It is a calm, overcast morning, with a refreshing ambiance lingering in the air after the spring rains. I sit here, coffee in hand, gazing over the hills of Zululand, listening to this enchanting world awaken. The valleys resonate with the melodies of birds – Trumpeter Hornbills, a Gorgeous Bushshrike, a Grey-headed Bushshrike, Rock Pigeons, a Red-eyed Dove, a pair of Crowned Hornbills, Purple-crested Turacos, the repetitive, single note ‘purp’ call of a Red-fronted Tinkerbird, and many more. Even the Red-chested Cuckoo calls out, signalling that spring has fully arrived alongside the return of the summer migrants. Frogs and insects chirp from the shady spots near the river, and if I listen closely, I can almost hear the waterfall’s song below. Just yesterday, a pair of Long-crested Eagles pealing in a duet as they elegantly soared around each other in the air above my cozy home.
I feel a deep sense of gratitude for this nature-connected moment, a serene break from the hustle and bustle of life that allows me to reflect on the journey that has led me to this stunning, pure space.
My love affair with KwaZulu Natal, and particularly with Zululand, began two and a half years ago on a Journey with Purpose.
Journeys with Purpose are unique, ethical adventure travel experiences that create a profound impact for both people and wildlife here in Mama Africa. Conceptualised by Carla Geyser, the visionary behind the Blue Sky Society Trust, these expeditions blend thrilling adventures with wildlife conservation efforts. Carla has skilfully led numerous successful excursions across Africa.
If you are an eager adventurer who values conservation and embraces spontaneity, Journeys with Purpose trips would be perfect for you! These transformative journeys bring together like-minded individuals from all over the world, focusing on supporting wildlife initiatives and raising crucial funds and awareness for conservation projects along the way.
Prepare for action-packed adventures with a wild purpose, where you’ll forge deep connections with nature, support essential conservation work, and relish every moment, making memories of a lifetime. Carla’s trips emphasise personal connections, conservation, and enjoyment— as she notes on her website ‘arrive as strangers, depart as friends’.
I can speak for just how true that statement is. I sit where I am today in large part to connecting with Carla and joining a Journey with Purpose in 2019. I came back for more in 2022 which turned out to be my year of Dreams Come True, and it all started with that magical month of May on the road with Carla again for another Journey with Purpose:
ROTM 2022 – Genuine Connection
ROTM 2022 – Phinda and Pangolins
ROTM 2022 – Bittersweet Pongola
ROTM 2022 – Bees, Trees and Ellies
ROTM 2022 – The Grace of Education
ROTM 2022 – Tracks Less Travelled
There are eight incredible Journeys with Purpose scheduled for 2025. Looking at these itineraries, Carla has outdone herself this time around! Scroll through the gallery and be inspired….
The remarkable Professor J.R.R. Tolkien once stated, “I have found that it is the small everyday deeds of ordinary folk that keep the darkness at bay. Small acts of kindness and love.” In a world grappling with social and environmental turmoil, the weight of darkness can feel heavy. However, as one ordinary person, I believe Tolkien’s words hold true; small acts of kindness and love truly make a significant impact. If enough of us engage in these daily gestures, we can prevent the darkness from consuming us and our planet.
I have had the honour of witnessing the extraordinary efforts of the Blue Sky Society Trust, which supports wildlife and communities in Southern Africa, and I wholeheartedly endorse Carla’s mission. Joining a Journey with Purpose will help protect the iconic wildlife in this beautiful and biodiverse-rich region of the world as well as begin the wildhearted revolution of your soul!