by Mia Taylor
Last updated: 1:35 PM ET, Thu August 13, 2026
Intrepid has launched an emergency appeal through its not-for-profit, The Intrepid Foundation, to support impacted communities in Western Colombia following a magnitude 7.4 earthquake.
The earthquake, which struck on Monday evening, killed hundreds of people, and dozens more were injured. The disaster toppled apartment blocks and damaged homes, schools and hospitals in the a region of the country known for being home to coffee farms, Reuters reported.
“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, Intrepid’s general manager in Colombia.
The Intrepid Foundation has established the appeal, which has already raised more than $40,000, in partnership with the Colombia-based NGO, Patrulla Aérea Civil Colombiana (PAC), which is providing on-the-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 aircraft, it is well placed to respond to the needs of local communities during this time. To help maximize the impact of the emergency appeal, The Intrepid Foundation has said it will match donations up to $21,000.
Funds raised through Intrepid’s efforts 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 they are needed most.
“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 said its trips in Colombia continue to operate but are being rerouted away from affected areas where necessary, with the intention of resuming as soon as possible to ensure local communities continue to benefit from the economic support of tourism.
The global tour operator also confirmed that travelers and staff in Colombia are safe.
To donate to recovery efforts, please visit The Intrepid Foundation’s Colombia Earthquake Appeal.
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