Al-Andalus Challenege

Date: September 23 – September 29, 2026
Where: Cordoba, Granada, Malaga, and the Alpujarras, Spain
Activities: Islamic Historical Locations, Hiking, and Canyoning
Difficulty Level: Intermediate
Registration Fee: $1,600 (Required upon acceptance into the Challenge)
Fundraising Goal: $3,500
Deadline to Register: June 7, 2026

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Journey of Knowledge, Adventure & Impact 

Embark on a transformative and physical journey through Islamic Relief Canada’s Al-Andalus Spain Challenge 2026 — an immersive experience through the historical cities of Cordoba, Granada, and Malaga, combining faith, adventure, and the opportunity to make a lasting difference.  

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About the Al-Andalus Challenge

The Al-Andalus Challenge is a unique 7-day historical and adventurous experience designed for those who want to deepen their connection to Islamic history while supporting vulnerable orphans around the world. 

Participants will journey through the cities of Cordoba, Granada, and Malaga, experiencing key historical sites and engaging in physically rewarding activities in the Alpujarras.

Your commitment goes beyond personal achievement. Through this challenge, you will raise vital funds to support Islamic Relief Canada’s Orphan Care Fund, helping us fill gaps and reach families who need urgent, life-saving assistance. Your support provides direct care for orphaned children, their mothers, and families around the world. 


  • Age: Participants must be 18 years or older. Under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult who is also participating in the challenge
  • Physical Fitness: Individuals should be physically fit and capable of participating in physically demanding challenges.
  • Health Conditions: Participants should not have any severe medical or health conditions that could jeopardize their well-being, such as physical injuries, heart conditions, or pregnancy. *It is advisable to consult with a doctor before signing up*
  • Fundraising Goal: All participants must raise 100% of their fundraising goal before the challenge begins.
  • Selection Process: All applicants will undergo a selection process to ensure that participants meet the specific requirements and criteria of the challenge. Selected participants will be notified and provided with further instructions on registering and preparing for the event


Day 1 – Arrival & Foundations of Al-Andalus 

  • Arrival at Málaga Airport 
  • Meet & greet, followed by a private transfer to Córdoba 
  • Visit: The Great Mosque of Córdoba (Masjid al-Qurtubi) 
  • Hotel check-in and welcome group dinner 
  • Overnight: Córdoba 

Day 2 – Power, Splendour & Decline 

  • Breakfast at the hotel 
  • Visit: Madinat al-Zahra 
  • Lunch in Córdoba 
  • Transfer to Granada 
  • Group Dinner in Granada 
  • Overnight: Granada 

Day 3 – The Last Stronghold 

  • Breakfast & hotel check-out 
  • Visit: The Alhambra 
  • Group lunch in Granada 
  • Transfer to the Alpujarra 
  • Hike 1: Lanjarón → Órgiva (Morisco Escape Route) 
    • Distance: ~12 km 
    • Difficulty: Moderate 
    • Duration: 4–5 hours 
    • Group dinner (local / camp-style) 
  • Overnight: Órgiva 

Day 4 – Faith in the Mountains 

  • Breakfast 
  • White Village Hike: Poqueira Gorge 
    • Route: Pampaneira → Bubión → Capileira 
    • Distance: ~10 km 
    • Difficulty: Moderate 
  • Group lunch at a village stop 
  • Dinner featuring local Alpujarra cuisine 
  • Overnight: Órgiva or Bubión 

Day 5 – Endurance Through the Elements 

  • Breakfast 
  • Transfer to Río Verde 
  • Canyoning Challenge: Río Verde 
  • Abseiling, water jumps, and natural slides, a team-based endurance experience, fully guided with safety equipment. 
    • Duration: 3.5–4 hours 
    • Difficulty: Moderate 
    • Jumps: Optional 
    • Abseils: Up to 9–12 m 
    • Fitness Level: Medium 
    • Professional Guides 
  • Group lunch en route / local 
  • Transfer to Málaga 
  • Overnight: Málaga 

Day 6 – Flow, Struggle & Renewal 

  • Breakfast 
  • Second Canyoning Challenge: Río Genil 
    • Duration: 3.5–4 hours 
    • Time on water: 1.5–2 hours 
    • Difficulty: Medium 
    • Fitness Level: Moderate 
    • Skills Required: Basic swimming 
    • Professional guides 
  • Group lunch at a local restaurant 
  • Final group dinner 
  • Overnight: Málaga 

Day 7 – Relax & Reflect 

  • Málaga 
  • Breakfast 
  • Free time for beach or city exploration 
  • Departure: Private transfers to the airport 

Note: Participants staying beyond Day 7 are responsible for arranging their own transportation and accommodation for the remainder of their trip. The itinerary is subject to change due to weather conditions, group fitness levels, or local circumstances

What is included in the registration fee? 

The registration fee will cover your accommodation, transportation within Spain, guided treks, some meals, and overall program support.


Flights to and from Spain and visas for entry (if required) into the country are not included in the package. These will need to be arranged for by the participants themselves.


Do I need prior trekking experience? 

Basic fitness and stamina are recommended, but prior trekking experience is not mandatory. 


Can I extend my stay after the challenge? 

Yes, but you must arrange your own accommodation and transportation after the duration of this challenge.


Is travel insurance required? 

Yes, participants must secure travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and trip interruptions.

Registration fees are non-refundable.

 Questions?

You can email [email protected] with any questions or for any further information. We’re here to support 9am to 5pm EST, Monday to Friday.

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