This trip was such an excellent way to see the best of Estonia and Finland in under a week! I’m an Exodus employee that has always wanted to discover this region but didn’t know exactly where I wanted to go. This trip was the perfect place to start! Tallinn’s medieval Old Town is stunning; a maze of beautiful historic buildings that have so much charm. The national parks are quiet and trails are not overcrowded, even in the peak summer months. Our leader took us for light hikes he called ‘forest therapy’ because of the peacefulness of the surroundings. Helsinki is an interesting city with a multicultural heritage, and it was fascinating to learn about the history of this area. Visiting Suomenlinna war fortress was an excellent way to end off the trip, a beautiful island fortress packed with memories of the past and the opportunity to see old war artifacts, cannons and even a 1930’s U-boat that was used during the war.

Krista R Estonia to Finland Adventure

The scenery was stunning throughout. Each day’s walk gave a different experience, both the views and the walking profiles. The itinerary is such that the difficulty of the walking generally increases over the course of the tour. It’s worth noting that the itinerary does leave a few small gaps in the TMB route. The camping was generally enjoyable (we had very good weather on most days but the one wet night did make the camping experience a little more challenging). All campsites, even the ones noted as “basic” had showers, and several had extensive facilities. However, it seems to be common practice in the area to not have toilet seats. Breakfasts and lunches were basic and somewhat repetitive, but the dinners were excellent and varied. The pace of the tour is high, with very early starts most days. Our leader Hristian, and camping manager/chef Kieron, were fantastic. We used our first rest day to take the Skyway Monte Bianco and Panoramic Mont Blanc cable cars to the Aiguille du Midi – if the weather is good, we strongly recommend this amazing experience.

James Bulpin Tour du Mont Blanc Camping Trek

Hiking Northern Vietnam exceeded all expectations and was one of the most rewarding travel experiences I’ve had. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the remote mountain villages and spectacular rice-terraced landscapes, the trip offered the perfect balance of culture, adventure, and authentic local experiences.

What made this journey so special was the opportunity to connect with local communities and experience a way of life that feels untouched by tourism. The homestays were a highlight throughout, offering warm hospitality, incredible home-cooked meals, and genuine cultural exchanges. The contrast between vibrant Hanoi and the rural regions of Northern Vietnam added another layer to the experience, showcasing the incredible diversity of the country.

Expect stunning scenery, welcoming villages, and memorable encounters. From start to finish, this trip was exceptional and one I would highly recommend to anyone looking for an active adventure combined with meaningful cultural immersion.

Lilian Kim Hiking in Northern Vietnam