Reviews

Most Inspirational Moment

The final morning of the trek was truly unforgettable. Waking up in Dhampus to clear skies and spectacular panoramic views of the Annapurna range — including Machhapuchhare (Fishtail), Hiunchuli, and Mardi Himal — felt like a perfect culmination of the walking portion of the trip. Equally memorable were the wildlife moments in Chitwan National Park, particularly spotting one-horned rhinoceroses in their natural habitat and even catching a brief glimpse of a elusive leopard. These experiences alone made the journey incredibly special.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our group leader, Lakpa (Tscheten), was great. He consistently shared his passion and deep knowledge of Nepal, its people, and the mountains, which really enriched the entire experience. When a few group members became unwell during the trip, Lakpa was attentive, calm, and proactive in ensuring everyone was looked after. The wider local team was equally impressive. Our trekking guide, Buddha, and the porters were fantastic throughout the hike, always supportive and encouraging. In Chitwan, our naturalist guide, Kanan, brought the wildlife experiences to life with his expertise and enthusiasm. The professionalism and warmth of the entire team made a huge difference.

Advice for Potential Travellers

The hiking on Days 3 and 4 is the most challenging part of the trip. Day 3 involves sustained ascents through villages and many stone steps, while Day 4 includes a long descent from Ghandruk followed by another ascent to Landruk all on the same stone steps. A reasonable level of fitness is important. The local team provides one trekking pole, but I strongly recommend bringing or hiring a second one. Having two poles is particularly helpful on the stone-step descents and will make the walking much more comfortable. Load shedding (power outages) is common in Nepal and can occur at various times, so something to be mindful of. If possible, arrive one day early before the tour begins. This gives you time to rest after your journey, recover from jet lag, and acclimatize, helping you start the trip feeling refreshed.

Most Inspirational Moment

Some of the Temples and waterways on small boats giving moments of calm and peace amidst the Choas. The work ethic of the people and the long hours they put in just to survive whilst maintaining a sense of humour and an incredible sense of family.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Manh Nguyen who was knowledgeable, enthusiastic, kind and who wanted us to have the best time possible. He was caring and looked after group members who were ill or just having an off day. It was also clear that he loved his country and instilled that generous spirit in ourselves. We could not have had a better guide.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be prepared for the heat and humidity , it can be incredibly draining. Drink a lot of water

Most Inspirational Moment

There were so many unexpected moments that enriched the trip, many of which weren’t even on the original itinerary. Our lead guide, Safi, often added or adapted elements along the way, creating a mix of planned and completely impromptu immersive experiences that made the journey feel truly special and memorable. I was also genuinely touched by the people of Kerala: everywhere we went, we were met with such warmth and friendliness, which will stay with me long after the trip.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Safi was absolutely amazing. He made sure everyone in the group felt cared for, catered for and happy throughout the entire trip. Nothing was ever too much trouble, and he went out of his way to check in with each of us and adapt plans where needed so that everyone could get the most out of the experience. A huge thank you as well to Shibu and Vinni, who worked tirelessly alongside Safi to ensure everything ran smoothly behind the scenes. Their hard work, humour, support and friendly presence really added to the enjoyment of the tour, and together they created such a positive, relaxed atmosphere. As a team, they genuinely made the trip, and I’m incredibly grateful for all they did to give us such a fantastic experience.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Don’t be put off if you’re not an experienced cyclist. The routes are mostly flat and the road surfaces are generally good, with just the occasional pothole to navigate. The daily distances are very manageable and, importantly, most of the cycling is done in the mornings, before the heat and humidity really build, which makes it much more comfortable. I’d recommend bringing padded cycling shorts (or gel seat) and gloves if you have them, and making sure you stay well hydrated (with electrolytes), but you certainly don’t need to be a serious cyclist to enjoy this trip. It is a fantastic way to see and feel the “real” Kerala at a gentle pace, travelling through villages and countryside you might not otherwise experience, while also getting or keeping fit at the same time. Overall, if you are happy to be a little active and open to new experiences, this tour is incredibly rewarding and very achievable for most people with a basic level of fitness.

Most Inspirational Moment

Seeing the elephant walking in the festival parade. I never thought for a minute I would see that in Kerala. But also meeting so many lovely locals along the route

Thoughts on Group Leader

Safi was a great leader. He made sure we always knew where we were going and when and checked that everyone in the group was ok with that. He left some flexibility so that we could add in some interesting excursions when the opportunities arose. A great combination of leadership and teamwork.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Kerala is so beautiful and cycling at grass roots level lets you see and hear everything going on around. You can stop whenever there is something interesting to see (every 5 minutes!) If you are interested in this type of immersive trip but don’t fancy cycling, hire an e-bike. Best of both worlds.

Most Inspirational Moment

From the landscapes of Cotopaxi to the incredible hot springs hotel in Papallacta, I loved all of it. The journey then continues to the Galapagos, where it feels as though the islands are run by the wildlife! February is an exceptional time to visit, with newborn sea lion pups appearing all across the islands.

Thoughts on Group Leader

We had different trip leaders from the mainland to the Galapagos, where we had an official Galapagos Naturalist Guide take over. They have an extraordinary knowledge of the wildlife, it was fascinating to witness.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be mindful of the wealth disparity between mainland Ecuador and the Galapagos. Accommodation on the islands are generally more basic than on the mainland, reflecting a long history where much tourist revenue has remained with cruise operators rather than local businesses, something that’s visible in the infrastructure, particularly on the less inhabited islands. The islands are significantly more expensive due to strict regulations and the need to import almost everything. I would ask other travellers to be gracious when comparing the two.

Most Inspirational Moment

There are so many! From the local wedding we visited, to learning and watching local craftsman keeping traditions alive to all of the super friendly locals and even a Hindu procession.

Thoughts on Group Leader

A special mention must go to our group leader and his team, Safi, Shibu and Vinnie who were outstanding throughout, professional, supportive, and genuinely passionate about making sure everyone had the best possible experience.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Don't be put off if you're not a regular cyclist or haven't been on a bike for a while, the route is very flat and there is no hurry or race to get to the next stop, its a very good relaxed pace.

Most Inspirational Moment

Having lunch 4000ft up a mountain.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Muhamid was a fantastic leader, as well as all the other members,

Advice for Potential Travellers

Do it!

Most Inspirational Moment

Many things. The Tatacoa desert (not strictly a desert) is an amazing landscape, the likes of which I have never seen before. Also really loved Communa 13 in Medellin and Cartgena.

Thoughts on Group Leader

David was simply the best guide I have ever had, really went out of his way to be helpful, such a genuinely nice guy.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Book it, you won't be disappointed. Be sure to take binoculars, there are so many birds here!

Most Inspirational Moment

The time spent in the mountains and in the small historic towns

Thoughts on Group Leader

He was very friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. His performance exceeded my expectations

Most Inspirational Moment

Berat, Gjirokaster and Butrint.

Thoughts on Group Leader

He was passionate and knowledgeable about Albania and shared this with us building a clear picture of Albania's history and importance in Europe. The love for his country really shone through. He has a cracking sense of humour and really made the trip special. A huge asset to Exodus, keeping us all on track, well fed and happy.