Reviews

Most Inspirational Moment

The game reserve we went to was fantastic and we saw the big 5 which was delightful. Afterwards we enjoyed the camp fire and delicious food. I also loved the whale watching when we were lucky enough to see a whale and her calf...it was right at the end of the season so such a treat. I also loved going to Hermanus but it's difficult to choose my most inspirational moment as there were several.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Justin Barr is an excellent group leader. Not only is he fun, passionate about his country, as well as being very knowledgeable about most things in S.Africa and I learnt so much, he is also good at speaking as well as articulate but interesting as well. He is very well organised and so everything ran smoothly and nothing is too much trouble for him. He just gets on with everyone and is very approachable and personable and I have to say, the best group leader I've had so far. I'm pretty sure he makes the trip what is it and chose some excellent hotels and guest houses, restaurants and always gave good advice. 5 stars for Justin.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Try to do all the extra trips on offer including any hikes you can. Go to the amazing botanical gardens in Cape Town and if possible stay an extra few days to spend more time in Cape Town. Do the hikes and watch out for all the amazing wildlife. Sample as much of the unusual food on offer such as crocodile and ostrich and the delicious wines.

Most Inspirational Moment

The first sight of Everest from afar on the trek and then thinking “that’s where we are heading” mind blowing! Reaching EBC the physical attributes and reaching a new altitude for the first time. Into the thin air!

Thoughts on Group Leader

A leader with great attributes to making sure that the safety and welfare of the group were always at the forefront of his mind by the constant checking along the way on the trek. Always had time for the group and was very very funny and liked to sing his own little melody that we all adopted by the end of the trek! Jaite and his team were a pleasure to be with on the journey!

Advice for Potential Travellers

Yes, prepare yourself well whatever time of the year you go! This trek is an amazing one to complete and tick off the list, but make sure that you have all the correct gear to cope with the cold mostly at nights and early morning starts. Lastly - “go for it”I would recommend this trek for all its iconic mantra and challenge. “Superb”

Most Inspirational Moment

The mountain vista from the ridge on the way to Gosainkund Lake was stunning - absolutely awe-inspiring in its range and beauty. We had the honour of visiting, at Kyanjin Gompa, one of the Exodus-supported projects - a residence for elderly people left entirely without family support as a result of the earthquake. This was a humbling and uplifting experience.

Thoughts on Group Leader

We had the privilege of travelling with Valerie Parkinson and of benefitting from her extensive knowledge of the history and culture of Nepal and India. Her after-dinner talks were both interesting and amusing and often had eavesdroppers from other trekkers in the teahouses. The local leaders were all excellent and worked very well as a team to meet our every need. They were supportive and encouraging and ensured that we all managed even the most challenging parts of the trek.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Take warm clothes and sleeping bags. It was very cold at the higher altitude. A laundry service is available at Kyanjin Gompa, so you don't need to carry many changes of clothes. There's an excellent bakery and coffee shop there too. This is an excellent trip! Don't hesitate to book

Most Inspirational Moment

The panoramic view near Gosainkund as the huge mountain peaks of Nepal floated above a sea of white cloud which hid the valley floor. The climb up Kyanjin Ri and Klymoshung Ri above Kyanjin Gompa which -though tough- immersed you in fantastic glacial scenery with views extending to the mountains of the border with Tibet. Seeing Everest from Tharepati.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Valerie as ever was excellent- the patience of a saint, great humour and fascinating knowledge. Plus she is a wonderful storyteller, making for very enjoyable evenings.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Except for a few of the lodges the accommodation on this trek really is pretty basic. Be prepared and have the headtorch and loo paper handy. Food is generally good though snacks are essential as distances between lodges vary. It can be bitterly cold at night. We had one bad day when the mist set in which also made it feel (and look) cold. Can be very warm in daytime so layering essential. Gloves critical esp early morning.

Most Inspirational Moment

So hard to pick but I think it has to be Patagonia. I highly recommend exiting via the optional zodiac trip! In reality, the inspiration to visit Chile on this trip comes from the diversity that you experience. I have a myriad of colourful images and experiences in my head that will last with me for a very long time.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Ignacio was friendly with everyone and imparted a wealth of knowledge about his beloved Chile. He knew people all around the country which helped and he helped individuals in the group with any issues such as money, health, eating etc.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Pack with layers. You need sun protection everywhere....I used long sleeved shirts and light trousers, sunhat and trainers in the desert. But, also, it was minus 10 at the start of the geyser day so you start with fleece hat, warm jacket, etc. Patagonia was actually warmer than I expected and you don't need full on English winter walking gear but still go with the layers. I managed it all in about 16kg but it's worth planning what you take. Waterproof trousers add an extra layer of warmth and wind proofing but can be removed later in the day. We took anti mossie spray but didn't need it much...so, have some but it's not a great problem at this time of year. Take paracetamol.....helps to ward off altitude sickness in the desert....but, mainly, follow the advice of the guide to breathe deeply and go slow! Only 1 of our party was affected and it didn't last long.

Most Inspirational Moment

Night time on the boat in Halong Bay, with lights all around us from other vessels. The beauty of Hoi An Getting away from the popular tourist sights and seeing some of the real Vietnam The quality and abundance of the fruit, herbs and vegetables The feeling of bustle, dynamism and progress in the country in general

Thoughts on Group Leader

Cong was extremely efficient and personable. Our group was the maximum size of 16 and he managed to cater well for everyone's needs and expectations. His knowledge and enthusiasm for his country were clear for all to see and we really enjoyed the insights that he gave us.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Cash machines are much more available than we had expected and quite a number of establishments are happy to take cards. Wifi is widely available. If you like coffee, you'll love it in Vietnam! We found the trip notes to be very accurate , so it's worth studying those along with other feedback comments on this website. The pace of the trip is stated to be 'leisurely/moderate'. While that is undoubtedly correct in terms of the physical activity undertaken, bear in mind that there is a lot of travelling and some fairly long days. Having said that, our leader was adept and giving us free time to relax and the accommodation was always comfortable and pleasant.

Most Inspirational Moment

There were so many, but the Okavango Delta and Moremi stand out in terms of places and animals but the simplicity of the whole wild camping experience, with no wi-fi, no 'modern' amenities and rising at sunrise and going to bed after sunset was the most wonderful antidote to the mania of our lives. Truly magical.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Ngande's experience, knowledge and organisation were exceptional - and he is a really nice guy too! He was good humoured, sensitive to individuals needs and made us feel very safe - especially when up close to the animals!

Advice for Potential Travellers

If you want an adventure that removes you totally from the stresses of modern life this is an ideal trip.

Most Inspirational Moment

Wildlife and the different ecosystems. Plus the visit to local lady and her farm.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Amazing, Katie is inspirational and freely shared so much with us, on many subjects. Also brilliantly organised, always checking on our welfare and organised extra activities as well. She is fabulous.

Most Inspirational Moment

Making it to Base Camp. One of our guides Kaji had summited Everest 8 times, it was amazing having him with us. It was fantastic being able to ask him so many questions. An inspirational man. Coffee/lunch in Namche Bazaar was a lovely treat on the way down.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Superb, we all had total trust in him. He looked after us incredibly well. He made us into a great team. Nothing was too much trouble. He also had a great sense of humour and was a lovely man.

Advice for Potential Travellers

It's very, very cold at night in late November/early December. Don't expect luxury - you are in a remote location!

Most Inspirational Moment

That one very special hour with the gorillas, the sights of the Masai Mara, White Water Rafting down the Nile and Murchison Falls.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Jacob our group leader was fantastic . He was very knowledgeable and great to be around. Stonecold our driver also needs a special mention.

Advice for Potential Travellers

If WW Rafting is on your list then check it out as a dam has been built and if open the rafting will be poor. If you really want to see Chimps be prepared for disappointment. Check how many on your trip. If not full then the bag situation doesn’t come into it. Be prepared for some very basic accommodation. After the Masai Mara the parks are pretty disappointing.