The Spring 2026 REI Virtual Walking Challenge will start on 25 April and run through to 17 May 2026. This isn’t a race—it’s an experience (though you’re welcome to make it competitive if you wish!).
Registration will be open from 6 April. Please check here for details.
Make it fun and social: walk with friends, chat, debate, and maybe even try to solve the world’s problems along the way. Most importantly, every step you take helps make a real difference for refugee communities.
This Challenge
The route you’ll follow virtually mirrors the treacherous journeys taken by people fleeing their villages to seek safety and dignity. The route is mostly along jungle paths, passing through small settlements along the way and dodging assaults from the air. People continue to flee Myanmar as air attacks continue.
Yet, like in real life, there are also moments of beauty and awe along the way.
You can walk, run, cycle, or even swim your portion of the challenge. Simply connect your health app to the Virtual Mission platform. Each time you reach a milestone, you’ll receive a digital postcard highlighting scenes and experiences that reflect what refugees may have witnessed on their journeys.
By taking part, you’re not only moving for your own health—you’re supporting REI-funded projects that empower displaced people worldwide to rebuild their lives with dignity, opportunity, and hope for a brighter future.
The destination for this journey is Karenni Camp 1, home to Karenni Social Development Centre where students study subjects such as leadership, human rights and care for the environment.