How old do I have to be?
The minimum age is18. There is no upper age limit. It may be possible to participate if you are 16 or 17 years old but you must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. The ideal candidate would be fit, healthy and determined, open to adventure and adaptable to unexpected changes.
Is there a recommended fitness level?
You are advised to be of a good fitness level before departure to ensure fast recovery from each day’s exertions.
How tough is the challenge?
This is moderately challenging trip. The terrain is generally flat with sand dunes representing the biggest variation in gradient. The temperatures pose a specific challenge with temperatures historically reaching 40°C.
Can I take part in this challenge if I have a medical
condition?
This will depend on what that condition is and how it impacts you. Please bear in mind that this is a moderately challenging trip. All participants will be asked to complete a medical form when booking and any medical conditions you have should be declared on this. Our partners, Different Travel, will get in touch to discuss this with you. In the unlikely event, it is deemed unsuitable for you to take part, your booking fee will be refunded.
If you are concerned about whether your condition would stop you taking part, please contact Different Travel, by emailing them at info@different-travel.com or calling them on 02381 449447.
Do I need to purchase travel insurance?
Yes. Different Travel will everything possible to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip, however unexpected things can occur, such as delays, medical problems, baggage loss, cancellation by you. The purchase of travel insurance is mandatory. We advise that you take out travel insurance at the time of booking to ensure you are covered immediately to protect you against the loss of your non-refundable registration fee if you cancel due to injury, illness etc. Please make sure that this covers pre-existing medical conditions where applicable.
What weather should I expect?
Temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C during the day and drop to around 0°C at night however you must be prepared for climate variations, which are out of our control. The climate will be dry and there may be some strong winds. Rain, although rare, is not impossible.
Who will accompany us?
You will be accompanied by professional English-speaking Berber guides who have an excellent knowledge of culture and hiking in the region. The guides are first aid trained and will support you throughout your journey. You will also be accompanied by a team of support staff including cooks and camel handlers, a Different Travel Company UK tour manager and a member of the Brain Tumour Research team.
What is the itinerary for the trek?
For a full itinerary and more information about this challenge, click here to download the information pack.
What do I receive after registering?
As well as receiving expert fundraising support from our team to help you reach (and beat) your fundraising target and support for your trek from Different Travel, we will send you a free fundraising pack to help maximise your efforts.
This pack will include: an editable poster to help promote your challenge and encourage donations; a fashionable fez pin badge; a copy of Believe Magazine; and a sponsorship form and pen to collect offline donations.
In September, we will also send you: four Brain Tumour Research technical t-shirts – one for each day of your Saharan trek, a branded cap to keep your cool during the trek and a branded water bottle.
If your question is not answered above, please email our International Challenge Lead, Deb Gascoyne, via deborah.gascoyne@braintumourresearch.org and she will be in touch as soon as possible to assist.
