The Permission Slip
Everything “ordinary” people felt before their first safari — and how it actually turned out.
Sarah, 42 — Toronto
Sarah was a professional who managed complex projects, but Africa felt like a different world. She was convinced Uganda was unpredictable and dangerous.
Sarah emailed Emmanuel 37 times. She was so anxious she almost cancelled the week before her flight. She felt “irresponsible” for going.
On Day 2, standing in Bwindi, she realized the “danger” was imagined. She found warmth and professionalism beyond anything in the West.
Martha, 68 — New York
Martha had a troublesome left knee and thought she was “too old” and “too ordinary” for a gorilla trek. She didn’t want to hold anyone back.
She waited 10 years to book, always saying “maybe when I’m fitter.” She was filled with dread about the physical hike.
With the help of porters (her “Secret Weapon”), she reached the gorillas at her own pace. She realized her body was capable of so much more.
Robert, 55 — California
Robert was a practical business owner. He spent 7 years waiting for the “perfect” time — when the market was stable and the trip felt “reasonable.”
Robert asked for a quote every January and cancelled every February. He thought he was saving money by waiting.
He finally went in 2024. He realized he hadn’t saved money; he’d just lost 7 years of stories. The memory was worth far more than the savings.
This is your permission slip.
You don’t have to be an explorer. You don’t have to be an athlete. You just have to be ready to see something beautiful.
Take the 60-Second Safari Quiz