Featured image: Rhino conservation will be a focus on this September 2025 trip to South Africa | Photo by Carolyn Ray

Trip offers meaningful humanitarian and conservation work with rhinos and other wildlife

Blue Sky Society Trust is announcing its second annual small-group, women-only humanitarian and conservation trip to South Africa from September 14 – 28, 2026, in partnership with JourneyWoman. Led by highly experienced South African adventurer and eco traveller Carla Geyser of the Blue Sky Society Trust, this “Journey With Purpose” expedition will showcase some of the most magnificent and diverse areas in beautiful Mama Africa.

“On this female trip, we’ll journey through the wild heart of KwaZulu-Natal — from the golden beaches of Ballito to the remote beauty of Thonga Beach near Lake St Lucia, and the conservation-rich savannahs of Manyoni Private Game Reserve,” says Carla Geyser, Founder of Blue Sky Society Trust. “This is not just another safari — it’s a bespoke, immersive experience where luxury, adventure, and conservation meet. Imagine sipping sundowners as hippos wallow and crocodiles glide through the waters of Lake St Lucia, tracking the Big Five across private reserves, and connecting with passionate conservationists and local communities. It’s a journey that will leave a lasting impact — both on you and on the wild places we visit.”

“Our first trip with Blue Sky Society Trust was more than a safari — it took us deep into local culture and communities, teaching us about endangered species like rhino and the anti-poaching work that is happening,” says Carolyn Ray, CEO, JourneyWoman. “I was thrilled to see more wildlife than I could have imagined, but also to speak with women on the ground about the challenges of conservation and how we as tourists, can help them protect wildlife, while connecting us all as human beings sharing our planet.”

From Lake St Lucia, the warm Indian Ocean, and the magnificent Munywana Conservancy to Manyoni Private Game Reserve, you’ll experience oceans, wetlands, bush, and wildlife on this epic trip across Northern KwaZulu-Natal. You’ll stay in a variety of accommodations — from slightly rustic to beautifully lavish — savour local cuisine, forge incredible bonds, and disconnect from the rest of the world as you reconnect with yourself and Mother Nature. Best of all, you’ll share this journey with like-minded JourneyWoman members.

Trip highlights:

• Pre-trip night to include Ballito – Dolphin Coast: Begin your journey with a warm coastal welcome and the chance to ease into your adventure.
• Munywana Conservancy (Zuka Private Reserve): Track the Big Five on game drives, walk through pristine wilderness, and learn first-hand about ground-breaking rhino and other conservation projects.
• Thonga Beach Lodge – Mabibi, Indian Ocean: Snorkel in turquoise waters, search for dolphins, turtles, and whales (seasonal and weather dependent), walk along pristine golden beaches, and enjoy a sunset boat cruise on Lake Sibaya, home to hippos and crocodiles.
• Manyoni Private Game Reserve: Immerse yourself in conservation – meet passionate wildlife protectors, visit a rhino orphanage, join tracking and monitoring projects, and enjoy unforgettable Big Five safaris.
• Conservation with Purpose: Engage in meaningful conservation and community initiatives, supporting Project Rhino and the Zululand Conservation Trust.
• Travel with Impact: Build lasting bonds with like-minded women, raise awareness for conservation, and contribute directly to the future of Africa’s wildlife
• Please note: You must be able to climb on and off a game drive vehicle, with moderate to fit fitness

Full Trip Details

Core trip – 7 nights/8 days – September 14 -21, 2026 in KZN (KwaZulu-Natal)

How to book

• Email Carla Geyser at [email protected] or read more in our Women’s Travel Directory here. 

• The trip size is limited to 10 women; 6 are required to make this trip happen (6 singles, 2 sharing x 2) 

• Trip cost TBD. This includes your money raised to support these conservation projects. (Note: we only allow sharing with friends, family or partners). Pricing may vary slightly depending on currency rates.

• Payment: 30% deposit due before March 1, 2026, via Wise (credit card); Final payment due July 1, 2026

• Please do not book flights until the trip is confirmed. We will host a Zoom call to discuss logistics and details once guests are confirmed. 
• **Please note that this itinerary and pricing may be subject to slight changes, and the expedition host will keep you informed of any updates. Terms and conditions apply, based on availability. Some activities may be weather-dependent, and while we will do our best to include them all in the itinerary, flexibility may be required. In certain areas, Wi-Fi signal may be minimal or unavailable (offering a great opportunity for a digital detox). Regarding conservation work, the safety of the animals is always our top priority, and we will do our best to participate where and when possible, guided by expert conservationists to ensure we are contributing in the most responsible and meaningful way.

• Blue Sky Society Trust is a registered non-profit: IT/389/2012/PMB /  NPO – 118 708/ PBO Registration 930046151 / Blue Sky Expeditions Reg: 2019/0499991/97 / SATSA membership: 2773

Remember to purchase travel insurance. Check insurance rates here.

What’s included in this trip

• Driver, vehicle (and all fuel)
• Basic accommodation – single/sharing occupancy in a variety of rooms, lodges & safari tents
• All meals & water as shown in the itinerary
• National Park fees & tourism levy and VAT /taxes where applicable
• All activities detailed in the itinerary
• Transportation to and from the airport during the expedition only
• All road transport between places
• Talks by conservation experts
• Fundraising for our chosen beneficiaries Project Rhino, Wildlife Act & ZCT Rhino Orphanage 

What’s not included

• Any international flights and any necessary transfers to get to the start/finish of the expedition at King Shaka Airport (Durban). Check flight prices here!
• Gratuities (*Optional but we recommend US$10-$15 per guide or activity*)
• Any visas and border costs for South Africa. Check out iVisa for assistance with visa requirements.
• All alcoholic drinks and additional personal snacks (and extra meals not on the itinerary)
• Any personal expenses
• Comprehensive travel and flight insurance (*compulsory*)
• Extra nights’ accommodation (pre/post-expedition) in Durban
• Any extra activities not mentioned in the itinerary