From the moment I saw a post by my dear friend Carolyn Ray, of JourneyWoman fame, about an upcoming safari adventure to South Africa, I was instantly intrigued. A trip to Africa had long been a bucket list dream, but somehow the idea of planning the perfect experience — one that felt authentic, meaningful, and safe to do solo — always felt overwhelming.
When I learned that the trip was being organized by Blue Sky Expeditions, led by the wonderful Carla Geyser, something clicked. I was ready to say yes. I wanted an experience that offered both adventure and education, and one that aligned with my values — something intimate, connected to conservation, and a little bit wild.
I was also at a point in my life where I wanted to revisit my explorer side — the version of me that used to say yes to solo adventures in my 20s, armed only with curiosity and a few days to kill. Traveling with a small group of like-minded, well-traveled women felt like the perfect way to do that. And entrusting the planning to a professional like Carla meant I could simply show up and embrace the experience, knowing every detail had been thoughtfully handled.
I was not disappointed. This trip was truly an incredible experience from start to finish. The accommodations were beautiful and comfortable, yet still felt authentic to the landscape. We experienced a wonderful balance of private game reserves and national parks, giving us a deep appreciation for the diversity of South Africa’s ecosystems. Each day brought new magic — from sunrise game drives and close encounters with wildlife to heartfelt interactions with the people working on the frontlines of conservation.
One of the aspects I appreciated most was that the trip was built around a “do no harm” philosophy. Carla ensures that Blue Sky Expeditions supports local communities and conservation organizations, meaning our presence contributed positively — from donations to rhino protection initiatives to learning directly from K9 anti-poaching teams and local conservationists.
Carla’s attention to detail was exceptional. She took excellent care of us, managing every aspect with professionalism and warmth. The itinerary flowed beautifully, balancing activity and rest, and it was clear that each stop and experience had been chosen with intention.
I’m not one for large tours or impersonal group travel, but this never felt like that. Traveling with Blue Sky Expeditions felt like joining a small circle of friends, united by a shared sense of wonder and purpose. We laughed, we learned, and we bonded deeply through our adventures.
This trip reminded me just how powerful travel can be when it’s done thoughtfully — when it connects you not just to a place, but to its people, wildlife, and spirit.
If you’ve ever dreamed of visiting Africa, I can’t recommend Carla and Blue Sky Expeditions highly enough. Her customized approach ensures that every traveler walks away with something unique — not just memories, but a renewed sense of connection to the world around us.
