we head up a trail to the Great Wall and follow one of the best-preserved sections of the Wall along a high mountain ridge. As we trek, we are treated to spectacular views of villages below and mighty mountains in the distance, while admiring the several watchtowers that dot the undulating path. We climb a steep section of the wall known as the Sky Ladder, being rewarded with incredible views. Once we reach the eastern end of Jinshanling, we leave the wall and descend the mountainside to meet our private vehicle transfer to go back to Gubeikou Village.
Accommodation: Homestay
Transfer time: 0.5 hours
Trekking distance: 7-10km
Meals: B L D
Today we will be trekking the eastern part of Jinshanling Great Wall where we begin at the east gate of Jinshanling and trek up stairs to reach the Great Wall. The scenery will change as we ascend and we will see why it is considered one of the most beautiful sections of the Wall. We’ll then leave the wall and head to Shalingkou where we will have lunch at a local restaurant and continue on to the Huairou District in beijing where we will get ready to the Mutianyu Great Wall hike tomorrow.
Accommodation: 3-star hotel
Trekking distance: 6-7km
Transfer time: 2 hours
Meals: B L D
This morning, we transfer about an hour to Xizhazi Village, well known for its surrounding of the Great Wall. Our first hour of hiking is uphill to Zhengbeilou, which is one of the highest watchtowers in the section, where we can enjoy the stunning view of the Great Wall. Then, we head east to Horn Tower, followed by lunch at a scenic point along the way. Once we reach the end of the Mutianyu Great Wall, we will take a sideway downhill trail to Beigou village to avoid the mass of tourists. This section is mainly rocky and steep, so we must be cautious and take care. We will arrive in Beigou village in the afternoon, where we hop on our bus and drive back to Beijing.
Accommodation: 3-star hotel
Transfer time: 3 hours
Trekking distance: 8-10kms
Meals: B L
This morning will begin with a drive to the Summer Palace, which was first built in 1750 and largely destroyed in the war of 1860 and restored a short time later. The natural landscape of hills and open water is combined with artificial features such as pavilions, halls, palaces, temples and bridges to form a harmonious ensemble of outstanding aesthetic value.
After a light lunch, we’ll head off to discover the Temple of Heaven, where emperors conducted prayer ceremonies to the heavens for good harvests. When we’re done exploring here, we’ll visit Hongqiao Market for some final shopping and to enjoy some free time before our final team dinner together where we’ll celebrate our achievements.
Accommodation: 3-star hotel
Meals: B D
This morning we bid farewell to our team and guides after an adventurous week together! You are free to further explore Beijing or relax until your flight back home. Please make your own way to the airport, as transfers are not included.
Meals: B
Includes: Transfers as per itinerary • Accommodation in 3-star hotels and homestays based on twin share • Meals as per itinerary • Water on trekking days • Local English-speaking guide • Entrance fees as per itinerary
Package Exclusions: Airfares • Airport Transfers • Travel insurance (compulsory) • Visas • Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages • Personal expenses • Tips and gratuities
Why you'll love this adventure
- Climb the Sky Ladder and be rewarded with spectacular views. You can see the Wall stretching endlessly in both directions, with the valleys and peaks below.
- Discover the contrasts of ancient and modern Beijing, including Tiananmen Square and the grand imperial architecture of the Forbidden City.
- Lose yourself in a maze of overgrown trees as you navigate some of the most remote parts of the Great Wall.
- Make friendships and memories to last a lifetime while making a lasting difference to the lives of tamariki and whānau in need, so they thrive.
Frequently asked questions
Can't find the answer to your question? Get in touch via email (info@inspiredadventure.com.au
How challenging is this adventure?
This adventure is ranked 3/5. While no extensive trekking experience is required prior to registering, our adventures are specifically designed for people who are relatively fit and willing to train.
The Great Wall of China trek is a physical challenge, and the fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the experience. You will need to navigate a variety of terrain, including some steep ascents and descents - and of course thousands of steps! There will be times when you might have to use your hands to scramble over uneven terrain, and maybe even your backside to slide down.
You will be well supported on the adventure, with the guides and your team all cheering you on. You are free to move at your own pace and we will take frequent breaks.
How many people will be on my adventure?
We believe small group travel is better for the planet, and better for you. Our adventures average between 10 - 20 participants, connected by their commitment to the greater good.
Can I join an Inspired Adventure on my own?
Of course, most people do! Throughout your adventure journey, we will connect you with your fellow adventurers so you can get to know each other before you hit the road.
What is the general age range of participants?
The minimum age for this adventure is 18, however younger ages are considered on application. We have had participants aged 16–84+ take part in our challenges, all united by their sense of philanthropy and adventure.
I have dietary requirements, will I be catered for?
Of course, we will happily arrange for any dietary requirements you’ve noted during booking to be catered for. Please advise your local guide on Day 1 as well. You will be fed very well while you’re on the adventure, but if you have a very specific dietary requirement or severe allergies, often it’s best to pack some extra things as back-up.
Who is Inspired Adventures?
Barnardos Aotearoa has partnered with Inspired Adventures to bring you this adventure of a lifetime. Over the last 20 years, Inspired Adventures has taken over 8,000 people, just like you, on adventures all around the world, raising over $49 million for important causes. When you choose to travel with Inspired Adventures and Barnardos Aotearoa, you can be confident you’re in the best hands.
How do I train for this adventure?
It is essential that you prepare for this challenge. We will provide you with a training guide when you register, but. we recommend that you consult your GP and a personal trainer to develop a personalised training plan to prepare you for the challenge.
You should aim to make walking up and down hills and stairs the main part of your training. Take regular and increasingly long walks to develop your muscles. You should aim to be able to walk in hilly country for 6-8 hours and get up to do it again the following day comfortably. Practice walking with your walking boots, day pack, and walking poles, if you plan to use them.
What is the accommodation like?
Accommodation on this adventure is twin-share in 3-star hotels and homestays.
In Beijing, hotels will be similar to Western standard—clean and centrally located. While on the Great Wall, especially the more remote sections, accommodation is basic but clean and will usually have Western-style toilets. It is rural China so keep an open mind, don’t expect perfection, and remember to have a laugh.
Will I be sharing accommodation?
Accommodation on this adventure is based on twin-share. You will be paired with a teammate of the same gender and, whenever possible, age group. Single rooms are available at an additional cost and subject to availability.
I’m travelling with a friend, can we stay together?
Absolutely! If you’re travelling with a friend, please make note of this and we will pair you together.
How do I fundraise?
Never fundraised before? Not sure where to start? No worries, we don’t expect you to do it alone. You will have regular support from the Inspired Adventures fundraising team, who will help you make a fundraising plan to meet your target. Alongside personalised coaching, we will also send you lots of ideas and resources on how to fundraise. From online fundraising to trivia nights, to bake sales and out-of-the-box ideas, we have years and years of tried and tested tips to make your fundraising a success.
What happens if I don’t meet my fundraising target?
It’s normal to worry you won’t meet your fundraising target, but we know you can do it. In fact, with the support of Inspired Adventures, almost everyone goes on to raise far more than they imagined.
By registering for the adventure, you agree to raise the minimum fundraising amount specified. Like you, we are looking to make a significant impact for our charity partners, so the goal is for each person to have met their fundraising target before departure. If you fail to raise the minimum fundraising target by this time, we will review the situation on a case-by-case basis.
I’m travelling with a friend, can we fundraise together?
Absolutely! Fundraising with a friend is a great idea. Just remember the fundraising target is per person, so you will each need to meet the minimum fundraising goal to participate. We know you can do it.
Is my donation tax-deductible?
The funds raised for Barnardos Aotearoa are tax-deductible (conditions apply).
The total cost to participate in this adventure is NZD$3,960 which is inclusive of:
- Registration fee: NZD$430 (non-refundable after 5 days)
- Travel cost: NZD$3,530 (includes a NZD$1,040 non-refundable travel deposit)
In addition, you are also committing to raising NZD$3,500 (per person) for Barnardos Aotearoa.
What happens if I need to cancel?
If you find yourself unable to attend, please notify us as soon as possible.
- Cancellation within 5 days of registration will receive a full refund (less card transaction fees).
- Cancellations more than 90 days prior to departure will receive a full refund minus the $1,040 deposit, $430 registration fee and card transaction fees.
- Cancellations within 90 days of departure will receive no refund. Where applicable, we can provide assistance in making a travel insurance claim.
- Cancellations within 90 days of departure will receive no refund. Where applicable, we can provide assistance in making a travel insurance claim.
Do I need to have insurance?
Travel insurance is required for international travel to cover cancellation, hospital, emergency evacuation and lost luggage. We recommend purchasing your policy as soon as possible. It is up to you to ensure you have fully comprehensive travel insurance and you will need to share these details with our team before departure. For more information, please visit www.inspiredadventures.com.au/travel-insurance-information.
What happens if there is a medical emergency?
Providing the safest possible environment is our highest priority and we have an outstanding safety record. All Inspired Adventures guides are first aid trained. Our guides carry satellite phones to be used if further assistance is required.
Do I need a visa to travel to China?
Yes, it is a requirement that Australian and New Zealand passport holders have a valid visa to enter China. For the most current requirements, refer to the Smartraveller website.
Take this new and exciting corporate social responsibility initiative and see your staff and brand take on this adventure as a team.
An Inspired Adventure with Barnardos Aotearoa offers the following benefits:
- Employee engagement opportunities to attract and retain staff
- Long-term partnership with Barnardos Aotearoa and increased community engagement
- Improved employee wellness through the impact of paying it forward
- Increased brand value through unique PR opportunities
- Improved workplace mental and physical health with a focus on fitness and training for the challenge
- Increased visibility through an innovative approach to corporate social responsibility
- Team building opportunities across departments through the achievement of a common goal
- Great networking opportunities
Find out more by downloading our corporate sponsorship pack HERE.
All information is subject to change and will be confirmed upon your registration.
Find Out More
Enter your details to find out more and hear directly from our team about how this adventure makes a difference.