From City Slicker to Jungle Queen: A Solo Female Wanderer's Story
- Sophie Davenport
- Jun 3, 2024
- 4 min read
Updated: Jan 22
Hey there adventurers! Sophie here, and I’m still buzzing from what has been the most incredible year of my life. After five years of working in digital marketing in London and endlessly scrolling through travel Instagram, I finally took the plunge. My mom thought I was crazy, my dad was worried sick, and my cat, well, she's still ignoring me (thanks for taking care of her, Mum!). This past year taught me more about myself than all the years of adulting combined.
Ciudad Perdida: Where This City Girl Found Her Jungle Legs
Note to self: Humidity and straightened hair don’t mix.
Remember when I used to complain about the stairs at Covent Garden tube station? Ha! Try climbing 1,200 ancient steps through the Colombian jungle. The Lost City Trek was my first major adventure, and boy, was it a baptism by fire—or rather, by humidity.
As a solo female traveler, I was nervous about this trek. Thankfully, I joined an amazing group through Magic Tours. Our guide Ana was brilliant. We had an incredible mix: a retired Canadian teacher, a German honeymoon couple, and a Brazilian photographer who taught me how to take photos beyond just selfies with trees.
Pro tip: Ladies, ditch the makeup and embrace the shine. The jungle humidity will win anyway, and there’s something liberating about not looking in a mirror for four days.
Pacific Crest Trail: Two Months That Changed Everything
Where I discovered that “trail legs” are real and shower-fresh hair is overrated.
I didn’t hike the entire Pacific Crest Trail (yet—life goals!). But my two months on the trail gave me insights into my inner strength that no self-help book could provide. Starting in Campo with my trusty backpack, affectionately named "Big Bertha," I carried more fears than I can count.
The trail community was an eye-opener. Shoutout to “Mama Bear,” a wonderful woman in her 60s who taught me how to filter water and generously let me borrow her extra sunscreen. Bonding over challenges and victories at night around the campfire made for some of my favorite memories.
Hiking offers a special therapy. Out there, thousands of miles away from my usual routine, every step felt like a step toward a refreshed mindset. The breathtaking views, fresh mountain air, and pure enjoyment of nature melted my city stress away.
I learned to accept the discomfort of sweaty clothes, the wrinkly fingers from creek crossings, and the occasional sunburn on my nose. The camaraderie among fellow hikers was comforting, proving that while we may start our journeys alone, we don’t have to walk alone.
Embracing the Unknown: Kevin, a Stranger, and a New Friend
The best parts of travel often come from stepping outside your comfort zone, usually mixed with a sprinkle of unpredictability.
One night, I found myself in a lively Seattle hostel and bumped into a group fresh from Olympic National Park. After a round of craft beers and lively conversation, I met Kevin, another solo traveler. We clicked instantly and decided to explore the park together.
Solo traveling can feel lonely at times. Teaming up with another wanderer like Kevin made my experience much more enjoyable.
Together, we embraced the charm of the Pacific Northwest. Think endless hikes through towering evergreens, the salty aroma of coastal breezes, and breathtaking overlooks where nature feels alive.
Lessons Learned on the Trail
Through every crevasse, sunrise, and quaint trail town, I gathered valuable lessons:
1. It's OK to Say "No"
The adventurous life often brings a flood of options, which can be overwhelming. Whether it’s social invitations or adventures that don’t resonate with you, embracing your right to say no is crucial. Staying true to your feelings leads to more fulfilling experiences.
2. Prioritize Self-Care
Hiking all day can drain you, so it’s essential to listen to your body. Take breaks for lunch, hydrate, and make sure to stretch. While it may feel indulgent during the hike, your body will thank you later. I learned to cherish those moments of stillness to reflect and appreciate my surroundings.
A Return to the City
After a year of unforgettable experiences, I found myself back in the city—but it felt different this time. The noise and brightness of London no longer overwhelmed me. I decided to explore hidden gems in familiar settings—little parks, cozy cafés, and hidden murals I used to overlook in the hustle.
Urban exploration quickly became my new adventure. This time, I treated the city like an uncharted territory, uncovering the beauty in what I thought I already knew. Travel has a funny way of reshaping your perspective, even in familiar surroundings.
Moving Forward: What’s Next?
As I sit here writing, my mind races with possibilities. I don’t want to stop exploring. Whether it's a weekend road trip, a new hiking trail, or another off-the-beaten-path destination, the world is full of adventures waiting for me.
I hope to tackle exciting challenges—like kayaking in Norway, backpacking in the Himalayas, or rock climbing in Joshua Tree. What about you? Are you feeling the urge to embrace solo adventures?
The freedom to immerse yourself in a new culture, connect with incredible people, and feel nature is worth all the moments of doubt and hesitation that come with taking a leap of faith.
Each Step Matters
Life is made up of steps—some easy, some challenging. As solo female travelers, we often find ourselves balancing the thrill of adventure with the uncertainty of the unknown. But remember, every step matters.
Whether you're packing your backpack for a week-long trek or taking a stroll in your local park, embrace those moments. They shape our journeys as adventurers.
May our stories of exploration inspire others, and may we all continue taking on the world—one trail at a time.
Until next time, happy wandering!
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