Intrepid launches emergency appeal

August 2026

Intrepid’s non-profit, The Intrepid Foundation, is supporting a local NGO partner to provide relief efforts in Colombia following the devastating earthquake.

Intrepid Travel has launched an emergency appeal through its not-for-profit, The Intrepid Foundation, to support impacted communities in Western Colombia after a magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck the region on Tuesday 11th August, 2026. Hundreds of people have been killed and dozens more injured, with rescue efforts underway to free those trapped beneath the rubble.

All funds raised through the appeal will go directly to impacted communities, providing essential medical supplies for emergency care, food and lodging for volunteer medical staff and airplane fuel to transport volunteers and supplies to where it is needed most.

The Intrepid Foundation has established the appeal in partnership with local Colombia-based NGO partner, Patrulla Aérea Civil Colombiana (PAC), which is providing on-ground support to communities affected by the earthquake. PAC provides free medical services to remote areas across Colombia. With access to volunteer pilots, medical professionals and aircrafts it is well placed to respond to the needs of local communities during this time. To help maximise the impact of the emergency appeal, The Intrepid Foundation will match donations up to AUD $30,000.

Meanwhile, Intrepid’s trips continue to operate in Colombia and are being rerouted away from affected areas where necessary, with the intention of resuming as soon as possible to ensure local communities will continue to benefit from the economic support of tourism.

“Thousands of people across Western Colombia, including Cali, Pereira, Quibdó and Chocó Department are facing loss, uncertainty and urgent needs – especially access to medical care. In moments like this, solidarity can make an immediate and meaningful difference. We are asking for your help, by donating if you are able, or by sharing the appeal with your networks” said Hernan Acevedo, General Manager, Colombia, Intrepid Travel. 

Intrepid started operations in Colombia in 2019 and runs eight trips in the region. It has a local office based in Bogota, employing eight full-time team members. The Intrepid Foundation has been partnering with PAC for three years. 

“By giving to this appeal, the international travel community can directly contribute to the humanitarian relief efforts, supplying immediate medical needs to communities impacted by this devastating earthquake, while supporting a locally led NGO that is deeply rooted in the community and trusted by the local people.” said Biheng Zhang, General Manager of The Intrepid Foundation.

Intrepid Travel has confirmed that travellers and staff in Colombia are safe, and trips in Colombia continue to operate. Groups currently in Western Colombia are being rerouted away from affected areas and provided with an alternative itinerary and inclusions. Trips will resume in affected regions at the earliest opportunity, to ensure local communities continue to benefit from the economic support of tourism, needed now more than ever.

To donate to recovery efforts, please visit The Intrepid Foundation’s Colombia Earthquake Appeal.