Planeterra has announced the launch of its second annual Planeterra Trek Challenge in support of an equitable recovery of global tourism post-COVID.

Building on the success of last year’s trek to Everest Base Camp, which raised over £57,500, this year’s trek will take place virtually, summiting Mount Kilimanjaro, between September 23-27 and culminating on World Tourism Day.

Throughout the trek, Planeterra will highlight its community tourism partners across East Africa, all while challenging participants to walk approximately 52,500 steps (or 40 kilometres).

“Last year the Planeterra Trek Challenge created connections across the travel industry and amongst those who value a different kind of travel, one that puts communities at its heart,” said Bruce Poon Tip, founder and chairman of Planeterra and founder of G Adventures. “We want to highlight this incredible region where travellers are currently safely visiting, while raising some much-needed funds to get community tourism back on track around the world.”

Poon Tip has put together a team of his own and recorded a video encouraging travellers and travel industry professionals to join this year’s virtual Kili Climb. Throughout September, Planeterra will also be positing videos, blogs and travel tips as well as host live events to highlight its work in the region.

Evie Nhdlovu, Planeterra’s Program Manager for Europe, Africa and the Middle East, added: “The entire team has been working alongside our partners in Tanzania, Kenya, Rwanda and others to curate a series of unique stories, videos and information highlighting what it’s like to travel to the region. We’re excited to showcase this area of the continent to participants nad hopefully encourage them to plan their visit.”

According to Planeterra, tourism is recovering but it has been “far from equal.” Some communities have been able to receive travellers safely while others have not. Funds raised during this year’s trek will help the non-profit mentor and provide training for community tourism enterprises so they are ready to welcome back travellers again and feel confident with new health and safety protocols.

To join the Planeterra Trek Challenge, please visit classy.org.

Source: Travelweek