Reviews

Your Words – We tell it like it is! Holiday Reviews by previous Exodus travellers

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14516 Reviews

4.7 out of 5

Irene Neilson

Reviewed December 2017

Truly spectacular mountain scenery

Wonderful trek that far exceeded our expectations. Our enjoyment of trekking comes from a love of the high mountains so while the walk up the valley was enjoyable albeit hot and a bit dusty, for us, day 8 onwards was truly fantastic – pristine mountain scenery set against azure blue skies, all enhanced by Tibetan stone houses, yaks and remote village life. The mountains- from Manaslu onwards – were breathtakingly beautiful and the weather excellent. The acclimatization walks from Samagaon/Samdo to monasteries and a lake were both enjoyable and interesting. The climb over the Larkya La pass began at 4am and was tough with high winds buffeting us but again the mountain scenery and the starry sky overhead was breathtaking. Fortunately, there wasn’t much ice on the descent from the pass so, although long, the scree slopes weren’t too bad and one was easily distracted by more wonderful mountain views. Bimthang proved a comfortable lodge for a two night stay. Our rest day incorporated a walk in the morning to Pongkar Lake, a lovely glacier lake set in an amphitheatre of mountains and a bonfire singsong in the afternoon. We were lucky to have several musicians in our group so we could match the porters’ renderings of Resham Firiri with UK favorites. The combination of surrounding mountains, fire and song made a slight feeling of deflation after crossing the pass disappear. The descent to Tilje continues to move through lovely mountain scenery then attractive forest. It’s really only when you hit Dharapani and the dust tracks of the Annapurna roadworks that the mountain magic disappears a little. We were lucky with wildlife – Himalayan Tahr, blue sheep, pika, lammergeyer, griffin vultures, golden eagles, red monkey, langur monkeys, musk deer, barking deer were all spotted.

Most Inspirational Moment

Day 8: wonderful weather made the mountains truly spectacular and we had our first glimpse of Manaslu. The mountain scenery at the heart of this trek is phenomenal and remains so over several days.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our trip was led by Valerie Parkinson. It was great to hear Valerie’s first hand account of climbing Manaslu and have her point out the ascent route from base camp. Her willingness to share her knowledge of Nepal and the changes in its culture over the last 30 yrs makes walking with her extremely enjoyable. Her account of climbing Everest and having to turn back after the South summit and suffering severe frostbite in her feet was also amazing. She is an extremely nice, kind person.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Beginning of the trek really is very hot and dusty but at altitude, particularly late November it can be very cold so a range of trekking clothes is needed. It certainly surprised us how cold it could be in the evenings. Some of the more basic high altitude lodges really were drafty. Curiously we found the fixed tent at Dharamsala warm. Lithium batteries coped best with the cold. Several people brought hot chocolate sachets that proved a rather nice treat. Some also had duck tape wrapped on their walking stick which proved handy. Excellent trail mix for snacks can be bought in the Supermarket opposite the Royal Singhi. If you stay in the Hotel Ambassador, as our group did, the hotel restaurant on the first floor -the Diplomat- serves excellent South Asian food- the homemade kulfi was fantastic. We bough the new Qantum steripen and bag as it does 4 liters of water at a time but found it was more convenient just to use the steripen with a Nalgene bottle. We forgot that hydration bladder tubes freeze in the cold and this was a problem on the Larkya La pass. Guess best bet is to have some form of insulation for the tube at altitude. Few lodges had functioning wifi and some had no electricity - power packs are useful. Ncell local sim does not work on the Manaslu circuit. Exodus have replaced elephant safaris with jeep based safaris in their bookings for the Chitwan extension. If you want to go to Chitwan and experience elephant safaris and bathing -which we personally would highly recommend- you may want to consider booking direct with Safari Narayani Hotel.

Kingsley Barlow

Reviewed December 2017

What an Experience!!!!!!

From the moment we landed in Lukla and started the long journey to Base Camp, we were in awe of the scenery and the atmosphere of the mighty Himalayas. It is very much like going back in time. The nepalese people life very basic lives and are so hardworking, this adds to the experience. it was a demanding trek, And we were affected by altitude sickness at times. Overall one of the most rewarding things we have ever done.

Most Inspirational Moment

The immense size of the Himalayas.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Tenzig was brilliant - he was caring, personable, organised, with a great sense of humour. Always having our best interest at heart. Ably assisted by Pindu, Pema and Nima. They were truly a great team.

Advice for Potential Travellers

A reasonable level of fitness is a must. Do not under estimate the cold. The tea houses only have heating in the dining room, the bedrooms are very cold so be prepared to sleep fully clothed. It is very dusty so a buff around your mouth helps.

M B

Reviewed December 2017

AAA - Patagonian Highlights

Saw a lot of Argentina and Chilean Patagonia . Trip Notes accurately reflected the activity days, the two long walks are challenging and taking trekking poles is a must ( if you normally use them ) . The end couple KMs of both walks are steep uphills so may be a bit harder for some.
However you can turn back / drop out of the final section if you wish .

Most Inspirational Moment

No one moment comes to mind.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Xavier Espil is passionate and friendly . He gave detailed information at all times but left us to make our own decisions with that info. i.e. suggested places to eat , when to change money , restaurant pricing and food selection .

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be aware that ATMs are very temperamental with UK chip & Pin cards. sometimes they work , mostly they dont . This might be obvious at start of transaction or you might get taken all through security , down to cash amount selection and then a message appears saying transaction disallowed. Everyone in group ( British cards ) had issues in several locations. Only Bank of Patagonia in El Calafte and Ushuaia allowed cash withdrawals without any issue whatsoever . There is only 1 ATM in El Chalten , at tourist office and it spent most of its time out of service / rejecting cards ( British / French / Australian ) . Current - Nov 2017 - restaurant exchange rate was 17 or 18 Argentine dollars to USD. So you could pay for things in USD cash at that unofficial exchange rate and receive any change in Argentine money . Some restaurants do not take USD in denominations below 20 USD and apparently high denomination notes 50 USD / 100 USD are the preferred denomination when changing money at bank / exchange office.

Sue Royal

Reviewed December 2017

An amazing overland adventure

This trip lived up to our expectations and we thoroughly enjoyed it! The lodges and hotels were all very different and on the whole of a good standard. Beds were clean and comfortable. The journey is over 5000km in total, therefore includes long days, often over bumpy unmetalled roads. Included activities were varied and enjoyable. Some early starts but these were all for good reasons!

Most Inspirational Moment

Climbing dune 45 at Soussosviel in the early morning followed by an al fresco breakfast

Thoughts on Group Leader

Cesar was a genial and friendly leader who looked after us well. He helped us along the way, especially by facilitating the border crossings. His communication skills were good.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Think carefully about the distances involved. This is a classic overland trip and 5000km is what you sign up for. Check up on currencies for each country before you go. At present S Africa rand is readily accepted in Namibia. Take plenty of US dollars for Zimbabwe. It is an expensive country. Be prepared for regular early starts.

Ros Preuss

Reviewed December 2017

Ros Preuss

An interesting and varied trip which gives a real insight into the way of like in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Although the coach journeys are fairly long (mainly down to the congested Indian roads), there is plenty of walking and visits to various kinds of production, from bricks to fabrics and matting.

Most Inspirational Moment

There was not really 1 powerful moment here. I really enjoyed the long walk and the houseboat trip.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Sam is excellent. 1 of the best leaders I have experienced on such trips. He was knowledgeable, considerate, conscientious, friendly. We covered many aspects of Indian life on our trip. He had a good sense of humour, but could also deal admirably with what ever cropped up. He was very aware of our needs and took a lot of trouble helping us make good choices on the menus.

Advice for Potential Travellers

The pace of this trip is not as leisurely as suggested, especially the first part. The walk is moderate not leisurely, and you will need good walking shoes, or better still walking boots, as the paths are uneven and slippery in places. I had boots and a light walking pole, which were appropriate for this. Depends if you feel it is worth taking boots for 2 walks (also the nature reserve walk). There is not much time to relax other than on the coach, though you do get some free time to yourselves towards the end. This suited me fine, but maybe not everyone. You will not be disappointed in the wonderful insight you get into the way people live, their customs, how things are made. Also the unforgettable sights, smells, tastes and sounds of Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

John Hirons

Reviewed December 2017

Highly recommended

I cannot recommend this trip enough. Everything was organised to perfection. We saw pretty much every animal available (apart from a jaguar which i believe the chances of seeing are zero)!
The hotels were all pretty much first class – food delicious, staff so friendly, rooms comfortable and the towel art!
Transport – comfy, driven very well by Felix, arrived on time everywhere.
Andreas – the best tour guide you could ever hope for. It was a passion for him to ensure that we all made the best of the holiday and he ensured that we see everything he saw. He was so knowledgeable with everything Costa Rica had to offer. He was careful to ensure i was feeling okay after a run-in with a raccoon 🙂
Activities – all spot on and the hot springs were amazing. I only wish i was brave enough to do the zip wire instead of the coffee tour.
Fellow travellers – all were amazing and made everyone feel welcome. i am sure we are going to keep in touch with everyone in the future.

Most Inspirational Moment

The hatching turtles on Torteguero beach. The whole reason i booked for November and i was not disappointed. The friendliness of the Costa Rican people. Everywhere we went we were made to feel very welcome.

Thoughts on Group Leader

First Class! Could not have hoped for a friendlier, more knowledgeable tour leader

Advice for Potential Travellers

Take an umbrella and do not forget to take a fleece or something for the Savegre Lodge - it is a tad chilly at times!

James De Souza-Gomes

Reviewed December 2017

A wonderful experience

A varied and interesting itinerary covering the length of the country, with numerous sites of historic and biblical interest, busy to begin with but more relaxing after Petra. A great introduction to the Middle East and one to change your preceptions of the area, we were always made to feel really welcome in Jordan, ‘Welcome to Jordan’ was a constant throughout the trip and we never felt unsafe on the tour. Highly recommended, we all came away awe inspired and wondering why more people don’t visit.

Most Inspirational Moment

Petra was undoubtedly the highlight of the trip with so much to see and stunning views at every turn, you could quite easily spend more than the two full days allocated here. Jerash is surprisingly extensive and varied in scale and not unlike Pompeii but without the crowds which made it all the more enjoyable. The Dead Sea was fun, mosaics at Madaba & Mt Nebo great and the views at Wadi Rum lovely.

Thoughts on Group Leader

An enthusiastic and knowledgeable guide who was never short of a story (or two!) to tell, clearly passionate about his country, it's people and history. Did well to manage a large and diverse group.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Ensure you have a comfortable pair of shoes as as there is a lot of walking in Petra but don't let this put you off. The walk to the Monastery involves a lot of steps but is worth the effort as is the Jabal Haroun Trail to view the Treasury from high above. If going in late season be sure to either reserve a sleeping bag for the night at Wadi Rum (BEFORE departure) or take thermals with you. If you're not making use of the beach resort facilities in Aqaba then be aware that the tourist sites are likey to be closed as it's Friday, you can none the less spend a relaxing and enjoyable day exploring Aqaba and watching the locals - we found a great cafe for a lazy lunch.

Gudrun Meisl

Reviewed December 2017

Highlights of vietnam

A fun way to see a lot of vietnam

Most Inspirational Moment

Some great downhill, giggling children wherever you say hello

Thoughts on Group Leader

Danh was great fun and worked very hard to make this an enjoyable trip. I would have never tried egg coffee otherwise

Advice for Potential Travellers

It's a very busy itinerary. There is hardly any time to see Saigon. If you can, book an extra day or too before and after the trip. The bikes are good but bringing your own saddle is worth considering. The traffic can look scary but drivers are very respectful. Don't hesitate or break and everything will flow around you.

dayl dufrane

Reviewed December 2017

Garden route - south africa in nov

Two weeks at the end of November was ideal time to travel the ‘Garden Route’ Varied itinery. from game parks , to wine tasting, whale watching to visiting ostrich farm, museums to shopping. Includes days in Cape Town ( table mountain etc ) , lots of free time, optional extras which you could chose to do or not.

Most Inspirational Moment

I went shark diving in a cage !! It was a must do optional extra - costs a lot but you have to do these things once in your life. Well worth all the money ( thanks credit card ) Picked up from hotel- driven to the centre - travel out on boat for 20+ mins Safety briefings given . Wet suit + mask etc Water not that cold for the Atlantic. Although not see great white saw plenty of copper back sharks - hey a shark is a shark . Had two long sessions in cage. I loved it ... Go for it

Thoughts on Group Leader

Justin was very very good. Knew his stuff . Very obviously proud of his country. Put up with a lot of ribbing from the 16 of us. Always helpful. If he is your group leader you will enjoy yourself as well as learn loads about SAfrica - whether it be animals, plants , history, geology, even politics

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be prepared for different weather - can change - I think we were very lucky. However, did not get to Robben Island due to rough seas and were lucky to get up Table Mountain on 2nd attempt. Don't be disappointed if you not make these two trips. In Cape town go on hop on hop off bus BUT they only run clockwise - hence do not think about going all way round then doing it again and hopping off . Blue route takes 2 + hours. Take some tea/ coffee with you as a couple of apartments are ' self catering ' Apartments and hotels we stayed in were ideally situated- view over sea etc. Try all sorts of food - Ostrich, warthog, springbok all very tasty as were the fish dishes. Kayaking ( includes lilo + cliff jumping ) ok. Zip wiring - good intro as I had not done before but I think a bit tame if you had already experienced it. Whale watching approx. £40 may not be worth it especially as you can see from beach ( this opinion from group - I did not do ) Township - I did not do but there were very mixed views - many negative

Tony Glaser

Reviewed December 2017

A great trip

A great trip overall, which I would recommend. The itinerary was good, the hotels (with 1 exception) were really good, the trip leader (Le Long) was fantastic, the bikes and support team were good, the food was good, and Vietnam is very interesting. However the itinerary is very busy – although some down time is built in, there were lots of early mornings, and a lot of cycling time (good) and bus time (not so good), so there was not as much time for sightseeing and soaking up culture etc. as I would have liked – we rode past a few places I would love to have stopped an spent time exploring. There would be no solution to this other than making the trip a couple of days longer – so I am not complaining at all, just noting the reality – this is the only reason I give it 4 rather than 5 stars – 4½ would be more appropriate

Most Inspirational Moment

The long downhill ride on the 5th day. I loved riding through the markets and town of Dalat

Thoughts on Group Leader

Absolutely fantastic - simultaneously very efficient and the life and soul of the party!

Advice for Potential Travellers

You might need a few days off after all this activity - especially if you are prone to jet lag problems if you are traveling from the UK or the US. I would also suggest getting to Ho Chi Minh City a day or two before the trip starts, to get over jet lag and also to explore the town a bit (there is no time for this in the trip itself) - I would recommend a back-of-the-motorbike city tour, the War Remnants Museum, the cocktail bar at the top of Bitexco Tower, among other. Vietnamese city traffic (mainly motorbikes) looks absolutely scary, but is not at all - all the motorbikes just flow around you like a school of fish, and the (relatively few) cars and trucks are very aware of 2-wheeled traffic and respectful. Everyone is friendly

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