Leeds graduate to trek Gobi desert

She’ll be the youngest ever Brit to do so


A Leeds University graduate is going on a 1,600km trek across the Gobi desert all in the aid of charity.

Chloe Burles, who studies Biochemistry will be taking on the trek for WaterAid and upon completion of the 60 day challenge, Chloe will become the youngest Brit to ever to cross.

When asked about what first inspired her to travel she said: “I don’t like to stick to the normal tourist hotspots. Sitting on the beach in Spain or France, although I have done it, just isn’t for me. I find it much more interesting to go to the places people don’t really think about going to in their holidays.”

On discussing her previous travel achievements, Chloe said: “Last year I climbed the highest mountain in Europe in rural Russia, near the border with Georgia. I spent a week in an altitude tent to acclimatise to the lack of oxygen.

“As a scientist I found this fascinating. I’ve also got a bit of a thing for camels. Maybe it’s the biologist in me coming out but there is just something about how brilliantly adapted they are to suit their environment that amazes me.

“During my final year I convinced my housemate to fly to Africa for the day. We spent 48 hours on the edge of the Sahara riding camels – it was brilliant!”

When asked why she decided to take on the challenge she said: “I’ve have had a lot of interest expressed in my exploring and thought it would be a good idea to use this to help raise funds and awareness for charity.

“That way I can use my desire to explore to have a positive impact on the world in which I enjoy exploring.”

Chloe is supporting WaterAid who are about getting safe water, sanitation and hygiene to everyone. To support Chloe visit: https://www.justgiving.com/Chloe-Burles1.