Reviews

Most Inspirational Moment

The whole area of Transylvania is inspirational and there were many individual stories that were shared with us of people striving to keep traditions going. It was also brilliant to be part of a great group of fellow cyclists who provided a huge amount of inspiration and support.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Cristina was very positive throughout the week and along with Radu provided lots of information about the culture and the history of the areas we visited.

Advice for Potential Travellers

A few things: Take what you need for the 1st day's cycle in your hand luggage on the plane, if you can. My luggage was delayed as left by the airline at Warsaw from the connecting flight. Food is good and largely what the locals eat, so don't expect "posh food". Lots of variety though, not just pork and beef - we had chicken a few times, beef, pork and trout. As the notes say - get Romanian Lei at the airport - either with your cash (just before arrivals) or from an ATM with a debit card. As most meals are provided in the villages, you wont need much though except for extras (e.g. beer, wine) There are hills on this trip but most are the "long and steady gradient" type so most cyclists will be able to manage them. There are one or two steep hills but don't worry about getting off and pushing your bike if hills are not your thing! The bikes are ok, but seem a bit old so don't expect the quality of the bike you have at home. I found the gear changes were not as responsive as I am used to on my own bike.

Most Inspirational Moment

Most of our dinners were with a view-- beautiful!!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Excellent in every way

Advice for Potential Travellers

Definitely bring rain gear-- it rained on 2 of our rides! Not the whole time, but worth bringing something. Do your family research before you come to this area because if you have ancestors from this place, it would be fun to know that!

Most Inspirational Moment

We were lucky enough to see three jaguars on our departure. the first was lying on the banks in a cooler spot under a tree and sleepy at first like an oversized kitten, she then saw something she fancied eating in the water below and completely changed into the elusive hunter we know her to be. they can keep still for hours and move so slowly and with much precision it was exceptional to witness this behaviour and the respect these creatures demand.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Tony who is originally from the Amazon region has been leading in the Pantanal for over 20 years. His love of the wildlife here transcends through the groups. while we were all using the merlin app to identify the birds Tony was calling to them before they were even seen, Brazil's answer to Dr Dolittle.

Advice for Potential Travellers

The Dry season is June to November. there are less biting bugs during this season but they are still there. they can be avoided by using Deet, long sleeves, long trousers loose fitting and light colours. bringing a warm windproof jacket for the early morning starts is a must when flying down the paraguay river ready for your first wildlife spot of the day

Most Inspirational Moment

Spoilt for choice. There was at least one wow! moment everyday. On balance it had to be the walks in the Delta with KK and his team and seeing so many wonderful animals up close and gaining a real understanding of the importance of the eco system. I know more about termites and poo than I ever thought possible.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Adonia was just fantastic. Passionate, knowledgeable, his pride of both countries was infectious. Always felt super-safe in his hands and his great camaraderie with Gift our fabulous driver made for a great team.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Don’t bother with local SIM cards -coverage is poor and WiFi in lodges was adequate. Three pin South African plugs worked in all accommodation in both countries. Lots of small dollar notes for tipping and smaller purchases. Tipping is expected ( and deserved) everywhere. Flip flops for wearing in rooms where floors are hard and cold. Delta helicopter trip and sunset cruise on last night both exceptional and highly recommended.

Most Inspirational Moment

Hiking to the top of Monte Piano and seeing the Austo-Hungarian Trenchs vs the Itialina trenches only 500m away from each other at 2000m up a mountain.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Thomas Mahlknecht was fantastic. HIs local knowledge was excellent with great organization. His ability to speak German, Italian and English in the same sentence was such a asset to overall experience. thank you Thomas.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Bring your hiking boots and be preapered for a hiking holiday! Its truly a hikers holiday. long days out on the hill with a lot of ground covered. especially on the grade 5.

Most Inspirational Moment

Driving through the Mont Blanc tunnel with no issues and arriving in gorgeous sunshine for a hike through the alpine hills in Italy. Trekking to Refuge Bonatti and finding out from Mark the story to this man’s interesting life. Set in alpine meadows with waterfalls and streams flowing down, teaming with wildflowers and butterflies everywhere, truly magical. Then ice cream, such a perfect day.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Mark is an experienced guide and what he doesn’t know isn’t worth knowing POV. He was full of interesting stories, facts and knowledge about the area, the people, the flora and the fauna. He has such a keen eye and was able to spot animals so quickly, and we seen a lot! Ibex, chamois, wee shrews and a beautiful fox, lots of marmots and birds too. We had daily briefings before supper to plan our route, he made changes to benefit us with weather conditions and times etc, everything went like clockwork and again we can thank Mark for his experience and foresight! Easy going and funny with jokes along the way but also serious at times when caution was needed, we all felt safe under his guidance. His knowledge of the area is extensive and he is happy to share it with you and answered all the questions we had.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be prepared for steep climbs at times but rest breaks are well timed. Enjoy the majestic 360 degree views at every turn and breath in the fresh alpine air. Good boots and two pairs of socks keep blisters at bay and normally I don’t use trekking poles but they were invaluable, esp on the more rocky terrain. Check out the spa in Chamonix, good for tired legs on the free day and Auguille Du Midi is so much better when it’s a clear day if you can plan for it, good luck. The trail descents can be tricky too so watch out, and you will love this trip.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our group leader, Mark was fantastic. His deep knowledge of the region and the hiking trails made all the difference.

Advice for Potential Travellers

You are likely to encounter at least one or two days of rain. Make sure to bring waterproof clothing. I also found it helpful to have hiking poles.

Most Inspirational Moment

Wild camping in the okovango delta. Meeting local polers who guided us to hippos, giraffe and elephants.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Adonia is a terrific leader, he made the trip so memorable with his expert knowledge and friendly manner. Never phased, always chilled. Always in a good mood. Also a good cook!

Advice for Potential Travellers

As others have posted, take small dollar bills. Take warm clothing for early mornings and evenings, especially in delta. Also gets cold in open sided vehicles until day warms up. We loved the helicopter at the delta. Also the last night the group did a sunset cruise, food and scenery lovely.

Most Inspirational Moment

Riga, Tallinn, Helsinki, Kuldiga, Turaida Castle, Saaremaa

Thoughts on Group Leader

Rita, our guide, was a very good organiser, always calm and reassuring

Most Inspirational Moment

Arriving at the pinnacle of our first hike and experiencing the spectacular grandeur and almost surreal vistas of the natural beauty surrounding us.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Adrian was a gift. His adeptness and competence as a trail guide were quite obvious, but it was his kindness, encouragement and exuberance that motivated and guided all of us. He truly is at home in the natural world and with all people; his joy is contagious. He made sure that each participant was successful. His nightly briefings were informative and he had everyone laughing at his explanations of all things "alpine"! We are tempted to repeat this exact Exodus expedition just to enjoy Adrian for another week of our lives. Carolina and Sebastien, the chalet hosts, were also delightful. Constantly smiling, they seamlessly performed all the "behind the scenes" duties to keep us happily satiated and content, plus they were excellent drivers when needed!

Advice for Potential Travellers

Our family has done quite a bit of hiking, but this trip was challenging and our feet felt the ill effects. We survived and enjoyed the trip, but Band-aids and moleskin were much needed to help our toes. Moderate hiking in the midwest, USA, where we are from, is very different than the moderate hiking in this part of the world! We also had very warm weather during our stay and slept with open windows. The street traffic in our room was noisy at times so earplugs would certainly help a light sleeper. Meeting new people from all walks of life was a real treat, so come with an open heart and mind!