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.

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.