A travel industry charity trek in Colombia has raised more than £31,000 for Abta LifeLine and Planeterra – a non-profit organisation set up by G Adventures.
The third ‘G Trek for Good’ saw 21 travel industry professionals embark on the “epic adventure” through the Colombian jungle to the ancient Lost City.
Developed by small group adventure operator G Adventures, the charity trek followed similar walks up Mount Toubkal in Morocco in 2022, and Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro in 2019.
The three Treks for Good have now raised more than £130,000 for Planeterra and Abta LifeLine.
The Colombian challenge in March saw the group cover nearly 30 miles over five days through humid jungle and the remote river valleys of the Sierra Nevada mountains. All 21 members of the group made the final 1,200-stone step climb to arrive at the Lost City site.
The funds will be divided equally to support Planeterra’s work with vulnerable communities to help them access tourism, including a new project in Colombia, and Abta LifeLine, which supports struggling travel colleagues across the UK.
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Brian Young, EMEA managing director at G Adventures, said: “I am deeply grateful to all of our trekkers, as well as those who have participated in previous treks.
“This initiative is invaluable for both Planeterra and Abta LifeLine as the funds raised will transform lives.
“Proving how travel can be a force for good, each of our trekkers has shown unwavering commitment to the challenge.
“I am in awe of their relentless fundraising efforts and also their willingness to step outside of their comfort zones. These treks are far from easy.
“So I commend all who have joined us. These treks bring us together like no other trip to create lasting memories and life-changing moments, and, most importantly, support the very industry we all serve. That, to me, is truly remarkable.”
Trudie Clements, Abta LifeLine director, added: “The funds raised through G Trek for Good will be of immense help in our work supporting the most vulnerable in our travel community; those struggling with the cost-of-living crisis, a relationship breakdown, illness among other things and have nowhere else to turn. We can throw them a lifeline in their time of need and make a real difference to their lives.
“Taking on a daunting challenge like this takes both time and commitment, so I cannot thank those who took part in the trek enough, as well as those who donated much-needed funds.
“The money we raised will mean that we can help even more people through some of the lowest and darkest points in their lives.”
Planning for the next G Trek for Good is already under way for 2025 and industry members can register their interest with Stephanie Francis, PR and communications manager at G Adventures at stephanie.francis@gadventures.com
The total raised so far for the 2024 event is £31,651. The G Trek For Good Just Giving page will remain open until June 9.
