The special departure dates on the trips listed below are open to children aged 14 and over, provided they are accompanied by at least one parent or legal guardian. All other departure dates are restricted to adults of 18+ as normal. 

Taking part in a fundraising challenge is a vastly beneficial experience; not only do we explore a different part of the world, but we see our own strengths and abilities differently after achieving something so unique.

Experiencing different environments and ways of life enhances our views of the world and our life experience enormously. 

 As an adult, this can be life-changing. For young people, undertaking a personal challenge of this nature will have a huge impact on self-confidence and motivation. It will also enhance learning in school and college and add extra interest to university or job applications. The experience of fundraising for a charity, as a family, only adds to this.

How fit does my child need to be?

The Family Challenges we are offering are trips we consider suitable for a fit, active 14-year-old but, just like any other trip participant, training is essential. Under-18s can be fitter than many adults, but tend to have lower stamina levels. Any child joining this challenge should therefore be prepared to train. Gym workouts are not usually recommended for children; family walking or cycling outings are ideal. Allow plenty of time for gradual improvement, so sign up to your challenge as early as possible. In addition, children should be mentally prepared for the fact that their trip is designed to be challenging and home comforts will rarely be available! 

How will my child feel at altitude?

From 2500m many people start to feel some effects of being at altitude, such as headaches, nausea and shortness of breath. Everyone is different, and it is impossible to predict how your body will acclimatise. Under-18s are still developing physically, so may acclimatise slower than you, and therefore feel more effects.

This does not mean they will encounter any real problems, but it’s even more reason to ensure your child is fit, strong and healthy before departure. Any trip at altitude has plenty of time to acclimatise built in and your group will have a trip doctor as well as experienced leaders and local guides, but if you are concerned please call us for advice.

Do both parents need to take part in a Family Challenge?

Not at all. Each parent/guardian can be responsible for up to two 14-18 year-olds. All members of a family group must register on the trip together. 

What about accommodation on the trip?

In hotels you will normally share a room with your child(ren); on camping trips you may be split between two tents. Depending upon the make-up of your family unit there may be several options, but your child(ren) will never be expected to share a room or tent with a non-family member. 

What are my responsibilities as a parent/guardian?

You must ensure the information we receive in advance is accurate for each member of your family. You are responsible for your child’s behaviour at all times on the trip. Drinking alcohol is strictly forbidden for under-18s on our trips. 

What if my child cannot complete the trip?

If your child is not fit enough to continue you will always be consulted but the decision ultimately rests with the Discover Adventure leader, who is responsible for the safety of the whole group at all times. In some cases your child will be able to rest in a support vehicle and perhaps rejoin the group later, but this is sometimes not possible. Your child must be accompanied by its parent/guardian at all times, so you must be prepared to abandon your own challenge if your child cannot complete it. If you are responsible for two children you will all be required to stay together. In case of an emergency, your tour leaders are responsible for deciding on or taking the safest course of action. Discover Adventure leaders are very experienced and your family is in very safe hands with them.

We are always happy to offer advice! If you are unsure whether a particular challenge is suitable for you or any family member, please don't hesitate to contact us.